Long-term results of coronary angioplasty for single vessel, proximal, left anterior descending disease

The acute and long-term results of coronary angioplasty in 295 patients with isolated, proximal left anterior descending coronary stenosis are reported. The angiographic success rate was 83.4% overall, but 90.5% for non-occluded arteries treated since 1985. Clinical success at hospital discharge was achieved in 79.7%. The median duration of follow-up was 2.9 years and vital status was established in 99.7% at census. Cumulative 5-year cardiac survival was 96.2% after successful angioplasty and 95.6% for all patients. Five-year freedom from all cardiac events including cardiac death, myocardial infarction and repeat intervention was 73.8% amongst successfully treated patients, and 63.0% for all patients. After angioplasty, patients had less angina, required less anti-anginal medication and were more likely to be in gainful employment. Our data indicate that coronary angioplasty is an effective long-term treatment for selected patients with single vessel disease involving the proximal left anterior descending coronary artery.