No-reflow phenomenon occurring during elective angioplasty performed due to in-stent restenosis -- a case report

The no-reflow phenomenon is an impairment of microcirculation after successful percutaneous coronary interventions (PCI). The no-reflow phenomenon is usually observed during acute myocardial infarction. This case-report describes no-reflow phenomenon in a patient undergoing elective PCI in the right coronary artery, occluded due to restenosis in implanted stent. After deflation of balloon during angioplasty in restenosed stent, no-reflow phenomenon occurred, followed by asystolia. The patient was successfully resuscitated. During resuscitation procedures, abciximab was administered what improved myocardial perfusion. This case demonstrates that no-reflow phenomenon can be a serious problem during elective PCI, leading even to a cardiac arrest. It shows also the necessity for administration of drugs improving tissue perfusion when no-reflow phenomenon occurs.