Management of the patient undergoing myocardial revascularization: percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty.

In 1990 approximately 250,000 PTCAs were done in the United States. The procedure has developed into a technique heavily relied on for the management of coronary artery disease. PTCA has a high primary success rate; however, given the relatively high degree of restenosis, it should not be viewed as a panacea. Further research is needed to evaluate the future of PTCA, in conjunction with the use of newer therapeutic measures, including atherectomy, stents, and laser-assisted balloon dilatation. Nurses will continue to play an important role in the education and care given to patients undergoing these procedures.