Advancements in pharmacotherapy for angina

An evidence-based review of neuromodulation for the treatment and management of refractory angina

Angina pectoris is defined as substernal chest pain that is typically exacerbated by exertion, stress, or other exposures. There are various methods of treatment for angina. Lifestyle modification and pharmacological management are considered as conservative treatments. If these medications do not result in the resolution of pain, more invasive approaches are an option, like coronary revascularization. Refractory angina (RA) is differentiated from acute or chronic angina based on the persistence of symptoms despite conventional therapies. Overall, the prevalence of RA is estimated to be 5%-15% in patients with coronary artery disease, which can account for up to 1,500,000 current cases and 100,000 new cases in the United States per year. Spinal cord stimulation treatment is a viable option for patients who are suffering from RA pain and are either not candidates for revascularization surgery or are currently not being well managed on more traditional treatments. Many studies show a positive result.

Catastrophic catheter-induced coronary artery vasospasm successfully rescued using intravascular ultrasound imaging guidance

A 46-year-old man underwent coronary angiography for stable angina. He developed inferior ST-segment myocardial infarction during the angiography. Intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) findings suggested coronary vasospasm. Intracoronary administration of isosorbide dinitrate restored the coronary flow. This case illustrates the essential role IVUS imaging played in establishing the diagnosis of catheter-induced coronary vasospasm.