Radiation of the arteries can reduce narrowing

Intracoronary artery radiation can significantly reduce restenosis rates after angioplasty, according to a new report (Circulation 2000;101:350-1,360-5).

Angioplasty is often complicated by restenosis, or coronary artery renarrowing. An estimated 30-50% of vessels dilated by angioplasty develop restenosis, a process that seriously limits the efficacy of the procedure. Restenosis can occur early or late after angioplasty and is heralded by symptoms of recurrent angina or even by myocardial infarct.

Restenosis is a consequence of the blood vessel wall responding to the “injury” of angioplasty and can thus be …