Bruce E Murphy | PubMed Health

PubMed2004

Usefulness of optical coherent reflectometry with guided radiofrequency energy to treat chronic total occlusions in peripheral arteries (the GRIP trial).

Optical coherent reflectometry, a forward-looking, fiberoptic-guided device was used in 72 patients to direct radiofrequency energy across the central intraluminal portion of 75 chronic total occlusions in peripheral arteries (iliac, femoral, and popliteal) that failed attempts with conventional guidewires. The system was successful in crossing 76% of the chronic total occlusions with no clinical perforations or distal embolizations, and complications consisted of a single dissection greater than or equal to grade C.

Aged↗

PubMed2004

Drug-eluting stents: some first-generation problems.

The recent fervor surrounding the introduction of drug-eluting stents into the practice of cardiology has proven to be problematic. The experience with the Cypher Sirolimus-Eluting Coronary Stent (Cordis Corp., Miami Lakes, FL) at Arkansas Heart Hospital progressed from anxious anticipation to complete removal of the stent from inventory in a 6-month period. Several cases involving edge dissection and subacute thrombosis were the catalyst for the decision to cease use of the device. While new products may entice, each new modality must be approached with measured enthusiasm. Drug-eluting stents are first-generation devices that may have unexposed flaws when used as first-line treatment in routine practice. The first-generation Cypher stent, as with many new devices, offers treatment-not a cure-for coronary atherosclerosis and enhances the desire for an evolved product.

Adult↗