Optimal medical therapy vs revascularization in chronic coronary syndromes: Does ISCHEMIA move the needle toward or away from revascularization??

Vascul Pharmacol. 2024 Mar:154:107253. doi: 10.1016/j.vph.2023.107253. Epub 2023 Dec 8.

Abstract

The optimal management of chronic coronary syndrome (CCS) patients has been a source of debate for several decades. Herein, we describe the evidence base comprising several landmark clinical trials including the most recent ISCHEMIA Trial, which, in aggregate, does not demonstrate a conclusive, incremental benefit of revascularization combined with optimal medical therapy (OMT) versus OMT alone in reducing prognostically-important clinical outcomes during long-term follow-up. For CCS patients with symptoms or quality of life not deemed refractory or unacceptable on medical therapy, a conservative approach to the judicious and selective use of revascularization plus OMT remains a justifiable evidence-based management strategy.

Keywords: Chronic coronary syndromes; Clinical outcomes; Myocardial ischemia; Optimal medical therapy; Revascularization.

Publication types

  • Editorial

MeSH terms

  • Coronary Artery Disease*
  • Humans
  • Ischemia
  • Percutaneous Coronary Intervention*
  • Quality of Life
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Vascular Surgical Procedures