CT and MRI
Introduction There are multiple aspects of imaging in the context of coronary artery disease. On the one hand, imaging is used to identify the presence of coronary artery stenoses, through…
Global Risk Assessment
Introduction This chapter is focused on tools for risk assessment in patients with stable coronary heart disease. In general, patients with stable ischemic heart disease have a good prognosis. However,…
Primary Prevention of Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease
The atherosclerotic process begins in childhood and manifests clinically in adulthood as an acute atherothrombotic event (acute coronary syndrome or stroke) or as symptomatic obstructive disease (angina or claudication) (…
Angina in Patients with Evidence of Myocardial Ischemia and No Obstructive Coronary Artery Disease
Introduction Treatment of angina and evidence of myocardial ischemia on stress testing with no obstructive coronary artery disease (CAD) by angiography is a challenge. Previously referred to as cardiac syndrome…
Depression, Anxiety, and Stress
Introduction Many patients with chronic coronary heart disease (CHD) have clinically significant depression: a costly, disease-accelerating comorbidity that is associated with compromised health-related quality of life and reduced quality-adjusted life…
Nuclear Imaging and PET
Fundamentals of Radionuclide Imaging Radionuclide imaging techniques are widely used in the evaluation of patients with known or suspected coronary artery disease (CAD). The basic principle underlying this approach is…
Echocardiography
Introduction Over many decades, echocardiography has evolved considerably to provide a comprehensive assessment of cardiac structure and function in a truly bedside manner. Echocardiography is a readily available technique that…
Refractory Angina
Introduction Angina is first and foremost a pain signal that originates from the heart to reach the brain. Typically, angina is triggered by myocardial ischemia. In addition to advanced coronary…
Antiplatelet and Anticoagulant Drugs
Introduction Chronic coronary artery disease (CAD) is a heterogeneous condition that encompasses patients with a history of acute coronary syndrome (ACS), patients with a history of coronary revascularization by percutaneous…
Revascularization Approaches
Introduction The indications for coronary revascularization among patients with chronic coronary heart disease evolve as the scientific information accumulates and technology advances. The benefits associated with prompt coronary revascularization in…
