[Intravascular brachytherapy in the prevention of vascular restenosis]

Cas Lek Cesk. 2003 Mar;142(3):154-6.
[Article in Czech]

Abstract

Vascular restenoses currently represent a major problem in the treatment of vascular stenoses. One of new approaches in the prevention of restenoses is intravascular brachytherapy. Intravascular brachytherapy uses local irradiation of the stenotic vessel segment by ionizing radiation with the aim of prevention of restenosis. This is a new rapidly developing multidisciplinary approach based on collaboration of specialties of intervention radiology, intervention cardiology, angiology, nephrology and radiation oncology. This review examines current options of intravascular brachytherapy as well as results of clinical trials evaluating the efficacy of intravascular brachytherapy in the different anatomical regions. Intravascular brachytherapy may substantially reduce the rate of restenoses. However, intravascular brachytherapy should be currently used only in the setting of clinical trials. Optimal method of irradiation of the stenotic segment of the vessel is still to be defined.

Publication types

  • English Abstract
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Angioplasty, Balloon*
  • Angioplasty, Balloon, Coronary
  • Arterial Occlusive Diseases / prevention & control
  • Arterial Occlusive Diseases / radiotherapy
  • Arterial Occlusive Diseases / therapy*
  • Arteries / radiation effects
  • Brachytherapy* / methods
  • Coronary Restenosis / prevention & control
  • Graft Occlusion, Vascular / prevention & control
  • Humans
  • Secondary Prevention