Early Stenting Best for Some Heart Patients: Study

By Denise Mann
HealthDay Reporter

TUESDAY, Aug. 28 (HealthDay News) People with heart disease who have one blocked artery that restricts blood flow to the heart may do better if they receive a stent to open the artery right away, instead of drug therapy alone, a new study suggests.

Stents are cylindrical mesh tubes that can be inserted into arteries to prop them open and restore blood flow. In the new study, researchers used a diagnostic tool called fractional flow reserve(FFR) to help determine the best course of treatment among more than 1,200 people with stable heart disease. The test involves placing a special pressurized wire into the artery to measure blood flow to the heart. If blood flow is severely restricted, a stent should be placed immediately.

The study, which was published... [via Health News]