Editorial
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World J Cardiol. Sep 26, 2010; 2(9): 257-261
Published online Sep 26, 2010. doi: 10.4330/wjc.v2.i9.257
Drug eluting balloons for the treatment of coronary artery disease: What can we expect?
Alexander Joost, Volkhard Kurowski, Peter W Radke
Alexander Joost, Volkhard Kurowski, Peter W Radke, Medical Department II, UK S-H Campus Lübeck, University of Lübeck, D-23562 Lübeck, Germany
Author contributions: Joost A, Kurowski V and Radke PW wrote the manuscript.
Correspondence to: Peter W Radke, Professor, Medical Department II, UK S-H Campus Lübeck, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Ratzeburger Allee 160, D-23562 Lübeck, Germany. peter.radke@uk-sh.de
Telephone: +49-451-5002421 Fax: +49-451-5002363
Received: August 2, 2010
Revised: September 14, 2010
Accepted: September 21, 2010
Published online: September 26, 2010
Abstract

Drug-eluting balloons (DEBs) represent an enhancement of the therapeutic repertoire for the interventional cardiologist. The therapeutic concept of DEBs is promising, notably on the basis of initial studies in patients with diffuse in-stent restenosis (ISR). At present, however, a number of questions regarding long-term efficacy and safety remain, specifically in indications other than diffuse ISR. The results of the evaluation of different substances, balloon systems and clinical indications will determine the long-term success of DEBs.

Keywords: Coronary artery disease; Coronary balloon angioplasty; Drug delivery systems; Vascular graft restenosis