Title:Therapeutic Approaches in the Stimulation of the Coronary Collateral Circulation
VOLUME: 10 ISSUE: 1
Author(s):Achim Degen, Dominic Millenaar and Stephan H. Schirmer
Affiliation:Klinik fur Innere Medizin III, (Kardiologie, Angiologie und Internistische Intensivmedizin), Kirrberger Strasse, Geb. 40, Universitatsklinikum des Saarlandes, 66421 Homburg/ Saar, Germany.
Keywords:Coronary artery disease, arteriogenesis.
Abstract:Arteriogenesis as a way to restore blood flow after arterial occlusion has been under investigation for the treatment
of coronary artery disease (CAD) for decades. Therapeutic approaches so far have included delivery of cytokines
and growth factors as well as mechanical stimulation such as external counterpulsation. As knowledge on the mechanisms
of arteriogenesis expanded, new therapeutic approaches have emerged.
This review summarizes recent attempts to stimulate the growth of the coronary vasculature and discusses their potential
in clinical application. This article also delivers an overview of current studies and trials on coronary arteriogenesis.