Putting the benefits of percutaneous coronary revascularization into perspective: from trials to guidelines.

Prompt delivery of percutaneous coronary revascularization in the acute setting has been shown to decrease mortality, length of hospitalization, and patient recovery time. However, its routine use in stable coronary disease is less validated, especially in the absence of adequate medical treatment. Several studies have looked into the benefits of percutaneous coronary revascularization. Based on these studies, many clinical guidelines have been developed to aid in decision making. In this article, we outline the benefits and reality of percutaneous coronary revascularization. We explore the major trials and use the latest clinical guidelines as a framework for our discussion on the applicability of this procedure in the setting of acute coronary syndromes and stable coronary disease.