Complex coronary angioplasty: use of extended and angled balloon catheters.

Certain anatomical features of coronary artery stenoses are recognized to be associated with a high risk of acute closure during percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty. Balloon catheters with extended balloon lengths were developed and tested in nonsegmental stenoses and multiple stenoses in series. Balloon catheters with acute angulation were also designed and tested in stenoses located in tortuous, angulated arterial segments. Clinical experience with these unique balloon configurations is presented.