Severity of coronary artery calcification detected by electron beam computed tomography is related to the risk of restenosis after percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty.

To assess the relationship between coronary artery calcification and the late success rate of percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA), we performed electron beam computed tomography (EBCT) in 22 patients with ischemic heart disease who underwent PTCA. The calcification score in each coronary artery vessel was estimated and compared with the occurrence of restenosis at 3 months after PTCA. Angioplasty had been performed in 28 sites in 22 patients, and 12 sites exhibited restenosis. The mean calcium score in the unsuccessful PTCA vessels was significantly higher than in successful sites (228 vs 92). The overall late success rate of PTCA with moderate to severe calcification was extremely low at 29%. Coronary segments with diffuse and extensive calcification were not optimal target lesions for PTCA. Prediction of the late success rate after PTCA may be possible by prior evaluation of coronary artery calcification utilizing EBCT.