[Assessment of immediate geometric changes in coronary stenosis after implantation of stents by quantitative angiographic analysis]. / Appréciation des modifications géométriques immédiates de la sténose coronaire après implantation de tuteurs par analyse angiographique quantitative.

ABSTRACT

In order to assess the immediate geometric changes in coronary stenosis that occur after implantation of intra-coronary stents, a quantitative angiographic analysis (automatic delineation of contours) was performed in 18 patients. Following angioplasty, the implantation of a stent significantly increases the diameter and area of the stenotic segment in absolute values. This improvement is attended by a significant decrease in resistance and in the theoretical trans-stenotic pressure gradient. Beside its role as mechanical support of the dilated arterial wall, the stent possesses an intrinsic force of dilatation confirmed by the results of quantitative angiographic analysis.