restenosis
Pronunciation: ree-steh-NO-sis
The re-narrowing of a coronary artery after successful percutaneous intervention.
Full Definition
Restenosis refers to the pathological process of arterial re-narrowing following successful coronary intervention, typically occurring within 6-12 months after the procedure. The mechanism involves neointimal hyperplasia, where smooth muscle cells proliferate and migrate into the arterial lumen, gradually reducing the vessel diameter. Clinical restenosis presents as recurrent chest pain or abnormal stress testing, often requiring repeat intervention. The introduction of drug-eluting stents has significantly reduced restenosis rates compared to balloon angioplasty or bare metal stents. In-stent restenosis represents a specific subset occurring within previously placed stents.
Usage
Usage note: Can be written as restenosis or re-stenosis; restenosis is preferred in medical literature.
In Context
- "Follow-up angiography at six months revealed no evidence of restenosis in the treated vessel." — Clinical follow-up report
- "The patient developed symptomatic restenosis requiring target lesion revascularization." — Interventional cardiology consultation