This book contains the manuscripts of the majority of the papers given
during the symposium 'Improvement of Myocardial Perfusion' which was
held from Sep- tember 27-29,1984 in Mainz/Germany. It has been the
purpose of this meeting to focus the interest of scientifically and
clinically interested cardiologists on the new developments in this
field. We therefore chose the subtitle 'Medical-Mechanical -Surgical
Approach'. The medical improvements in myocardial perfusion have been
brought about by the application of streptokinase, urokinase and
tissue-type plasminogen ac- tivator in the first hours after the onset
of an acute myocardial infarction. The different modes of application
and the possibilities to evaluate and eventually to quantify the results
of these treatments were addressed during the first part of the meeting.
The mechanical way to improve perfusion nowadays mainly consists of the
application of intracoronary balloon angioplasty. Although since 1977
the treat- ment has become a routine method, several questions are still
open such as the exact mode of action, the reaction of the vessel wall,
the optimal pressure and balloon size as well as the long term results
and the prevention of restenosis.