Transmyocardial Laser Revascularization

Abstract

An increasing number of patients are found to be unsuitable for revascularization by conventional approaches to the epicardial vessels. Transmyocardial laser revascularization (TMR) is a treatment choice for patients who have refractory angina pectoris when bypass surgery or percutaneous transluminal angioplasty is not indicated. Transmyocardial laser revascularization leads to significant improvements in angina. It also improves quality of life, reduces hospital readmission rates and may improve exercise tolerance. However, the technique does not effect survival, ejection fraction, cardiac events and myocardial perfusion with nuclear studies. Further results from ongoing trials are awaited with interest.