Percutaneous coronary intervention for non ST-elevation acute coronary syndromes: which, when and how?

The presentation of patients with suspected non ST-elevation acute coronary syndromes is quite diverse. Therefore, the diagnostic workup and choice of treatment may vary accordingly. Major issues regarding the evaluation are the likelihood of the diagnosis and the risk for adverse events. These factors should guide the choice of diagnostic test. Patients with increased risk for ischemic events and patients with recurrent ischemia are most likely to benefit from revascularization. In addition, when percutaneous coronary intervention is considered, evidence suggests that sufficient time should be allowed for pharmacologic stabilization, reducing the possibility of periprocedurally inflicted myocardial infarction. However, postponement of intervention may lead to an increase of new spontaneous events, and high-risk patients should apply for revascularization soon after pharmacologic stabilization. The extent of revascularization performed by percutaneous coronary intervention depends predominantly on patient characteristics and anatomy but should be limited to flow-obstructive lesions. In conclusion, patients presenting with non-ST elevation acute coronary syndromes constitute a very diverse population; diagnostic workup, treatment, and the timing of a possible intervention should be tailored individually.