Coronary angiography in diabetic and non-diabetic patients with severe ischaemic heart disease.

In this retrospective study, the coronary angiograms of 36 diabetic and 36 non-diabetic patients, with severe ischaemic heart disease, were compared. Patient groups were closely matched for age, sex, cardiovascular risk factors, duration and functional disability of angina. Coronary angiograms were assessed by an independent observer without knowledge of the clinical status of the patients, and graded using a coronary score system. Left ventricular function was analyzed using computerized angiographic data. The same percentage of diabetic and non-diabetic patients had three-vessel disease. The mean coronary score per patient was similar in the two groups. Diabetic and non-diabetic patients had a statistically similar percentage of diseased vessels considered suitable for coronary bypass surgery. Left ventricular function was similar in the two groups. Thus diabetic patients with symptomatic coronary artery disease should be considered for angiographic evaluation using the same criteria as non-diabetics.