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Abstract
The literature on invasive versus noninvasive treatments for stable angina has amassed, with significant implications for GPs and specialists alike. Both types of therapy have shown a reduction in morbidity associated with stable coronary artery disease; however, patient-tailored treatments should be guided by recent clinical trial evidence.
Key Points
- There are a variety of treatment options for patients with stable angina, including invasive and noninvasive strategies.
- Medical therapy targeting cardiovascular risk factors is the cornerstone of treatment of patients with coronary artery disease, and the GP has a central role in risk factor management.
- Medical therapy should be optimised irrespective of whether an additional invasive approach is used.
- Pharmacological therapy can be effective in controlling symptoms of stable angina.
- In patients who have ongoing angina despite maximally tolerated pharmacological therapy, percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) has an important role in relieving symptoms and potentially improving quality of life.
- PCI is not offered for prognostic benefit in patients with stable angina.
