Factors determining success in percutaneous revascularization of chronic total coronary occlusion: multidetector computed tomography analysis.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES Percutaneous revascularization of chronic total coronary artery occlusion is a technical challenge and has a lower success rate than other angioplasty procedures. Identification of predictors of failure could lead to better selection of patients with the greatest possibility of success. In this study, we investigate the multidetector computed tomography features associated with failure of percutaneous treatment for chronic total coronary occlusion. METHODS This is a prospective, single-center study of 69 consecutive patients with chronic total occlusion in whom multidetector computed tomography study was performed before percutaneous coronary revascularization. RESULTS Seventy-seven lesions were analyzed. The mean length of the occlusion was 19.9 (14.3) mm and the estimated duration of occlusion was 47 (62) months. The only angiographic factor independently predictive of failure was a severe curve between the plaque and the proximal patent vessel (odds ratio 3.8, 95% confidence interval, 1.2-12; P=.02). On multidetector computed tomography, the only factor predictive of failure was an arc of calcium affecting more than 50% of the vessel circumference in the proximal (P=.04) and middle (P=.03) third of the occlusion. CONCLUSIONS Multidetector computed tomography identified a variable that cannot be measured by angiography that can predict failure in percutaneous revascularization of chronic total coronary occlusions. In selected cases, this parameter could be useful for preprocedure screening.