Re-stenosis after angioplasty occurred in 19% of our patients with angina or coronary events. The clinical variables associated with a higher risk of re-stenosis were diabetes (the main risk factor), previous myocardial infarction, obesity and hypercholesterolemia. Angiographic variables were not associated with re-stenosis. The use of stents decreases the incidence of re-stenosis in all groups).

This article presents the results of a study conducted in 421 patients who underwent invasive procedures utilizing catheters for diagnosis and treatment at the Hemodynamic Department of a Public Hospital during the period between July and December 2003. The goal of this study was to determine the existence of risks in the reuse of disposable angiographic catheters. This study was designed as an observational prospective cohort follow up. From the sample studied, 63.4% were males with average age of 64 years. Co-morbidities were diabetes mellitus and obesity in 27 and 24% respectively. Eighty two percent of the procedures were diagnostic and reused catheters were used in 74% of all procedures. Local infection or systemic pyrogenic reaction was observed in 4.3% patients, however there were no significant differences in any of the variables studied, between the group in which reused catheters were used and the group with new catheters (p < 0.05).