Metal Allergy In-Stent Restenosis Study

In-stent restenosis remains one of the most challenging problems in patients after coronary artery angioplasty. Angiographically, it is discovered in 10% of the patients after drug-eluting stent (DES) implantation. There are multiple factors causing restenosis, which can be divided into two major groups: first vessel-dependent (based on the vessel's tortuosity, dimensions and lesion's calcification, all leading to suboptimal stent expansion), and second dependent on the inflammatory processes caused by the intervention. Study objectives is the analysis of the possible correlation between allergy to metals utilised during the stent manufacturing (nickel, cobalt, chromium, molybdenum, tungsten) and in-stent restenosis occurence. The angiographic results of stent implantation, and in-stent restenosis will be assessed independently by two skilled interventional cardiologists, and in case of their discrepant opinions, the decision will be made on the basis of the third cardiologist. The tests will be applicated during the hospitalisation, then read after 48 hours and 72 hours, and subsequently interpreted by the skilled dermatologist, during the hospital stay or afterwards.