Stereotaxis and Chronic Total Occlusion

Wire-crossing of a chronic total coronary occlusion (CTO) is time-consuming and limited by the amount of contrast agent and time of radiation exposure. Magnetic wire navigation might accelerate wire-crossing by maintaining a coaxial vessel orientation. This study compares magnetic with conventional wire navigation for recanalization of CTOs.

Inclusion Criteria:

• symptomatic
• preserved wall motion or viable myocardium
• chronic total occlusion

Exclusion Criteria:

• chronic renal failure
• prior allergic reactions against contrast agent
• hyperthyreosis
• claustrophobia
• pregnancy
• contraindications to aspirin or clopidogrel