Review of the treatment of acute coronary syndrome in elderly patients

• Authors: Maan Jokhadar, Emory University; Nanette K Wenger, Emory University
• Journal Title: Clinical Interventions in Aging
• Volume: Volume 2009, Number 4
• Publisher: Dove Medical Press | 2009-11-18, Pages 435-444
• Type of Work: Article | Final Publisher PDF
• Publisher DOI: http://doi.org/10.2147/CIA.S3035
• Subjects: Health Sciences, Rehabilitation and Therapy; Health Sciences, General
• Keywords: acute coronary syndrome; revascularization; medical therapy

Abstract

Advances in treatment and early revascularization have led to improved outcomes for patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS). However, elderly ACS patients are less likely to receive evidence-based treatment, including revascularization therapy, due to uncertainty of the associated benefits and risks in this population. This article addresses key issues regarding medical and revascularization therapy in elderly ACS patients based on a review of the medical literature and in concordance with clinical practice guidelines from the American Heart Association (AHA) and the American College of Cardiology (ACC).