Coronary collateral circulation : Why many scientific cardiologists Ignore it ?


A consult with a 62-year-old patient in my office 

Hi, welcome?  What is your problem?

Nothing doctor. I am good. 

What brings you here then?

I used to have angina before. Now, I am fine doctor but confused after undergoing this angiogram. I need an opinion.

How is your exercise capacity?

I do walk, work, and able to do almost all regular activities.

Why did you do this angiogram then? 

Had to undergo this after a doubtful stress test, Now, I am told by at least 2 eminent cardiologists, that I am having just one functional coronary artery, and it is dangerous for the all-important LAD to live at the mercy of RCA. They said they will try to fix it with wires first or CABG if it failed.

After explaining the excellent backup from RCA to LAD, I told him, “Yes, most scientific cardiologists are not trained to respect collateral circulations, in spite of the fact, many CTOs fall under class 3 (contra)Indication for revascularisation. I must admit I am not that scientific but it ensures my patients don’t really suffer unnecessarily”

“Make a pardon doctor, I didn’t get you, What I am  supposed to do ?” 

I don’t know why I was so blunt in my response  “If you believe me, forget the lesion. If you don’t, get it stented or go for CABG as per the majority advice of the eminent “. I am sorry. I think I cleared your confusion.