Comparative Case-Control analysis of a dedicated self-expanding Biolimus A9-eluting Bifurcation stent versus provisional or mandatory side branch intervention strategies in the treatment of coronary bifurcation lesions.

Background: In a number of coronary bifurcation lesions, both the main vessel and the side branch (SB) need stent coverage.

Objectives: To analyze the procedural performance and the impact on radiation times (RT) and contrast medium consumption (CMC) of the Axxess™ stent system (Biosensors, Switzerland) treating de novo bifurcation lesions (DBL).

Methods: One hundred and ten consecutive prospectively enrolled cases (Axxess Group) and 110 age, sex, and lesion location matched controls undergoing mandatory (Group A, n = 56) or provisional (Group B, n = 54) SB intervention were analyzed.