Directional coronary atherectomy can be successfully performed in the elderly.

The influence of age on the clinical and angiographic outcome of directional coronary atherectomy is evaluated. Results demonstrate that DCA can be performed successfully in the vast majority (78.7-90%) of patients in all age groups. However, there is a non-statistical trend toward decreased success rates in the elderly (P > .05). Major ischemic complications and groin complications tend to be more common in the elderly (P > .05). Blood transfusions are required significantly more often in the elderly (P < .05). Directional coronary atherectomy is a useful method of coronary artery revascularization in all age groups, including the elderly.