Cut, score, press, shock, or ablate?

Abstract

Key Points Cutting balloon angioplasty can modify fibrous or mildly calcified plaques before stent implantation. The present randomized study shows that high‐pressure cutting balloon angioplasty provides for a larger minimal stent area than standard noncompliant balloons, at the cost of a small risk of perforation. At a time when multiple plaque modification technologies are available, the simplicity and lower cost of cutting balloon angioplasty may ensure a continued role in percutaneous coronary intervention.