Current management of coronary artery disease prior to vascular surgery: A clinical dilemma

Abstract

Here we present a case of an elderly man who underwent cardiac stress testing as a preoperative evaluation prior to femoral-popliteal bypass surgery. He subsequently underwent a preoperative coronary angiogram after a high-risk stress test with the latter demonstrating obstructive three-vessel coronary artery disease. We discuss the clinical challenges that such a common clinical scenario presents particularly when it comes to preoperative coronary revascularisation prior to vascular surgery. We examine the case within the framework of the latest revascularisation guidelines and discuss the available evidence for preoperative revascularisation and its limitations.