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What Does 80% Blocked Circumflex Artery Indicate?

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Posted on Tue, 19 Aug 2014
Question: I have been diagnosed with 80% blockage of my circumflex artery. LDL is just below 100. No symptoms of angina although my stress test shows abnormal EKG after 12 minutes on treadmill and HR at 130. (They discovered the blockage with a subsequent Cat scan). I exercise regularly, have no adverse symptoms. Cardiologist and I are on the fence as to need for stent. Your opinion?
doctor
Answered by Dr. Benard Shehu (5 hours later)
Brief Answer:
Coronary angiography advised....

Detailed Answer:
Hi there,

As your stress test was positive and it was found that your circumflex artery was 80% blocked, then, I advise to run coronary angiography.

Based on the results of angiography, it will be decided whether to go for stent of other revasculation therapy.

Hope it helped! Let me know if I can assist you further!
Dr.Benard
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T
doctor
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Follow up: Dr. Benard Shehu (14 hours later)
We did a Cat Scan so we (Cardiologist and I) are aware of the location of the blockage. We do not think the minimally invasive angiography is warranted.

The question we are faced with is to go with the stent or continue with medical therapy?

I exercise regularly (walk 3-5 miles a day in Boston), go to the gym 2-3 times a week to lift weights, am 6'2" weigh 200lbs. Eat well, but am transitioning to a primarily vegetarian diet with occasional chicken and fish. LDL is 103, HDL is 51 and TryG is 56. Heart function is good. Absolutely no angina, (even after I found out I have 80% blockage) No other significant blockages were revealed by the Cat Scan.

Obviously, I am leaning towards medical treatment, but 80% is indeed significant.

I am concerned at trying to determine the tipping point, 85%, 90%, 95% or......80% thanks for your thoughts.
doctor
Answered by Dr. Benard Shehu (2 days later)
Brief Answer:
Should run angiography first...

Detailed Answer:
Hi back,

Thank you for following up.

Although you had cat-scan, angiography is the most appropriate test to determine whether you need stent or not based on level of blockage.

If I was your caring doctor, would run angiography first, then, decide for stent.

Dr.Benard
Note: For further queries related to coronary artery disease and prevention, click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj
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Answered by
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Dr. Benard Shehu

Cardiologist

Practicing since :2004

Answered : 2257 Questions

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What Does 80% Blocked Circumflex Artery Indicate?

Brief Answer: Coronary angiography advised.... Detailed Answer: Hi there, As your stress test was positive and it was found that your circumflex artery was 80% blocked, then, I advise to run coronary angiography. Based on the results of angiography, it will be decided whether to go for stent of other revasculation therapy. Hope it helped! Let me know if I can assist you further! Dr.Benard