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Zero-Contrast PCI

Zero‑Contrast PCI for Kidney Patients

Zero-contrast percutaneous coronary intervention (zero-PCI) is a technique that aims to minimize or eliminate the use of contrast dye during a PCI procedure

It’s a strategy for performing PCI (percutaneous coronary intervention, or angioplasty with stenting) with minimal or no use of contrast dye.

Who Needs ?

  • Patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) or at high risk for contrast-induced acute kidney injury (CI-AKI)
  • Those with severe renal impairment, including patients on hemodialysis with residual renal function
  • Patients who previously experienced contrast-induced AKI
  • Can be used for complex cases, including left main coronary artery interventions and chronic total occlusions
Zero-Contrast PCI
Zero-Contrast PCI

Advantages

  • Significantly reduces or eliminates the risk of contrast-induced nephropathy/AKI
  • Allows coronary intervention in high-risk CKD patients while preserving renal function
  • Can achieve high procedural success rates (90-100% in studies) even for complex lesions
  • May reduce hospitalization rates and improve long-term outcomes
  • Enables treatment of coronary disease without worsening kidney function in severe CKD

Key features

  • Uses intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) for imaging and guidance
  • May employ optical coherence tomography (OCT)
  • Utilizes angiographic road mapping from prior angiograms
  • Relies on physiological measurements like fractional flow reserve (FFR)

FAQ

What is Zero-Contrast PCI?

Zero-Contrast PCI is a heart procedure used to treat blocked arteries without using contrast dye. This technique is especially helpful for patients with kidney problems, as contrast dye can damage the kidneys.

Why is Zero-Contrast PCI important for patients with kidney disease?

Patients with kidney disease are at risk of contrast-induced nephropathy, which can worsen kidney function. Zero-Contrast PCI avoids dye altogether, making it safer for your kidneys while still treating heart blockages effectively.

How does the doctor perform the procedure without dye?

Doctors use advanced tools like intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) and pressure wires to see inside the arteries and guide the stent placement, all without using contrast dye.

Is Zero-Contrast PCI as effective as regular PCI?

Yes. In the hands of an experienced cardiologist, Zero-Contrast PCI is just as effective as traditional PCI, especially when performed with modern imaging technologies.

Who is eligible for Zero-Contrast PCI?

This procedure is most suitable for patients with moderate to severe kidney disease, or those at high risk of kidney injury from contrast dye. Your cardiologist will determine if you’re a good candidate.

Is the procedure safe?

Yes. Zero-Contrast PCI is considered safe and effective, especially for kidney patients. As with any procedure, your medical team will explain potential risks and monitor you closely.

Will I be awake during the procedure?

Most patients receive local anesthesia with light sedation, so you’ll be awake but relaxed and comfortable during the procedure. You won’t feel pain in the heart area.

What is the recovery time after Zero-Contrast PCI?

Recovery is typically quick. Many patients are discharged within 24 hours, and most return to daily activities within a few days, depending on overall health.

Will I still need to take medications after the procedure?

Yes. You’ll likely need to take blood thinners and heart medications after the procedure to keep your arteries open and reduce the risk of future blockages.

What should I do before the procedure?

You may be asked to fast, adjust certain medications, and undergo blood tests or imaging. Your care team will give you detailed pre-procedure instructions to follow.

What PATIENTS SAYS !!

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