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Percutaneous Coronary Intervention Gets Boost from Chinese Medicine
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Traditional Chinese Medicine is showing promise as a complement to percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), a procedure used to treat coronary artery disease. A recent review suggests TCM may help relieve symptoms, improve heart function, and prevent complications.
Key Development
A systematic review encompassing 20 randomized controlled trials indicated that Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) could substantially improve outcomes for individuals undergoing PCI. Interventions such as Danhong Injection, Tongxinluo Capsule, and Shenzhu Guanxin Granule were found to be effective. These treatments could alleviate angina, improve cardiac function, reduce cardiac biomarkers, prevent no-reflow, and inhibit in-stent restenosis, while also improving overall prognosis and reducing complications.
Clinical Evidence
Studies have shown that specific TCM interventions can improve heart health. Shenzhu Guanxin Granule, when added to guideline-directed medical therapy (GDMT), was able to alleviate angina symptoms post-PCI. Similarly, Shuangshen Tongguan Capsule, alongside GDMT, led to significant improvements in TCM symptoms, cardiac function, and quality of life after six months in patients with ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction (STEMI) post-PCI.
Adjunctive effect of traditional Chinese medicine in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention: evidence of mechanism.
“PCI, which involves the insertion of a catheter to open blocked arteries, has proven effective in managing CAD; however, it does not address all aspects of the disease and can be accompanied by complications.”
According to the American Heart Association, about 18.2 million adults in the U.S. have coronary artery disease, highlighting the need for effective treatments and preventative measures.
TCM’s Mechanisms of Action
TCM’s effectiveness appears to stem from its multifaceted approach. Its mechanisms include antiplatelet action, anti-inflammation, smooth muscle proliferation inhibition, vasodilation, microcirculation improvement, and endothelial protection. Tongxinluo Capsule, when added to antiplatelet therapy, significantly reduced platelet hyperactivity in acute coronary syndrome patients post-PCI. Maixuekang Capsule improved ADP-induced platelet aggregation.
Literature search process and results.
Addressing Complications
TCM has also shown promise in preventing complications associated with PCI. Danhong Injection could reduce the incidence of contrast-induced acute kidney injury. Prophylactic treatment with Cordyceps Sinensis had a preventive effect against CIN in ACS patients undergoing elective PCI. A Supplementing Qi and Hemostasis Formula was comparable to Pantoprazole Sodium Enteric-Coated Capsules in hemostasis and gastric mucosal protection.
Looking Ahead
While current research shows promising results, experts call for more extensive, high-quality studies to validate these findings. Future studies should adhere to rigorous research protocols, including larger sample sizes, appropriate statistical methods, and ethical clearance. Doing so, experts say, will ensure the integration of TCM into modern medical practices, offering more comprehensive care for CAD patients undergoing PCI.
