Overview

Coronary artery disease, also called coronary heart disease, or simply, heart disease, is the No. 1 killer in America, affecting more than 13 million Americans according to recent reports. Coronary artery disease is usually a result of plaque buildup in coronary arteries, a condition called atherosclerosis, that leads to blockages. The arteries, which start out smooth and elastic, become narrow and rigid, restricting blood flow to the heart. The heart becomes starved of oxygen and the vital nutrients it needs to pump properly. The book intends to cover original research with a clinical emphasis, including observational studies, clinical trials, novel imaging, pharmacology and interventional approaches as well as advances in laboratory research that contribute to the understanding of coronary artery disease.