An open design, multicentre, randomized trial of percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty versus stenting, with a heparin-coated stent, of totally occluded coronary arteries: rationale, trial design and baseline patient characteristics. Total Occlusion Study of Canada (TOSCA) Investigators.

BACKGROUND: Percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA) of totally occluded coronary arteries is performed in a variety of clinical settings and for a variety of indications. Most commonly it is performed for relief of symptoms of myocardial ischemia. Studies have also suggested that PTCA of occluded arteries beyond the acute phase of myocardial infarction may improve left ventricular function even in the absence of objective evidence …