Current Concepts in the Pathogenesis and Management of Coronary No-Reflow Phenomenon

Abstract

Epicardial coronary arteries are the subject of the majority of research attention and treatment techniques. This is because interventional cardiologists focus on relieving the obstructions in epicardial coronary arteries which are easily seen on angiography. On the contrary, the coronary microvasculature receives less attention. The heart microvasculature, which consists of capillaries and arterioles, is negatively affected when the epicardial coronary artery becomes blocked. When the occlusion is relieved, sometimes the blood flow to the ischemic tissue still remains impeded, a phenomenon known as no-reflow. This review article aims to provide an in-depth understanding of the pathophysiology and management strategies needed to tackle this life-threatening phenomenon.