Embolic Protection Devices for Saphenous Vein Graft Percutaneous Coronary Interventions

Saphenous vein graft (SVG) percutaneous coronary interventions (PCIs) are associated with adverse clinical events caused by distal embolization in 10% to 20% of cases. Various embolic protection devices (EPDs) have been developed to lower the risk of distal embolization during SVG PCI: distal balloon occlusive devices, distal embolic filters, and proximal balloon occlusive devices. Despite evidence for improved outcomes and cost-effectiveness, rates of national EPD use remain low, the main cause of underutilization being operator preference. With increasing familiarity of operators with EPDs, their use should continue to increase in SVG PCI and lead to better outcomes.