Coronary sinus reducer for the treatment of chronic refractory angina pectoris.

Refractory angina represents the final stage of chronic coronary artery disease, where anginal symptoms persist despite complete epicardial coronary artery revascularization and maximally tolerated pharmacological therapy. Percutaneous narrowing of the coronary sinus with the coronary sinus reducer (Reducer®, Neovasc, Inc., Richmond, Canada) device was first attempted in humans in 2005 and has been shown to improve angina symptoms and the quality of life of patients suffering chronic refractory angina. It was recently included in the European guidelines for the management of chronic coronary syndrome and is progressively gaining popularity. The authors hereby provide a review of current literature on the topic, intending to facilitate insights and to promote further research on this device and its clinical applications.