[Unstable angina: immediate and mid-term results]

Coronary angioplasty (PTCA) for unstable angina is a procedure having good anatomical and clinical success. Best immediate results are achieved after a clinical "cooling" of the unstable phase, by means of intravenous heparin and acetylsalicylic acid. Coronary thrombolysis has no role in improving results of PTCA in unstable angina. Incomplete revascularization is safe and clinically effective in the acute phase, and staged procedures are recommended if two or more vessels are to be treated. Restenosis rate seems to be higher in unstable patients, especially in those who are on refractory phase.