Journal of the American College of Cardiology
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J. Am. Coll. Cardiol. · Jun 2001
Randomized Controlled Trial Comparative Study Clinical TrialRandomized comparison of a strategy of predischarge coronary angiography versus exercise testing in low-risk patients in a chest pain unit: in-hospital and long-term outcomes.
This randomized trial compared a strategy of predischarge coronary angiography (CA) with exercise treadmill testing (ETT) in low-risk patients in the chest pain unit (CPU) to reduce repeat emergency department (ED) visits and to identify additional coronary artery disease (CAD). ⋯ In low-risk patients in the CPU, a strategy of CA detects more CAD than ETT, reduces long-term ED and hospital utilization and yields better patient satisfaction and understanding of their condition.