Alterations in Vascular Integrity

Scope: Transfer Network Impairment

Coronary Artery Disease

Coronary Atherosclerosis
The most common cause of Cardiovascular disease in the United States is atherosclerosis, an
abnormal accumulation of lipid, or fatty, substances and fibrous tissue in the lining of arterial
blood vessel walls. These substances create blockages and narrow the coronary vessels in a way
that reduces blood flow to the myocardium. It is now known that atherosclerosis involves a
repetitious inflammatory response to injury to the artery wall and subsequent alteration in the
structural and biochemical properties of the arterial walls. New Information that relates to the
development of atherosclerosis has increased understanding of treatment and prevention of
this progressive and potentially life-threatening process.
Angina Pectoris
Angina Pectoris is a clinical syndrome usually characterized by episodes or paroxysms of pain or
pressure in the anterior chest. The cause is insufficient coronary blood flow, resulting ina
decreased oxygen supply when there is increased myocardial demand for oxygen in response to
physical exertion or emotional stress. In other words, the need for oxygen exceeds the supply.
The severity of angina is based on the precipitating activity and its effect on activities of daily
living.