Once the presence of coronary artery disease has been established with the benefit of heart catheterization, coronary CT angiography, or electron Bean CT we are dealing with a chronic disease. Chronic diseases, by definition, mandate chronic and permanent monitoring with specific attention to certain parameters. In the case of coronary artery disease, use of Aspirin, cholesterol lowering drugs, as well as a class of blood pressure lowering medications known as Beta-Blockers are indispensible to the long term treatment of the patients. Additionally, depending on the level of activity of each individual and the related symptoms, the extent and severity of the underlying coronary artery disease, and possible history of diabetes, periodic imaging studies may be indicated.

Cardiac Minute with Dr. Tehrani: Coronary Heart Diseases, Bypass or Stents (Video)