Abstract
ORBITA was a randomized trial comparing the effect of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) and placebo on the length of exercise tolerance of patients with stable angina pectoris (AP). The results before randomization and after 6-week follow-up were acquired from 104 patients from the PCI group and 90 patients from placebo group to evaluate the length of exercise tolerance.
Lengthening of the exercise tolerance after intervention (primary study endpoint) was not statistically significant between PCI and placebo group. Considering the results of the study, authors conclude that the efficacy of pharmacotherapy is comparable to PCI in this type of patients.
Other facts challenging this unequivocal conclusion are discussed further.