A. Coronary Artery Disease

Unit Objective:

At the end of this unit the resident understands the physiology of coronary circulation, the pathophysiologic causes and derangement of ischemic heart disease and the sequelae of coronary events, and performs comprehensive short and long-term management.

Learner Objectives:

Upon completion of the unit the resident:

1. Understands the physiology of coronary circulation and the physiologic derangements caused by stenosis and obstruction;
   
   
2. Understands the development of atherosclerotic plaques and the current theories of plaque origination;
   
   
3. Knows the normal and variant anatomy of coronary circulation as well as the radiographic anatomy of the coronary arteries and the left and right ventricles;
   
   
4. Understands the rationale for and techniques of coronary artery bypass operations as well as the use of various conduits;
   
   
5. Understands the risks and complications of coronary artery bypass operations, coronary angiography, and percutaneous coronary artery balloon angioplasty;
   
   
6. Understands the preoperative and postoperative care of patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting;
   
   
7. Can describe outcomes of angioplasty and of operative and non-operative treatment of coronary artery disease, using statistical methods.