A recent study compared the risks of the balloon and stent procedure in those over the age of 80 and those less than 80. No significant difference was found.

Modern medicine has prolonged and improved the quality life for many. More and more in my practice age is just a number. I’ve treated a vibrant 93 year old tennis player with heart failure and more energy than three normal people. I’ve also treated a 45 year old with a heart so weak he could barely get off the couch. I make a point to consciously acknowledge a patient’s age but not to make clinical decisions based on it alone. If a procedure is warranted, age alone is not reason to delay or cancel.