This book attempts to focus on the most important clinical aspects of ischaemic heart disease. Clearly, in no way is it supposed to be a comprehensive review of the subject, but it does attempt to address the most important topics for everyday practising clinicians. The question of epidemiology is topical both in the lay and medical press and is, therefore, covered in some detail. It is the editor's opinion that proper understanding of the clinical manifestations of the disease and, therefore, subsequent investigation and treatment are based on a detailed understanding of the pathology and pathophysiology, and as a result these subjects have also been covered in detail. In the last decade there have been considerable advances in our understanding of the mechanisms of angina and also the haemodynamic and metabolic consequences of both angina and myocardial infarction. Again, if appropriate investigations and treatment are to be undertaken, they can only be done with the proper knowledge of the disease being investigated. Finally, the investigation and management of the various mani festations of ischaemic heart disease have been addressed. In the last ten years there has been an explosion in the drugs available for the treatment of ischaemic heart disease and how they should be used has become much more sophisticated. The place of coronary artery surgery has now been rationalized and angioplasty provides an important adjunct to treatment.
