Technical aspects of provisional stenting in percutaneous treatment of complex bifurcation lesions

Drug-eluting stent (DES) implantation using the 'provisional' approach is the gold standard for percutaneous treatment of patients with unselected bifurcated lesions. Nevertheless, many operators still consider the provisional approach unsuitable for coronary patients with complex bifurcation anatomies. Yet, the provisional approach may be so differently carried out that its procedural outcome is often unpredictable. Some technical refinements may help to anticipate or manage procedural difficulties, which may occur during the management of complex patients. We sought to overview the issues related with DES selection as well as some technical points, which may increase the effectiveness of provisional stenting. In particular, the DES characteristics influencing bifurcation interventions and the technical refinements, which may be considered during a provisional stenting procedure are discussed. Indeed, main vessel stent sizing, proximal optimisation, side branch protection modality, side branch rewiring, kissing balloon and side branch rescue techniques are all pivotal to increase the safety and efficacy of the provisional strategy especially in the setting of complex anatomies and patients.