Management of stable angina

Despite a steep decline in mortality from coronary artery disease (CAD) in Scotland over the last 20 years, CAD remains one of the leading causes of death in Scotland, responsible for 7,154 deaths in 2015. It is estimated that 18% of men aged 65–74 and 32% of men aged 75 and over are living with ischaemic heart disease (heart attack or angina); prevalence in women in these age groups is substantially lower at 9% and 20%, respectively.

Remit and target users

This guideline provides evidence-based recommendations and best practice guidance on the management of patients with stable angina. It covers the investigations necessary to confirm the presence of stable angina, the optimum medical treatment to relieve symptoms and the relative benefits of different interventions. The optimum management of those patients with stable angina requiring non-cardiac surgery is also covered. The provision of patient education is examined as well as whether psychological interventions can help improve symptoms and quality of life.

Effective diagnosis and management of stable angina requires co-ordination of a range of services and healthcare professionals. This guideline will be of interest to healthcare professionals and other multiagency colleagues who work with people with stable angina, including cardiologists, acute and emergency medicine specialists, general practitioners and other healthcare professionals in primary care, as well as patients, carers, voluntary organisations and policy makers.

How this guideline was developed

This guideline was developed using a standard methodology based on a systematic review of the evidence. Further details can be found in SIGN 50: A Guideline Developer’s Handbook.

Keeping up to date

This guideline was published in 2018 and will be considered for review in three years. The review history, and any updates to the guideline in the interim period, will be noted in the review report.

Current 3-7 years