Ischaemic heart disease (IHD) is a pathological condition caused by stenosis of the coronary arteries. The condition leads in insufficient oxygen and nutrient delivery to the heart muscle (myocardium). Cardiologists and scientists are endeavoring to translate experimental knowledge into effective, innovative treatments for IHD. The prevention of ‘stent thrombosis’ is at the forefront of clinical research and is one area of interest currently undergoing rapid growth in Australia and internationally. This paper will attempt to elucidate the pathology and aetiology of IHD. Furthermore, an examination of the use of balloon angioplasty (PCI) to treat IHD will be made. The introduction of bare metal stents (BMS) and drug-eluting stents (DES) ushered in a period of excitement for interventional cardiologists around the world. The pros and cons of BMS and DES use, as well as the risks associated with discontinuation of antiplatelet therapy, have not been fully elucidated. Through the critical evaluation of a range of diverse scientific literature, it is hoped that an overview of the current status of this important area of medicine is achieved.