Wanted: Expert operators for coronary chronic total occlusion interventions.

Coronary chronic total occlusions can be recanalized by expert operators with high success and acceptable complication rates. Developing a procedural plan (using the hybrid or another algorithm) is critical for success. Live case demonstrations appear safe and can be of high educational value. The key factor for achieving good outcomes in chronic total occlusion interventions remains operator expertise. Development of more expert operators will improve the treatment options for this challenging group of lesions and patients.