New clinical trials will be carried out to discover the best way to treat patients aged 75 and over who have had a heart attack.

Edinburgh University researchers will investigate whether or not UK practices are in line with the needs of the ageing population.

Coronary heart disease (CHD) is Scotland's biggest killer and the leading cause of death worldwide.

Although there have been advances in how CHD is treated, 50% of heart attacks happen in patients aged 72 and over.

Many clinicians believe older patients are frail, have a lower chance of survival and are more likely to have complications after heart procedures but this is based on perception rather than evidence-based research.

In Scotland, the trial is headed up by Professor David Newby.

He explains: "There is much debate and conflicting views amongst doctors about how to treat patients over 75 years old who present with a heart attack.

"This is because of the lack of evidence in older patients who may have both benefits and harms from treatments.

"As people are now living longer, it's really important we carry out this research to identify how best to manage our patients to ensure they receive the best care available and enhance their chances of recovery."

The British Heart Foundation (BHF) has awarded the trial £1.7m.