The problem of stent thrombosis associated with drug-eluting stents and the optimal duration of dual antiplatelet therapy

Abstract

Drug-eluting stents have significantly reduced the problem of restenosis, but there is an association between drug-eluting stents and stent thrombosis that can be a significant clinical problem resulting in myocardial infarction or death. The risk for stent thrombosis increases in certain clinical situations and has been reduced through the use of dual antiplatelet therapy for prolonged periods. Until new therapies are developed, it is essential that patients who have had drug-eluting stents implanted continue with dual-antiplatelet therapy for at least 1 year and possibly for an indefinite period.