Dual Antiplatelet Therapy Duration Determines Outcome After 2- But Not 1-Stent Strategy in Left Main Bifurcation Percutaneous Coronary Intervention

Unprotected distal left main percutaneous intervention

Revascularization has been demonstrated to be clearly superior to medical therapy for significant unprotected left main coronary artery (LMCA) disease. Coronary artery bypass graft surgery (CABG) has a class 1 indication in both the American and European society guidelines for the treatment of LMCA disease. However, for the population of patients who are declined CABG after a heart team evaluation, percutaneous coronary interventional (PCI) may be an efficacious alternative. This review summarizes the data on percutaneous coronary intervention of distal left main coronary artery disease including the various contemporary techniques and associated challenges.

Comparison between provisional and dual systematic stenting approach for left main bifurcation disease: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Despite recent advancements, challenges persist in determining the optimal stenting strategy for LM bifurcation disease. Hence, this systematic review aims to compare single provisional and systematic dual stenting for managing LM bifurcation disease. A systematic search was performed until January 14, 2024. For the effect measure, risk ratios (RRs) was calculated. This study included 22 studies with 10776 participants. The all-cause mortality and cardiovascular mortality revealed comparable outcomes between provisional and dual-systematic stenting (RR 1.13, CI95 %: 0.87-1.47, p 0.36, I2 59 %; RR 1.16, CI95 %: 0.73-1.84, p 0.63, I2 80 %). In addition, MACE, MI, TLR, TVR, and in stent thrombosis also showed similar findings. Subgroup analysis revealed that cohort studies was the source of heterogeneity in all-cause mortality, stent thrombosis, and TLR. This meta-analysis suggests comparable outcomes between provisional and dual-systematic stenting in managing LM bifurcation disease. Further study is needed to validate the outcomes of novel techniques.

Impact of Prolonged Dual Antiplatelet Therapy After Bifurcation Percutaneous Coronary Intervention in Patients with High Ischemic Risk

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of prolonged dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) on clinical outcomes in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary interventions (PCI) for bifurcation coronary lesions.

METHODS

A total of 1000 patients who underwent PCI for coronary bifurcation lesions and had clinical follow-up were divided into two groups based on the duration of DAPT: DAPT > 12 months and DAPT ≤ 12 months). Patients who experienced a myocardial infarction, required repeat PCI, or died within 1 year after the initial procedure were excluded.

RESULTS

Among the 1000 eligible patients, 394 patients received DAPT for > 12 months (39.4%). Most patients in our study presented with chronic coronary disease (61%). The majority of patients in our study (62.8%) had a low bleeding risk. The median follow-up duration was 35 months (interquartile range 20.6-36.5). There were no significant differences in the major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) between groups of prolonged DAPT (> 12 month) and DAPT ≤ 12 months (18.8% vs. 14.9%, p = 0.11). Patients with clinical features of high ischemic risk (HIR) had a significantly increased risk of MACE (hazard ratio [HR] 1.92, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.12-3.26, p = 0.015) when compared with patients without clinical features of HIR. Compared with DAPT ≤ 12 months, extended DAPT (> 12 months) did not improve outcomes in patients with clinical (HR 1.24, 95% CI 0.90-1.72, p = 0.19) and technical features (HR 1.04, 95% CI 0.67-1.63, p = 0.85) of HIR.

CONCLUSION

In this multicenter real-world registry, administration of DAPT for more than 12 months in patients who have undergone PCI for bifurcation lesion is not associated with a reduced incidence of MACE in long-term follow-up.

REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier no. NCT03450577.

Comparing the clinical outcomes of single vs. systematic dual stenting strategies for unprotected left main bifurcation lesion: a systematic review and meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION

The optimal percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) strategy for coronary left main (LM) bifurcation lesions remains controversial. This meta-analysis compared the medium and long-term follow-up clinical outcomes of single vs. systematic dual stenting strategies of LM bifurcation lesions.

METHODS

We systematically identified studies published within 5 years comparing single vs. systematic double stenting strategies for LM bifurcation lesions. The primary endpoint was medium-term (1 year) and long-term (at least 3 years) all-cause death. Secondary outcomes included major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs), target lesion revascularization (TLR), overall occurrence of stent thrombosis (ST), cardiovascular (CV) mortality, and myocardial infarction (MI).

RESULTS

Two randomized controlled trials and nine observational studies with 7,318 patients were included in this meta-analysis. In terms of the medium-term follow-up clinical outcomes, our pooled analysis showed that use of the systematic dual stenting strategy was associated with a lower ST risk (odds ratio [OR] = 0.43, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.20-0.89, P = 0.02) and cardiac death risk (OR = 0.43, 95% CI: 0.21-0.89, P = 0.02) compared to the single stenting strategy; there was no significant difference between the two strategies regarding rates of all-cause death, MACE, TLR, and MI. Patients with long-term follow-up showed comparable observed clinical outcomes between the two strategies. Most importantly, for patients with true LM bifurcation, the risk of all-cause death, ST, and CV mortality following the systematic dual stenting strategy was significantly lower than the single stenting strategy.

CONCLUSIONS

For patients with LM bifurcation lesions, both the systematic dual stenting strategy and single stenting strategy demonstrated comparable results in terms of all-cause mortality during medium-term and long-term follow-up. However, the systematic dual stenting strategy showed a tendency towards lower incidence of ST and CV mortality compared to the single stenting strategy during medium-term follow-up. Consequently, the systematic dual stenting strategy yielded superior clinical outcomes for patients with LM bifurcation lesions.

Provisional Strategy for Left Main Stem Bifurcation Disease: A State-of-the-Art Review of Technique and Outcomes

Left main coronary artery (LMA) disease jeopardizes a large area of myocardium and increases the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events. LMCA disease is found in 5% to 7% of all diagnostic coronary angiographies, and more than 80% of the patients enrolled in recent large randomized controlled left main trials had distal left main bifurcation or trifurcation disease. Emerging clinical evidence from prospective all-comer registries and randomized trials has provided a solid basis for percutaneous coronary intervention as a treatment option in selected patients with unprotected LMCA disease; however, to date, no uniform recommendations as to optimal stenting strategy for LMCA bifurcation lesions exist. This review provides an overview of provisional stenting technique and escalation to 2-stent strategies in LMCA bifurcation lesions. Data from randomized controlled trials and registries are reviewed. Technical characteristics of optimal provisional LMCA stenting technique and angiographic and intravascular determinants of escalation are also summarized.

Dual antiplatelet therapy after percutaneous coronary intervention for left main coronary artery disease

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES

There are scarce data on the optimal duration and prognostic impact of dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) with second-generation drug-eluting stents for left main coronary artery (LMCA) disease. The aim of this study was to investigate the practice pattern and long-term prognostic effect of DAPT duration in patients undergoing PCI with second-generation drug-eluting stents for LMCA disease.

METHODS

Using individual patient-level data from the IRIS-MAIN and KOMATE registries, 1827 patients undergoing PCI with second-generation drug-eluting stents for LMCA disease with valid information on DAPT duration were included. The efficacy outcome was major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE, a composite of cardiac death, myocardial infarction, and stent thrombosis) and the safety outcome was TIMI major bleeding.

RESULTS

DAPT duration was <6 months (n=273), 6 to 12 months (n=477), 12 to 24 months (n=637), and ≥ 24 months (n=440). The median follow-up duration was 3.9 [interquartile range, 3.01-5.00] years. Prolonged DAPT duration was associated with lower incidences of MACE. In multigroup propensity score analysis, adjusted HR for MACE were significantly higher for DAPT <6 months and DAPT 6 to 12 months than for DAPT 12 to 24 months (HR, 4.51; 95%CI, 2.96-6.88 and HR 1.92; 95%CI, 1.23-3.00). There was no difference in HR for major bleeding among the assessed groups.

CONCLUSIONS

DAPT duration following PCI for LMCA disease is highly variable. Although the duration of DAPT should be considered in the context of the clinical situation of each patient, <12 months of DAPT was associated with higher incidence of MACE. Registration identifiers: NCT01341327; NCT03908463.

New Insights Into Long- Versus Short-Term Dual Antiplatelet Therapy Duration in Patients After Stenting for Left Main Coronary Artery Disease: Findings From a Prospective Observational Study

BACKGROUND

The appropriate duration of dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) and risk-benefit ratio for long-term DAPT in patients with left main (LM) disease undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention remains uncertain.

METHODS

Four thousand five hundred sixty-one consecutive patients with stenting of LM disease at a single center from January 2004 to December 2016 were enrolled. Decision to discontinue or remain on DAPT after 12 months was left to an individualized decision-making based on treating physicians by weighing the patient's risks of ischemia versus bleeding and considering patient preference. The primary outcome was a composite of death, myocardial infarction, stent thrombosis, or stroke at 3 years. Key safety outcome was 3-year rate of Bleeding Academic Research Consortium 2, 3, or 5 bleeding.

RESULTS

Of 3865 patients free of ischemic and bleeding events at 12 months, 1727 (44.7%) remained on DAPT (mostly clopidogrel based [97.7%]) beyond 12 months after LM percutaneous coronary intervention. DAPT>12-month versus ≤12-month DAPT was associated with a significant reduced risk of 3-year primary outcome (2.6% versus 4.6%; adjusted hazard ratio: 0.59 [95% CI, 0.41-0.84]). The same trend was found for other ischemic end points: death (0.9% versus 3.0%; P_log-rank<0.001), cardiovascular death (0.5% versus 1.7%; P_log-rank=0.001), myocardial infarction (0.8% versus 1.9%; P_log-rank=0.005), and stent thrombosis (0.4% versus 1.1%; P_log-rank=0.017). The key safety end point was not significantly different between 2 regimens (1.8% versus 1.6%; adjusted hazard ratio: 1.07 [95% CI, 0.65-1.74]). The effect of DAPT>12 month on primary and key safety outcomes was consistent across clinical presentations, high bleeding risk, P2Y₁₂ inhibitor, and LM bifurcation percutaneous coronary intervention approach.

CONCLUSIONS

In a large cohort of patients free from clinical events during the first year after LM percutaneous coronary intervention and at low apparent future bleeding risk, an individualized patient-tailored approach to longer duration (>12 month) of DAPT with aspirin plus a P2Y₁₂ inhibitor (mostly clopidogrel) improved both composite and individual efficacy outcomes by reducing ischemic risk, without a concomitant increase in clinically relevant bleeding.

Bioabsorbable polymer drug-eluting stents with 4-month dual antiplatelet therapy versus durable polymer drug-eluting stents with 12-month dual antiplatelet therapy in patients with left main coronary artery disease: the IDEAL-LM randomised trial

BACKGROUND

Improvements in drug-eluting stent design have led to a reduced frequency of repeat revascularisation and new biodegradable polymer coatings may allow a shorter duration of dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

AIMS

The Improved Drug-Eluting stent for All-comers Left Main (IDEAL-LM) study aims to investigate long-term clinical outcomes after implantation of a biodegradable polymer platinum-chromium everolimus-eluting stent (BP-PtCr-EES) followed by 4 months DAPT compared to a durable polymer cobalt-chromium everolimus-eluting stent (DP-CoCr-EES) followed by 12 months DAPT in patients undergoing PCI of unprotected left main coronary artery (LMCA) disease.

METHODS

This is a multicentre randomised clinical trial study in patients with an indication for coronary artery revascularisation who have been accepted for PCI for LMCA disease after Heart Team consultation. Patients were randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to receive either the BP-PtCr-EES or the DP-CoCr-EES. The primary endpoint was a non-inferiority comparison of the rate of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), defined as all-cause death, myocardial infarction, or ischaemia-driven target vessel revascularisation at 2 years.

RESULTS

Between December 2014 and October 2016, 818 patients (410 BP-PtCr-EES and 408 DP-CoCr-EES) were enrolled at 29 centres in Europe. At 2 years, the primary endpoint of MACE occurred in 59 patients (14.6%) in the BP-PtCr-EES group and 45 patients (11.4%) in the DP-CoCr-EES group; 1-sided upper 95% confidence interval (CI) 7.18%; p=0.04 for non-inferiority; p=0.17 for superiority. The secondary endpoint event of BARC 3 or 5 bleeding occurred in 11 patients (2.7%) in the BP-PtCr-EES group and 2 patients (0.5%) in the DP-CoCr-EES group (p=0.02).

CONCLUSIONS

In patients undergoing PCI of LMCA disease, after two years of follow-up, the use of a BP-PtCr-EES with 4 months of DAPT was non-inferior to a DP-CoCr-EES with 12 months of DAPT with respect to the composite endpoint of all-cause death, myocardial infarction or ischaemia-driven target vessel revascularisation.

Prognostic and Practical Validation of ESC/EACTS High Ischemic Risk Definition on Long-Term Thrombotic and Bleeding Events in Contemporary PCI Patients

AIMS

The ESC/EACTS myocardial revascularization guidelines recently standardized the definition of patients at high ischemic risk (HIR). However, the ability of ESC/EACTS-HIR criteria to stratify ischemic and bleeding risk in a contemporary real-world East Asian cohort remains unexplored.

METHODS

A total of 10,167 consecutive patients undergoing PCI from prospective Fuwai PCI Registry (January 2013 to December 2013) were reviewed. ESC/EACTS-HIR features was defined as having at least one of the eight clinical and angiographic characteristics. The primary ischemic endpoint was target vessel failure (cardiac death, target vessel myocardial infarction [MI], or target vessel revascularization [TVR]); bleeding outcome was assessed using the BARC type 2, 3, or 5 bleeding. Median follow-up was 29 months.

RESULTS

Compared with non-HIR patients, HIR patients (n=5,149, 50.6%) were associated with increased risk for target vessel failure (adjusted hazard ratio [HRadjust]: 1.48 [1.25-1.74]) and patient-oriented composite outcome (HRadjust: 1.44 [1.28-1.63]), as well as cardiac death, MI, and TVR. By contrast, the risk of clinically relevant bleeding was not significantly different between the two groups. (HRadjust: 0.84 [0.66-1.06]). Greater than or equal to three implanted stents and diabetic patients with diffuse multivessel coronary disease emerged as independent predictors for long-term adverse outcomes. There was no significant interaction between high bleeding risk (HBR) status and clinical outcomes associated with ESC/EACTS-HIR criteria (all Pinteraction ＞0.05).

CONCLUSION

The ESC/EACTS-HIR features identified patients at increased risk of thrombotic events, including cardiac death, but not for clinically relevant bleeding. Importantly, HBR did not modify cardiovascular risk subsequent to patients with ESC/EACTS-HIR features, suggesting its potential clinical applicability in tailoring antithrombotic therapy.

Prevalence and Impact of High Bleeding Risk in Patients Undergoing Left Main Artery Disease PCI

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and prognostic impact of high bleeding risk (HBR), as determined by the Academic Research Consortium HBR criteria, in real-world patients undergoing left main (LM) percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

BACKGROUND

LM PCI is often reserved for patients at increased risk for periprocedural adverse events. Patients at HBR represent a relevant percentage of this cohort, but their outcomes after LM PCI are still poorly investigated.

METHODS

All patients undergoing LM PCI between 2014 and 2017 at a tertiary care center were prospectively enrolled. Patients were defined as having HBR if they met at least 1 major or 2 minor Academic Research Consortium HBR criteria. The primary endpoint was the composite of all-cause death, myocardial infarction (MI), or stroke at 12 months.

RESULTS

Among 619 enrolled patients, 55.3% were at HBR. The rate of the primary endpoint was 4-fold higher in patients at HBR compared with those without HBR (20.5% vs 4.9%; HR: 4.43; 95% CI: 2.31-8.48), driven by an increased risk for all-cause death (HR: 3.88; 95% CI: 1.88-8.02) and MI (HR: 6.18; 95% CI: 1.83-20.9). Rates of target vessel or lesion revascularization and stent thrombosis were comparable in the 2 groups. Bleeding occurred more frequently in patients at HBR (HR: 3.77; 95% CI: 1.83-7.76). Consistent findings were observed after Cox multivariable regression adjustment.

CONCLUSIONS

Among patients undergoing LM PCI, those with HBR are at increased risk for all-cause death, MI, and bleeding. Conversely, rates of repeat revascularization and stent thrombosis were comparable, suggesting frailty and comorbidities as primary causes of worse outcomes in patients at HBR.

Comparison of 2-Stenting Strategies Depending on Sequence or Technique for Bifurcation Lesions in the Second-Generation Drug-Eluting Stent Era - Analysis From the COBIS (Coronary Bifurcation Stenting) III Registry

BACKGROUND

It has not been determined which specific 2-stenting strategy is the best for bifurcation lesions. Our aim was to investigate the clinical outcomes of various 2-stenting strategies in the era of 2nd-generation drug-eluting stents (2G-DES).

METHODS AND RESULTS

We analyzed 454 patients who finally underwent 2-stenting for a bifurcation lesion, from among 2,648 patients enrolled in the COBIS III registry. The primary outcome was target lesion failure (TLF). Patients were analyzed according to stenting sequence (provisional [main vessel stenting first] vs. systemic [side branch stenting first]) and stenting technique (crush vs. T vs. culotte vs. kissing/V stenting). Overall, 4.4 years' TLF after 2-stenting treatment for bifurcation lesion was excellent: TLF 11.2% and stent thrombosis 1.3%. There was no difference in TLF according to 2-stenting strategy (11.1% vs. 10.5%, P=0.990 for provisional and systemic sequence; 8.6% vs. 14.4% vs. 12.9% vs. 12.2%, P=0.326 for crush, T, culotte, kissing/V technique, respectively). Only left main (LM) disease and a shorter duration of dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) were associated with TLF. The distribution of DAPT duration differed between patients with and without TLF, and the time-point of intersection was 2.5 years. Also, the side branch was the most common site of restenosis.

CONCLUSIONS

The stenting sequence or technique did not affect clinical outcomes, but LM disease and shorter DAPT were associated with TLF, in patients with bifurcation lesions undergoing 2-stenting with 2G-DES.

Left Main Disease and Bifurcation Percutaneous Coronary Intervention: Focus on Antithrombotic Therapy

Revascularization of both left main and bifurcation lesions is currently considered an important feature of complex percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), whereas stenting distal left main bifurcation is fairly challenging. Recent evidence shows that such lesions are associated with an increased risk of ischemic events. There is no universal consensus on the optimal PCI strategy or the appropriate type and duration of antithrombotic therapy to mitigate the thrombotic risk. Prolonged dual antiplatelet therapy or use of more potent P2Y12 inhibitors have been investigated in the context of this high-risk subset of the population undergoing PCI. Thus, while complex PCI is a growing field in interventional cardiology, left main and bifurcation PCI constitutes a fair amount of the total complex procedures performed recently, and there is cumulative interest regarding antithrombotic therapy type and duration in this subset of patients, with decision-making mostly based on clinical presentation, baseline bleeding, and ischemic risk, as well as the performed stenting strategy.

Challenges and Management of Acute Coronary Syndrome in Cancer Patients

Cancer and cardiovascular disease are the leading causes of mortality in the world. The prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors and coronary artery disease in cancer patients is elevated, and it is associated with high mortality. Several mechanisms, such as the proinflammatory and procoagulant states present in cancer patients, may contribute to these scenarios. Oncological therapy can predispose patients to acute thrombosis, accelerated atherosclerosis and coronary spasm. Treatment decisions must be individualized and based on the cancer history and balancing bleeding and thrombosis risks.

Antithrombotic therapy after percutaneous coronary intervention of bifurcation lesions

Coronary bifurcations exhibit localised turbulent flow and an enhanced propensity for atherothrombosis, platelet deposition and plaque rupture. Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) of bifurcation lesions is associated with an increased risk of thrombotic events. Such risk is modulated by anatomical complexity, intraprocedural factors and pharmacological therapy. There is no consensus on the appropriate PCI strategy or the optimal regimen and duration of antithrombotic treatment in order to decrease the risk of ischaemic and bleeding complications in the setting of coronary bifurcation. A uniform therapeutic approach meets a clinical need. The present initiative, promoted by the European Bifurcation Club (EBC), involves opinion leaders from Europe, America, and Asia with the aim of analysing the currently available evidence. Although mainly derived from small dedicated studies, substudies of large trials or from authors' opinions, an algorithm for the optimal management of patients undergoing bifurcation PCI, developed on the basis of clinical presentation, bleeding risk, and intraprocedural strategy, is proposed here.

Association of Side-Branch Treatment and Patient Factors in Left Anterior Descending Artery True Bifurcation Lesions: Analysis from the GRAND-DES Pooled Registry

Methods

Patients undergoing PCI to left anterior descending (LAD) bifurcation lesions with contemporary DES were analyzed from a nationwide registry. Baseline risk was assessed using the Age, Creatinine, and Ejection Fraction (ACEF) score. Target lesion failure (TLF), a composite of cardiac death, target vessel myocardial infarction, and target lesion revascularization, was assessed at 3 years.

Results

Among 1,089 patients with LAD bifurcation lesions, 548 (50.3%) patients underwent SB treatment. The SB treatment group showed a nonsignificant, but numerically lower rate of 3-year TLF (6.6% vs. 9.2%, HR 0.75, 95%CI 0.44–1.28, p = 0.29). In patients with low pretreatment risk (ACEF<1.22), SB treatment was associated with a lower rate of 3-year TLF (HR 0.43, 95%CI 0.19–0.96, p = 0.04), while no significant difference was observed in patients with high risk (ACEF≥1.22). The difference in the low risk group was mostly driven by target lesion revascularization (HR 0.24, 95%CI 0.08–0.75, p = 0.01).

Conclusions

SB treatment for LAD bifurcation lesions showed favorable long-term outcomes compared with main-branch-only intervention, especially in patients with low pretreatment risk.

Optimal Duration for Dual Antiplatelet Therapy After Left Main Coronary Artery Stenting

BACKGROUND

Coronary interventions using drug-eluting stents (DESs) of left main coronary artery (LMCA) lesions have shown favorable clinical outcomes. However, duration of dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) after LMCA interventions has not yet been investigated.

METHODS AND RESULTS

From a multicenter Korean Multicenter Angioplasty Team (KOMATE) registry, 1,004 patients who received DES implantations for LMCA lesions and did not experience major adverse cardiovascular events (including major bleeding) for 1 year after coronary intervention were analyzed. Patients were divided into 2 groups; DAPT ≤12 (n=503) and >12 months (n=501). The primary endpoint was number of net clinical adverse events (NACEs), composite of cardiac deaths, myocardial infarctions, stent thrombosis and major bleeding events. During a 4.5-year follow-up period after LMCA interventions, the DAPT >12 months group showed a lower NACE rate than the DAPT ≤12 months group (adjusted-HR 0.53 [0.29-0.99], P=0.045). For patients who maintained DAPT >12 months, rate of cardiac deaths, myocardial infarctions, and stent thrombosis events were lower than in patients who had DAPT ≤12 months (adjusted-HR 0.35 [0.17-0.73], P=0.005) without increased major bleeding (P=0.402).

CONCLUSIONS

For patients who can continue DAPT without major bleeding events, prolonged DAPT (>12 months) after LMCA stenting demonstrated better long-term efficacy outcomes than DAPT ≤12 months with comparable safety.

Long-Term Safety and Efficacy of Extended Dual Antiplatelet Therapy After Drug-Eluting Stent Implantation in Real-World Practice

BACKGROUND

Extended dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) after drug-eluting stent (DES) implantation is frequently used for high-risk patients in real-world practice. However, there are limited data about the long-term efficacy of extended DAPT after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

METHODS AND RESULTS

This study investigated 1,470 patients who underwent PCI. The study population was divided into 2 groups based on DAPT duration: guideline-based DAPT (G-DAPT; DAPT ≤12 months after PCI; n=747) and extended DAPT (E-DAPT; DAPT >12 months after PCI; n=723). The primary endpoint was major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events (MACCEs), defined as cardiac death, myocardial infarction (MI), repeat target vessel revascularization, or stroke. The median follow-up duration was 80.8 months (interquartile range 60.6-97.1 months). The incidence of MACCE was similar in the G-DAPT and E-DAPT groups (21.0% vs. 18.3%, respectively; P=0.111). However, the E-DAPT group had a lower incidence of non-fatal MI (hazard ratio [HR] 0.535; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.329-0.869; P=0.011), and target lesion revascularization (HR 0.490; 95% CI 0.304-0.792; P=0.004), and stent thrombosis (HR 0.291; 95% CI 0.123-0.688; P=0.005). The incidence of bleeding complications, including major bleeding, was similar between the 2 groups (5.2% vs. 6.3%, respectively; P=0.471).

CONCLUSIONS

Although E-DAPT after DES implantation was not associated with a reduced rate of MACCE, it was associated with a significantly lower incidence of non-fatal MI, TLR, and stent thrombosis.

Type and Duration of Dual Antiplatelet Therapy in Complex Percutaneous Coronary Intervention

Complex percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) patients are a high-risk population for ischemic complications. Antiplatelet therapy in such patients remains controversial, as the beneficial effects of the use of more potent agents or prolonged dual antiplatelet treatment (DAPT) on atherothrombotic complications are hindered by a concomitant increase in bleeding rates. The aim of this article is to describe ischemic and bleeding outcomes associated with complex PCI procedures and to compare different types and durations of DAPT regimens in terms of safety and efficacy outcomes. Issues concerning special patient groups, such as those with left main, chronic total occlusion, or bifurcation lesions, are discussed.

Unravelling the puzzle of antithrombotic therapies for complex percutaneous coronary intervention

Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) has remarkably evolved in the last decades. This has resulted in a larger number of patients treated with PCI, including those with more complex anatomic lesions. Several studies demonstrated that PCI involving complex lesions is associated with increased rate of procedural complications and adverse clinical outcomes. In this setting, optimal adjunctive antithrombotic regimens still need to be defined. In this review, we sought to summarize and discuss the recent evidence deriving from analyses appraising antithrombotic therapies in patients undergoing complex PCI.

Benefit-Risk Profile of DAPT Continuation Beyond 1 Year after PCI in Patients with High Thrombotic Risk Features as Endorsed by 2018 ESC/EACTS Myocardial Revascularization Guideline

PURPOSE

The ischemic/bleeding trade-off of continuing dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) beyond 1 year after PCI for patients with high thrombotic risk (HTR) as endorsed by 2018 ESC/EACTS myocardial revascularization guidelines remain unknown.

METHODS

Patients undergoing coronary stenting between January 2013 and December 2013 from the prospective Fuwai registry were defined as HTR if they met at least 1 ESC/EACTS guideline-endorsed HTR criteria. A total of 4578 patients who were at HTR and were events free at 1 year after the index procedure were evaluated. The primary efficacy outcome was major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (MACCE) (composite of all-cause death, myocardial infarction, or stroke).

RESULTS

Median follow-up period was 2.4 years. > 1-year DAPT with clopidogrel and aspirin significantly reduced the risk of MACCE compared with ≤ 1-year DAPT (1.9% vs. 4.6%; hazard ratio (HR): 0.38; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.27-0.54; P < 0.001), driven by a reduction in all-cause death (0.2% vs. 3.0%; HR, 0.07; 95% CI, 0.03-0.15). Cardiac death and definite/probable stent thrombosis also occurred less frequently in prolonged DAPT group. Bleeding Academic Research Consortium (BARC) type 2, 3, or 5 bleeding occurred similarly between both groups (1.1% vs. 0.9%; HR, 1.11; 95% CI, 0.58-2.13; P = 0.763). Similar results were found using multivariable Cox model, propensity score-matched, and inverse probability of treatment weighting analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

Among patients with ESC-endorsed HTR who were free from major ischemic or bleeding events 1 year after coronary stenting, continued DAPT beyond 1 year might offer better effectiveness in terms of atherothrombotic events and comparable safety in terms of clinically relevant bleeding compared with ≤ 1-year DAPT. ESC-HTR criteria is an important parameter to take into account in tailoring DAPT prolongation.

Tailoring Dual Antiplatelet Therapy for the Complex PCI Patient: Current Status and Perspectives

Dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) duration in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) has long been considered a matter of controversy. Complex-PCI (C-PCI) is considered to be associated with an increased ischemic risk that tends to be greater with progressively higher procedural complexity. Thus, with a view to balance ischemic versus bleeding risks, high complexity of PCI intuitively represents an advocate of prolonged DAPT duration. However, the optimal DAPT strategy in this high ischemic risk subset of patients remains unclear, a fact that is exacerbated by the absence of a universal definition of C-PCI, resulting in a significant between-study heterogeneity. The aim of this review is to highlight the increased risks associated with C-PCI, compare long- versus short-term DAPT regimens regarding safety and efficacy endpoints as well as investigate outcomes in special C-PCI cohorts, such as patients with bifurcation, left main or chronic total occlusion lesions. Furthermore, controversial issues, such as antithrombotic regimens in C-PCI patients with atrial fibrillation, and future perspectives are addressed.

Outcomes of Left Main Bifurcation Stenting Depends on Both Length of Dual Antiplatelet Therapy and Stenting Strategy

Data regarding the optimal dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) duration in patients treated with a 1- versus a 2-stent strategy in LM bifurcation PCI are scant. A literature search based on Cochrane Library, Embase, PubMed and Google Scholar was performed to locate articles published between January 2015 and January 2020. The following MeSH terms were used for the search: "Left Main" AND "DAPT Duration" AND "stent" OR "stenting". The analysis was conducted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement. Occurrence of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs) according to length of DAPT and stenting strategy was analysed. A total of 256 articles were retrieved and after evaluation, 3 articles evaluating the results of 8 large registries were included into the analysis including a final population of 4117 patients [mean age 65.7 years, 3133 (76.0%) males]. A short-term DAPT resulted in a lower risk of MACEs in patients treated with a single stent strategy (OR: 0.49, 95% CI [0.33-0.67], p < 0.001, I2 = 0%), whereas a DAPT >12 months resulted in a significant higher risk of MACEs in the same group (OR: 7.39, 95% CI [5.09-10.7], p < 0.001, I2 = 61%) compared to double stent strategy. The available data support the use of short DAPT in single cross-over LM stenting whereas a long DAPT seems to be more appropriate after a double stenting strategy in LM bifurcation PCI.

Incidence of Adverse Events at 3 Months Versus at 12 Months After Dual Antiplatelet Therapy Cessation in Patients Treated With Thin Stents With Unprotected Left Main or Coronary Bifurcations

Incidence and predictors of adverse events after dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) cessation in patients treated with thin stents (<100 microns) in unprotected left main (ULM) or coronary bifurcation remain undefined. All consecutive patients presenting with a critical lesion of an ULM or involving a main coronary bifurcation who were treated with very thin strut stents were included. MACE (a composite end point of cardiovascular death, myocardial infarction [MI], target lesion revascularization [TLR], and stent thrombosis [ST]) was the primary endpoint, whereas target vessel revascularization (TVR) was the secondary endpoint, with particular attention to type and occurrence of ST and occurrence of ST, CV death, and MI during DAPT or after DAPT discontinuation. All analyses were performed according to length of DAPT dividing the patients in 3 groups: Short DAPT (3-months), intermediate DAPT (3 to 12 months), and long DAPT (12-months). A total of 117 patients were discharged with an indication for DAPT ≤3 months (median 1: 1 to 2.5), 200 for DAPT between 3 and 12 months (median 8: 7 to 10), and 1,958 with 12 months DAPT. After 12.8 months (8 to 20), MACE was significantly higher in the 3-month group compared with 3 to 12 and 12-month groups (9.4% vs 4.0% vs 7.2%, p ≤0.001), mainly driven by MI (4.4% vs 1.5% vs 3%, p ≤0.001) and overall ST (4.3% vs 1.5% vs 1.8%, p ≤0.001). Independent predictors of MACE were low GFR and a 2 stent strategy. Independent predictors of ST were DAPT duration <3 months and the use of a 2-stent strategy. In conclusion, even stents with very thin strut when implanted in real-life ULM or coronary bifurcation patients discharged with short DAPT have a relevant risk of ST, which remains high although not significant after DAPT cessation.

Update on Antithrombotic Therapy after Percutaneous Coronary Intervention

Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) has become a standard-of-care procedure in the setting of angina or acute coronary syndrome. Antithrombotic therapy is the cornerstone of pharmacological treatment aimed at preventing ischemic events following PCI. Dual antiplatelet therapy as the combination of aspirin and P2Y12 inhibitor has been proven to decrease stent-related thrombotic risks. However, the optimal duration of dual antiplatelet therapy, an appropriate P2Y12 inhibitor, and the choice of aspirin versus P2Y12 inhibitor as single antiplatelet therapy remain controversial. Furthermore, the combined use of oral anticoagulation in addition to antiplatelet therapy is a complex issue in clinical practice, such as in patients with atrial fibrillation. The key challenge concerning the optimal antithrombotic regimen is ensuring a balance between protection against thrombotic events and against excessive increases in bleeding risk. In this review article, we summarize the current evidence concerning antithrombotic therapy in patients with coronary artery disease undergoing PCI.

Summary of Practice Considerations for Percutaneous Coronary Intervention of Left Main Bifurcation Disease

Left main bifurcation percutaneous coronary intervention is a challenging subset that requires expertise in techniques that are in constant modification. Imaging is important in lesion preparation and optimising outcomes. The interventionalist needs to be highly skilled in the different techniques, as missteps may lead to stent thrombosis and critical in-stent restenosis. Lesion classification between simple and complex identifies those who would best benefit from a two-stent technique. Current technical approaches and practice considerations are summarised in this manuscript.

[Optimal duration of dual antiplatelet therapy after coronary stent placement or acute coronary syndrome. Is customisation possible?]

The recommended 6-month dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) after coronary angioplasty with implantation of a drug eluting stent is based on solid evidence, but must take into account continuous improvements in stent technology leading to reduced thrombogenicity. In stable patients with a high hemorrhagic risk, it is possible to reduce DAPT duration at 3 months without significant increase in the risks of ischemic events or stent thrombosis. Further reduction toward a 1-month DAPT is likely to involve new strategies of stopping aspirin at 1 month, and continuing long-term monotherapy with inhibitors of P2Y12 receptor. After acute coronary syndrome, it seems possible to reduce the duration of DAPT (standard, 12 months) in patients at high risk of bleeding. A 6-month DAPT, or even less, provides a good compromise between hemorrhagic risk and ischemic recurrences. Conversely, in patients who have fully tolerated a 12-month DAPT after infarction, and who are at very high risk of ischemic recurrence, the prolongation of a P2Y12 inhibitor in combination with aspirin may be considered, with a risk of haemorrhage almost double. A certain degree of customisation of the duration of DAPT is therefore possible, based on age, renal function, comorbidities, haemorrhagic history, and the use of risk scores (PRECISE-DAPT, DAPT).