Stent thrombosis: Prevention and management

Stent thrombosis (ST) is a persistent and important clinical problem. Stent thrombosis has been defined and classified by the Academic Research Consortium (ARC). We have reviewed the data available on the incidence of ST in various registries and trials. The incidence of ST is higher with DES compared to BMS. ST incidence is highest with first generation DES but reduces significantly with second and third generation DES. We have reviewed the factors which predict a higher incidence of ST. These can be divided into patient, lesion and procedure characteristics. The upcoming new technologies and their potential impact on ST have been discussed. Finally, the methods of minimising the incidence of ST in practice have been discussed