stent thrombosis
Formation of blood clots within a previously placed stent, potentially causing acute vessel closure and tissue ischemia.
Full Definition
Stent thrombosis is a serious complication following percutaneous coronary or peripheral intervention, characterized by the formation of blood clots within the stent lumen. This condition can occur at various time points: acute (within 24 hours), subacute (1-30 days), late (30 days to 1 year), or very late (beyond 1 year) after stent placement. Risk factors include premature discontinuation of antiplatelet therapy, stent malapposition, underexpansion, or patient-specific factors such as diabetes or renal disease. Stent thrombosis can present as acute coronary syndrome or acute limb ischemia and requires emergency intervention. Prevention relies on optimal stent deployment technique and appropriate duration of dual antiplatelet therapy.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from in-stent restenosis, which is due to tissue proliferation rather than thrombosis.
In Context
- "Acute stent thrombosis was diagnosed by angiography and treated with aspiration thrombectomy." — Emergency catheterization report
- "The patient developed late stent thrombosis six months after drug-eluting stent placement." — Cardiology follow-up note