After placement of a drug-eluting coronary artery stent, what is the recommended duration for dual antiplatelet therapy?

The recommended duration for dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) after placement of a drug-eluting coronary artery stent is typically one year. This recommendation is based on several clinical studies that demonstrate that longer durations of DAPT significantly reduce the risk of stent thrombosis and cardiovascular events, such as heart attacks or strokes.

Drug-eluting stents are coated with medication that elutes (or releases) over time, helping to prevent the overgrowth of scar tissue inside the stent, a process known as restenosis. Although the initial healing phase may only require shorter periods of DAPT to minimize bleeding risks, the one-year guideline helps to ensure adequate platelet inhibition and support healing to prevent thrombotic complications.

Consideration of other factors, such as the patient's individual risk profile for bleeding versus thrombosis, may lead to adjustments in therapy duration, but the standard recommendation remains at one year for most patients with drug-eluting stents. This guideline reflects the balance between ensuring proper stent function and minimizing the potential for adverse events.