How long after placement of a drug-eluting stent does the risk of thrombosis typically remain?

The risk of thrombosis after the placement of a drug-eluting stent typically remains elevated for about one year. This duration is primarily due to the lasting effects of the drug coating on the stent, which is designed to prevent restenosis (the re-narrowing of the artery). However, this drug can also lead to a prolonged risk of thrombosis, especially if antiplatelet therapy (like aspirin or clopidogrel) is not continued as prescribed.

During the first month after stent placement, the risk of thrombosis is significantly high—often referred to as the "acute phase." After this initial period and extending through the next year, there is a slow tapering of the risk, but it does not reduce to baseline until about 12 months post-procedure. Therefore, after one year, the risk drops significantly, making this timeline crucial for patient management and follow-up in terms of continuing antiplatelet therapy.

Understanding this time frame can help healthcare providers determine appropriate treatment plans and follow-up strategies for patients who have received drug-eluting stents, aiming to minimize the chance of thrombotic events.