Antithrombotic therapy after percutaneous coronary intervention of bifurcation lesions

Coronary bifurcations exhibit localized turbulent flow and enhanced propensity for platelet deposition, plaque rupture, and atherothrombosis. 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 ischemic 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 to analyze the currently available evidence. Although mainly derived from sub-studies of large trials or small studies, 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 here proposed.