Abstract
Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is the preferred management strategy for ST-segment-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients. However, a significant number of revascularisations result insuboptimal restoration of epicardial antegrade flow and inadequate myocardial tissue perfusion. This is mainly attributed to the underlying thrombus burden within the infarct-related vessel. Interventions for thrombotic lesions are clearly associated with an increased risk of acute and long-term complications. Thrombus remains a predictor of ischaemic complications, immediate and late stent thrombosis, increased in-hospital complications, death at six months and recurrent MI. Two types of thrombus removal device are available for utilisation in the setting of acute MI (AMI): aspiration-based catheters and mechanical thrombectomy. Administration of either systemic or selective adjunct pharmacotherapy can be useful in conjunction with application of all thrombus removal devices. Recent studies have demonstrated that thrombus aspiration is applicable and safe in a large majority of patients with STEMI, resulting in better reperfusion and clinical outcomes than standard PCI. However, it is unclear whether these findings are a direct result of a reduction in thrombus burden, facilitation of direct stenting or a combination of the two. The heavier the underlying thrombus burden, the higher the yield of mechanical thrombectomy over aspiration catheter. The role of thrombectomy as a useful adjunct therapy aimed specifically at direct contact and clearance of AMI-related thrombus continues to evolve.
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