Symptomatic abnormal vessel wall reaction after implantation of the first generation sirolimus-eluting stent: a case series.

Aims: Expansive vessel wall remodeling has been previously reported after implantation of drug-eluting stents. These abnormal vessel wall reactions (AVWR), though uncommon may be associated with serious clinical events. We report on a series of patients in whom symptoms developed despite patent stents.

Methods And Results: We report a series of 10 consecutive patients with evidence of AVWR on angiography and/or intravascular ultrasonography after implantation of sirolimus-eluting stents (age 39-90 years, 4 females) during a period of 4 years. All patients were symptomatic despite patent stents in coronary angiographies done because of persistent chest pain. Four patients subsequently developed very late stent thrombosis (VLST). These 4 patients were only on aspirin monotherapy prior to the VLST. Of the remaining 6 patients, 3 patients underwent coronary interventions (with or without stenting) while the remaining 3 patients were managed conservatively. All 6 were advised for life-long dual antiplatelet therapy.

Conclusion: Though uncommon, AVWR might precede VLST. In our series, all patients were symptomatic despite patent stents. Additional studies are required to identify patients at risk and to determine the best treatment modality for this challenging new entity. Until further data become available, these patients should stay on dual antiplatelet therapy after an AVWR has been identified.