Shortenеd and prolonged dual antiplatelet therapy after percutaneous coronary interventions – why, when and how?

The antithrombotic therapy is an important part of medical treatment in percutaneous coronary interventions (PCI). The so called dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT), usually including acetyl salicylic acid (aspirin) plus platelet P2Y12 receptor inhibitors is an important part of that therapy. The careful balance between the protective effect regarding thrombotic/ischemic events and the risk of bleeding is an important task of the attending physician. Apart of the standard dosing regiments, in some of the cases a judgment regarding shortened or prolonged DAPT, as its de-escalation is mandatory. To present the causes and the way of application of that individualized approach in patients with PCI is the aim of this review.