The current recommendation for dual anti-aggregation post-DES implantation is 12 months. However, the ideal length for specific types of stents is unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical non-inferiority at 3 months versus 12 months of dual anti-platelet therapy in patients undergoing coronary angioplasty with zotarolimus-eluting stents. The study randomized 1:1 to 3 months or 12 months at a total of 3119 patients from 33 centers Brazil. At two years, no significant difference between the short path of 3 months versus the traditional scheme of 12 months, regarding the primary end point of adverse clinical events (death, myocardial infarction, stroke or major bleeding) were observed, nor to consider each of the components individually. However, by including in the analysis the rate of target lesion revascularization or the need for surgery the difference was in favor of 12 months (p = 0.026). 

Fausto Feres
2014-09-16

Original title: Three vs twelve months of dual antiplatelet therapy after zotarolimus-eluting stents: the OPTIMIZE randomized trial.