Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 27, 2026

Utilizing Percutaneous Ventricular Assist Devices in Acute Myocardial Infarction Complicated by Cardiogenic Shock
Published on: June 12, 2021
Adjunctive thrombectomy in primary percutaneous intervention for acute myocardial infarction
François-Pierre Mongeon1, Otávio Rizzi Coelho-Filho, Otávio Rizzi Coelho
1Cardiovascular Division, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA. francois.pierrre.mongeon@umontreal.ca
Adjunctive thrombectomy in primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction shows variable results. While early clinical outcomes may not improve, later benefits are emerging, particularly with simple aspiration catheters.
Area of Science:
- Interventional Cardiology
- Cardiovascular Medicine
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is standard for ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI).
- Intracoronary thrombus is linked to poorer outcomes like no-reflow and stent thrombosis post-PCI.
- Adjunctive thrombectomy aims to remove thrombus before distal embolization.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and provide perspective on trials and meta-analyses of adjunctive thrombectomy in acute myocardial infarction.
- To discuss the evolving role and late-emerging benefits of thrombectomy.
- To identify targets for future research in this field.
Main Methods:
- Review of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and meta-analyses on adjunctive thrombectomy in primary PCI.
- Analysis of variability in devices, procedures, and outcomes across studies.
- Examination of clinical and angiographic predictors of thrombectomy benefit.
Main Results:
- Substantial variability exists in RCTs regarding devices, procedures, and outcomes.
- Improvements in myocardial perfusion endpoints often do not translate to immediate clinical outcome reductions.
- Some trials with longer follow-up report late clinical benefits after the index myocardial infarction.
Conclusions:
- Simple aspiration catheters may offer better outcomes than devices that fragment thrombus.
- Predictors for thrombectomy benefit require further definition.
- Further research is needed to optimize thrombectomy strategies in acute myocardial infarction.
Related Concept Videos
Venous Thrombosis III: Interprofessional Care
Acute Coronary Syndrome I: Introduction
Peripheral Artery Disease III: Interprofessional Care
Acute Coronary Syndrome IV: Interprofessional Care
Pulmonary Embolism II: Diagnostic Studies and Interprofessional Care
Acute Coronary Syndrome III: Diagnostic Studies
