Thrombus Burden In ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction

Abstract

Background: Acute ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) remains one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Thrombus formation plays a central role in the pathogenesis of STEMI, resulting from plaque rupture and subsequent activation of platelets and the coagulation cascade. The amount of thrombus within the infarct-related artery—known as thrombus burden—is a key determinant of procedural success, distal embolization, and short- and long-term clinical outcomes. Assessing thrombus burden during primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI) is therefore essential for risk stratification and guiding interventional strategies.