Doc Wants Me to Stop Plavix/Aspirin

[Grammy828]

I have three stents; 1 bare metal in LAD and 2 DES in RCA since Feb 2007 after having an M.I.
Vascular surgeon wants me to stop my Plavix/Aspirin in a week to have balloon angioplasty performed on lower extremities due to blockage in leg.  I am scared to death of stopping the meds because I have read in this forum that abruptly stopping can lead to another MI within days.  Is there any truth to this.  I don't think that the doctor would ask me to do something that could threaten my life but I am concerned nonetheless.  Please, do you have any advise?  My last test for platelets (about 4 months ago) was 343.  Isn't that too high even on the Plavix?  I am 59 y/o female with diabetes.  I am 5'8" and am 15 pounds over my ideal weight.  

[kenkeith]

It is generally accepted within the medical community to stop Plavix after about a year after a DES implant.  DES may be more vulnerable to clots than bare metal?!  It is not necessary to be weaned off Plavix; I and many others have abruptly stopped without side effects.  I continue with a baby aspirin daily for CAD.

There is a risk/benefit for the blood medication, and the doctor is in the best position to know and evaluate the risk of bleeding with the upcoming intervention...I believe diabetes is a major factor in any decision.  We have to trust our doctors, if not worthy of trust change doctors.  You should be alright so don't worry.