Lipoprotein(a) - Lp(a) is a well-established, but still frequently neglected cardiovascular risk factor. Lp(a) is linked with the occurrence of major cardiovascular (myocardial infarction) and cerebrovascular (stroke) events as well as with progressive peripheral arterial occlusive disease.

Current existing data suggest that lipoprotein apheresis is a very efficacious therapy in subjects with elevated Lp(a). However, no existing trial provided a direct, prospective comparison of subjects with significantly elevated Lp(a) approved for lipoprotein apheresis subsequently undergoing apheresis treatment versus a continuing with maximal medical therapy. This is the central aim of this trial.

Male or female patients, age 18 - 70, with Lipoprotein(a) < 60 mg/dL, or > 120 nmol/L using an alternative laboratory method and Corrected Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol < 100 mg/dL (2.6 mmol/l) during 3 months prior to study enrolment. Established cardiovascular disease with disease progression indicated by one major cardiovascular event, which might be either myocardial infarction, PCI, CABG, Stroke or revascularization of peripheral arteries using PTA, stenting or bypass surgery (with or without subsequent cardiovascular events/interventions) despite adequately controlled cardiovascular risk factors* occuring within the last 2 years prior to enrolment. Platelet aggregation inhibitors or systemic anticoagulation according to cardiologic indication and Positive recommendation by central Trial Expert Committee
(*Hypertension, Diabetes, tobacco consumption, LDL Cholesterol)