Inspired by previous MCCT meetings, we propose “Thrombo-inflammation and cardiovascular disease”, as the overarching theme. The topic of Thrombo-inflammation is more than a hype. For example, two landmark studies published in 2017 provide evidence for the importance of thrombo-inflammation in atherothrombotic diseases (targeted inhibition of Il-1beta in the CANTOS study, combined antiplatelet and anticoagulant application in the COMPASS trial, both interventions reducing major cardiovascular outcomes in high risk patients with atherosclerosis). 
Thrombo-inflammation recognizes the important interactions between inflammation and coagulation mechanisms, not only in host defense but also in a diversity of complex diseases. At the same time, it is also clear that we still lack knowledge on how this complex interplay works and how we can best interfere, in which patients and when? 
Thrombo-inflammation has impact on organ reperfusion after ischemia as well as on microvascular integrity. All these aspects are pivotal in acute vascular pathologies like ischemic stroke, myocardial infarction and venous thromboembolism, but also in chronic conditions like atrial fibrillation, heart failure and post-thrombotic syndrome. 
Complex disorders with high mortality and substantial longterm morbidity demand intensive clinical and translational research efforts to solve the many remaining questions.

Conference topics include:
• Thrombo-infl ammation: venous and arterial aspects
• Crosstalk between venous and arterial thrombosis
• Vascular protection