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Subintimal tracking and re‐entry (STAR) technique has been described as a bailout strategy for coronary total occlusion (CTO) recanalization. However, the length of the dissected segment represents a major concern. The aim of this study is, to evaluate whether “deferred” stent implantation may limit the total stent length following STAR recanalization of CTO. All consecutive patients with CTO in a native coronary artery treated by successful STAR technique in our institution were included. In the first period (March 2004–December 2009) all procedures were completed with stent implantation (Elective Stent Group; n = 60). Thereafter (January 2010–June 2012) stent implantation was postponed until a scheduled (within 3 months) angiographic follow‐up (Deferred Stent Group; n = 69). The dissection length was 75 ± 37 mm in the Elective Stent Group and 83 ± 31 mm in the Deferred Stent Group (P = 0.22 …