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Postconditioning with Lactate-enriched Blood for Cardioprotection in ST-segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction
Published on: May 28, 2019
Reperfusion strategies in ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction
T Stiermaier1, S Desch, G Schuler
1Unit of Cardiology Department of Internal Medicine, Heart Center University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany - ingoeitel@gmx.de.
Insights
ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) requires emergent reperfusion. Primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is superior to fibrinolysis when timely, but regional systems guide optimal STEMI treatment strategies.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Emergency Medicine
Background:
- ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) is a significant global health burden.
- Timely reperfusion of the infarct-related artery is critical for myocardial salvage and improved outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review evidence for STEMI reperfusion therapies.
- To summarize current guidelines for STEMI management.
Main Methods:
- Review of clinical studies and guidelines on reperfusion strategies for STEMI.
- Comparison of primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) versus fibrinolysis.
Main Results:
- Primary PCI is superior to fibrinolysis if performed rapidly at experienced centers.
- Delays in PCI due to patient transfer pose a challenge.
- Structured regional STEMI care systems aid in strategy selection.
Conclusions:
- Optimal STEMI management involves selecting the best reperfusion strategy based on available resources and time.
- Regional systems are essential for timely restoration of coronary blood flow in STEMI patients.
Abstract:
ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Emergent reperfusion of the infarct related artery is the cornerstone of STEMI treatment in order to salvage myocardium and improve cardiovascular outcome. Basically, reperfusion strategies include fibrinolysis, primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) or the combination of both methods. Clinical studies indicate that primary PCI is superior to fibrinolytic therapy when performed rapidly at experienced centers. However, physicians are often faced with the decision to either accept PCI-related delays due to transfer or to administer fibrinolysis immediately. A well structured regional system of STEMI care helps to select the appropriate reperfusion strategy and guarantee timely restoration of coronary blood flow. This article reviews the evidence behind the respective reperfusion therapies and summarizes current guidelines for STEMI management.
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