Direct angioplasty for acute myocardial infarction

As a primary treatment modality for acute myocardial infarction, direct percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty has traditionally been reserved for hemodynamically compromised patients and those with contraindications to thrombolytic therapy. However, both basic and clinical studies have recently pointed out the advantages of direct angioplasty with regards to infarct artery patency, ventricular function, and clinical outcome. This review highlights and summarizes recent work pertaining to the general application of direct angioplasty for the treatment of acute myocardial infarction.