Risk stratification after acute myocardial infarction: which studies are best?

The prognosis for a patient who has survived an acute myocardial infarction depends on three general prognostic factors: (1) residual left ventricular function, (2) remaining viable myocardium at risk (residual ischemia), and (3) presence of substrate for the development of malignant arrhythmias. Multiple clinical and historical factors predict the presence of one or more of these prognostic indicators. Electrocardiographic exercise treadmill testing needs to be done in all patients with uncomplicated infarctions. Guidelines of the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Task Force are recommended for risk stratification in most patients after acute myocardial infarction.