Routine, Early, Coronary Angiography Following Thrombolysis for Acute Myocardial Infarction.
Over the last decade the use of thrombolytic therapy for patients with acute myocardial infarction has resulted in a substantial mortality reduction. While the utility of thrombolytic therapy is now widely recognized, the role of post-infarction coronary angiography remains controversial. In this report we examine the early studies which investigated the necessity and timing of angiography following thrombolysis, and review recent data that underscore the importance of achieving early infarct-related arterial patency. In place of a strategy of "selective angiography," we present an argument for routine, early coronary angiography following thrombolytic therapy for acute myocardial infarction.
Reiner
Jonathan S.
JS
The George Washington University Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA.
Ross
Allan M.
AM