ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction: recommendations on triage of patients to heart attack centers: is it time for a national policy for the treatment of ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction?
Despite substantial progress in the diagnosis and treatment of acute ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), implementation of this knowledge into routine clinical practice has been variable. It has become increasing clear that primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is the preferred method of reperfusion if it can be performed in a timely manner. Recent European data suggest that transfer for direct PCI may also be preferable to fibrinolytic therapy. We believe it is time to establish a national policy for treatment of patients with STEMI to develop a coordinated system of care similar to that of the level 1 trauma system.
Minneapolis Heart Institute Foundation at Abbott Northwestern Hospital, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55407, USA. henry003@umn.edu
Timothy D
TD
Henry
James M
JM
Atkins
Michael S
MS
Cunningham
Gary S
GS
Francis
William J
WJ
Groh
Robert A
RA
Hong
Karl B
KB
Kern
David M
DM
Larson
Erik Magnus
EM
Ohman
Joseph P
JP
Ornato
Mary Ann
MA
Peberdy
Michael J
MJ
Rosenberg
W Douglas
WD
Weaver
D004562:Electrocardiography; D006291:Health Policy; D006801:Humans; D009203:Myocardial Infarction / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000503:physiopathology* / Q000628:therapy*; D014218:Triage