What is coronary reperfusion therapy?

Coronary reperfusion therapy is a treatment used in patients with an acute myocardial infarction (AMI), commonly known as a heart attack, to re-establish blood flow in the coronary artery and prevent further damage to the heart muscle. The treatment aims to improve the patient's symptoms, reduce the size of the infarct, and improve survival rates and long-term outcomes.

There are two main types of coronary reperfusion therapy: primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) and thrombolysis. Primary PCI is the preferred treatment if it can be performed within 90 minutes of the patient's first medical contact. It involves inserting a catheter into the blocked coronary artery and using a balloon and stent to open the vessel and restore blood flow. Thrombolysis is a nonsurgical option that involves the use of thrombolytic drugs to dissolve the blood clot, but it is less effective than primary PCI and is reserved for cases where PCI is not feasible.

Coronary reperfusion therapy is not suitable for all patients with AMI, and the decision to proceed with treatment is based on multiple factors such as the patient's age, comorbidities, and the timing of the event. Despite its benefits, this treatment carries some risks, including bleeding and allergic reactions. Patients who receive coronary reperfusion therapy require close monitoring and follow-up care, including cardiac rehab and lifestyle modifications to prevent future cardiac events.