Interventional management of acute coronary syndromes: applying the lessons of ST-elevation services to non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction
- Correspondence to Dr Mark A de Belder, Cardiothoracic Division, The James Cook University Hospital, Marton Road, Middlesbrough TS4 3BW, UK; mark.debelder{at}stees.nhs.uk
-
Contributors Single author editorial; the author is responsible for the content.
- Received 1 March 2012
- Revised 2 June 2012
- Accepted 6 June 2012
- Published Online First 11 July 2012
Abstract
Many countries have embarked on national strategies to translate evidence from trials of reperfusion therapy for ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) into clinical practice. Primary angioplasty has become the dominant mode of reperfusion, but the best outcomes depend on appropriate service re-configurations to ensure rapid, effective and comprehensive treatment. Although there are many differences in the treatment of STEMI and non-STEMI acute coronary syndromes (ACS), there are many parallels. Many of the changes in the system of care for STEMI patients could now be applied to the non-STEMI ACS population, providing faster and more efficient care and promising to deliver better outcomes. This article highlights additional changes to healthcare services that should be considered.
Footnotes
-
Competing interests None.
-
Provenance and peer review Commissioned; internally peer reviewed.
