Primary angioplasty -- enduring the test of time

Article Abstract:

Angioplasty should be combined with thrombolytic therapy to maximize the prognosis of heart attack patients. Both techniques open clogged arteries but angioplasty uses a balloon-tipped catheter and thrombolytic therapy uses drugs that dissolve blood clots. Angioplasty requires the availability of an experienced cardiac catheterization team, which is not always available in small community hospitals. On the other hand, thrombolytic drugs can be given in the emergency room. A 1999 study found that angioplasty was more effective in the long run than thrombolytic therapy. However, newer drugs and newer angioplasty procedures could be used together to ensure maximum benefit.

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Primary angioplasty - the strategy of choice

Article Abstract:

Angioplasty should be the treatment of choice for heart attack patients if they are admitted to a hospital that can perform the procedure. Angioplasty is used to open blocked arteries, which is the primary cause of heart attacks. Several studies have shown favorable outcomes in patients who receive angioplasty. The procedure takes longer to perform than the use of clot-dissolving drugs called thrombolytics. However, thrombolytics are associated with excessive bleeding and re-blockage. Many patients can not receive thrombolytics because they have a contraindication.

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Primary angioplasty for acute myocardial infarction -- is it worth the wait?

Article Abstract:

All patients with the symptoms of a heart attack should be taken directly to a hospital that can do angioplasty. Several studies have shown that angioplasty is more effective than drugs that break up the blood clots that cause most heart attacks. This is true even if it takes a little longer to transport the patient to a hospital that performs angioplasty.

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