Normal coronary angiography and primary percutaneous coronary intervention for ST elevation myocardial infarction: a literature review and audit findings

Int J Clin Pract. 2010 Aug;64(9):1245-51. doi: 10.1111/j.1742-1241.2010.02394.x.

Abstract

It is becoming increasingly common to offer primary percutaneous coronary intervention as first line treatment for ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). In a subset of patients presenting with suspected STEMI, coronary arteries appear normal at coronary angiography. In this article, the current literature of this group of patients is reviewed. The incidence of 'normal' angiography, the clinical and electrocardiographic features of this group of patients and the alternative diagnoses for presentation are discussed. This article reviews the factors leading to such presentation, the clinical characteristics of such patients and the implications, clinical and economic.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Angioplasty, Balloon, Coronary
  • Coronary Angiography*
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Electrocardiography
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Medical Audit
  • Middle Aged
  • Myocardial Infarction / diagnostic imaging*
  • Myocardial Infarction / therapy