Coronary Thrombolysis

Myocardial infarction (MI) size is the major determinant of the function of the left ventricle and thus of the prognosis of the patient. Attempts to limit infarct size therefore constitute an important goal in modern coronary care. There is evidence that intravenous thrombolytic therapy can lyse coronary artery thrombi, restore antegrade coronary blood flow, preserve myocardial viability and function and improve survival. The time interval from onset of infarction, the extent of remaining ischemic myocardium and the rate at which myocardial necrosis is progressing are factors influencing the extent of myocardial salvage in reperfusion.