Post-Heart Attack Blood Clots in the Heart
Author Information
Author(s): Rehan Arshad, Kanwar Manpreet, Rosman Howard, Ahmed Sujood, Ali Arshad, Gardin Julius, Cohen Gerald
Primary Institution: St John Hospital and Medical Centre
Hypothesis
The incidence of post myocardial infarction left ventricular thrombus formation would be lower than what had been reported in the pre-PCI era.
Conclusion
The incidence of LV thrombus formation after acute MI, in the current era of rapid reperfusion, is lower than what has been historically reported.
Supporting Evidence
- Only 4 out of 92 patients had an LV thrombus, which is significantly lower than historical rates.
- The use of contrast agents did not improve detection of LV thrombi in this study.
- The study confirms a significant reduction in LV thrombus formation with contemporary therapy.
Takeaway
After a heart attack, fewer people are getting blood clots in their hearts now because of better treatments. Using special imaging didn't help find more clots.
Methodology
92 patients with ST-elevation AMI treated with PCI and GP IIb/IIIa inhibitors underwent 2-D echocardiograms within 24–72 hours.
Limitations
The study had a small number of patients with thrombi, which may limit the generalizability of the findings.
Participant Demographics
57 men and 35 women, mean age 60 years (range: 30 – 87 years).
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website