Which Factors Are Associated with the Application of Reperfusion Therapy in ST-Elevation Acute Coronary Syndromes?
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<i>Background/Aims:</i>A large proportion of patients with a ST-elevation acute coronary syndrome do not receive reperfusion therapy. In order to contribute to a better understanding of the clinical decision making process, we analyzed which factors are associated with the application of reperfusion therapy. <i>Methods:</i> From the Euro Heart Survey of Acute Coronary Syndromes I, 4,260 patients with ST-elevation acute coronary syndrome were selected for the current analysis, of which 1,539 (36%) patients received fibrinolysis and 904 (21%) primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). The analysis contained 32 variables on demographics, medical history, admission parameters and reperfusion therapy. <i>Results:</i> A short pre-hospital delay, arrival in a hospital with PCI facilities, severe ST-elevation, and participation in a clinical trial were the strongest predictors for receiving reperfusion therapy. Primary PCI was more likely to be performed than fibrinolysis in patients with a long pre-hospital delay, arriving in a hospital with PCI facilities, not participating in a clinical trial, and with at least one previous PCI. <i>Conclusion:</i>Hospital facilities and culture, pre-hospital delay and infarction size play a major role in management decisions regarding reperfusion therapy in ST-elevation acute coronary syndrome. This analysis indicates which factors require special attention when implementing and reviewing the reperfusion guidelines.
