Current Problems in Thrombolytic Treatment in Acute Myocyardial Infarction

Results obtained in the treatment with three different types of plasminogen activators in patients with acute myocardial infarction were briefly reviewed. Reocclusion or the reperfused coronary artery, particularly during the first hour, remains a major problem. The limitations and value of antithrombotic and antiaggregant treatment (heparin and aspirin) were discussed. It was pointed out that a better organization should be sought to enable earlier arrival of acutely ischemic patients to the hospitals with the purpose of exposing a greater proportion of patients with acute myocardial infarction to the benefits of thrombolytic therapy.