STEMI
Pronunciation: STEH-mee
Also written as: STEMI — ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction
A type of heart attack characterized by complete blockage of a coronary artery, identified by ST-segment elevation on electrocardiogram.
Full Definition
ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction represents the most severe form of acute coronary syndrome, caused by complete occlusion of a major coronary artery. The diagnosis is confirmed by characteristic ST-segment elevation patterns on 12-lead electrocardiogram, typically requiring immediate reperfusion therapy within 12 hours of symptom onset. STEMI research focuses on optimal reperfusion strategies, including primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) and thrombolytic therapy. Clinical outcomes in STEMI trials commonly include mortality, reinfarction, and major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) at 30 days and one year.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish clearly from NSTEMI in all clinical documentation; capitalize all letters when used as acronym.
In Context
- "The trial randomized 2,400 STEMI patients to primary PCI versus pharmaco-invasive therapy." — Research abstract
- "Door-to-balloon time for STEMI patients averaged 78 minutes across participating centers." — Quality metrics report