thrombolysis in myocardial infarction
Also written as: TIMI — Thrombolysis In Myocardial Infarction
A therapeutic approach using clot-dissolving medications to restore blood flow in coronary arteries during acute myocardial infarction, also referring to the classification system for coronary flow.
Full Definition
Thrombolysis in myocardial infarction (TIMI) encompasses both a treatment strategy and a standardized grading system developed through landmark clinical trials. As a treatment, TIMI refers to the use of fibrinolytic agents like alteplase or tenecteplase to dissolve coronary thrombi in patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction. The TIMI classification system grades coronary blood flow from 0 (no flow) to 3 (normal flow) and has become the standard for assessing reperfusion success in cardiovascular research. Additionally, TIMI has generated widely-used risk scores for acute coronary syndromes that stratify patients based on clinical and electrocardiographic features.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish between TIMI as therapy versus TIMI grading systems; context usually clarifies meaning.
In Context
- "Patients receiving thrombolysis in myocardial infarction achieved TIMI 3 flow in 54% of cases." — Treatment outcomes
- "The study compared outcomes between thrombolysis in myocardial infarction and primary percutaneous intervention." — Comparative effectiveness research