Professional
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
STEMI
Also written as: STEMI — ST-elevation myocardial infarction
ST-elevation myocardial infarction, a type of heart attack requiring immediate intervention.
Full Definition
ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) is a severe form of heart attack characterized by complete blockage of a coronary artery, visible as ST-segment elevation on an ECG. This condition requires emergency percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) or thrombolytic therapy within specific time windows to minimize myocardial damage. STEMI represents the most time-critical cardiac emergency, with treatment protocols emphasizing door-to-balloon times under 90 minutes.
Usage
Usage note: Always capitalize as STEMI; distinguish from NSTEMI in clinical documentation.
In Context
- "The patient presented with anterior STEMI and underwent emergent primary PCI." — Emergency department report
- "Door-to-balloon time for STEMI patients exceeded target metrics in Q3." — Quality metrics report
Also known as
ST-elevation MI
transmural MI
Contrasted with
NSTEMI
Don't confuse with
NSTEMI
unstable angina