STEMI
Pronunciation: STEH-mee
Also written as: STEMI — ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction
ST-elevation myocardial infarction, a severe type of heart attack requiring immediate intervention.
Full Definition
STEMI (ST-elevation myocardial infarction) represents the most serious form of heart attack, characterized by complete blockage of a coronary artery resulting in full-thickness heart muscle damage. The diagnosis is made based on characteristic ECG changes showing ST-segment elevation in specific leads, along with clinical symptoms and elevated cardiac biomarkers. STEMI requires immediate reperfusion therapy, typically primary PCI, to restore blood flow and minimize heart muscle death. Time from symptom onset to treatment is critical, with guidelines recommending door-to-balloon times under 90 minutes for optimal outcomes.
Usage
Usage note: Always capitalize as STEMI. Spell out on first use in patient education materials.
In Context
- "The patient presented with an acute STEMI and was taken immediately to the cardiac catheterization laboratory." — Emergency department report
- "Primary PCI for STEMI reduced mortality compared to thrombolytic therapy in the landmark trial." — Cardiology review article