Pre-hospital period of acute myocardial infarction in Tomsk City: 15-year follow-up results

Abstract

The results of the dynamic follow-up of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) pre-hospital period (PHP) in Tomsk City (1984-1998) are presented. Total PHP duration did not change significantly, averaging 9, 5 hours per patient. The biggest time loss (>50 % of the total) was associated with its first period, being explained by late request for medical help in AMI patients. Minimal time loss was typical for the second AMI period, due to organization of special cardiac help for this category of patients. Reduction in the third period duration was explained by improved AMI diagnostics in primary care facilities. As a potential reserve for further reducing AMI PHP time, more active health education of cardiovascular patients by out-patient doctors could be recommended. Methods for further improvement of AMI diagnostics at Tomsk City out-patient clinics are proposed.

Keywords

• acute myocardial infarction
• pre-hospital period
• duration
• dynamic follow-up