Abstract
Background and Objectives
The optimal anti-thrombotic strategy for primary stenting in acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is still controversial. We evaluated prospectively the efficacy and safety of low-molecular-weight-heparin (LMWH) for primary stenting in AMI.
Materials and Method
From 1/1997 to 7/1998, 54 AMI pts underwent primary stenting with 96% of procedural success rate (52/54). Of these, five pts were excluded from the study for warfarinization or use of GP II b/ III a inhibitor despite of successful stenting (TIMI 3 flow and less than 30% of residual stenosis). In 47 pts included in the study, 5,000-10,000 U of unfractionated heparin was administered (IV/bolus) bofore primary stenting. After sheath removal, LMWH(Fraxiparine, 7500 U/S.C.BID) maintained for 10.6±5.7 days. Aspirin and ticlopidine (500mg/day for ≥4 weeks) were given before stenting. Pts were followed to determine early (0-30 days) and late (31-180 days) major adverse cardiac events (MACE). Subsequent revascularization involving other coronary arteries did not constitute an end point.
Results
In 47 Pts (M:F=32:15, age=57.7±11.3 yrs, range: 37-88), 50 stents (Nir:38, micro:7, Jo:5, LAD:LCX:RCA-=24:9:14) were implanted. Their immediate post-stenting MLD and diameter-stenosis (%) were 2.9±0.4 mm, 4.3±8.7%, respectively. No patient showed sub-acute stent thrombosis or major bleeding requiring blood transfusion or surgery. During 0-30 days, the primary combined end point occurred in 2 (4.2%):one repeated angioplasty for in-stent restenosis; one hospital death for pump failure (1 of 2 Killip IV pts at admission). 44 patients were followed for 180 days and additional three TVR (3/44(6.8%), one CABG, one repeated angioplasty and one recurrrent myocardial infarction)occurred between 30-180 days due to recurrent ischemia.