What is the recommended "door to balloon" time according to STEMI guidelines?

The recommended "door to balloon" time according to STEMI (ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction) guidelines is 90 minutes. This timeframe is critical for optimizing outcomes in patients experiencing a STEMI, as it reflects the maximum time interval from patient arrival in the emergency department to the time they receive percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

The emphasis on a 90-minute window is based on studies showing that timely intervention significantly reduces mortality and improves recovery in patients with this type of acute myocardial infarction. The earlier that reperfusion therapy can be initiated after the onset of ischemic symptoms, the better the chances for heart muscle preservation and overall patient recovery.

In terms of clinical practice, achieving this target requires an organized and efficient workflow, including pre-hospital notification to facilitate timely assessment and treatment upon arrival. Thus, understanding the significance of this timeframe is crucial for healthcare professionals working in acute care settings.