ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction Program

The Montefiore Einstein ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction (STEMI) Program is one of the largest programs in the country, using the latest technology to improve patients’ clinical outcomes. STEMI is the most severe type of heart attack, occurring when an artery supplying blood to the heart is completely blocked.

At Montefiore Einstein Center for Heart and Vascular Care, we use advanced imaging and leading-edge technology to help our patients undergo complete myocardial revascularization with excellent outcomes and improved quality of life. Our Center has led the field in research and innovation for more than 60 years, through its focus on developing new clinical treatment protocols for heart attack care. We are ranked in the top 1% of all hospitals in the nation for cardiology, heart and vascular surgery and are recognized as high-performing for heart attack, heart failure, and aortic valve surgery by U.S. News & World Report.

Patients undergoing STEMI require immediate, emergency care. We offer several diagnostic procedures and treatments to rapidly restore blood flow to the heart:

• Emergency medical service (EMS) obtain an ECG and immediately send the results to a physician from the ambulance. This ability to diagnose a heart attack while the patient is in transit allows the team to prepare for the emergent procedure before the patient reaches the hospital, without having to stop in the Emergency Department.
• Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI) is the preferred treatment for STEMI patients. Using specialized balloons and stents, this procedure opens the artery within 90 minutes of the onset of a heart attack.
• Fibrinolytics relies on medication to dissolve the blood clot and restore blood flow to the heart. It can be administered quickly and is most effective when given within 30 minutes of the onset of a heart attack.