Electrocardiograhic findings resulting in inappropriate cardiac catheterization laboratory activation for ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction.

Background: Prompt reperfusion has been shown to improve outcomes in patients with acute ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) with a goal of culprit vessel patency in <90 minutes. This requires a coordinated approach between the emergency medical services (EMS), emergency department (ED) and interventional cardiology. The urgency of this process can contribute to inappropriate cardiac catheterization laboratory (CCL) activations.

Almost everyone over 50 should be put on a statin to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease: A protagonist view.

The burden of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in the United States (U.S.) and worldwide is immense.

Retroperitoneal hemorrhage as a complication of percutaneous intervention: report of 2 cases and review of the literature.

Retroperitoneal hemorrhage (RPH) is an infrequent but serious complication of transfemoral percutaneous procedures. We present 2 cases and review the literature regarding the incidence, risk factors, clinical features and complications of RPH. We propose a management strategy for this problem emphasizing an anatomical based interventional approach if the patient does not stabilize with volume resuscitation.

Atrial fibrillation in athletes.

A 60-year old male physician on staff at North Kansas City Hospital was admitted with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation. The physician is an avid long-distance runner. Ultimately, three other male physicians on staff, all long-distance runners, were identified as having lone atrial fibrillation.

Stroke: a cardiologist's perspective.

This review is an attempt to give the primary care physician an overview of the risk factors for stroke in 2004. In addition, the available treatments both medical and interventional were reviewed.

Chest pain evaluation: a common clinical problem.

The clinical approach described here initially utilizing a careful focused history and physical examination, 12 lead ECG, as well as serum biomarkers, allows for an informed initial impression of the chest pain patient. Based upon the findings the practitioner can then initiate appropriate therapy or further testing based on this solid database. The therapy can vary from simple medical therapy involving aspirin and beta blockers to an invasive evaluation potentially involving percutaneous coronary interventions.