Primary percutaneous coronary intervention network in Bosnia and Herzegovina: Where are we now and how to improve PCI network

Abstract

Reperfusion is the most effective therapy for patients with ST segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). Time from symptom onset to reperfusion is the most important factor influencing short and long-term mortality. There are several modes of reperfusion therapy. Fibrinolysis (either in pre-hospital or in-hospital setting), and primary percutaneous coronary intervention (p-PCI) or a combination of both are the most relevant treatment options. Primary p-PCI is the preferred option in centers with experienced teams and a high volume of reperfusion procedures. Cardiovascular mortality rate in Bosnia and Herzegovina (B&H) is among the highest in Europe, 545/100,000, and the rate of acute myocardial infarction is approximately 7000 per year. Despite recent improvement in reperfusion therapy in the last 5years, mortality of STEMI still patients remains high. The goal of this perspective article is to describe the current situation of p-PCI network in B&H. Establishing networks of reperfusion at regional and national level, implies a broad spectrum and close collaboration between all the actors involved in reperfusion therapy, namely hospitals, cardiology units emergency medical services, and primary care physicians.

Keywords: Acute coronary syndrome; Primary percutaneous coronary intervention network; STEMI.