What is the established time frame for STEMI patients to reach the catheterization lab after arrival?

The established time frame for STEMI (ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction) patients to reach the catheterization lab after arrival is 90 minutes. This guideline is based on the principle of timely intervention to minimize myocardial damage and improve patient outcomes.

When a patient experiences a STEMI, rapid recognition and treatment are crucial because the longer the heart muscle is deprived of blood flow, the greater the risk of significant damage or death. The 90-minute benchmark is supported by various clinical studies and guidelines, including those from the American Heart Association, which advocate for a "door-to-balloon" time of 90 minutes or less for percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). This time frame allows for prompt assessment, stabilization, and transport of the patient to the catheterization lab, where the blockage can be treated effectively with angioplasty or stenting.

Timely intervention within this window has been shown to significantly improve outcomes, including reducing mortality rates and preserving heart function. Delays beyond this time frame can lead to diminished effectiveness of treatment and potential complications, making adherence to this guideline critical in emergency cardiac care.