What is the goal first medical contact-to-balloon inflation time for percutaneous coronary intervention?

The goal for the first medical contact-to-balloon inflation time for percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is 90 minutes. This target time is crucial for patients experiencing a ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction (STEMI), as rapid intervention is key to restoring blood flow to the heart and minimizing damage to cardiac tissue.

A timely response ensures that the coronary artery is opened quickly, significantly reducing the risk of complications and improving survival rates. Clinical studies and guidelines from organizations such as the American Heart Association emphasize that achieving this 90-minute window can lead to better outcomes for patients, making it a critical benchmark in the management of acute coronary syndromes.

Meeting this goal can be challenging but is essential for emergency medical services and hospitals to coordinate efficiently to provide the best possible care for patients suffering from heart attacks.