Early Experience of Busan-Ulsan Regional Cardiocerebrovascular Center Project in the Treatment of ST Elevation Myocardial Infarction

Lee, Dong Hyun; Seo, Jeong Min; Choi, Jae Hyuk; Cho, Young Rak; Park, Kyungil; Park, Tae Ho; Kim, Moo Hyun; Kim, Young Dae; Maeng, Su Youn; Kim, Doo Yeong; Ko, Eun Yeong; Park, Jong Sung

Abstract

BACKGROUND/AIMS
The purpose of this study was to compare changes in primary percutaneous coronary artery intervention (PCI) outcomes after starting the government-directed Busan-Ulsan Regional Cardiocerebrovascular Center Project.
METHODS
Patients with ST segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) who visited the Busan-Ulsan Regional Cardiocerebrovascular Center from 1 June 2009 to 30 May 2011 were selected. Their medical records were retrospectively reviewed. Clinical and survival outcomes before and after starting the project were compared.
RESULTS
A total of 122 patients (mean age, 63 +/- 13 years; male, 74%) with STEMI were selected for analysis. There were no significant differences in patients' baseline characteristics. After starting the Busan-Ulsan Regional Cardiocerebrovascular Center Project, the door-to-balloon time decreased from 72 +/- 30 to 59 +/- 22 minutes (p = 0.011). The door-to-balloon time when the PCI team did not stay in the hospital also decreased from 80 +/- 30 to 62 +/- 12 minutes (p = 0.005). However, there was no significant change in the total ischemic time (339 +/- 293 vs. 304 +/- 287 minutes, p = 0.514), survival discharge rate (94% vs. 93%, p = 1.000), or 1-year survival rate (89% vs. 91%, p = 0.996).
CONCLUSIONS
After starting the government-directed Busan-Ulsan Regional Cardiocerebrovascular Center Project, the door-to-balloon time was significantly reduced. However, the total ischemic time and short-term survival remained unchanged.