Primary Angioplasty in Myocardial Infarction (PAMI) / Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PPCI)
Primary Angioplasty in Myocardial Infarction (PAMI) or Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PPCI) is a life-saving emergency procedure performed in patients experiencing an ongoing myocardial infarction (heart attack).
Why is it Performed?
A heart attack occurs when a coronary artery is completely blocked, cutting off blood supply to the heart muscle. Timely revascularization is critical to restoring blood flow and preventing irreversible heart damage.
How the Procedure Works
- A balloon catheter is inserted into the blocked artery and inflated to crush the blockage and restore blood flow.
- Stent placement follows angioplasty to keep the artery open, prevent recoil, and reduce the risk of re-blockage.
- The procedure is performed in a catheterization lab (cath lab) under imaging guidance.
Benefits of PAMI/PPCI
✔️ Immediate restoration of blood flow, reducing heart muscle damage.
✔️ Lower risk of complications compared to clot-dissolving medications.
✔️ Improved survival rates in acute heart attack patients.
PAMI/PPCI is the gold standard treatment for acute myocardial infarction, offering the best chance for survival and long-term heart health.