Diagnosis of myocardial infarction abroad

Special biomarkers (enzymes) are evaluated abroad for the accurate diagnosis of a heart attack. For example, troponin is released only in case of myocardial necrosis, its amount depends on the size of the infarction. An ECG, ultrasound and angiography (X-ray examination of blood vessels with contrast injection) are also performed. The lipid profile is used to assess the level of cholesterol in the body. If necessary, phonocardiography (diagnosis of heart murmurs) and Holter monitoring (examination of the functions of the heart muscle) are prescribed.

Methods of treatment of myocardial infarction abroad

Treatment of myocardial infarction abroad focuses on limiting the effects of the attack and restoring blood flow. Various types of angioplasty, bypass surgery and other methods are used for this.

  • Balloon angioplasty. A special tube with a balloon reaches the narrowed coronary artery, where the balloon inflates and pushes the vessel walls apart.
  • Laser angioplasty. During the procedure, a catheter with a laser tip is used, which opens the blocked artery with rays.
  • Percutaneous implantation of a coronary valve. The abnormal heart valve is replaced with a functional prosthesis through a catheter.
  • Atherectomy. Angioplasty using a cutting catheter — a rotating razor at the tip of the tube cuts out plaques blocking blood flow.
  • Minimally invasive coronary bypass surgery. Bypassing blocked heart arteries by creating new passages (shunts) to nourish the heart muscle. The operation is performed through small ports in the chest.
  • Cardiomyoplasty. An experimental procedure in which skeletal muscles are taken from the patient's back or abdomen to replace damaged heart tissue.

If surgery is not possible, for example, due to the patient's serious condition, indirect revascularization is indicated. In clinics abroad, transmyocardial laser revascularization (TLR) is performed for this purpose. During the operation, a powerful laser is used, which creates a 1 mm channel in the wall of the left ventricle. This makes it possible to alleviate the patient's condition and partially restore the blood supply to the myocardium.

Clinical trials

During the treatment of a heart attack abroad, patients can participate in clinical trials of innovative methods. This may be testing new drugs, surgical techniques, or ways to use stem cells.

This opportunity is often offered by large medical centers cooperating with scientific institutes.