In a study presented recently at the American College of Cardiology 2011 Scientific Sessions in New Orleans, investigators reported that individuals who went to the emergency room for heart attacks did better if they called an ambulance, instead of getting their own ride.
If you think you are having a heart attack, a critical factor in determining your outcome is the speed with which your blocked coronary artery is re-opened. In modern hospitals, that means the speed with which you are taken to the cath
lab for angioplasty and stenting.
In this study, patients with heart attacks who called 911 made it into the cath lab significantly faster than patients who showed up on their own. What is the reason for this? Paramedics are often able to obtain an electrocardiogram (EKG) in the field, and if the EKG shows signs of a heart attack, they can radio ahead to mobilize the cardiac team. When you arrive, you can be transferred into the cath lab quickly with this information in hand.
So, if you or a loved one ever need to go to the emergency room for symptoms you think might be due to your heart, call 911.
For more information regarding the study mentioned above, please refer to link found below:
http://www.medpagetoday.com/MeetingCoverage/ACC/25685
Michael Grad, MD
Chairman of CardiologySt. David's Round Rock Medical Center