The treatment of acute myocardial infarction (MI) constitutes a significant
problem in remote geographical areas of Greece. Furthermore, thrombolysis,
the treatment of choice in the early phase of acute MI, requires the super
vision of an expert. We have used thrombolytic treatment, using telemedicin
e, in remote medical centres. The Onassis Cardiac Surgery Centre was linked
to six remote Aegean islands via telemedicine systems which permitted the
transmission of 12-lead electrocardiograms (ECGs). The thrombolytic agent a
nistreplase was administered to patients with acute MI. Supervision, includ
ing consultation for treatment of complications, was achieved using the tel
emedicine system. One hundred and fifty-two ECGs were transmitted during 24
months, of which 108 (71%) indicated specific treatment of a cardiac condi
tion. Ten cases were diagnosed as having acute MI and eight of these were t
reated with anistreplase. All patients survived acute MI and complications
were treated locally. The application of thrombolytic treatment in acute MI
is feasible in remote areas, with the use of a telemedicine system.