RESCUE PTCA FOR A TOTALLY OCCLUDED LEFT MAIN CORONARY-ARTERY IN ACUTEMYOCARDIAL-INFARCTION WITH CARDIOGENIC-SHOCK - TECHNICAL SUCCESS AND LONG-TERM SURVIVAL

Percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty was performed after fai led thrombolysis in a 54-year-old man for total occlusion of the left main coronary artery in the setting of acute myocardial infarction wit h cardiogenic shock. The procedure was successful in terms of vessel r ecanalization and restoration of flow. The recovery of muscle function was limited due to the time lag between onset of symptoms and recanal ization. This case highlights the crucial role of early identification and prompt referral of patients with extensive ischemia to centers wi th the capability for emergency percutaneous revascularization procedu res.