Gradual Versus Abrupt Reperfusion During Primary Percutaneous Coronary Interventions in ST-Segment-Elevation Myocardial Infarction (GUARD)

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Intramyocardial edema and hemorrhage are key pathological mechanisms in the development of reperfusion-related microvascular damage in ST-segment-elevation myocardial infarction. These processes may be facilitated by abrupt restoration of intracoronary pressure and flow triggered by primary percutaneous coronary intervention. We investigated whether pressure-controlled reperfusion via gradual reopening of the infarct-related artery may limit microvascular injury in patients undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention.