Click on image to view larger version.

Figure 1 A hypothetical cumulative frequency distribution of time to Thrombolysis In Myocardial Infarction (TIMI) grade 3 flow in patients treated for ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) at a minority of hospitals with invasive capabilities and a majority of community hospitals that would require transfer of patients with STEMI for primary angioplasty. Although 50% of patients could be expected to exhibit TIMI 3 flow with thrombolysis in the first 60 min after hospital presentation, achievement of TIMI grade 3 flow in 90% of patients with STEMI requires a pharmacoinvasive recanalization strategy and broadening the window during which benefit can be conferred. PCI = percutaneous coronary intervention.