Microvascular Obstructions Measured by Cardiac Magnetic Resonance, and their Role as a Predictor of Outcomes in Acute Myocardial Infarction

Abstract

Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is one the main causes of morbidity and mortality in Chile and the world. Cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) is gaining evidence as a tool to determine prognosis in patients who have suffered an AMI. Microvascular obstructions (MVO) represent non-irrigated areas of the myocardium after reperfusion, and it is determined by CMR. After reestablishment of cardiac blood flow, MVOs could be used as a new marker to determine the heart injury due to AMI and reperfusion damage.