Rescue PTCA for a totally occluded left main coronary artery in acute myocardial infarction with cardiogenic shock: Technical success and long-term survival

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