criteria for thrombolysis in myocardial infarction

Last reviewed 01/2018

Four criteria should be met before thrombolysis is initiated:

  • definite clinical diagnosis of acute myocardial infarction

  • short interval since the onset of symptoms:
    • normally 12 hr
    • treat up to 24 hr if ST elevation is persisting and the infarct is large

  • ECG signs:
    • regional ST elevation of >2 mm in chest leads and >1 mm in limb leads
    • regional ST depression in cases of posterior infarction
    • left bundle branch block

  • no contraindications to thrombolysis present