Practical Aspects of the Use of Telematic Systems in the Diagnosis of Acute Coronary Syndrome in Poland

Abstract

Background and Objectives: The guidelines of the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) recommend the use of telematic methods in the diagnosis of myocardial infarction, allowing for transtelephonic electrocardiography (TTECG) from the emergency scene to centers performing percutaneous coronary interventions (PCI center). It has been proven that such a procedure has a beneficial effect on the survival of patients with ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). Fewer data can be found on the correct use of these methods in everyday clinical practice. The aim of this study was to indicate potential indications and contraindications for the use of the TTECG system, and provide recommendations for proper collaboration between emergency medical systems (EMS) teams and PCI centers. Materials and Methods: The article is a systematic review of cardiological emergencies, with an assessment of indications for the use of the TTECG system. The authors introduced their own grading of the validity of indications for transmission of the TTECG, similar to those used in the official ESC guidelines.: Results:: The authors described individual cardiological emergencies occurring in the practice of EMS, considering specific indications or contraindications for the transmission of the TTECG. The article also discusses individual practical recommendations for proper cooperation between EMS teams and PCI centers in detail. All of the recommendations are compiled in a handy table to facilitate its use in everyday clinical practice. Conclusions: The summary presents a comparison of the realities of the functioning of the telematic support system in Poland in the field of STEMI diagnostics, with the model’s recommendations. The necessity of further educating the members of individual teams included in the network dealing with STEMI treatment was indicated, as well as the necessity of introducing legal regulations sanctioning the functioning of telematic systems in modern medicine.