The Fundación Santa Fe de Bogotá has a specialized program for patients with Acute Myocardial Infarction (AMI), designed to provide high-quality, comprehensive care and follow-up. Care is provided by a collaborative team including Cardiology, Emergency Medicine, Intensive Care, Nutrition, Psychology, and Cardiac Rehabilitation, as well as the entire hospital staff committed to your treatment and recovery.
What does the care process involve?
During hospitalization, your medical team will:
1. Make a diagnosis.
2. Initiate a treatment plan(medications or procedures as needed).
3. Educate you and your family about your condition and answer all questions.
4. Schedule consultations with Cardiac Rehabilitation, Nutrition, and Psychology.
5. Monitor you daily.
6. Provide discharge recommendations (warning signs, home care), and a referral for a cardiology follow-up.
Acute Myocardial Infarction Program
What is an Acute Myocardial Infarction (Heart Attack)?
The heart muscle needs oxygen to survive. A myocardial infarction occurs when blood flow (and oxygen) to the heart is insufficient—usually due to a blocked coronary artery. This blockage results in part of the heart muscle dying.
Arteries may become blocked primarily due to cholesterol plaque buildup. These plaques can grow to obstruct blood flow or rupture, forming a clot that causes a heart attack.
How does the heart work?
The heart is a 24-hour working organ, pumping blood throughout the body. The number ofcontractions per minute is the heart rate, normally 60–100 beats per minute. It increases withphysical activity and decreases with rest or medications.
Blood pressure is the force with which blood moves through the body. Normal adult values are:
Systolic < 120 mmHg
Diastolic < 80 mmHg
Acute Myocardial Infarction Program
Signs and Symptoms of a Heart Attack
The most common symptom is chest pain, described as pressure in the center of the chest that may radiate to the shoulder, jaw, neck, or back. Pain may last several minutes, disappear, and return.
Other possible symptoms: - Shortness of breath - Nausea or vomiting - Dizziness or fainting -Cold sweats Each person may experience symptoms differently.
Patients with large infarctions are at risk for heart failure, which can cause: - Shortness of breath with minimal effort or lying flat - Leg swelling - Nighttime breathing difficulty
Tests and Exams
High-sensitivity Troponin: A heart muscle protein released into the blood when the muscle isdamaged.
Electrocardiogram (ECG): Detects electrical changes in the heart caused by infarction or arrhythmias.
Cardiac Catheterization and Coronary Angiography: Visualizes coronary arteries using contrast to identify blockages.
Echocardiogram: An ultrasound to evaluate heart size, function, valve performance, and structure.
Acute Myocardial Infarction Program
Role of Family and Support Network
Family and caregivers are key to recovery. Their involvement helps improve lifestyle habits, medication adherence, and emotional support.
Share this guide with your loved ones!
Treatment of Myocardial Infarction
Treatment is individualized and has three pillars:
a) Invasive Procedures
Balloon Angioplasty: Opens blocked arteries with a small balloon.
Stent Placement: A small metal mesh tube keeps the artery open.
Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery: Used when angioplasty is not possible; blood flow is rerouted using veins or arteries from elsewhere in the body.
b) Medications:
Prescribed individually by your cardiologist. Each drug has a specific role—take them exactly as prescribed.
c) Lifestyle Changes: You will receive:
Nutritional counseling
Cardiac rehabilitation
Psychological support
Acute Myocardial Infarction Program
Post-Heart Attack Risks
High recurrence risk, especially during the first year.
Risk of heart failure or valve damage.
Possible arrhythmias requiring additional treatment.
Is it normal to feel fear or anxiety?
Yes. Facing heart disease often causes fear or uncertainty. It's important to share your feelings with your healthcare team or family. Psychological support is part of your care—ask questions to reduce stress and emotional discomfort.
Acute Myocardial Infarction Program
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