Heart Attack
What is a heart attack?
A heart attack (also called myocardial infarction or
MI) occurs when one or more of the blood vessels (coronary arteries) are blocked. These blood vessels
supply blood to the heart. A blockage usually occurs when plaque inside a coronary artery breaks open, and a
blood clot forms around it. See an illustration of
how plaque causes a heart attack.
The plaque and blood clot affect blood flow to the heart
muscle cells, depriving them of oxygen and other nutrients. Without blood
supply, the heart muscle cells die. If a large area of the heart is damaged by
a heart attack, it can cause sudden death. A heart attack requires immediate
treatment to restore blood flow.
How do we compare? Experts agree
on the following ways to treat heart attack. Click on the links below to see
how WellSpan compares to other providers in these treatments.