Non-ST Elevation Myocardial Infarction Heart Attack

(NSTEMI)

Overview

A non-ST segment elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) is a type of heart attack that doesn’t show a change in the ST segment elevation on an electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG) and often results in less damage to the patient’s heart than in a STEMI heart attack. However, these patients will test positively for a protein called troponin in their blood that is released from the heart muscle when it’s damaged. In NSTEMI heart attacks, it’s likely that any coronary artery blockages are partial or were only temporary.

A graphic showing the different types of electrocardiogram readings. It shows normal, "STEMI", and "NSTEMI" waves.

Treatment for an NSTEMI heart attack consists of medication and evaluation for whether a blockage should be treated with medication only, cleared through angioplasty or treated with cardiac bypass graft surgery (CABG).

Improving Patient Care

The Society for Cardiovascular Angiography & Interventions (SCAI) is the leading nonprofit medical society representing invasive and interventional cardiology. Founded in 1978, SCAI’s mission is to lead the global interventional cardiovascular community through education, advocacy, research, and quality patient care. 

SCAI has dedicated its work to advancing the profession and is the designated society for guidance, representation, professional recognition, education, and research opportunities for invasive and interventional cardiology professionals. For more than 40 years, SCAI has personified professional excellence and innovation globally, fostering a trusted community of more than 4,500 members dedicated to medical advancement and lifesaving care for adults and children with cardiovascular disease.  

Society for Cardiovascular Angiography & Interventions®

1100 17th Street NW, Suite 400, Washington, DC 20036