Recent advances in treatment of acute coronary syndromes

In this manuscript we highlight recent advances in the management of acute coronary syndromes. Efforts to minimize myocardial ischemia time through improved health care systems have resulted in significant success. In addition, new evidence in the areas of reperfusion therapy and pharmacological intervention has emerged. Percutaneous coronary intervention continues to evolve and new data concerning the superiority of the radial route, the use of improved stents and adjunctive therapy will be presented. We will highlight the changes that were made in international guidelines (from the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association and the European Society of Cardiology) in the last 18 months in order to incorporate the latest evidence. Although significant advancements have been made in the management of acute coronary syndromes, the morbidity and mortality associated with this condition remains high, necessitating continued research in this field of cardiovascular medicine.