Study of arrhythmias associated with acute myocardial infarction and mortality

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Despite considerable progress, Arrhythmias remain a major cause of death in patients with myocardial infarction. Majority of these arrhythmias occurring within the first 24 hours. The aim of the present study is to identify the type of arrhythmias and mortality in patients presenting with acute myocardial infarction. METHODS: A total of 100 patients admitted to the ICC unit of Govt. General Hospital, Gulburga & Basaveshwar Teaching & General Hospital Gulburga from January to December 1998 were taken for present study. The risk factors for cardiac disease were evaluated through history, physical examination and blood investigations. All the patients were monitored for 48-72 hours for arrhythmias. Type and time of onset arrhythmias was also noted. RESULTS: Out of the 100 patients with myocardial infarction studied, 76 patients had arrhythmias. Majority of arrhythmias occurred during less than 12 hours and Sinus tachycardia was the commonest arrhythmia (40%). Majority of mortality occurs with 24 hrs (66.6%). The overall incidence of mortality was 15%. Mortality was more in males (16.25%) than female (10%). Caridogenic shock (40%) and left ventricular failure (33.33%) were the most common cause of death.