Multifaceted Impact of the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Pandemic on ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction (STEMI): A Literature Review of Incidence, Treatment Modalities, and Outcomes

Abstract

The global repercussions of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) include substantial worldwide mortality and have brought to light existing gaps in healthcare systems. Particularly, diseases requiring time-sensitive treatment, such as ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), have faced significant challenges due to the impact and revelations of the COVID-19 pandemic on healthcare infrastructure. This review addresses the impact of the pandemic on STEMI, exploring incidence, treatment modalities, and clinical outcomes. Through a critical examination of existing literature, the intricate relationship between the pandemic and cardiovascular health, specifically STEMI, is elucidated. The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the management of STEMI, with changes in hospitalization rates, treatment strategies, and the presentation of the disease posing significant challenges. The contradictory results of COVID-19 and post-vaccine myocardial infarction, as well as gender differences in reported cases, highlight the need for further research to clarify these relationships.