ImmeDiate Versus EArLy Invasive Approach in Non-ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction (IDEAL NSTEMI)

Of estimated 140,000 cases of acute myocardial infarction admitted to hospitals in Germany per year, approximately 50% present with Non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI). The currently available evidence led to current guideline recommendations that a systematic approach of immediate angiography in NSTEMI patients stabilized with contemporary antiplatelet treatment is not mandatory. However, this immediate invasive approach is appealing because it allows treating the underlying cause (the plaque rupture) as early as possible with subsequent reduction of death and recurrent myocardial infarction. In the IDEAL NSTEMI trial we test an immediate invasive approach (<2 h) with an approach 12-72 h according top guidelines with respect to 6 months death and mortality.