Recognition and management of inferior wall myocardial infarctions and right ventricular infarcts.

Cardiovascular disease is a predominant health problem in the United States. Annually, more than 6 million people experience an acute myocardial infarction (MI). Right ventricular infarct (RVI) occurs in approximately one third of all patients who present with an inferior wall myocardial infarction (IWMI). The aggressive initial treatment of IWMI with RVI may improve morbidity and mortality. Thus, it is essential to understand the different modalities used to treat a right and left ventricular MI.