Cardiovascular disease is the single largest killer of males and females in the United States with an average of 335,000 deaths per year. This year an estimated 700,000 Americans will suffer an acute myocardial infarction. The standard of care treatment for acute myocardial infarction (MI) usually includes immediate perfusion, optimal pain relief, oxygen, aspirin or other anti-coagulants, Beta-Blockers, nitrates and Ace-inhibitors. Management of cardiac risk factors such as tobacco use, hypertension, lipid levels, diabetes, weight control and exercise all work to reduce further atherosclerotic events. Yet, many patients go on to develop Congestive Heart Failure (CHF). Medical management for CHF may improve symptoms and slow the progression to failure but does not restore a functioning myocardium. A therapy that could improve the myocardial remodeling process and reduce the incidence or severity of CHF following acute MI would provide a significant benefit in an area of unmet medical need.
Patients will receive standard of care in addition to stem cells or placebo.
