Mobile cardiac catheterization for critical cardiovascular disease: a feasibility and applicability study

Introduction Coronary angiography and percutaneous coronary intervention are essential for managing coronary artery disease, particularly in acute settings such as ST-elevation myocardial infarction. Mobile cardiac catheterization laboratories provide a potential solution for maintaining interventional cardiology services during hospital renovations, disasters, or in resource-limited settings. This study aimed to evaluate feasibility, safety, and quality of care of a mobile cardiac catheterization laboratory compared to a stationary facility. Methods A retrospective analysis was conducted, comparing 1454 patients treated between 2016 and 2019 at either an interim mobile cardiac catheterization laboratory or a stationary facility. Key endpoints included door-to-ballon time, radiation dose, fluoroscopy time, contrast medium usage, and major adverse cardiac events. Results The door-to-balloon time was comparable between mobile and stationary facility (29 vs. 33 minutes, p = 0.143). Although fluoroscopy time and radiation dose were significantly higher in the mobile unit (p < 0.001), no differences in major adverse cardiac events were observed. The mobile unit demonstrated feasibility and safety for both routine and emergency interventions. Conclusion Mobile cardiac catheterization laboratories are a viable alternative for providing interventional cardiology services in various scenarios, including renovations, crises, and underserved regions. Optimizing equipment and workflows could further enhance their performance.