A new angle on sudden cardiac death suggests that thrombosis may play a part in this post-MI phenomenon, indicating a possible new role for thrombolytic drugs. Meanwhile, the quest for more effective thrombolytic strategies for acute myocardial infarction continues, with studies of reteplase and low-dose combination regimens showing encouraging results. However, according to the findings of a provocative study, high-dose heparin alone may be an effective alternative to thrombolytic agents. Details of these approaches to treatment, along with new findings for adjunctive therapy in thrombolysis, were presented at the 67th Scientific Sessions of the American Heart Association [Dallas, US; November 1994].