Myocardial infarction (MI) is a critical cardiovascular event characterized by the necrosis of heart muscle tissue (myocardium) due to prolonged ischemia. This condition typically occurs when blood flow to a portion of the heart is severely restricted or completely blocked, most commonly resulting from the rupture of an atherosclerotic plaque within a coronary artery. The subsequent formation of a thrombus (blood clot) at the site of plaque instability occludes the vessel, depriving the downstream cardiac muscle of necessary oxygen and nutrients. The resulting tissue death, or infarct, can range in size and severity, leading to immediate symptoms such as chest discomfort and potential long-term complications including heart failure and arrhythmias.