P.070 Introducing Stroke Endovascular Thrombectomy Into A Smaller Canadian Site, Is It Safe?

Abstract

Background: Success of Endovascular Thrombectomy (EVT) requires ultra-fast access to specialized neuro imaging, neurological assessment and an angio suite with interventional radiologists. Prior access was via transport to Vancouver and outcomes were poor, with a high rate of disability or death. This appeared primarily due to long delays. Methods: Quality control process, in parallel to the introduction of a new intervention, EVT, to Vancouver Island, to determine if this intervention could be delivered with reasonable safety and good outcomes. Patients receiving EVT from May, 2016 until Sep, 2019 are included, with 90-day outcomes. Data was collected by stroke nurses. Results: The proportion of patients having a good outcome was comparable to that of the major clinical trial involving Canadian academic centres. The proportion sustaining a poor outcome was comparable to the control group in that trial population (who still received tPA treatment where possible). This was despite a median age 4.5 years greater than in that trial. Conclusions: EVT required coordination of multiple services. Victoria General Hospital performance in terms of speed to treatment was slower than in the published trials. This is a factor in determining outcome and is therefore an important quality improvement target moving forward.