Final Diagnosis Of Stroke Research Articles

Abstract WP232: Prospective Validation of the Miami Emergency Neurologic Deficit (MEND) Exam for Detection of Stroke

Introduction: Early detection and rapid transport to a stroke center are essential in the care of stroke patients. The Miami Emergency Neurologic Deficit (MEND) exam, developed in 1998, incorporates the posterior circulation elements missed by the Cincinnati Prehospital Stroke Scale (CPSS). It has a max score of 22, and includes all three components of the CPSS and six additional components from the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) (level of consciousness, orientation, commands, visual fields, gaze, leg motor, limb ataxia, and sensation). The MEND exam takes under two minutes to perform, and requires no tools, making it ideal as a screening tool, or for repeated examinations. Purpose: Determine the predictive value of the MEND exam completed by prehospital providers in the field for final diagnosis of stroke. Methods: We analyzed MEND exam findings conducted by paramedics on consecutive patients suspected of stroke, transferred directly from Monroe County, FL to our large urban academic hospital. We sought to determine the MEND’s ability, when administered by paramedics, to predict stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA), based on the patient’s final diagnosis on hospital discharge. Statistical analysis was conducted using SAS, v.9.3. Receiver operating characteristic curves, sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value were determined. Results: From September 2008 to June 2017, 143 patients presenting to EMS had MEND exams completed. Eighty-one percent (n=57) were males. Mean age was 68 (21-98). The average MEND score was 5 (range 0-14). Of 101 strokes, 89 were ischemic (88%) and 12 hemorrhagic (12%). Area under the curve for MEND exam predictability for final diagnosis of stroke or TIA was 0.82 (95% CI 0.73-0.91). The sensitivity, specificity, PPV and NPV for different cut-offs of the MEND exam are: MEND ≥2: 94%, 59%, 0.84, 0.81; MEND ≥3: 84%, 69%, 0.87, 0.64; MEND ≥4: 64%, 78%, 0.87, 0.47. Conclusion: The MEND exam, completed in the prehospital setting by paramedics, is an effective screening tool for detecting stroke. Since the MEND includes components excluded in other commonly used screening exams, and can be completed quickly, it is a valuable tool for assessing stroke patients.

A shorter system delay for haemorrhagic stroke than ischaemic stroke among patients who use emergency medical service.

We compare various aspects in the early chain of care among patients with haemorrhagic stroke and ischaemic stroke. The Emergency Medical Services (EMS) and nine emergency hospitals, each with a stroke unit, were included. All patients hospitalised with a first and a final diagnosis of stroke between 15 December 2010 and 15 April 2011 were included. The primary endpoint was the system delay (from call to the EMS until diagnosis). Secondary endpoints were: (i) use of the EMS, (ii) delay from symptom onset until call to the EMS; (iii) priority at the dispatch centre; (iv) priority by the EMS; and (v) suspicion of stroke by the EMS nurse and physician on admission to hospital. Of 1336 patients, 172 (13%) had a haemorrhagic stroke. The delay from call to the EMS until diagnosis was significantly shorter in haemorrhagic stroke. The patient's decision time was significantly shorter in haemorrhagic stroke. The priority level at the dispatch centre did not differ between the two groups, whereas the EMS nurse gave a significantly higher priority to patients with haemorrhage. There was no significant difference between groups with regard to the suspicion of stroke either by the EMS nurse or by the physician on admission to hospital. Patients with a haemorrhagic stroke differed from other stroke patients with a more frequent and rapid activation of EMS.

Stroke identification by criteria based dispatch - a register based study.

BackgroundRapid and precise dispatch of resources is a key element in pre‐hospital emergency medicine. Emergency medical communication centres (EMCCs) dispatch resources based on protocols and guidelines, balancing the acute need of the individual and the resource allocation of the pre‐hospital emergency medical system. The aim of this study was to determine the validity of stroke identification by the Norwegian dispatch guidelines.Method and materialThis was a register‐based study where patients suspected for stroke were compared to those with the final diagnosis of stroke as an indicator group for the guideline validation. One EMCC and its three associated hospitals participated with 13 months of data. Four subcodes of the stroke dispatch code were defined as suspicious of stroke and further analysed. Factors associated with stroke identification were explored.ResultsThe sensitivity for identifying a stroke patient at initial EMCC contact was 57.9% (51.5, 64.1), specificity was 99.1% (98.9, 99.2), positive predictive value was 45.7% (40.1, 51.4) and negative predictive value was 99.4% (99.3, 99.5). The emergency medical access telephone (113) was initial EMCC contact line in only 48% of the cases. Paralyses and admittance to a smaller hospital were associated with increased probability for stroke (OR 2.6, P = 0.001 and OR 2.7, P = 0.01), respectively.ConclusionThe sensitivity for identification of stroke patients by the dispatch guidelines is modest, while the specificity is high. The 113 telephone line was initial EMCC access point for less than half of the stroke patients.

Accuracy and Reliability of Stroke Diagnosis in the Pediatric Emergency Department.

Access to acute stroke interventions in the emergency department (ED) relies on correct clinical diagnosis. Our aims were to determine the accuracy and reliability of pediatric ED physician diagnosis of childhood stroke and other conditions presenting with brain attack symptoms. Prospective study of consecutive children aged 1 month to 18 years presenting to the ED from June 2009 to December 2010 with focal neurological deficits. Accuracy (sensitivity, specificity, and receiver operator characteristic curves [ROCs]) and interrater agreement (κ) were determined, between ED physician diagnoses, as recorded in the electronic hospital administrative software system, and final neurological diagnosis, after completion of diagnostic work-up. Two-hundred eighty-seven children with 301 consecutive presentations were recruited. The most common final brain attack diagnoses included migraine in 84 children, first seizure in 48, Bell's palsy in 29, stroke in 21, and conversion disorders in 18 children. Sensitivity of ED physician stroke diagnosis was 62%, and specificity was 98% (ROC, 0.8). Inter-rater agreement for ED physician and final stroke diagnosis was substantial (κ=0.61). ED physician diagnostic accuracy and reliability was highest for Bell's palsy (ROC=0.98; κ=0.96), and lowest for central nervous system demyelination (ROC=0.5; κ=-0.01) and cerebellitis (ROC=0.50; κ=0.50). ED physician diagnostic accuracy and reliability varies considerably across disorders presenting with brain attack symptoms. Clinical recognition tools are required to assist pediatric ED physicians with diagnosis of stroke and other serious neurological disorders.

Impact of Expanding the Prehospital Stroke Bypass Time Window in a Large Geographic Region.

The Ontario Acute Stroke Medical Redirect Paramedic Protocol (ASMRPP) was revised to allow paramedics to bypass to designated stroke centers if total transport time would be <2 hours and total time from symptom onset <3.5 hours. We sought to evaluate the impact and safety of implementing the Revised ASMRPP. We conducted a 12-month implementation study involving prehospital patients presenting with possible stroke symptoms. A total of 1317 basic and advanced life support paramedics, of 9 land services in 10 rural counties and 5 cities, used the Revised ASMRPP to take appropriate patients directly to 6 designated stroke centers. We enrolled 1277 patients with 98.8% paramedic compliance in form completion. Of these, 755 (61.2%) met the redirect criteria and had these characteristics: mean age 72.1 (range 16-101), male 51.1%, mean time scene to hospital 16.7 minutes (range 0-92). Paramedics demonstrated excellent interobserver agreement (κ, 0.94; 95% confidence interval, 0.91-0.96) and 97.9% accuracy in interpretation of the Revised ASMRPP. Prehospital adverse events occurred in 14.7% of patients, but few were life-threatening. Overall, 71.4% of 755 cases had a stroke code activated at the hospital and 23.2% received thrombolysis. For the 189 potential stroke patients picked up in 1 city, the ASMRPP classified thrombolysis administration with sensitivity 100% and specificity 37.3% and a final diagnosis of stroke, with sensitivity 86.1% and specificity 41.9%. In a large urban-rural area with 9 paramedic services, we demonstrated accurate, safe, and effective implementation of the Revised ASMRPP. These revisions will allow more patients with stroke to benefit from early treatment.

Abstract 173: Accuracy and Reliability of Brain Attack Diagnoses Including Stroke in the Pediatric Emergency Department

Objectives: Access to acute stroke interventions in the emergency department (ED) relies on correct clinical diagnosis. Our aims were to determine the accuracy and reliability of pediatric ED physician diagnosis of childhood stroke and other conditions presenting with brain attack symptoms. Methods: Prospective study of consecutive children aged one month-18 years presenting to the ED from June 2009-December 2010 with focal neurological deficits. Accuracy (sensitivity, specificity, receiver operator characteristic curves (ROCs)), and inter-rater agreement (kappa (κ )) were determined, between ED physician diagnoses, as recorded in the electronic hospital administrative software system, and final neurological diagnosis, following completion of diagnostic work-up. Results: Two-hundred-eighty seven children with 301 consecutive presentations were recruited. The most common final brain attack diagnoses included migraine in 84 children, first seizure in 48, Bell’s palsy in 29, stroke in 21, and conversion disorders in 18 children. Sensitivity of ED physician stroke diagnosis was 62% and specificity was 98% (ROC 0.8). Inter-rater agreement for ED physician and final stroke diagnosis was substantial (κ 0.61). ED physician diagnostic accuracy and reliability was highest for Bell’s palsy (ROC 0.98, κ 0.96), and lowest for CNS demyelination (ROC 0.5, κ -0.01) and cerebellitis (ROC 0.50, κ 0.50). Conclusions: ED physician diagnostic accuracy and reliability varies considerably across disorders presenting with brain attack symptoms. Clinical recognition tools are required to assist pediatric ED physicians with diagnosis of stroke and other serious neurological disorders.

Accuracy of Stroke Diagnosis in Telestroke-Guided Tissue Plasminogen Activator Patients

The objective of the study is to assess the accuracy of final diagnosis in telestroke-guided tissue plasminogen activator (rt-PA) patients compared with bedside evaluation using computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) as a surrogate for final stroke diagnosis. The overall goal was to determine if telestroke had similar diagnostic accuracy as bedside evaluations in diagnosing rt-PA-treated patients. We analyzed all acute stroke code calls who received intravenous rt-PA at our center from October 2013 to June 2015. Calls were grouped into patients who were initially evaluated by telestroke at a spoke partner site (spoke) and patients evaluated in person at the hub. Patients receiving additional neurointervention were excluded to avoid confounding. Relevant variables included severity of stroke (National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale [NIHSS]), rt-PA times, presence of intracranial hemorrhage (ICH), and primary outcome of CT or MRI evidence of stroke after rt-PA administration. Post-rt-PA imaging used included CT or MRI within 72 hours after treatment. Overall, 80 patients received intravenous rt-PA (spoke [n = 23] and hub [n = 57]). There was no difference in mean NIHSS score prior to treatment (10.3 ± 9.2 and 9.8 ± 8.4; P = .936), "onset-to-treatment" time (143.6 ± 53.5 minutes and 141.0 ± 54.1 minutes; P = .915), and ICH rate (13% and 8.8%; adjusted P = .898). The presence of radiographic evidence of stroke at spoke versus hub was not different (78.3% and 66.7%; adjusted P = .338). The most commonly used radiographic modality was MRI (MRI: 80%, CT: 20%). Using imaging as a surrogate for final diagnosis resulted in no difference in final stroke diagnosis rate between the groups, reinforcing that telestroke evaluations are as accurate as bedside evaluations in diagnosing acute stroke.

Medical dispatchers recognise substantial amount of acute stroke during emergency calls.

BackgroundImmediate recognition of stroke symptoms is crucial to ensure timely access to revascularisation therapy. Medical dispatchers ensure fast admission to stroke facilities by prioritising the appropriate medical response. Data on medical dispatchers’ ability to recognise symptoms of acute stroke are therefore critical in organising emergency stroke care.We aimed to describe the sensitivity and positive predictive value of medical dispatchers’ ability to recognise acute stroke during emergency calls, and to identify factors associated with recognition.MethodsThis was an observational study of 2653 consecutive unselected patients with a final diagnosis of stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA). All admitted through the Emergency Medical Services Copenhagen, during a 2-year study period (2012–2014). Final diagnoses were matched with dispatch codes from the Emergency Medical Dispatch Centre. Sensitivity and positive predictive value were calculated. The effect of age, gender, and time-of-day was analysed using multivariable logistic regression.ResultsThe sensitivity was 66.2 % (95 % CI: 64.4 %–68.0 %), and the positive predictive value was 30.2 % (95 % CI: 29.1 %–31.4 %). The multivariable logistic regression analyses showed that emergency calls during daytime and a final diagnosis of TIA vs. intracerebral haemorrhage (ICH), was positively associated with recognition of stroke (OR 2.70, 95 % CI: 2.04–3.57).DiscussionThis study reports a high rate of stroke recognition compared to other studies ranging from 31% to 74%. The high sensitivity is likely the result of a profound reorganisation of the Emergency Medical ServicesCopenhagen, including the introduction of EMDs with a medical profession, and a criteria-based dispatch tool. A recognition rate of 100 % is not obtainable without an inappropriate amount of false positive cases.ConclusionsWe report an overall high recognition of stroke by medical dispatchers. A final diagnosis of TIA, compared to ICH, was positively associated with recognition of acute stroke. Emergency medical dispatchers serve as the essential first step in ensuring fast-track stroke treatment, which would promote timely acute therapy.Trial registrationUnique identifier: NCT02191514.Electronic supplementary materialThe online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s13049-016-0277-5) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Characterizing Strokes and Stroke Mimics Transported by Helicopter Emergency Medical Services

Objective: Stroke is the leading cause of disability in the United States with most of these patients being transported by emergency medical services. These providers are the first medical point of contact and must be able to rapidly and accurately identify stroke and transport these patients to the appropriate facilities for treatment. There are many conditions that have similar presentations to stroke and can be mistakenly identified as potential strokes, thereby affecting the initial prehospital triage. Methods: A retrospective observational study examined patients with suspected strokes transported to a single comprehensive stroke center (CSC) by a helicopter emergency medical service (HEMS) agency from 2007 through 2013. Final diagnosis was extracted from the Get with the Guidelines (GWTG) database and hospital discharge diagnosis for those not included in the database. Frequencies of discharge diagnosis were calculated and then stratified into interfacility vs. scene transfers. Results: In this study 6,243 patients were transported: 3,376 patients were screened as potential strokes, of which 2,527 had a final diagnosis of stroke (2,242 ischemic stroke and 285 transient ischemic attack), 166 had intracranial hemorrhage, and 655 were stroke mimics. Stroke mimics were more common among scene transfers (223, 32%) than among interfacility transfers (432, 16%). Conclusions: In our study approximately 20% of potential stroke patients transported via HEMS were mimics. Identifying the need for CSC resources can be an important factor in creating a prehospital triage tool to facilitate patient transport to an appropriate health care facility.

The Itemized NIHSS Scores Are Associated With Discharge Disposition in Patients With Minor Stroke.

The ability of the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score to predict functional outcome in minor stroke is controversial. In this study, we examined the association of itemized NIHSS score with discharge outcome. We included all patients with final diagnosis of stroke with an NIHSS score of 0 to 5 untreated with thrombolysis enrolled in the "Stroke Warning Information and Faster Treatment" trial. Individual components of the NIHSS score were the primary predictors. Poor outcome was defined as not being discharged home. Logistic regression was used to identify predictors of outcome. A total of 861 patients met the inclusion criteria; 162 (19%) were not discharged home. In multivariable regression, predictors of discharge other than home were age (odds ratio [OR] = 1.02 per year increase, P < .001) and total NIHSS score (OR per unit increase in the NIHSS = 1.51, P < .001). Motor (OR = 2.32, P < .001), level of consciousness (LOC; OR = 6.62, P = .004), and ataxia (OR = 3.10, P < .001) were also associated with not being discharged home. Motor (area under the curve [AUC] 0.623) appeared to be more predictive of poor outcome than ataxia (AUC 0.569) and LOC (AUC 0.517). The total NIHSS had a fair correlation with discharge outcome (AUC 0.683). Total and itemized NIHSS components have a fair correlation with outcome in minor stroke highlighting the importance of other measures of stroke severity for clinical trials.

Abstract TP295: Predictability of Stroke Symptoms in Acute Stroke

Background: Prompt signs and symptoms recognition and intervention are essential to achieve the best outcome after stroke. Stroke codes were developed to expedite assessment and treatment. Their optimal use requires accurate identification of stroke patients. In order to improve diagnostic accuracy in our institution, we analyzed the predictive value of individual stroke signs and symptoms in patients in whom stroke codes were activated from the emergency department (ED) by physicians and nurses and from inpatient wards by nurses, residents and hospitalists. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 501 consecutive stroke codes in our stroke log from May 2013 to May 2015. Age, gender, presenting signs and symptoms, medical history and final diagnosis were assessed. Patients were classified as stroke (ischemic and hemorrhagic) or non-stroke based on the final impression after the completed work-up. X2 statistic was utilized to assess associations. Results: Overall, 202 (40.3%) patients were classified as stroke and 299 (59.7%) non-stroke. 78% of stroke codes were activated from ED and 22% from the inpatient wards. Unilateral limb weakness, aphasia and facial weakness were associated with stroke (p&lt;0.05) with PPVs of 0.57 (95%CI 50-64%), 0.56 (43-68%), 0.51 (43-60%), respectively. Altered mental status (AMS) and sensory symptoms were associated with non-stroke (p&lt;0.05). The PPV and NPV for stroke were 0.21 (95%CI 13-31%) and 0.55 (50-60%) for AMS respectively and 0.25 (14-39%) and 0.58 (43-63%) for sensory symptoms. Location of the stroke code (ED or inpatient ward) did not impact the results. Conclusion: Previous studies, based on evaluation of acute stroke by paramedics and ED physicians, demonstrated that some signs or symptoms are more likely to be present in patients experiencing acute stroke. In our experience, unilateral limb weakness, aphasia, and facial weakness as identified by diverse provider disciplines and experience levels are associated with a final diagnosis of acute stroke. However, isolated altered mental status or sensory symptoms seldom result in a final diagnosis of stroke. These data can assist healthcare providers, to more accurately identify stroke patients, thus improving outcomes as well as resources utilization.

Abstract WMP80: Stroke Mimic Treatment Rates and Physician-patient Language Discordance

Intro: While thrombolysis in stroke mimics (SM) is considered safe, recent data highlights the excess cost associated with treatment of these patients. Several studies have identified common demographic features of SM, however less is known about whether language barriers between patient and physician influence SM treatment rates. We sought to evaluate the role of physician-patient language discordance on the rate of SM treatment at a single center serving a large Spanish-speaking population. Hypothesis: Stroke mimic treatment rates are higher when there are language barriers between physician and patient due to greater diagnostic uncertainty Methods: We reviewed the electronic medical record (EMR) for all patients who received tPA in the ED from 7/2011 to 7/2015. Patient’s primary language was obtained from the EMR; language fluency of treating neurologists was obtained via questionnaire; final diagnosis (SM, imaging negative, imaging confirmed) was the attending physician’s impression at discharge. We compared baseline characteristics and SM rates between encounters where the treating neurologist and patient spoke the same language (concordant group) versus those where they did not (discordant group). Means were compared via t test, medians via Mann Whitney U test and dichotomized variables via chi square test. Results: During this period 311 patients received tPA. English was the primary language for 158 (51%), Spanish for 144 (46%), and other languages for 9 (3%); 183 (59%) encounters were classified as concordant and 128 (41%) as discordant. Final diagnosis was SM for 37 (12%); among those with a final diagnosis of stroke, 65 (24%) were imaging negative. There were no significant differences in mean age (67 vs. 70, p=0.1), male sex (38% vs. 32%, p=0.3), and median NIHSS (7 vs. 7, p=0.4) between concordant and discordant groups. We found higher rates of SM in the concordant group (16% vs. 6%, p=0.01). When imaging negative strokes were included with SM, these differences were no longer significant (33% vs. 32%, p=0.9). Conclusion: At our institution, language discordancy does not contribute to higher rates of SM treatment. Careful observation of how language discordant pairs communicate is needed to understand the role of interpreters in these findings

Abstract WP44: NIHSS Score Components Predict Infarct Volume in Minor Ischemic Stroke Patients

Background: Prior studies have shown a correlation between the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score and infarct volume on diffusion weighted imaging (DWI); however data are limited in patients with minor stroke whose treatment is controversial. Our aim is to determine the association between DWI lesion(s) volume and the (1) total NIHSS score and (2) NIHSS components in a population of patients with minor ischemic stroke. Methods: We included all patients with minor stroke (NIHSS 0-5) who were enrolled in the prospective Stroke Warning Information and Faster Treatment (SWIFT) study. All patients were admitted to the hospital with a final diagnosis of stroke. We calculated lesion(s) volume (cm 3 ) on DWI sequence using Medical Image Processing, Analysis, and Visualization (MIPAV, NIH, Version 7.1.1). Based on the distribution of lesion volume, we summarized the explanatory value into median cm 3 . We used non-parametric tests to study the association between the primary outcome, DWI lesion(s) volume, and the predictors (NIHSS score and its components). Results: 894 patients had a discharge diagnosis of ischemic stroke; 709 underwent MRI and 510 were DWI positive. There was a weak graded relationship between NIHSS score and median DWI lesion volume in cm 3 : (NIHSS 0: 7.1, NIHSS 1: 8.0, NIHSS 2: 17.1, NIHSS 3: 11.6, NIHSS 4: 19.0, NIHSS 5: 23.6). We also noted highly significant relationships between lesion volume and certain NIHSS components. Compared to patients without the deficit, the median lesion volume was significantly higher in patients with neglect (105.6 vs. 12.5,p=0.025), language disorder (34.6 vs. 11.9,p&lt;0.001), and visual field deficits (185.6 vs. 11.6,p&lt;0.001). Other components of the NIHSS were not associated with lesion volume. Conclusion: In patients with minor stroke, the nature of the neurological deficit improves prediction of infarct volume when added to the total NIHSS score. This may lead to clinical and therapeutic implications.

Itemized NIHSS subsets predict positive MRI strokes in patients with mild deficits

BackgroundWhile imaging is useful in confirming the diagnosis of ischemic stroke, negative diffusion weighted imaging (DWI) is reported in up to 25% of patients. Our aim was to identify predictors of MRI-positive stroke from the itemized NIHSS. MethodsData were derived from the Stroke Warning Information and Faster Treatment study from February 2006 to February 2010 among patients with mild deficits (NIHSS 0–5) and a final diagnosis of stroke by a vascular neurologist. All MRI sequences were reviewed for the presence or absence of an acute infarct on DWI. Multivariate logistic regression assessed factors predicting DWI-positive strokes; p<0.05 was considered significant. Results894 patients had a discharge diagnosis of stroke; 709 underwent MRI and 28.0% were DWI negative. All patients with visual field deficits or neglect were DWI positive. On multivariate analysis including total NIHSS (0–2 vs. 3–5) and itemized NIHSS score subsets, predictors of a positive DWI were NIHSS score of 3–5 (OR=3.3, 95% CI: 1.8–6.1), motor deficits (OR=1.7, 95% CI: 1.1–2.8), ataxia (OR=1.9, 95% CI: 1.0–3.5), and absence of sensory deficits (OR=1.7, 95% CI: 1.0–2.7). We developed the NIHSS-m score that predicts DWI positivity in patients with mild deficits in the absence of neglect or visual field deficits. ConclusionNIHSS score subsets predict DWI positivity in mild strokes. The presence of neglect or visual field deficits on the NIHSS subsets is most likely to have an MRI correlate even in patients with low NIHSS.

STROKE MIMICS IN THE PRE-HOSPITAL SETTING

Accurate identification of stroke patients is essential to ensure appropriate and timely treatment. Stroke mimics—patients initially suspected to have suffered a stroke who are subsequently diagnosed with a condition other...

The “DeyeCOM Sign”: Predictive Value in Acute Stroke Code Evaluations

Rapid diagnosis in stroke is critical. Computed tomography is often performed initially, even before a neurologic examination. Gaze deviation has been correlated with stroke diagnosis in some cohorts. Conjugate gaze deviation on stroke code imaging, the "DeyeCOM sign," may have emergency stroke care implications. We evaluated stroke code imaging from the University of California, San Diego database (2007-2013) for "DeyeCOM sign" diagnostic and predictive utility. Patients were grouped as DeyeCOM+ if conjugate gaze deviation was noted. The differences were assessed using the Fisher exact test for categorical and the Wilcoxon rank-sum test for continuous variables. We evaluated 342 patients; 106 (31%) were DeyeCOM+. Mean age was 63. The most common diagnoses in the DeyeCOM+ group were ischemic stroke (50.94%), transient ischemic attack (8.49%), other (8.49%), somatization (6.6%), and hemorrhage (5.66%). The National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale was greater in stroke patients than that in nonstroke (8.2 versus 3.8; P<.0001), and in DeyeCOM+compared with DeyeCOM- (6.8 versus 5.6; P=.03). DeyeCOM+patients were more likely to have a +gaze score (26.4% versus 9.8%; P<.0001), and +gaze patients were more likely to have final stroke diagnosis (26.0% versus 3.6%; P<.0001). There was no overall difference between groups in final stroke diagnosis; however, patients with deviation of 15° or more were more likely to have final diagnosis stroke (63.9% versus 47.9%; P=.03). DeyeCOM+ patients scored higher and were more likely to have +gaze on the stroke scale, and deviation of 15° or more was correlated with final diagnosis stroke. In current environments, there is pressure to complete stroke evaluations rapidly. Reliable imaging information obtained early (such as gaze deviation on scan correlating with scale score and finalstroke diagnosis) could augment decision making even with negative imaging.

Abstract W P210: Stroke Alert Notification by Emergency Department or Emergency Medical Service Which One Shortened Door to Needle Time?

Background and Aim: Timely evaluation of patient with acute ischeamic stroke and administering tPA is the first step to ensure a good outcome. Emergency Medicine Service (EMS) prenotification and Emergency Department (ED) triage were two pathways to notify stroke team. However, which one faster is unclear. Method: We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of all patients who received IV tPA at our institution from 2007 to 2013. Clinical features at baseline and clinical quality measurements were recorded. Patients were classified into two groups, EMS prenotification group and ED triage group. Primary outcome was to compare the accuracy in stroke diagnosis between two groups. Secondary outcome was to explore the difference between the two processes on achieving clinical quality measurements. Result: During 2007 to 2013, stroke team was activated 1244 times by either EMS or ED for suspected stroke patient. Among them, 845 patients (70.3%) had a final diagnosis of stroke. More patients were ruled out of stroke in the ED group (34.2% vs 29.0%, p=0.039). After stroke team consultation, 288 patients receiving tPA. EMS prenotification significantly shorten the time of onset to treatment (OTT), door to needle (DTN) and OTST(onset to stroke team) in logistic regression analysis. Conclusion: EMS prenotification had less misdiagnosis of stroke than the stroke alert from ED. Moreover, EMS shortened the tPA treatment time significantly compared to ED notification. Our study confirmed that EMS was a more effective and accurate way to prenotify stroke team of patient with acute stroke than the ED.

Abstract T P259: Study of Factors Contributing to Reduce Cost in an Innovative Post-Stroke Program

Background and Purpose: Stroke is the 4 th leading cause of death in the United States. Stroke-related medical costs and disability in the US cost approximately $73.7 billion in 2010 and is projected to cost $185 billion by 2030. Decreasing costs of care among post-stroke patients requires a combination of follow-up care and monitoring and targeted risk factor reduction. Ochsner Neuroscience Institute (ONI) has implemented a Comprehensive Stroke Care Model designed to increase quality and decrease costs of stroke across the continuum from symptom onset through 12 months post-discharge. This Model combines evidence-based, streamlined in-hospital care with monthly post-discharge follow-up and education in the home for patients and caregivers. Innovative technology that connects patients and caregivers with ONI stroke and internal medicine providers to address issues real-time during outpatient visits. This research will describe this innovative Stroke Care Model, including its impact on mortality, length of stay, stroke reoccurrence rate, and cost of care. Methods: This research will include patients seen as part of this Model from 1/3/2013-7/31/2014. Stroke Central, the in-hospital component, coordinated patients who presented at Ochsner’s Emergency Department via transfer, EMS, or personal transportation (n=1,711). Stroke Mobile, the outpatient component, includes a subsample of patients and their caregivers who were discharged with a stroke diagnosis and who reside in St. Tammany and Jefferson Parishes in Louisiana (n=288). Results: Stroke Mobile includes patients discharged from Ochsner’s Stroke Program with a final diagnosis of stroke who reside in St. Tammany or Jefferson Parishes in Louisiana from 2013-2014 (n=288 as of 7/31/2014). Patients that participated in stroke mobile reported a stroke reoccurrence rate 40% lower than patients not participating in stroke mobile. Conclusions: These results suggest a significant cost reduction in post stroke care through personalized patient visits that resulted in reduced readmissions rates, reduced stroke reoccurrence rates, and decreased clinic visits.

Abstract W P185: Clinical Predictors of Stroke, TIA and Mimic among Patients with Transient Neurological Dysfunction Admitted to an Emergency Department Observation Unit

Background: In patients with resolved symptoms, transient ischemic attack (TIA) is distinguished from ischemic stroke by neuroimaging evidence of acute infarction. DW-MRI has been shown to be more sensitive at detecting infarction than CT, but is not uniformly available in the acute setting. Hypothesis: We sought to identify predictors of stroke diagnosis among a cohort of clinically suspected TIA patients undergoing an accelerated diagnostic protocol in an emergency department observation unit (EDOU). Methods: We prospectively studied 189 patients treated in the EDOU of a single tertiary care academic medical center. Patients underwent DW-MRI of the brain (unless contraindicated), and bedside neurologist evaluation. A CT scan of the brain was considered optional prior to EDOU admission. We compared the odds of extremity weakness, sensory loss, facial droop, visual disturbance, slurred speech, aphasia, dizziness, and headache between patients with final diagnosis of stroke, TIA and mimic. This study was approved by the hospital IRB. Results: Thirty-one patients (16%) were diagnosed with an acute ischemic stroke, 85 (45%) TIA, and 73 (39%) mimic. Mean age was 64.8 years (SD = 15.5; range = 30-90). DW-MRI was performed on 92% of patients. A CT scan was also performed in 80% of patients diagnosed with stroke and 0 were diagnostic. Median ABCD2 scores were 4 for stroke and TIA (IQR 3-5) and 3 for mimic (IQR 2-4). Only headache symptoms predicted lower odds of stroke (OR 0.22; 95% CI: 0.05-0.96). Both headache (OR 1.44; 95% CI: 1.03-2.03) and visual disturbance (OR 3.14; 95% CI: 1.49-6.65) increased the odds of mimic diagnosis, but were also present in 13% and 10% of stroke patients respectively. Slurred speech (OR 0.48: 95% CI: 0.25-0.93); aphasia (OR 0.34 95% CI: 0.15-0.76) and facial droop (OR 90.36: 95% CI: 0.14-0.94) significantly predicted lower odds of mimic diagnosis. Conclusions: In our investigation of patients with transient neurologic dysfunction in an EDOU, stroke diagnosis was common and could not be predicted by clinical variables alone. Early DW-MRI should be considered in all TIA patients, especially those reporting slurred speech, aphasia or facial droop.

Abstract W P26: Itemized NIHSS Subsets Predict MRI Positive Strokes In Patients With Mild Deficits

Background: While imaging is useful in confirming the diagnosis of ischemic stroke, negative diffusion weighted imaging (DWI) is reported in up to 10% of patients. We aim to (1) identify predictors of MRI-positive stroke from the itemized NIHSS, and (2) to correlate subsets with infarct volume. Methods: Data were derived from the Stroke Warning Information and Faster Treatment study from 2006 to 2009 among patients with mild deficits (NIHSS 0-5) and attending physician final diagnosis of stroke. Using Medical Image Processing, Analysis, and Visualization (MIPAV, NIH) (Version 7.1.1), we calculated lesion volume (cm3) from DWI sequence. Univariate models studied the association between itemized NIHSS subsets, including cortical deficits (visual field cut, aphasia, or neglect), and presence of DWI hyperintensity and lesion volume. Multivariable regression assessed factors predicting DWI-positive strokes; p&lt;0.05 was considered significant. Results: Of 611 patients with a discharge diagnosis of stroke, 498 underwent MRI and 29.5% were DWI negative. On multivariate analysis, predictors of a positive DWI were NIHSS score of 3-5 (OR= 2.5, 95%CI:1.1-5.5), motor deficits (OR= 1.9, 95%CI:1.1-3.4), and ataxia (OR=3.0, CI:1.5-6.1). All patients with neglect and visual deficits were DWI positive (table). The mean lesion volume in cm3 was larger in patients with NIHSS 3-5 vs. NHSS 0-2 (49.0 vs. 17.3, p=0.002), cortical deficits (112.6 vs. 22.9, p&lt;0.001), neglect (236.6 vs. 29.7, p&lt;0.001), and visual deficits (245.7 vs. 26.4, p&lt;0.001). Other subsets showed no differences. Conclusion: NIHSS score subsets predict DWI positivity and lesion volume in mild strokes. The presence of neglect or visual field deficit on the NIHSS subsets is highly likely to have an MRI correlate even in patients with low NIHSS.