Stroke Protocol Research Articles

Analysis of door-to-needle time for thrombolysis in acute ischaemic stroke using statistical process control charts

BackgroundThrombolysis should be administered as soon as possible to suitable patients with acute ischaemic stroke. We introduced a new protocol for patients who had a stroke to achieve reduced door-to-needle times for the best possible outcome. Since then, we have closely monitored each patient who had a stroke. Our goal was to assess whether statistical process control charts could be useful in detecting deviations in door-to-needle times when using four well-known rules applied by Western Electric (WE rules 1–4).MethodsWe analysed retrospectively door-to-needle times of together 200 acute ischaemic stroke patients before and after the implementation of our new stroke protocol. In addition, 25 patients at the time of reorganisation (transition period) were analysed. Statistical process control chart rules WE 1–WE 4 were applied to detect door-to-needle deviations and to monitor process uniformity.ResultsBefore the implementation of the protocol, median door-to-needle time was 53 min and after the implementation 20 min. Statistical process control chart rules were triggered only once in 100 patients before the reorganisation but seven times in 25 patients during the transition period. None of the rules WE 1–4 were activated after the reorganisation, indicating the stability of the reorganised acute ischaemic stroke process.ConclusionsThe use of statistical process control charts demonstrated a significant reduction in door-to-needle times during the reorganisation. Further, it showed that the acute ischaemic stroke process with a 20 min door-to-needle time is very stable.

Intra-arterial contrast administration: a confounding appearance on stroke CT imaging.

A female patient in her 70s presented with mild slurred speech. Clinical assessment revealed only minor dysarthria. A stroke protocol CT study was performed comprising a non-contrast CT head, CT angiogram (CTA) and CT perfusion (CTP) imaging. Despite a normal non-contrast CT head, CTP imaging demonstrated a large left anterior circulation territory abnormality compatible with core infarct. The CTA displayed absent left middle cerebral artery opacification and an abnormal pattern of thalamic and posterior fossa structure enhancement. Following a neuroradiology review, it was identified that the contrast bolus had been administered into the right brachial artery causing direct arterial opacification of the right vertebral/carotid arteries and their distal branches. No contrast was present in the left carotids or distal left intracranial anterior circulation giving the false impression of a large vessel occlusion. The patient was subsequently discharged without receiving inappropriate reperfusion therapy. This case highlights the role of technical factors influencing CT interpretation, particularly when performed by artificial intelligence/automated analysis.

The In-Hospital Code Stroke: A Look Back and the Road Ahead.

With increased patient volumes and complexity, stroke occurrence in hospitalized patients has become relatively more common. The process of activating a code stroke in-hospital differs in many institutions. An emergency team-based response to inpatient acute code stroke is warranted, with many protocols modeled similarly to the cardiac arrest response. However, several studies have demonstrated delays in recognition and management of acute stroke in-hospital as compared to those arriving directly to the emergency department (ED). Furthermore, there are several shared challenges with code stroke resuscitation in the emergency department and the ward, which include the assembly of ad hoc teams and requirement of access to urgent imaging. Delays in activating in-hospital code stroke contributes to increased morbidity, mortality, prolonged hospitalization, and associated health care costs. In the following commentary, we discuss the current landscape of acute in-hospital code stroke protocols, review the differences in neurologic outcomes between inpatient vs ED/out-of-hospital code stroke patients, and propose future directions for in-hospital code stroke paradigms for improved patient outcomes and quality of care.

Mechanical Thrombectomy for Pediatric Stroke: Focal Cerebral Arteriopathy Versus Cardioembolic Etiologies-Pooled Analysis of the Save ChildS and KidClot Cohort.

The study aimed to compare outcomes of mechanical thrombectomy (MT) in pediatric patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS) caused by focal cerebral arteriopathy (FCA) versus cardioembolism (CE). Data from the Save ChildS and KidClot cohorts were merged. Children with AIS because of FCA or CE that underwent MT were included. The study used the Childhood Arterial Ischemic Stroke Standardized Classification and Diagnostic Evaluation (CASCADE) for stroke cause assessment. Descriptive statistics and multivariable regression models were used to analyze final modified thrombolysis in cerebral infarction (mTICI) scores, periprocedural complications, and functional outcomes assessed by the modified Rankin scale (mRS) at 6 to 12 months. The analysis included 60 children with 14 FCA and 46 CE cases. CE etiology was associated with better revascularization (good to excellent thrombolysis in cerebral infarction scores) and shift toward better outcomes (common adjusted odds ratio of mRs for CE vs FCA: 0.27, 95% CI: [0.06-0.97], p = 0.039), with no difference in favorable outcome rates. FCA was associated with significantly lower rates of excellent revascularization (21% vs 65%, p < 0.001). No difference in complications' rates was observed between the groups (7.2% in FCA vs 5.5%, p = 0.69). We found that pediatric AIS because of CE etiology has more favorable procedural outcomes compared to FCA following MT. This translated to mixed functional outcomes that may be more favorable in the CE group. These findings highlight the need for further research to refine treatment protocols for pediatric stroke, particularly in understanding and managing FCA in children. ANN NEUROL 2024.

Multicentric Pediatric Stroke Code: Insight to the first years after implementation

BackgroundThe development of unicentric pediatric acute stroke protocols has improved stroke diagnosis and treatment. The impact of the implementation of a multicentric Pediatric Stroke Code (PSC) remains unknown. Aimto describe the characteristics of the PSC activations and identify clinical features associated with stroke compared to stroke mimics in children in whom a multicentric PSC had been activated and compare them to reported monocentric PSC results. MethodsObservational, retrospective, case and control multicentric study, performed in the Pediatric Emergency Department (PED) of the three Primary Pediatric Stroke Centers (PPSCs) in Madrid (Spain). Study population corresponded to children between 28 days and 16 years old in whom PSC was activated that consulted or were referred to any of the PPSC PED between March 2019 and June 2022. The main outcome was to compare the characteristics of patients with final diagnosis of stroke versus stroke mimics, among all patients for which PSC had been activated. Logistic regression modeling was used to investigate associations between independent variables and stroke diagnosis. Odds ratio (ORs) and 95 % confidence intervals (95%CIs) were estimated. ResultsPSC was activated in 196 patients. Stroke was confirmed in 39 patients (19.9 %): 20 (10.2 %) had an ischemic stroke and 19 (9.7 %) a hemorrhagic stroke. Stroke mimics represented 80.1 % of the PSC activations. Migraine was the most frequent stroke mimic (38.3 %). Time from symptom onset to brain imaging was 233.00 min (IQR 153.00–373.00) when patients self-presented at the PPSC compared to 231.00 min (IQR 129.00–400.00) when PSC was triggered at other settings (p0.580). Five patients (25.3 %) were eligible for hyperacute recanalization treatment. Low level of consciousness (OR4.373, 95%IC 0.247–0.652, p < 0.001), sensory disruption/motor disability of face/limbs (OR3.633, 95%IC 0.103–0.349, p < 0.001), aphasia (OR2.311, 95%IC 0.023–0.284, p0.022) and altered mental status (OR2.517, 95%IC 0.043–0.357, p0.013) were associated with an increased probability of stroke. Conclusionmulticentric PSC achieved similar results to previously reported unicentric PSCs, showing the feasibility of such an organization.

8158 Transient Blindness In Metformin-Associated Lactic Acidosis

Abstract Disclosure: Y. Abouelkheer: None. A. Nasir: None. M. Ibrahem: None. Transient Blindness in Metformin-associated Lactic Acidosis Background: Metformin-associated lactic acidosis (MALA) is a rare side effect of metformin use. MALA can result in acute transient blindness in patients with severe metabolic derangements. Clinical Case: A 62-year-old woman presented with severe diarrhea, poor oral intake, malaise, and vomiting on a background of metformin-treated type 2 diabetes mellitus. Laboratory investigations showed bicarbonate &amp;lt;2 mmol/L, anion gap 48 mmol/L, lactic acid 20.5 mmol/L, serum osmolality 352 mOsm/kg, negative urine toxicology screen, and positive SARS-CoV-2. In the emergency department, the patient developed sudden onset bilateral vision loss. The examination was remarkable for complete vision loss bilaterally in all fields, associated with minimally reactive pupils and spontaneous ocular movements with an otherwise unrevealing neurological examination. Computed Tomography (CT) of the brain with stroke protocol showed no evidence of acute intracranial process. CT angiogram of the brain and neck showed patent intracranial and cervical vasculature without high-grade stenosis, large vessel occlusion, or aneurysm. While receiving medical management with intravenous fluid resuscitation and sodium bicarbonate supplementation, the patient had a spontaneous return of vision with no additional neurological complications or deficits. The severe metabolic derangements were associated with distributive shock, requiring admission to the intensive care unit for urgent hemodialysis, pressor support, empiric antibiotics, and stress-dose steroids. Shortly after the patient’s only hemodialysis session, we noted the resolution of her critical metabolic disturbances, renal failure, and shock state. Laboratory investigations post-dialysis showed bicarbonate 12 mmol/L, anion gap 36 mmol/L, and lactic acid 10.5 mmol/L. Follow-up MRI showed chronic lacunar infarct of the left basal ganglia, and she was discharged home six days later. Conclusion: Transient blindness in MALA can mimic acute neurovascular events. Prompt correction of metabolic derangements can aid in reversing systemic symptoms and blindness. Reference: DeFronzo R, Fleming GA, Chen K, Bicsak TA. Metformin-associated lactic acidosis: Current perspectives on causes and risk. Metabolism. 2016;65(2):20-29. doi:10.1016/j.metabol.2015.10.014 Presentation: 6/2/2024

Determinants of Timely Access to Recanalization Treatments and Outcomes in Pediatric Ischemic Stroke.

Timely revascularization in acute arterial ischemic stroke (AIS) is paramount for optimal outcomes. However, factors causing treatment delays in pediatric AIS remain understudied. We investigated determinants affecting the time from symptom onset or last-known-well to the start of recanalization treatment in pediatric AIS. We conducted an ancillary analysis of the French KID-CLOT study (The National Retrospective Study of Recanalization Treatments in Pediatric Arterial Ischemic Stroke), considering patients with pediatric AIS receiving recanalization treatments (IV thrombolysis IVT and mechanical thrombectomy) from 2015 to 2018. The study assessed prehospital triage's impact, direct versus transferred admissions, and unit type (pediatric versus adult) on treatment delay and clinical outcomes using modified Rankin Scale at 1 year. Among 68 patients (median age, 11 [IQR, 4-16]; initial PedNIHSS, 13 [IQR, 7-19]), treatment modalities were IVT (n=31), and mechanical thrombectomy (n=23), and IVT+mechanical thrombectomy (n=14). Prehospital triage significantly reduced last-known-well to treatment delay (overall, 229 versus 270 minutes; P=0.01), most notably for and mechanical thrombectomy (P<0.001). There was no substantial delay difference between direct and transferred admissions, or between unit types, although a trend favored adult units (370.3 versus 436.73 minutes; P=0.06). Prehospital triage correlated with improved outcomes, with a shift to lower modified Rankin Scale scores (P=0.021). For pediatric AIS treated with reperfusion therapy, prehospital triage emerges as a pivotal factor in reducing treatment delays and enhancing outcomes. These findings underscore the need for a dedicated prehospital stroke protocol for children. URL: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov; Unique identifier: NCT03887143.

Efficacy of Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation on Jaw Function in Bruxism Among Post Stroke Survivor: A Case Study

A 49-year-old male who was a known case of Type 2 diabetes mellitus and hypertensive had a history of an acute infarct in the left ganglia capsular region and a chronic infarct in the left parieto-occipital lobe, which was conservatively managed and was referred for physiotherapy rehabilitation for strengthening the right upper and lower limb. During the physiotherapy intervention, abnormal teeth grinding was observed, and the patient was asked about parafunctional behaviour. Upon examination, there was a restriction in the jaw range of motion assessed by measuring the jaw range using the vernier caliper and tightness in the masticatory muscle, as evidenced by palpating the masseter muscle. Proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation and ultrasound therapy were given for 1 session per week for 2 weeks to treat bruxism along with standardized stroke protocol. At the end of 2 weeks after the intervention, there was an increase in jaw opening and reduced masticatory muscle activity. Jaw opening was measured using a vernier caliper, and masticatory activity was measured using electromyography of the masseter and temporalis muscles. This study suggests the importance of treating bruxism to prevent complications related to it. It concludes that proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation and ultrasound therapy were effective in improving mouth opening and reducing the masticatory activity in bruxism among stroke patients with ganglia capsular involvement.

Evaluation Of Medical Registrar Confidence In Approach To Acute Stroke And Experience Of Stroke Teaching

Abstract Background The American Heart Association scientific statement (2022) addressing inpatient stroke recommends the delivery of stroke-response training to all hospital staff. While performing a service evaluation on in-patient stroke metrics, we explored the self-perceived confidence levels of medical registrars at this hospital, and whether formal on-site teaching was received. We explored various components including awareness of local stroke protocol and teaching pedagogy. Methods Using Google Forms, a survey was sent to all medical registrars in our hospital. A 5-point Likert scale was used to assess the confidence levels of various topics. Results The response-rate was 63% (N=12). Fifty percent (N=6) of participants were on Higher Training Schemes while the remaining 50% (N=6) occupied standalone appointments. Most respondents (83%, N=10) reported experience managing an acute stroke as a registrar. Forty-two percent (N=5) of registrars ‘strongly agreed’ they were confident in assessment of acute stroke, with 50% (N=6) ‘agreeing’, and one respondent remaining ‘neutral’ (N=1). Some registrars were unfamiliar with local stroke protocol (23%, N=3). Half of respondents (50%, N=6) reported no formal teaching on acute stroke. Fifty percent (N=6) of registrars reported that most teaching occurred primarily on ward rounds, with 42% (N=5) reported teaching through lectures. The vast majority (83%, N=10) selected simulation as their preferred teaching method. Conclusion While our medical registrars were confident in their ability to assess and manage acute stroke, significant improvements can be made to ensure formal teaching is prioritized. As stroke protocol can change from site-to-site, it is crucial to define expectations and standards for registrars to ensure timely care for patients. There is a clear preference for simulation as a teaching pedagogy, hence we plan on introducing a formal stroke simulation curriculum. Stroke response is a multidisciplinary effort, hence future research directions include exploring stroke training in nurses, junior doctors, and other healthcare professionals.

The Minimal assessment Protocol for Cerebral Stroke 2020 (PMIC2020): a multicenter feasibility study in post-stroke inpatient rehabilitation.

In 2008, a Working Group of the Italian Society of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine (SIMFER) published the first minimum protocol for assessing stroke patients (PMIC) to define functional needs and outcomes. The recent PMIC revision (PMIC2020) introduces a document for all rehabilitation settings, incorporating updated measurement tools. The aim of this study was to investigate the PMIC2020 feasibility and administration time (AT) in post-stroke inpatients and to examine the influence of demographic and clinical variables on AT. Multicenter prospective observational study. Eight Italian rehabilitation centers for post-acute inpatients. Adult patients consecutively admitted to rehabilitation after ischemic/hemorrhagic stroke, reporting the first event or recurrence, with a modified Barthel Index (mBI)<75 points, without cognitive impairment and clinical instability. PMIC2020 was administered at admission (T0) and discharge (T1), recording AT of each section/ tool. A feasibility questionnaire was administered to assessors. Univariate and multivariate analyses were conducted to investigate the effect of demographics and clinical variables on AT. One hundred fifty-one subjects were enrolled at T0 and 139 at T1; the mean±SD AT (seconds) was 1634±401 at T0 and 1087±360 at T1 (P<0.001). National Institute of Health-Stroke Scale and Mini-Mental State Examination required the highest AT. All but two scales had significantly lower AT at T1 (P<0.05). Severe disability (as measured by mBI) was associated with higher AT than either complete or minimal/absent disability. The feasibility questionnaire showed good PMIC2020 appraisal by assessors without relevant critical issues. PMIC2020 was feasible in post-acute inpatient rehabilitation settings. No relevant critical issue was raised by users. Even though more comprehensive than PMIC, PMIC2020 required only slightly more AT (27 minutes at T0 and 18 minutes at T1, on average); more AT was needed to assess patients with severe disability. The study has immediate transferability for the National Health Service, as PMIC2020 can be routinely implemented in clinical practice and research to assess stroke patients' needs and outcomes. The updated measures allow more immediate comparisons with international data on stroke rehabilitation. Future research should investigate the PMIC2020 feasibility in other rehabilitation settings and its relevance in predicting stroke rehabilitation needs and outcomes.

APIS: a paired CT-MRI dataset for ischemic stroke segmentation - methods and challenges

Stroke, the second leading cause of mortality globally, predominantly results from ischemic conditions. Immediate attention and diagnosis, related to the characterization of brain lesions, play a crucial role in patient prognosis. Standard stroke protocols include an initial evaluation from a non-contrast CT to discriminate between hemorrhage and ischemia. However, non-contrast CTs lack sensitivity in detecting subtle ischemic changes in this phase. Alternatively, diffusion-weighted MRI studies provide enhanced capabilities, yet are constrained by limited availability and higher costs. Hence, we idealize new approaches that integrate ADC stroke lesion findings into CT, to enhance the analysis and accelerate stroke patient management. This study details a public challenge where scientists applied top computational strategies to delineate stroke lesions on CT scans, utilizing paired ADC information. Also, it constitutes the first effort to build a paired dataset with NCCT and ADC studies of acute ischemic stroke patients. Submitted algorithms were validated with respect to the references of two expert radiologists. The best achieved Dice score was 0.2 over a test study with 36 patient studies. Despite all the teams employing specialized deep learning tools, results reveal limitations of computational approaches to support the segmentation of small lesions with heterogeneous density.

Eye stroke protocol in in the emergency department

BackgroundVisual outcomes of acute central and branch retinal artery occlusions (CRAO/BRAO) are poor and acute treatment options are limited by delayed diagnosis. In the hyper-acute setting, the ocular fundus may appear “normal”, making recognition challenging, but is facilitated by retinal optical coherence tomography (OCT), which is seldom available in emergency departments (ED). We evaluated the use of non-mydriatic ocular fundus photographs (NMFP) combined with OCT to facilitate ultra-rapid remote diagnosis and stroke alert for patients with acute vision loss presenting to the ED. MethodsProspective evaluation of all CRAO/BRAO between 06/06/2023-06/06/2024 who had NMFP-OCT in our general ED affiliated with a stroke center. ResultsOver 1 year, 22 patients were diagnosed with CRAO, 4 with BRAO. Five patients presented within 4.5 hours of vision loss onset, 6 within 4.5 to ≤12 hours and 15 within >12 to 24 hours. On average, NMFP-OCT was performed within 141 minutes of presentation to the ED (range 27- 422 minutes). Diagnosis of acute RAO was made remotely with NMFP-OCT within 4.5 hours in 4 patients, 2 of whom received intravenous thrombolysis. Of the 9 patients with NMFP-OCT within 12 hours of symptom onset, 5 patients had subtle retinal whitening on color fundus photograph, but all had OCT inner retinal hyper-reflectivity/edema. ConclusionImplementation of NMFP-OCT in a general ED enables rapid remote diagnosis of CRAO/BRAO and facilitates initiation of an eye stroke protocol in acute patients. OCT complements color fundus photography and provides greater diagnostic accuracy in hyperacute cases with near-normal appearing ocular fundi.

P.031 SMILES: Sunnybrook-St. Michael’s Integrated Leadership/QI in Endovascular Stroke care – enhancing hyperacute stroke protocols for optimized door-to-intervention times

Background: Hyperacute stroke care demands rapid, coordinated care. Traditional metrics like Door-to-Needle time are pivotal but insufficient for capturing the complexity of endovascular stroke interventions. The SMILES collaboration aims to standardize and optimize protocols for door-to-intervention times, incorporating Crew Resource Management (CRM). Methods: The multidisciplinary initiative integrates both hospitals, ED, neurology, and QI teams. We employed a comprehensive approach: stakeholder engagement, simulation-based learning, process mapping, and literature review. Emphasis was placed on enhancing situational awareness, triage and prioritization, cognitive load management, role clarity, effective communication, and debriefing. Results: The collaboration led to PDSA cycles and development of refined stroke protocols. Interventions included: 1) A ’zero point survey’ for team pre-arrival briefings, enhancing situational awareness and role clarity; 2) Streamlined patient registration to reduce cognitive load and improve triage efficiency; 3) Direct transfer of patients to imaging. Additionally, digital tools were implemented to facilitate communication. Simulation sessions reinforced CRM principles, leading to improved team cohesion and operational performance. Conclusions: The SMILES initiative is grounded in CRM principles by standardizing protocols and emphasizing non-technical skills crucial for high-stakes environments. This improves outcomes but also fosters a culture of safety and efficiency. Future directions include an evaluation of these protocols’ impact on patient factors.

Comprehensive atrial fibrillation package of care to minimise unnecessary hospital admission and improve patient outcome: a quality improvement project

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements None. Introduction Recent studies have highlighted an increasing rate of hospitalisation among atrial fibrillation (AF) patients, despite a relatively low in-hospital mortality rate. This trend carries significant financial implications, with a twofold increase in AF-related expenditures, over 50% of which are associated with inpatient care. Purpose A Quality Improvement Project (QIP) was conducted to enhance AF care, reduce unnecessary admissions, and address the root causes driving increased hospitalisations. Methods The root cause analysis, illustrated in Figure 1, revealed four factors contributing to the increased hospital admission rate of newly diagnosed AF patients: systemic issues, the nature of the disease itself, patient and physician-related factors. The driver diagram (Figure 2) visually presented the primary and secondary drivers with corresponding interventions targeting potential areas for improvement. Plan, Do, Study, Act (PDSA) cycle was conducted using four-pronged approach: 1. Updating local guidelines and designing a stepwise algorithm to align with contemporary standards of care. 2. Establishing an ambulatory care/arrhythmia clinic referral pathway for follow-up of stable AF patients to ensure continuity of care, thus minimizing unnecessary admissions. 3. Implementing a safe discharge toolkit comprising patient education materials, a poster for stroke and bleeding risk assessment tools, and an anticoagulation checklist. 4. Incorporating AF management teaching sessions into the doctors’ induction curriculum to enhance their knowledge and confidence in managing newly diagnosed AF patients and ensuring safe discharges. Results Lack of an ambulatory care or arrhythmia clinic referral pathway, inadequate educational resources, insufficient clinician training were key factors contributing to unwarranted hospitalization of newly diagnosed AF patients. The comprehensive guideline revision process, requiring substantial resources and the support of stakeholders and a multidisciplinary team comprising cardiologists and emergency and acute medical physicians, facilitated the successful implementation of the new AF referral pathway. This QIP resulted in a 16% reduction in avoidable admissions, 24% increase in clinician confidence, and 18% improvement in adherence to stroke and bleeding risk assessment protocols, in addition to reducing the hospital stay duration. Conclusions The collaboration among diverse medical disciplines, evidence-based guideline revision, and the implementation of a streamlined AF referral pathway demonstrated the potential to reduce healthcare resource utilization and financial burdens. This approach aligns with national standards, enhances healthcare providers' knowledge and confidence, ensuring standardised clinical practices. It underscores its potential for implementation of similar pathways to improve patient care. Continuous evaluation to evolving guidelines are recommended for sustainability.Figure 1.Ishikawa fishbone diagramFigure 2.Driver diagram for AF care

Implementation of a Multi-disciplinary Wake-up Stroke (WUS) Protocol at a Comprehensive Stroke Center in a Diverse Urban Community: 2-Year Experience (P2-5.029)

Implementation of a Multi-disciplinary Wake-up Stroke (WUS) Protocol at a Comprehensive Stroke Center in a Diverse Urban Community: 2-Year Experience (P2-5.029)

Impact of Local Tailoring on Acute Stroke Care in 21 Disparate Emergency Departments: A Prospective Stepped Wedge Type III Hybrid Effectiveness-Implementation Study.

Faster delivery of tPA (tissue-type plasminogen activator) results in better health outcomes for eligible patients with stroke. Standardization of stroke protocols in emergency departments (EDs) has been difficult, especially in nonstroke centers. We measured the effectiveness of a centrally led implementation strategy with local site tailoring to sustain adherence to an acute stroke protocol to improve door-to-needle (DTN) times across disparate EDs in a multihospital health system. Prospective, type III hybrid effectiveness-implementation cohort study measuring performance at 21 EDs in Utah and Idaho (stroke centers [4]/nonstroke centers [17]) from January 2018 to February 2020 using a nonrandomized stepped-wedge design, monthly repeated site measures and multilevel hierarchical modeling. Each site received the implementation strategies in 1 of 6 steps providing control and intervention data. Co-primary outcomes were percentage of DTN times ≤60 minutes and median DTN time. Secondary outcomes included percentage of door-to-activation of neurological consult times ≤10 minutes and clinical effectiveness outcomes. Results were stratified between stroke and nonstroke centers. A total of 855 474 ED patient encounters occurred with 5325 code stroke activations (median age, 69 [IQR, 56-79] years; 51.8% female patients]. Percentage of door-to-activation times ≤10 minutes increased from 47.5% to 59.9% (adjusted odds ratio, 1.93 [95% CI, 1.40-2.67]). A total of 615 patients received tPA of ≤3 hours from symptom onset (median age, 71 [IQR, 58-80] years; 49.6% female patients). The percentage of DTN times ≤60 minutes increased from 72.5% to 86.1% (adjusted odds ratio, 3.38, [95% CI, 1.47-7.78]; stroke centers (77.4%-90.0%); nonstroke centers [59.3%-72.1%]). Median DTN time declined from 46 to 38 minutes (adjusted median difference, -9.68 [95% CI, -17.17 to -2.20]; stroke centers [41-35 minutes]; nonstroke centers [55-52 minutes]). No differences were observed in clinical effectiveness outcomes. A centrally led implementation strategy with local site tailoring led to faster delivery of tPA across disparate EDs in a multihospital system with no change in clinical effectiveness outcomes including rates of complication. Disparities in performance persisted between stroke and nonstroke centers.

Assessing variability in non-contrast CT for the evaluation of stroke: The effect of CT image reconstruction conditions on AI-based CAD measurements of ASPECTS value and hypodense volume.

To rule out hemorrhage, non-contrast CT (NCCT) scans are used for early evaluation of patients with suspected stroke. Recently, artificial intelligence tools have been developed to assist with determining eligibility for reperfusion therapies by automating measurement of the Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score (ASPECTS), a 10-point scale with > 7 or ≤ 7 being a threshold for change in functional outcome prediction and higher chance of symptomatic hemorrhage, and hypodense volume. The purpose of this work was to investigate the effects of CT reconstruction kernel and slice thickness on ASPECTS and hypodense volume. The NCCT series image data of 87 patients imaged with a CT stroke protocol at our institution were reconstructed with 3 kernels (H10s-smooth, H40s-medium, H70h-sharp) and 2 slice thicknesses (1.5mm and 5mm) to create a reference condition (H40s/5mm) and 5 non-reference conditions. Each reconstruction for each patient was analyzed with the Brainomix e-Stroke software (Brainomix, Oxford, England) which yields an ASPECTS value and measure of total hypodense volume (mL). An ASPECTS value was returned for 74 of 87 cases in the reference condition (13 failures). ASPECTS in non-reference conditions changed from that measured in the reference condition for 59 cases, 7 of which changed above or below the clinical threshold of 7 for 3 non-reference conditions. ANOVA tests were performed to compare the differences in protocols, Dunnett's post-hoc tests were performed after ANOVA, and a significance level of p < 0.05 was defined. There was no significant effect of kernel (p = 0.91), a significant effect of slice thickness (p < 0.01) and no significant interaction between these factors (p = 0.91). Post-hoc tests indicated no significant difference between ASPECTS estimated in the reference and any non-reference conditions. There was a significant effect of kernel (p < 0.01) and slice thickness (p < 0.01) on hypodense volume, however there was no significant interaction between these factors (p = 0.79). Post-hoc tests indicated significantly different hypodense volume measurements for H10s/1.5mm (p = 0.03), H40s/1.5mm (p < 0.01), H70h/5mm (p < 0.01). No significant difference was found in hypodense volume measured in the H10s/5mm condition (p = 0.96). Automated ASPECTS and hypodense volume measurements can be significantly impacted by reconstruction kernel and slice thickness.

Implementation of stroke protocol: Insights from a tertiary care facility in urban India

Abstract Background: Stroke is the second leading cause of death globally and ranks third for combined death and disability. Over the past two decades, there has been a significant rise in stroke incidence, mortality, and morbidity, with low- and middle-income countries being disproportionately affected. The effectiveness of thrombolytic therapy for acute ischemic stroke has led centers specializing in acute stroke care to develop protocols for rapid identification and triage of stroke patients. It is recommended that various stakeholders be educated on recognizing and managing stroke early and implement stroke protocols to improve coordination between different departments. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted in the emergency department of a tertiary care center in urban India from September 2021 to September 2022. We aimed to determine the average door-to-imaging (DTI) and door-to-needle (DTN) times for patients presenting with acute ischemic stroke. Additionally, we examined the factors contributing to delays in DTN time management of acute ischemic stroke at our center. Results: During the one-year study period, 131 patients with acute stroke presented to our center. One patient was under 18 years old, 10 patients arrived more than 4.5 h after symptom onset, and 2 patients had contraindications for thrombolysis. Consequently, 118 patients were included in the study. The average DTI time was 23 min, and the average DTN time was 58 min. Of these, 106 patients (89.8%) had a DTN time of less than 60 min. The most common cause of treatment initiation delay was obtaining consent (n = 7; 58.3%), followed by an unreliable time of symptom onset (n = 3; 25%) and delays due to resuscitation (n = 2; 16.6%). Conclusion: Acute stroke is a time-sensitive emergency where early thrombolysis can significantly reduce both morbidity and mortality. However, due to a lack of awareness and accessible resources, many patients often arrive outside the treatment window. Despite these limitations, a substantial number of patients do reach the hospital in time. Implementing a stroke protocol and utilizing innovative methods to reduce time can ensure these patients benefit from the global “standard of care” treatment for stroke.

873 Code Brain Ultra-Early Clinical Pathway for Patient Identification and Management in Spontaneous Non-traumatic Intracranial Hemorrhage Single-Institution Study

INTRODUCTION: Spontaneous non-traumatic intracranial hemorrhage causes high morbidity and mortality. Clinical pathways for the management of acute ischemic stroke are well established but fall short in identifying intracranial hemorrhage, preventing early therapy. METHODS: Using Class 1 recommendations from the AHA/ASA Spontaneous Intracranial Hemorrhage Guidelines, our multi-disciplinary stroke team developed a hyper-acute clinical pathway. Once the hemorrhagic stroke patient was identified, protocolized measures were immediately initiated to lower systolic blood pressure to 140 mmHg, institute factor replacement therapies in coagulopathic patients and anti-platelet reversal when appropriate. Key performance indicators and quality metrics were established to compare post-intervention groups to the baseline cohort. RESULTS: Of 180 patients, 113 and 67 patients were treated pre- and post-protocol, respectively. From pre- to post-protocol, diagnosis of hemorrhagic stroke using the alert increased from 59% to 81%. Anti-hypertensive initiation within 60 minutes increased from 79.5% to 88.7%, with the average time from CT result decreasing from 32.7 to 21.7 minutes. Time to reversal agent decreased from 53 to 23 minutes for pro-coagulation agents and 106 to 55 minutes for DDAVP. Reversal agent initiation within 60 minutes of CT result increased from 66.6% to 100% for pro-coagulation agents and 28.5% to 84.6% for DDAVP. CONCLUSIONS: The initiation of this management protocol for hemorrhagic stroke resulted in a higher proportion of patients being rapidly identified and earlier initiation of anti-hypertensive and hemostatic therapies. These processes are the key to important interventions designed to reduce injury extension associated with intracranial hemorrhage, like “time to thrombolysis” measures for acute ischemic stroke.

Thrombolysis treatment and multi- disciplinary management of central retinal artery occlusion in comparison with traditional ophthalmological treatment options

<p>The management of central retinal artery occlusion (CRAO) has long been conservative therapy with limited efficacy carried out in ophthalmology departments together with etiolo&shy;gi&shy;cal investigations lacking a standardised protocol. However, CRAO is analogous to ischemic central nervous system stroke and is associated with increased stroke risk, thus, systemic thrombolysis treatment and multidisciplinary management can be beneficial. Since May 2022, at Semmelweis University CRAO patients diagnosed within 4.5 hours are given intravenous thrombolysis therapy and undergo etiologic workup based on current stroke protocols. Here we report our experience with the multidisciplinary, protocol-based management of CRAO in comparison with former non-protocol based ophthalmological conservative treatment.</p>. <p>We reviewed CRAO patients&rsquo; data treated conservatively and with paracentesis within 6 hours at the Department of Ophthalmology between 2013 and 2022 including changes in visual acuity, neurolo&shy;gical and cardiovascular findings compared to those in the thrombolysis project.&nbsp;</p>. <p>Of the 78 patients receiving non-protocol care, visual improvement was seen in 37% with natural course, 47% with conservative treatment and 47% with paracentesis. Four patients had significant carotid stenosis (2 underwent endarterectomy), 1 carotid dissection, 6 cardioembolism and 1 giant cell arteritis. Of the 4 patients within 4,5 hours, 3 gave their consent to the clinical trial and were treated with thrombolysis and underwent a full etiological assessment.&nbsp;<br>2 pa&shy;tients had improved visual acuity, 2 pa&shy;tients had significant carotid stenosis and underwent endarterectomy, 1 patient was started on anticoagulation for newly diagnosed atrial fibrillation.</p>. <p>CRAO patients presenting within 4,5 hours are rare and more patients are needed in our study to establish the efficacy of thrombolysis. However uniform protocollized evaluation helps identifying embolic sources thus, avoiding further and potentially more serious thromboembolic events.</p>.