["Stroke code". Shortening the delay in reperfusion treatment of acute ischemic stroke]

Abstract

Background: "Stroke Code" is a system for the rapid identification, pre-notification and transport of acute ischemic stroke patients. The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of delay reduction for thrombolytic therapy in these patients.

Subjects and methods: We evaluated acute ischemic stroke patients admitted in the emergency unit within the first 6 hours after onset of symptoms and included into reperfusion clinical trials. We compared the delay for initiating reperfusion treatment related to the activation or not of the stroke code.

Results: From 454 patients evaluated, 25% were admitted to the hospital in less than 6 hours from stroke onset. 59% of these patients were candidates for reperfusion treatment. "Stroke Code" was activated in 13 (55%). We observed a significant reduction in the delay since the onset of symptoms in relation to "Stroke Code" activation or not (mean X [SD]): emergency room arrival: 49.6 (48) vs 80 (48) min; Stroke Team evaluation: 65.3 (57) vs 133.6 (58) min; CT scan performing: 86.2 (60) vs 171.8 (62) min; Start of treatment; 212.9 (51) vs 287.3 (59) min.

Conclusions: "Stroke Code" activation reduced in 50% pre- and in-hospital delay to start reperfusion treatment in acute ischemic stroke patients.