Safety, Efficiency, and Efficacy of Protocolized Contrast-Enhanced Imaging in Acute Stroke Evaluation.

Publication/Presentation Date

11-1-2022

Abstract

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Computed tomography angiography and perfusion studies have increasingly become a part of acute stroke evaluation. However, the volume, benefit, and scope of need for imaging is sometimes debated.

PURPOSE: This study evaluated the safety, efficiency, and efficacy of changes to the acute stroke evaluation protocol at our academic institution. Previously, contrast-enhanced imaging was "opt-in" and ordered upon suspicion of large vessel occlusion. This was subsequently transitioned to one where contrast-enhanced imaging was automatically ordered for all patients with "opt-out" of imaging if felt appropriate.

METHODS: We performed a retrospective, case-control study that included patients evaluated for acute stroke management before and after the protocol change. Six hundred forty-seven patients met criteria for study involvement, of which 258 were in the preprotocol and 389 in the postprotocol group.

RESULTS: There was no significant difference in rate of acute kidney injury and no delay in door-to-needle time. There was significant improvement in door-to-groin puncture times (49.9 minutes) for typical cases and increase in monthly rate of endovascular therapy (EVT).

CONCLUSION: Protocolization of contrast-enhanced imaging for acute stroke evaluation proved safe with respect to renal function, did not delay door-to-needle time, improved door-to-groin puncture time, and lead to higher rates of EVT.

Volume

44

Issue

6

First Page

315

Last Page

323

ISSN

1945-1474

Disciplines

Medicine and Health Sciences

PubMedID

36318293

Department(s)

Department of Medicine

Document Type

Article

Link to Full Text

Share

COinS