Importancia del sistema de preaviso y elección del centro asistencial en el accidente cerebrovascular agudo / Importance of the forewarning system and assistance center selection in acute stroke

Resumen El accidente cerebrovascular (ACV) es una urgencia tiempo dependiente, ya que las conductas de mayor impacto pronóstico dependen del tiempo trascurrido. El objetivo de este trabajo fue analizar nuestros tiempos puerta aguja (TPA), comienzo aguja (TCA) y el efecto que tiene sobre estos el sistema preaviso y la elección adecuada del centro asistencial. Se realizó un estudio observacional con datos obtenidos de histo rias clínicas de pacientes internados en la unidad de ACV. Analizamos el número de tratamientos trombolíticos endovenosos, entre agosto 2015 y diciembre 2019. Comparamos TPA según utilización de pre-aviso, llegada directa por sus propios medios vs. en ambulancia sin pre-aviso, y TCA según llegada directa al centro con unidad de ACV vs. llegada a otro centro para posterior derivación. De 265 pacientes en ventana terapéutica, se realizó tratamiento en 143. Llegaron 137 pacientes derivados de otro centro, 70 recibieron tratamiento trombolítico. El TPA con sistema preaviso y sin preaviso fue 41 ± 23 (media ± DE) y 81 ± 43 minutos, respectivamente (p = 0.001). El TPA con llegada directa por sus propios medios 79 ± 43 y en ambulancia sin preaviso 84 ± 44 minutos (p = 0.7) a unidad de ACV. El TCA en llegada directa a unidad de ACV fue 159 ± 59 y a otro centro para su derivación 199 ± 44 minutos (p = 0.001). La utilización de un sistema de preaviso y la elección directa de un centro con unidad de ACV son medidas clave para reducir los tiempos de tratamiento.

Abstract Acute ischemic stroke (AIS) is a time-dependent emergency, since the greatest impact depends on the time elapsed to treatment. The objective of this work was to analyze door to needle (DTN) and start treatment (STT) times and the effect of pre-notification system (PNS) and the appropriate choice of the healthcare center on these variables. An observational study with data obtained from records of patients admitted to the Stroke Unit (SU) was conducted between August 2015 to December 2019. We analyzed the number of intravenous thrombolytic treatments (IVT), DTN and STT and compared them according to PNS use, direct arrival at the center with SU or arrival at another center for subsequent referral. An overall of 472 patients were hospitalized during the studied period and the treatment was performed in 143 out of 265 patients. One hundred thirty-seven patients arrived from another center, 70 received IVT. Average DNT with PNS and without PNS were 41 ± 23 and 81 ± 44 minutes, respectively (p = 0.001). STT on direct arrival to SU was 159 ± 59 minutes and to another center for referral was 199 ± 44 (p = 0.001). The use of a PNS and the direct choice of a center where IVT is performed significantly improve treatment

Uso y resultados de la fibrinolisis intravenosa en una unidad cerebrovascular / Use and results of intravenous fibrinolysis in a stroke unit

Resumen La fibrinólisis intravenosa con activador del plasminógeno tisular recombinante (rTPA) y la utilización de unidades cerradas, demostraron disminuir sustancialmente la morbimortalidad en pacientes con accidente cerebrovascular isquémico (ACVi). Sin embargo, los datos publicados en Argentina son escasos. Describimos la experiencia en la utilización de fibrinólisis en pacientes con ACVi agudo antes y después de la implementación de una unidad cerebrovascular (UCV) en un Centro Integral de Neurología Vascular de la Ciudad de Buenos Aires durante 17 años. Se realizó un análisis retrospectivo de pacientes consecutivos tratados con rTPA entre enero 2003 y diciembre 2019. Se evaluaron tiempos de tratamiento, de internación, complicaciones post tratamiento y discapacidad a 3 meses. Para su análisis se evaluaron los períodos pre y post apertura de la UCV, período 1 (P1 de 2003-2011) y P2 (2012 -2019). Se realizó fibrinolisis intravenosa en 182 pacientes. La apertura de UCV resultó en aumento del porcentaje de fibrinólisis sobre el total de los ACVi ingresados (4% en P1 vs. 10% en P2, p < 0.001), acortamiento del tiempo puerta-aguja (75 minutos en P1 vs. 53 minutos en P2, p < 0.00001) y mayor proporción de pacientes tratados dentro de los 60 minutos del ingreso hospitalario (36% en P1 vs. 76% en P2, p < 0.00001). Además, hubo reducción de la mediana de internación de 9 días en P1 a 5 días en P2 (p < 0.00001). En conclusión, la UCV parece optimizar la utilización de fibrinólisis en el ACVi agudo, aumentando el porcentaje de pacientes tratados, reduciendo el tiempo puerta-aguja y disminuyendo el de internación.

Abstract Intravenous fibrinolysis with recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (rTPA) and use of stroke units improve morbidity and mortality in patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS). However, data published in Argentina are scarce. We describe the experience in the use of fibrinolysis in patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS) before and after the implementation of a stroke unit in a Comprehensive Stroke Center in Buenos Aires during the last 17 years. Retrospective analysis of consecutive patients treated with rTPA between January 2003 and December 2019. Treatment times, hospitalization time, post-treatment complications and disability at 3 months were evaluated. For the analysis, the pre and post opening periods of the stroke unit were evaluated, Period 1 (P1, from 2003 to 2011) and Period 2 (P2, from 2012 to 2019). Intravenous fibrinolysis was performed in 182 patients. Opening of the stroke unit resulted in an increase in the percentage of fibrinolysis over the total number of admitted strokes (4% in P1 vs. 10% in P2, p < 0.001), shortening of the door-to-needle time (75 minutes in P1 vs. 53 minutes in P2, p < 0.00001) and higher proportion of patients treated within 60 minutes of hospital admission (36% in P1 vs. 76% in P2, p < 0.00001). In addition, there was a reduction in the median hospital stay from 9 days in P1 to 5 days in P2 (p < 0.00001). In conclusion, stroke units seem to optimize the use of fibrinolysis in acute stroke, increasing the percentage of patients treated, reducing door-to-needle time, and reducing hospitalization time.

Perfil do atendimento de pacientes com acidente vascular cerebral em um hospital filantrópico do sul de Santa Catarina e estudo de viabilidade para implantação da Unidade de AVC / Profile of the care of patients with vascular cerebral accident in a phantantrophic hospital of the south of Santa Catarina and feasibility study for implementation of the Stroke Unit

O objetivo do estudo foi conhecer o perfil de atendimento dos pacientes com Acidente Vascular Cerebral (AVC) em um hospital da região Sul de Santa Catarina, no ano de 2016, e avaliar a viabilidade de implantação de uma Unidade de AVC. Trata-se de um estudo epidemiológico observacional e descritivo, realizado por coleta de dados em prontuários eletrônicos de pacientes com AVC e pela aplicação do Formulário de Vistoria para Gestores constante na Portaria nº. 665/2012 do Ministerio da Saúde, que trata da habilitação dos Centros de AVC. Dos 208 casos, 81,3% tiveram AVC isquêmico, os principais fatores de risco foram Hipertensão Arterial (78,4%) e Diabete Melito (36,1%). O intervalo de tempo entre início dos sintomas e o primeiro atendimento variou de 1,5 a 5,5 horas, entre o atendimento inicial e a Tomografia Computadorizada (TC) 1,3h e entre TC e trombolítico foi de 1,12h. Das intervenções apenas 9,2% usaram trombolítico, a principal complicação foi infecção (21,6%) e o tempo de internação foi de 5 dias. Quanto às Unidade de AVC, a Instituição preenche requisitos para Unidades Tipo I. A partir dos resultados conclui-se que houve dificuldade em determinar o tempo de início dos sintomas e, com isso, a indicação da terapia trombolítica. O tempo de internação foi semelhante a de um Hospital com Centro de AVC implantado. Há condições de receber uma Unidade de AVC do tipo I com porte para se adequar a unidades mais complexas, no hospital em estudo.

The aim of this study was to know the profile of stroke patients seen at a hospital in the southern region of Santa Catarina, in 2016, and to evaluate the feasibility of a Stroke Unit. This is an observational and descriptive epidemiological study, carried out by data collection in electronic medical records of stroke patients and by the application of the Inspection Form for Managers contained in Ordinance no. 665/2012 of the Brazilian Ministry of Health, that deals with the habilitation of Stroke Centers. Of the 208 cases, 81.3% had ischemic stroke and the main risk factors were Hypertension (78.4%) and Diabetes Melitos (36.1%). The period between the onset of symptoms and first health care ranged from 1.5 to 5.5 hours; between initial health care and CT scan, 1.3 hours; and between CT and thrombolytic therapy was 1.12 hours. Only 9.2% of the interventions used thrombolytic therapy, the main complication was infection (21.6%) and the hospitalization period was 5 days. The institution fulfills the requirements for Type I Stroke Units. It was difficult to determine the time of onset of symptoms and, therefore, the indication of thrombolytic therapy. The period of hospital stay was similar to that of a Hospital with a Stroke Center implanted. There are conditions in the hospital under study to receive a Type I or more complex Stroke Unit.

Análisis de una Cohorte de Pacientes con ACV del Joven: Hospital de Clínicas, Montevideo / Analysis of a cohort of patients with young man's stroke: Hospital of Clinics, Montevideo / Análise de uma coorte de pacientes com AVC do joven: Hospital de Clínicas, Montevidéu

Resumen: Introducción: El ataque cerebro-vascular (ACV) es un importante problema de salud pública. Se define ACV en el joven a aquel que se presenta entre los 15-45 años. El objetivo primario de este trabajo es describir las características epidemiológicas, clínicas, imagenológicas, etiopatogénicas y terapéuticas de los pacientes con ACV en el joven. Materiales y Métodos: Se trata de un estudio retrospectivo y descriptivo, acerca de una cohorte de pacientes que presentaron ACV en el joven asistidos en el Hospital de Clínicas de Montevideo en el período comprendido entre junio de 2007 y junio de 2014. Resultados: Se incluyeron 50 pacientes que representaron el 5,6 % de todos los ACV en el período comprendido en el estudio. La media de edad fue de 33 años. En cuanto a la naturaleza, el 64% fueron isquémicos y el 36% hemorrágicos. Según la clasificación TOAST, la etiología más frecuente fue la criptogenética (34%). Respecto a la etiología de las hemorragias intracerebrales la mitad correspondió a malformaciones vasculares. Discusión: El porcentaje de ACV del joven fue algo menor que el descrito en otras comunicaciones. Comparado con el ACV en todas las edades, la hemorragia cerebral aumenta su proporción, si bien la naturaleza isquémica sigue predominando. La causa más frecuente de ACV isquémico del joven fue la criptogenética, seguida de la cardioembolia y las causas inhabituales. Las disecciones arteriales igualaron en prevalencia a la ateromatosis de grandes vasos. Este hecho es similar a lo descrito por la mayoría de los autores. Conclusiones: Si bien la etiología más prevalente de hemorragia parenquimatosa fueron las malformaciones vasculares, la cantidad de hematomas hipertensivos no fue despreciable a estas edades.

Abstract: Introduction: Stroke is an important public health issue. Stroke in the young is defined as the one who presents between 15 and 45 years old. The primary objective of this study is to describe the epidemiological, clinical, imaging, etiopathogenic and therapeutic characteristics of stroke in young patients. Materials and Methods: This was a retrospective and descriptive study of a cohort of patients who presented with stroke in the young assisted at the Hospital de Clínicas in Montevideo in the period between June 2007 and June 2014. Results: We have included fifty patients which accounted for 5.6% of all stroke in the period covered by the study. The mean age was 33 yo. As for nature, 64% were ischemic and 36% hemorrhagic. According to the TOAST classification, the most common etiology was cryptogenetic (34%). Regarding the etiology of intracerebral hemorrhages, half corresponded to vascular malformations. Discussion: The proportion of stroke in young people was somewhat lower than that described in other communications. Compared with stroke in all ages, cerebral hemorrhage increases its proportion, although the ischemic nature continues to predominate. The most common cause of ischemic stroke was cryptogenetic, followed by cardioembolism and unusual causes. Arterial dissections matched the prevalence of atheromatosis of large vessels. This fact is similar to that described by most authors. Conclusions: Although the most prevalent etiology of parenchymal hemorrhage were vascular malformations, the number of hypertensive hematomas was not negligible at these ages.

Resumo: Introdução: O ataque cerebrovascular (AVC) é um importante problema de saúde pública. A ACV é definida no jovem que aparece entre 15 a 45 anos. O objetivo primário deste trabalho é descrever as características epidemiológicas, clínicas, de imagem, etiopatogênicas e terapêuticas de pacientes com AVC em jovens. Materiais e métodos: Trata-se de um estudo retrospectivo e descritivo sobre uma coorte de pacientes que se apresentaram com AVC no jovem atendido no Hospital de Clínicas de Montevidéu no período de junho de 2007 a junho de 2014. Resultados: Cinquenta pacientes foram incluídos, representando 5,6% de todos os casos de AVC no período coberto pelo estudo. A idade média foi de 33 anos. Em relação à natureza, 64% eram isquêmicos e 36% eram hemorrágicos. Segundo a classificação TOAST, a etiologia mais freqüente foi a criptogenética (34%). Em relação à etiologia das hemorragias intracerebrais, metade correspondeu a malformações vasculares. Discussão A porcentagem do derrame do jovem foi um pouco menor do que a descrita em outras comunicações. Em comparação com o AVC em todas as idades, a hemorragia cerebral aumenta sua proporção, embora a natureza isquêmica continue a predominar. A causa mais freqüente de acidente vascular cerebral isquêmico do jovem foi criptogenética, seguida por cardioembolismo e causas incomuns. Dissecções arteriais igualaram a prevalência de ateromatose de grandes vasos. Este fato é semelhante ao descrito pela maioria dos autores. Conclusões: Embora a etiologia mais prevalente da hemorragia parenquimatosa tenha sido a malformação vascular, o número de hematomas hipertensivos não foi desprezível nessas idades.

Trombólisis intravenosa en pacientes con accidente cerebrovascular isquémico: Experiencia de un Hospital del Caribe Colombiano / Intravenous thrombolysis in patients with ischemic stroke: Experience from a Colombian Caribbean Hospital

RESUMEN INTRODUCCIÓN: Las guías de ACV isquémico establecen dentro del algoritmo de manejo la implementación de la terapia trombolítica intravenosa como una de las estrategias de abordaje del evento agudo que ha demostrado reducir los niveles de discapacidad en los pacientes. OBJETIVO: Describir el impacto de la realización de trombólisis intravenosa en pacientes con accidente cerebro-vascular isquémico, teniendo como referencia escalas de medición de funcionalidad y pronóstico. MATERIALES Y MÉTODOS: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo longitudinal en pacientes que recibieron tratamiento fibrinolítico en la Fundación Hospital Universidad del Norte (octubre 2011 - marzo 2016) teniendo en cuenta aspectos demográficos, clínicos, factores de riesgo y seguimiento a los 30 y 90 días para determinar el pronóstico y la mortalidad según escala modificada de Rankin. RESULTADOS: La población elegible consta de 27 pacientes cuya edad promedio fue de 65 años. La mayor prevalencia se presentó en el género femenino. El factor de riesgo más frecuente fue la hipertensión arterial (19/27). Se realizó manejo inicial de acuerdo al protocolo institucional de la unidad de stroke. Se describen tiempos promedio en cada etapa de la atención médica desde el inicio de los síntomas hasta la realización de la trombolisis. Durante la realización de la intervención terapéutica se documentó las complicaciones que justificaron la suspensión del manejo. Se reportó transformación hemorrágica del ACV y muerte secundaria a ello. La funcionalidad fue valorada con escala NIHSS al ingreso y egreso del paciente, el pronóstico y mortalidad se evaluaron con escala modificada de Rankin, que evidenció que más del 50 % de los pacientes obtuvieron una puntuación entre 0 y 1 a los 90 días postrombólisis. CONCLUSIONES: El estudio presenta limitantes dadas principalmente por el tamaño de la muestra, pero cabe resaltar que refleja la experiencia de un centro universitario y busca establecer y/o generar una base de datos importante a nivel regional que permita ser punto de referencia y suministrar información para futuros estudios.

SUMMARY INTRODUCTION: The ischemic stroke guidelines establish within the management algorithm the implementation of intravenous thrombolytic therapy as one of the strategies to approach the acute event that has been shown to reduce levels of disability in patients. OBJECTIVE: To describe the impact of intravenous thrombolysis performed on patients with ischemic stroke, taking into account functionality and prognosis measuring scales. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We conducted a descriptive longitudinal study on patients to whom intravenous thrombolysis were performed at the Fundación Hospital Universidad del Norte ( October 2011 - March 2016) taking into account the demographics aspects as well as risk factors including a 30 and 90 day follow up to determine prognosis and mortality using the modified Rankin scale. RESULTS: The study consisted of 27 patients whose average age was 65 years, finding a higher prevalence within female patients and A frequent risk factor of hypertension (19/27). Initial management was performed according to the institutional protocol from the stroke unit. Average times were shown at each stage of care, from the onset of symptoms to thrombolysis. During the intervention, some complications were documented which justified the suspension of the treatment. There was hemorrhagic transformation of stroke reported leading to secondary death. Functionality was assessed with the NIHSS scale at patient's admission and discharge, prognosis and mortality were assessed with a modified Rankin scale, which showed that more than 50% of the patients scored between 0 and 1 at 90 days post-thrombolysis. CONCLUSION: The study has limitations in order to establish conclusions statistically significant, but it does reflect the experience of a university center with an effective therapeutic intervention and looks to create a database in the region that can be use like a reference for other studies.

Infarto Cerebral del territorio Vértebro-Basilar: Comunicación de una serie de pacientes asistidos en el Hospital de Clínicas de Montevideo / Cerebral infarction vertebrobasilar territory: Communication of a number of patients assisted at the Hospital de Clinicas in Montevideo

Introducción: El ataque cerebro vascular tiene una elevada incidencia y mortalidad en Uruguay representando, aquellos de la circulación posterior, un porcentaje importante de ellos. En este estudio describimos características basales, clínicas, diagnósticas y terapéuticas de una serie de pacientes con ataque cerebro vascular de la circulación posterior. Material y métodos: Estudio observacional descriptivo. Inclusión: pacientes con diagnóstico de ataque cerebro vascular de la circulación posterior atendidos en el Hospital de Clínicas entre junio de 2007 y 2014. Resultados: Se incluyeron 140 pacientes con una edad media de 68 años y elevada frecuencia de factores de riesgo clásicos para enfermedad cerebro vascular. Predominó la clínica cerebelosa y piramidal, con un puntaje medio bajo en la escala de NIHSS (5,2) y una baja sensibilidad de la Tomografía de cráneo para el diagnóstico. La etiología determinada más prevalente fue la cardioembolia. Un quinto de los pacientes consultó antes de las 4,5 horas y el 3,8% de los pacientes fue tratado con trombolisis iv. Discusión y comentarios: Se trata de la mayor serie de ataque cerebro vascular de la circulación posterior reportada en nuestro país, la forma de presentación fue similar a la descrita en la literatura. La escala de NIHSS infravaloró la severidad de este tipo de ataque cerebro vascular. La tomografia de cráneo tuvo baja sensibilidad diagnóstica y el porcentaje de resonancias magnéticas realizadas fue bajo. Un bajo número de pacientes consultó en ventana para trombolisis iv y solo al 3,8% de los casos se le realizó dicho tratamiento.

Introduction:The incidence and mortality of stroke in Uruguay is high. Posterior circulation strokes represent a significant percentage of them. In this study we describe baseline characteristics, clinical presentation, diagnostic test and therapy in a cohort of patients with stroke of posterior circulation. Method: Descriptive observational study. Inclusion: patients with a diagnosis of PC stroke admitted to Hospital de Clinicas between June 2007 and 2014. Results: 140 patients were included. Mean age was 68 years and a high frequency of classic risk factors for cerebrovascular disease was found. Cerebellar and pyramidal clinic were the most frecuent, with a low median score in the NIHSS scale (5.2) and low sensitivity of the craneal tomography for the diagnosis. The most prevalent etiology was cardioembolism. A fifth of patients consulted before 4.5 hours and 3.8% of patients were treated with iv thrombolysis. Discussion and comments: This is the largest series of PC strokes reported in our country. Clinical presentation was similar to that described in the literature. NIHSS scale underestimated the severity of this type of stroke. Craneal tomograhphy had low diagnostic sensitivity and the number of magnetic resonances performed was low. A small number of patients consulted on time for iv thrombolysis and only 3.8% of cases underwent such treatment.

Projected Numbers of Ischemic Strokes Recorded in the Austrian Stroke-Unit Registry from 2012 to 2075

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: This study analyzed the number of patients with ischemic strokes recorded in the Austrian Stroke-Unit Registry with the aim of projecting this number from 2012 to 2075 and to highlight that the Austrian health system will face a dramatic increase in older patients within the next few decades. METHODS: Current demographic information was obtained from EUROSTAT, and information on age- and sex-stratified 1-year incidence rates of ischemic stroke were obtained from the Austrian Stroke-Unit Registry. Sensitivity analysis was performed by analyzing the projections based on predicted ageing, main, and growth population scenarios, and with stratification by age and gender. RESULTS: The total number of ischemic strokes recorded in the Austrian Stroke-Unit Registry was 8,690 in 2012 and is expected to increase to 15,826, 15,626, or 18,134 in 2075 according to the ageing, main, and growth scenarios, respectively. The corresponding numbers of patients are projected to increase or decrease within different age strata as follows (100%=number of registered ischemic strokes in 2012): 0–40 years, 100%/99% (males/females); 40–50 years, 83%/83%; 50–60 years, 98%/97%; 60–70 years, 126%/119%; 70–80 years, 159%/139%; 80–90 years, 307%/199%; and 90+ years, 894%/413%. CONCLUSIONS: The ageing population in Austria will result in the number of patients increasing considerably from 2012 to 2075, to 182%, 180%, or 208% (relative to 100% in 2012) according to the ageing, main, and growth scenarios, respectively; the corresponding value among those aged 80+ years is 315%, 290%, or 347%. These figures demonstrated the importance of improving primary preventive measures. The results of this study should provide a basis for discussions among health-care professionals and economists to face the future large financial burden of ischemic stroke on the Austrian health system.

Stroke System of Care: A Policy Statement from the Korean Stroke Society

No abstract available.

Current Status and Problems of Stroke Units in Korea: Results of a Nationwide Acute Care Hospital Survey by the Korean Stroke Society

BACKGROUND: The patients who received organized inpatient care are more likely to survive and to be independent. The benefit is most apparent in units based in a discrete ward, stroke unit (SU). The observed benefit is sufficiently large to warrant efforts of widespread implementation of SU care. The Korean Stroke Society surveyed acute stroke care hospitals to know the density and the distribution of SU in Korea. METHODS: One hundred-sixty one acute care hospitals were selected among those included in the 5th Quality Audit in 2014 by the Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service of Korea. A senior director of stroke service in each hospital was chosen and asked about the current status of acute stroke care including SU and major obstacles to establish SU in each hospital. RESULTS: The results of the questionnaire revealed the shortage of a total SU number and markedly uneven distribution of SU between rural and urban area. Most hospitals indicated the absence of the insurance reimbursement for medical service in SU, which served as the fundamental cause of lack of skilled manpower for establishing SU. CONCLUSIONS: The state-of-the-art SU, which is properly certified or designated, should be spread out more evenly in Korea for the optimal treatment of public regardless of a residential district. Government should encourage and support for the establishment of SU, which is an important first step toward making it reality.

Current Status and Problems of Stroke Units in Korea: Results of a Nationwide Acute Care Hospital Survey by the Korean Stroke Society

BACKGROUND: The patients who received organized inpatient care are more likely to survive and to be independent. The benefit is most apparent in units based in a discrete ward, stroke unit (SU). The observed benefit is sufficiently large to warrant efforts of widespread implementation of SU care. The Korean Stroke Society surveyed acute stroke care hospitals to know the density and the distribution of SU in Korea. METHODS: One hundred-sixty one acute care hospitals were selected among those included in the 5th Quality Audit in 2014 by the Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service of Korea. A senior director of stroke service in each hospital was chosen and asked about the current status of acute stroke care including SU and major obstacles to establish SU in each hospital. RESULTS: The results of the questionnaire revealed the shortage of a total SU number and markedly uneven distribution of SU between rural and urban area. Most hospitals indicated the absence of the insurance reimbursement for medical service in SU, which served as the fundamental cause of lack of skilled manpower for establishing SU. CONCLUSIONS: The state-of-the-art SU, which is properly certified or designated, should be spread out more evenly in Korea for the optimal treatment of public regardless of a residential district. Government should encourage and support for the establishment of SU, which is an important first step toward making it reality.

Atención a pacientes con "grados buenos" de hemorragia subaracnoidea aneurismática en la unidad de ictus / Care for patients with \" good grades \" of aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage in the stroke unit

Objetivo: estimar el impacto de la atención a pacientes con grados buenos de hemorragia subaracnoidea aneurismática (HSA-A). Métodos: estudio prospectivo y descriptivo de una cohorte de pacientes con grados buenos de HSA-A ingresados en la Unidad de Ictus Agudo del Hospital Hermanos Ameijeiras de La Habana, durante el período octubre, 2005-diciembre, 2009. La información fue procesada de forma automatizada (SPSS versión 11.5). Resultados: se estudiaron 165 pacientes con edad media de 49,7 años y predominio femenino (66,7 por ciento). Se logró aislar el aneurisma cerebral en 141, en 131 por cirugía y en 10, por vía endovascular. El tratamiento fue realizado antes del tercer día de evolución en 21 casos. Las principales complicaciones observadas fueron: resangrado (18,8 por ciento), vasospasmo sintomático (15,2 por ciento), hidrocefalia (23 por ciento), hiponatremia (11,5 por ciento) y neumonía (10,3 por ciento). El promedio de estadía hospitalaria fue 17,1 d. Egresaron con secuelas discapacitantes 20 pacientes y fallecieron 27. Las variables relacionadas con malos resultados en el momento del egreso fueron: intensidad de las manifestaciones clínicas al ingreso, magnitud del sangrado en la TAC, resangrado, vasospasmo sintomático y neumonía. Conclusiones: la atención especializada centrada en la Unidad de Ictus, parece ser una organización asistencial apropiada para la atención a pacientes con grados buenos de HSA-A...

Objective: estimate the impact of care to patients with good grades of aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (ASH-A) . Methods: a prospective descriptive study was conducted of a cohort of patients with good grades of ASH-A admitted to the Stroke Unit at Hermanos Ameijeiras Hospital in Havana from October 2005 to December 2009. Data was processed with the statistical software SPSS version 15.0. Results: 165 patients were studied. Mean age was 49.7 and female sex predominated (66.7 percent). The cerebral aneurysm could be isolated in 141 cases: 131 by surgery and 10 by endovascular procedure. In 21 cases treatment was performed before the third day of evolution. The main complications observed were rebleeding (18.8 percent), symptomatic vasospasm (15.2 percent), hydrocephaly (23 percent), hyponatremia (11.5 percent) and pneumonia (10.3 percent). Average hospital stay was 17.1 days. 20 patients were discharged with disabling sequelae; 27 died. The variables associated with a bad outcome at discharge were intensity of clinical manifestations at admission, magnitude of bleeding on CT brain scans, rebleeding, symptomatic vasospasm and pneumonia. Conclusions: stroke Unit specialized care seems to be appropriate for patients with good grades of ASH-A...

Impact of stroke unit in a public hospital on length of hospitalization and rate of early mortality of ischemic stroke patients / Impacto da unidade de AVC em hospital publico sobre a hospitalizacao e mortalidade no acidente vascular cerebral isquemico

We ascertained whether a public health stroke unit reduces the length of hospitalization, the rate of inpatient fatality, and the mortality rate 30 days after the stroke. Methods We compared a cohort of stroke patients managed on a general neurology/medical ward with a similar cohort of stroke patients managed in a str oke unit. The in-patient fatality rates and 30-day mortality rates were analyzed. Results 729 patients were managed in the general ward and 344 were treated at a comprehensive stroke unit. The in-patient fatality rates were 14.7% for the general ward group and 6.9% for the stroke unit group (p<0.001). The overall mortality rate 30 days after stroke was 20.9% for general ward patients and 14.2% for stroke unit patients (p=0.005). Conclusions We observed reduced in-patient fatalities and 30-day mortality rates in patients managed in the stroke unit. There was no impact on the length of hospitalization. .

Avaliar o impacto da unidade de AVC (acidente vascular cerebral) no sistema público de saúde sobre o tempo de internação, mortalidade hospitalar e mortalidade após 30 dias do AVC agudo. Métodos Comparamos uma coorte de pacientes com AVC agudo tratados em enfermaria neurológica ou geral (EG) com uma coorte similar de pacientes com AVC tratados em uma unidade de AVC (UAVC), em um mesmo hospital público. Resultados 729 pacientes foram conduzidos na EG e 344 foram tratados em uma UAVC. A mortalidade inicial foi de 14,7% na EG e 6,9% na UAVC (p<0,001). A mortalidade geral em 30 dias após o AVC foi de 20.9% nos pacientes tratados na EG e 14,2% naqueles tratados na UAVC (p=0,005). Conclusão Observamos significante redução da mortalidade inicial e da mortalidade após 30 dias do AVC nos pacientes tratados na UAVC. Não houve impacto sobre o tempo de internação. .

Stroke Epidemiology and Stroke Care Services in India / 대한뇌졸중학회지

Developing countries like India are facing a double burden of communicable and non-communicable diseases. Stroke is one of the leading causes of death and disability in India. The estimated adjusted prevalence rate of stroke range, 84-262/100,000 in rural and 334-424/100,000 in urban areas. The incidence rate is 119-145/100,000 based on the recent population based studies. There is also a wide variation in case fatality rates with the highest being 42% in Kolkata. Stroke units are predominantly available in urban areas that too in private hospitals. Intravenous (IV) and intra-arterial thrombolysis (IA) are commonly used in India. In the on-going Indo USA National stroke registry the rate of IV thrombolysis is 11%. Stroke rehabilitation is not well developed in India due to lack of personnel. Organised rehabilitation services are available in the country but they are mainly in private hospitals of the cities. Even though India is a leading generic drugs producer still many people can't afford the commonly used secondary prevention drugs. As a first step the Government of India has started the National Programme for Prevention and Control of Cancer, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Diseases & Stroke (NPCDCS). The government is focusing on early diagnosis, management, infrastructure, public awareness and capacity building at different levels of health care for all the non-communicable diseases including stroke. An organised effort from both the government and the private sector is needed to tackle the stroke epidemic in India.

Discussion of stroke unit management in nursing based upon international standards in neurology department / 中国实用护理杂志

Objective To discuss the practice of nursing management model of stroke unit based upon the international standards implemented in the neurological unit.Methods The experiences of the stroke unit management were summarized and applied to instruct the clinical practice.Results After the implementation,the average hospitalization days,the proportion of drugs,medical cost,and mortality rate decreased.The satisfactory degree of patients with the stroke unit increased.Conclusions The nursing management model of stroke unit not only improved the quality of nursing service to stroke patients,but also decreases the mortality and disability rate,shortened the length of hospital stay,and enhanced the satisfaction degree of patients and their family members.

Effect of Community-based Rehabilitation Stroke Unit on Functional Recovery of Stroke Patients / 中国康复理论与实践

@#Objective To observe the effect of community-based rehabilitation stroke unit on the function of stroke patients. Methods 94 patients with stroke were divided into intervention group (n=47) and control group (n=47). The control group accepted routine community home care, while the intervention group accepted community-based rehabilitation stroke unit care. They were assessed with modified Barthel index (MBI), simple Fugl-Meyer assessment (FMA) and Social Disability Screening Schedule (SDSS) before and after intervention. Results There was not significant difference between the groups in scores of MBI, FMA and SDSS (P>0.05) before intervention. All the scores improved significantly in both groups (P<0.01) 3 months after intervention, and improved more in the intervention group than in the control group (P<0.05). Conclusion Community-based rehabilitation stroke unit can improve the functional recovery of stroke patients.

Effects of Rehabilitation Stroke Unit on Shoulder-hand Syndrome Post Stroke / 中国康复理论与实践

@#Objective To investigate the effects of rehabilitation stroke unit on patients with shoulder-hand syndrome after stroke. Methods 90 stroke patients with shoulder-hand syndrome were divided into two groups: control group (45 cases) was treated with conventional treatment and experimental group (45 cases) was incorporated into the rehabilitation stroke unit. The therapeutic course was 6 weeks.Brunnstrom stage, Fugl-Meyer assessment (FMA) and modified Barthel index (MBI) were used to assess the degree of the motor function of upper limb and hand, and activities of daily living (ADL), and the total clinical efficacy were evaluated. Results The motor function of upper limb and hand and ADL improved in both groups after treatment (P<0.05), while the experimental group was significantly superior to the control group (P<0.05). Conclusion Rehabilitation stroke unit has preferable effect on shoulder-hand syndrome after stroke.

Rehabilitation In Acute Stroke (Literature Review) / Монголын Анагаах Ухаан

Lately, much progress was present in stroke prevention, treatment and rehabilitation. Mechanism called brain plasticity is enhanced from relatively early stage after the stroke’s onset by rehabilitation, and it is known to lead to functional recovery. Acute phase rehabilitation needs to be started as early as possible, after the onset of stroke, while the patient is still in the bedridden. The primary goals of such acute rehabilitation are prevention of disuse syndrome, early improvement of ADL, and to make someone is independent as possible and promotion of social reintegration. Many evidences prove that promotion of acute care and rehabilitation of stroke, carried out in the stroke unit or stroke rehabilitation unit, and early supported discharge, reduced the duration of hospitalization and improves ADL and QOL, as it gives long-term outcome. The result shows that stroke patients, who were admitted to a special ward carrying out organized multidisciplinary rehabilitation such as a stroke unit or stroke rehabilitation, had lower mortality and a higher home return rather than those treated in the ordinary unit, still after 10 years of their strokes. While care and service of rehabilitation system is at low level in our country, we need to introduce and establish such an effective system of acute care and rehabilitation of stroke, based at those evidences.

Application of Acupuncture in Stroke Unit: An Effect and Cost-effectiveness Analysis / 中国康复理论与实践

@#Objective To observe the effects of acupuncture on stroke in stroke unit, and its cost-effectiveness. Methods60 patients were divided into control group (n=30) and treatment group (n=30). All the patients were treated with structural therapy known as stroke unit, and the treatment group accepted acupuncture in addition. They were assessed with National Institutes of Health Stroke scale (NIHSS) and Barthel Index (BI) before, 15 d and 30 d after treatment. Their expenses for hospital were investigated. ResultsThe scores of NIHSS and BI improved in the treatment group compared with those in control group (P<0.05) 15 d and 30 d after treatment. The average cost for a score improved in both NIHSS and BI was less in the treatment group than in the control group (P<0.05). ConclusionThe acupuncture applied in stroke unit is effective and economical for stroke patients.

The curative effect of establishing stroke unit in treatment of the patients with stroke / 中国基层医药

Objective To investigate the curative effects of establishing stroke unit in treatment of the patients with stroke in primary hospital.Methods 220 patients in hospital who matched the standard were enroued in the study.All patients were assigned either into stroke unit group(Group A,n = 110) or general ward group(Group B,n = 110).The data of the patients of the two groups were compared.The key indexes including mortality and complication were recorded,and other parameters including National Institutes of Barthel Index(BI),Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS),Oxford Handicap Scale(OHS) were observed.Results The mortality and the complications rate of groups A were less than that in Groups B(χ2 =3.12,P＜0.05,χ2 = 12.22,P＜0.05).The improving extent of all scores (BI、NIHSS 、OHS) in SU group A were significantly different with that in group B.(t = 11.17、2.31、3.96,all P＜0.05).Conclusion The patients treated by stroke unit could gain evidently better prognosis than traditional therapy in primary hospital.

A study of the functional prognosis and influential factors of cerebral infractions in stroke unit / 中华物理医学与康复杂志

Objective To observe the prognostic factors of functional outcome of patients with cerebral infraction treated in stroke unit.Methods The data of patients with cerebral infractions treated in stroke unit in our hospital were prospectively collected from April 2004 to December 2005 continuously.All the patients They were fol lowed up either by their regular visits to our outpatient clinics or by phone interview.The modified Rankin scale(mRS)score was used as the index of primary outcome.The prognostic factors of the functional outcome were analyzed by monovariate and multivariate logistic regression.Results A total of 150 cases were collected,of whom 98 were with good outcome,52 cases with poor outcome.The multivariate logistic regression showed that the poor outcome was associated with aging,previous history of stroke,high NIHSS scores,complications,and time from onset of the disease to admission to stroke unit.Conclusion The results suggested that older age,having stroke history,higher NIHSS total scores,having complications and delayed hospitalized time were influence factors to functional outcome of cerebral infractions in stroke unit.