In light of recently published clinical trials and their implication for clinical practice, does a large catchment area acute hospital require 24 hour CT neck and head angiography and/or neuro-interventional services in the setting of acute ischaemic stroke?

BACKGROUND: Recently published clinical trials have resulted in a significant change in the guidelines used to manage patients suffering an acute ischaemic stroke. New neuro-interventional techniques have revolutionised stroke outcomes. Currently, such services are only available in two specialist centres.

AIMS: We attempted to evaluate the need for the provision of routine computed tomography (CT) angiography and neuro-interventional services at a university teaching hospital in Limerick.

METHODS: A retrospective study was performed based on data collated by the stroke service, University Hospital Limerick (UHL). All patients with a suspected acute ischaemic stroke of anterior circulation and known evolution were included. Baseline clinical and imaging characteristics, thrombolysis data, stroke unit admission rates and discharge destinations were recorded.

RESULTS: All 141 patients were suitable for CT angiography and should be performed in accordance with guidelines. Additionally, 165 patients excluded from the study due to an unknown stroke evolution timeframe may have benefitted. Non-contrast CT scan confirmed just 12 anterior circulation strokes. The need for neuro-interventional services proved more difficult to assess, primarily due to the lack of provision of routine CT angiography, employed to confirm anterior circulation occlusion. Secondary results showed a thrombolysis rate of 10.8% and confirmed that time efficiencies result in higher thrombolysis eligibility rates. Stroke unit admissions and discharge destinations were also recorded.

CONCLUSION: UHL should provide routine CT angiography to all patients presenting with acute ischaemic stroke in line with current guidelines. The need for provision of neuro-interventional services on-site proved more difficult to assess and requires further analysis.