Shifting acute stroke management to the prehospital setting

Curr Opin Neurol. 2022 Feb 1;35(1):4-9. doi: 10.1097/WCO.0000000000001012.

Abstract

Purpose of review: The earlier the treatment, the better the outcomes after acute ischemic stroke. Optimizing prehospital care bears potential to shorten treatment times. We here review the recent literature on mothership vs. drip-and-ship as well as mobile stroke unit concepts.

Recent findings: Mobile stroke units result in the shortest onset-to-treatment times in mostly urban settings.

Summary: Future research should focus on further streamlining processes around mobile stroke units, especially improving dispatch algorithms and improve referral for endovascular therapy.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Brain Ischemia* / drug therapy
  • Brain Ischemia* / therapy
  • Emergency Medical Services*
  • Humans
  • Referral and Consultation
  • Stroke* / drug therapy
  • Stroke* / therapy
  • Thrombolytic Therapy
  • Treatment Outcome