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[Thrombolytic therapy in acute cerebral infarction]
Lars Thomassen1, Ulrike Waje-Andreassen, Halvor Naess
1Nevrologisk avdeling, Haukeland Sykehus 5021 Bergen. lars.thomassen@nevro.haukeland.no
Summary
Intravenous thrombolysis for acute ischemic stroke is feasible and safe in specialized stroke units. Clinical outcomes were comparable to large studies, with nearly half of patients achieving independence.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Emergency Medicine
- Cardiovascular Research
Background:
- Intravenous thrombolysis is a critical treatment for acute ischemic stroke.
- Assessing its feasibility and safety in a dedicated acute stroke unit is essential.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the feasibility, safety, and clinical outcomes of intravenous thrombolysis.
- To present results from the initial three years of thrombolysis as standard care.
Main Methods:
- Patients treated within 3 hours of acute ischemic stroke onset were included.
- 33 patients (median age 71) received thrombolysis.
Main Results:
- 16 patients showed early improvement, 6 had slow improvement, and 11 did not improve.
- 16 patients (49%) achieved independence (mRS 0-2) at 6 months; 12 (36%) had unfavorable outcomes (mRS 3-5).
- 5 patients (15%) died within 3 months, none due to treatment complications. One intracerebral hematoma and two hemorrhagic infarctions occurred without clinical deterioration.
Conclusions:
- Thrombolysis can be safely administered in acute stroke units without intensive care.
- Clinical results and safety profiles align with findings from large randomized trials and clinical series.