Management and outcome of transient ischemic attacks in Ponce, Puerto Rico

Approximately 240,000 transient ischemic attacks (TIA's) are diagnosed every year in U.S.A. Recent studies have shown that 4-20% will have a stroke within 90 days after a TIA, half in 2 days.

To determine morbidity and assess outcome at 72 hours of patients with TIA's arriving at the Emergency Room (ER) of San Lucas Hospital, Ponce, PR.

Medical records of all patients evaluated at ER in 2006 with neurological symptoms for < 24 hours, and outcome for next 72 hrs were reviewed. Anticoagulation given and timeframe between initial symptoms and diagnostic neurologic workup was also recorded.

53/182 records reviewed met inclusion criteria. 45% males, 55% females, median age of 62 years (Range 53-90). All received antithrombotic drugs at ER. Head-CT performed upon arrival in 100%, only 57% of Echocardiograms and Carotid-Doppler done in 24 hrs.

No patients developed stroke or death related to TIA in 72 hours.