A multicenter study evaluating the frequency and time requirement of mechanical thrombectomy

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Interventional Neuroradiology
• Emergency Medicine

Background:

• Limited data exist on the incidence and timing of mechanical thrombectomy procedures in stroke centers.
• Understanding procedural frequency and timing is crucial for optimizing patient care and hospital operations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the incidence and timing of mechanical thrombectomy for acute ischemic stroke.
• To identify patterns in procedure occurrence across different times and days.

Main Methods:

• A multicenter retrospective study analyzed data from 10 institutions over a 3-month period (June-August 2016).
• Included patients undergoing emergent mechanical thrombectomy for acute ischemic stroke.
• Excluded consultations that did not proceed to thrombectomy.

Main Results:

• 189 mechanical thrombectomies were performed, averaging 18.9 procedures per hospital over the study period.
• Procedures were significantly more common on weekdays and during non-work hours (especially 20:00-21:00).
• Off-hours procedures experienced a median delay of 52 minutes from imaging completion to procedural start compared to work hours.

Conclusions:

• The majority of mechanical thrombectomy cases occur during non-work hours.
• Off-hours timing is associated with significant delays, impacting operational efficiency.
• Hospitals require strategic planning for stroke call coverage to mitigate these delays and improve outcomes.