Expanded modes of tissue plasminogen activator delivery in a comprehensive stroke center increases regional acute stroke interventions.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE We sought to evaluate whether a comprehensive stroke center could work with regional hospitals to increase the use of tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) in acute stroke. METHODS In 30 months, 142 patients seen at the Mid America Brain and Stroke Institute received tPA. Site of presentation, protocol selection, and outcomes were analyzed. RESULTS We found that 18.2% (142 of 781) of all ischemic strokes received tPA. Of those, 70% (99 of 142) were transferred from hospitals within 100 miles of Kansas City (Mo). Mortality rate was 12.7% (18 of 142). Symptomatic hemorrhage rate was 9.2%. CONCLUSIONS A comprehensive stroke center can serve as a hub for a regional network and increase the number of stroke interventions with acceptable outcomes.