Emergency Stroke Unit for Acute Cerebrovascular Events: A Prospective, Single-arm Trial With a Historical Control Group

Launched by CHINESE UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG · Dec 7, 2024

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying a new approach to treating acute ischemic strokes in patients. The trial is testing an Emergency Stroke Unit (ESU) located in the Accident and Emergency Department. This unit uses a special mobile MRI machine that helps doctors quickly diagnose the type of stroke a patient has and decide on the best treatment. The goal is to reduce the time it takes to start treatment, which could lead to better recovery outcomes for patients.

To participate in this trial, individuals must be at least 18 years old and diagnosed with an ischemic stroke, which is caused by a blockage in blood flow to the brain. They should be able to receive treatment within 6 hours of their symptoms starting and have a certain level of stroke severity. Participants can expect to receive prompt care and may be among the first to benefit from this innovative approach. It's important to note that some patients, such as those with certain medical conditions or those who are pregnant, may not be eligible to join the study.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • 1. Age ≥18 years;
• • 2. Diagnosed as ischemic stroke;
• • 3. Potentially eligible for IVT and/or EVT and can be treated within 6 hours of symptom onset (time of symptom onset is defined as the last known normal time);
• • 4. Presenting to AED during working hours (8AM to 6PM, weekdays);
• • 5. Written informed consent from patients or representatives, who understand Cantonese, to participate in this study.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • 1. Patients with unstable vital signs who need urgent medical interventions/care;
• • 2. Confirmed contraindications for IVT or EVT by initial assessment (e.g., unstable vital signs, history of severe head trauma within 3 months, known bleeding tendency), before starting brain imaging exams;
• • 3. Claustrophobia or other conditions that are contraindicated for MRI;
• • 4. Patients with pacemakers, brain stimulators or insulin pumps;
• • 5. Patients with medical or other conditions that prevent cooperation with the procedures;
• • 6. Pregnant or breastfeeding women;
• • 7. Participation in other clinical trials within 3 months before screening.