TDNet Discover

Background: Acute ischemic stroke (AIS) requires timely intervention with thrombolytics to provide increased survivability and decreased disability. Telestroke is a new and growing technology used to increase access to thrombolytics within 3-4.5 hours for patients in rural areas. Purpose: This research sought to investigate comparative outcomes of patients treated by telestroke in rural areas versus stroke centers to determine efficacy of telestroke. Methods: Comprehensive searches of three databases for systematic reviews (SR), meta-analyses (MA), randomized control trials (RCT), and cohort studies were completed by three independent researchers. Criteria from each study was confirmed using an evidence-based criteria report eligibility checklist. Bias was assessed using the NHLBI quality assessment tool. Studies receiving a “fair” or “good” quality assessment were used. Data was collected from eligible articles. Results: There is no statistical significance between door to needle time (DTN) of stroke centers and telestroke. Administration of intravenous thrombolytic (IVT) is similar between both groups while telestroke showed to have a decreased rate of complications associated with IVT. Use of IVT did not result in a greater amount of transfers to stroke centers.