The implementation of an innovative statewide quality improvement initiative.

Acute stroke can result in neurological impairment and potentially death. The Colorado Stroke Alliance has made significant progress in improving stroke care through their statewide quality improvement efforts. The following provides an overview of how this effort has come to fruition.

Coronary thrombolysis with recombinant human tissue-type plasminogen activator.

The thrombolytic potency and myocardial infarct--sparing potential of recombinant tissue-type plasminogen activator (rt-PA) were studied in electrocardiographically monitored, open-chest, anesthetized dogs. Localized coronary thrombosis was produced in the left anterior descending artery by endothelial injury and instillation of thrombin and fresh blood. After 2 hr of stable thrombotic occlusion, rt-PA was infused intravenously.