Usefulness of a single-parameter tool for the prediction of large vessel occlusion in acute stroke.

Background: In acute stroke, large vessel occlusion (LVO) should be promptly identified to guide patient's transportation directly to comprehensive stroke centers (CSC) for mechanical thrombectomy (MT). In many cases, prehospital multi-parameter scores are used by trained emergency teams to identify patients with high probability of LVO. However, in several countries, the first aid organization without intervention of skilled staff precludes the on-site use of such scores.

Futile inter-hospital transfer for mechanical thrombectomy in a semi-rural context: analysis of a 6-year prospective registry.

Background And Purpose: Inter-hospital transfer for mechanical thrombectomy (MT) might result in the transfer of patients who finally will not undergo MT (ie, futile transfers [FT]). This study evaluated FT frequency in a primary stroke center (PSC) in a semi-rural area and at 156 km from the comprehensive stroke center (CSC).

Methodology: Retrospective analysis of data collected in a 6-year prospective registry concerning patients admitted to our PSC within 4.