Fact 12: The Importance of Emergency Response in Cerebrovascular Disease
In the realm of cerebrovascular disease, time is brain. This phrase underscores the crucial importance of swift emergency response in treating this condition, particularly in the case of a stroke.
A rapid response is necessary as every minute delay in treating a stroke can lead to the death of about 1.9 million neurons. Quick treatment not only increases the chances of survival but also lessens the likelihood of long-term disabilities.
Emergency medical services play a crucial role in providing immediate prehospital care. On recognizing the symptoms of a stroke, they can initiate the “stroke pathway”, ensuring quick transport to the appropriate medical facility and informing the hospital about the incoming stroke patient.
Once in the hospital, the “door-to-needle” time is vital. This represents the time taken from the patient’s arrival at the hospital to the administration of thrombolytic therapy, which breaks up the clot causing the stroke. The aim is to keep this duration as short as possible. (12)
