Cerebrovascular diseases
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Cerebrovascular diseases · Jan 2009
Randomized Controlled Trial Multicenter StudyVery early mobilisation and complications in the first 3 months after stroke: further results from phase II of A Very Early Rehabilitation Trial (AVERT).
Interventions that may reduce the number and severity of potentially harmful post-stroke complications are desirable. This study explored whether very early and frequent mobilisation (VEM) affected complication type (immobility/stroke related), number and severity. ⋯ Interventions that promote recovery and reduce complications may consequently reduce length of stay. The larger phase III trial currently underway may shed light on whether increasing mobilisation reduces complications after stroke.
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Cerebrovascular diseases · Jan 2009
Multicenter StudyStroke in the very elderly: hospital care, case fatality and disposition.
The worldwide growing number of older people represents a new phenomenon. Considering that the prevalence of stroke increases with age and higher life expectancy, the prevalence of stroke will likely rise in the next decade. However, limited information is available about the burden of stroke in individuals over 90. ⋯ In our study, stroke patients over 90 had higher risk-adjusted mortality, longer hospitalization, and were less likely to be discharged to their original place of residence. In view of these findings, strategies need to be implemented to facilitate equal access to specialized stroke care for the elderly.
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Cerebrovascular diseases · Jan 2009
Multicenter StudyResidual flow at the site of intracranial occlusion on transcranial Doppler predicts response to intravenous thrombolysis: a multi-center study.
We examined if transcranial Doppler (TCD) flow findings at the site of intracranial occlusions predict outcomes of stroke patients receiving intravenous rt-PA treatment. ⋯ The pretreatment residual flow at intracranial occlusion predicts the likelihood of complete recanalization, time of recanalization and long-term outcome. No detectable residual flow indicates the least chance to achieve recanalization and recovery with systemic thrombolysis and may support an early decision for combined endovascular rescue.
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Cerebrovascular diseases · Jan 2009
Randomized Controlled TrialPragmatic management of hyperglycaemia in acute ischaemic stroke: safety and feasibility of intensive intravenous insulin treatment.
In patients with acute ischaemic stroke, hyperglycaemia has been retrospectively associated with negative outcome. There is an ongoing discussion as to which treatment algorithm, if any, provides the most effective prospective intervention. Here we test the safety and feasibility of an intravenous insulin-only infusion protocol designed for pragmatic routine clinical use. ⋯ The intensive intravenous insulin infusion protocol effectively lowers blood glucose levels with an increased risk of manageable hypoglycaemic events. However, a highly motivated and trained staff seems essential, limiting feasibility outside of specialty care settings.
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Cerebrovascular diseases · Jan 2009
Randomized Controlled Trial Multicenter StudyFrequency of sustained intracranial pressure elevation during treatment of severe intraventricular hemorrhage.
Elevated intracranial pressure (ICP) is an important marker of neurological deterioration. The occurrence and significance of elevated ICP and low cerebral perfusion pressure (CPP) in aggressively treated spontaneous intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) are not defined. ⋯ In the intensive care unit, initial ICP measured with an EVD was uncommonly elevated (1/11 patients) in this group of severe IVH patients despite acute obstructive hydrocephalus. Frequent monitoring reveals ICP elevation >20 mm Hg in 14% of observations during use of EVD. ICP elevation, though it can occur, is not routinely associated with EVD closure for thrombolytic treatment with UK.