Impact of Thrombolysis Time Metrics When Participating in National Stroke Center Construction Project

Purpose: Intravenous thrombolysis has emerged as an effective approach to improve the long-term survival and functional status of patients with ischemic stroke. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of a national stroke project on the door-to-needle-time (DNT). Patients and Methods: The patients were divided into pre-construction and construction periods. Construction Measures were performed during the construction period. The DNT and onset-to-needle time (ONT) were compared in two period groups. Results: After participating in the National Stroke Center Project and effective measurements, the thrombolysis treatment metrics were improved significantly. The DNT (IQR) was shortened from 65.0 (54.5, 85.0) minutes in the Pre-Construction period to 40.0 (33.0, 53.0) minutes in the Construction period (p < 0.001). Similarly, the ONT was reduced from 157.0 (IQR) (115.0, 184.0) minutes to 116.0 (87.8, 170.0) minutes (p = 0.035). Conclusion: The DNT time and ONT time can be shortened by National Stroke Center Construction projects. More suitable hospitals should be encouraged to participate as the National Stroke Center. Keywords: acute ischemic stroke, intravenous thrombolysis, door-to-needle time, onset-to-needle time