Template:Stroke - choice of investigation
Choice of modality
- CT of the head in stroke is generally the first investigation because of high availability.[1] It detects about 60% of infarcts in the first 3 to 6 hours, and almost always thereafter.[1]
- MRI of the head in stroke is generally less available, but preferred if your clinic has established procedures for its performance in acute stroke, and there are no MRI contraindications
- Further information: CT vs MRI in stroke
How soon
According to UK guidelines, imaging should be performed immediately for people with suspected acute stroke if any of the following apply:[2]
- Indications for thrombolysis or early anticoagulation treatment
- Current anticoagulant treatment
- Any known bleeding tendency
- Depressed level of consciousness of Glasgow coma scale (GCS) of less than 13
- Unexplained progressive or fluctuating symptoms
- Papilledema, neck stiffness or fever
- Severe headache at onset of stroke symptoms.
"Immediately" is defined as 'ideally the next slot and definitely within 1 hour.[2]
In case of acute stroke without indications for immediate imaging, it should be performed within a maximum of 24 hours after onset of symptoms.[2]
References
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 Majda Thurnher. Brain Ischemia - Imaging in Acute Stroke. Radiology Assistant. Published: June 2008
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 . Acute stroke. UK National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE). Last updated: 18 December 2018}}
