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Tissue Plasminogen Activator and Stroke: Review of the Literature for the Clinician
The Journal of Emergency Medicine, 07/25/2012
Clinical Article
DeMers G et al. – Alteplase (tPA) is an effective treatment for stroke when given in prepared stroke centers; Emergency Physicians' (EPs' and hospitals treating stroke patients with tPA need to have the necessary resources in place and a specific plan for timely care of patients with acute stroke.
Methods- A MEDLINE literature search from 1990 to 2011 and limited to human studies written in English for articles with keywords of: CVA AND (thromboly OR alteplase).
- Guideline statements and non–systematic reviews were excluded.
- Studies targeting differences between specific populations (males vs. females) were excluded.
- Studies identified then underwent a structured review from which results could be evaluated.
- There were 407 papers on thrombolytic use screened, and 15 appropriate articles were rigorously reviewed and recommendations given.
- tPA is an effective treatment for stroke when given in prepared stroke centers; EPs and hospitals treating stroke patients with tPA need to have the necessary resources in place and a specific plan for timely care of patients with acute stroke.
