Defining the minimal requirements for implementing stroke thrombectomy programs in low resource settings
We aim to identify what resources are essential to implement a mechanical thrombectomy (MT) capable stroke management program in low-resource settings
Background
The Global Burden of Disease study estimated that in 2016 there were 5.5 million deaths and 116.4 million disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) lost due to stroke, making it the second most common cause of death worldwide. Due to the significant burden stroke has been designated as one of the priorities by the World Health Organization. 87% of DALYs lost due to stroke and 86% of stroke-related mortality occurs in LMICs. A recent survey of 17 African countries demonstrated that there were only 5 stroke units and 2 designated stroke centers.
MT stands as a revolutionary breakthrough in the field of neurosurgery and interventional neurology, redefining the treatment landscape for patients suffering acute ischemic stroke caused by large vessel occlusion. Several randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have demonstrated that compared to standard medical management, endovascular intervention with mechanical thrombectomy is associated with significantly improved outcomes. The procedure's remarkable efficacy has led to its rapid adoption as the standard of care in many well-resourced healthcare settings. However, the challenge remains in extending this treatment modality to regions with limited medical infrastructure. The Mechanical Thrombectomy Global Access For Stroke (MT-GLASS) study, demonstrated that global access to mechanical thrombectomy is <3% of the demand, and <1% in most LMICs.
More about our project
Considering this data alongside disparities in advanced treatment options like mechanical thrombectomy, our objective is to better understand what equipment, staff, and resources are required to perform a safe and effective MT for acute ischemic stroke caused by a large vessel occlusion (LVO). We are seeking insights from medical practitioners worldwide who conduct mechanical thrombectomy to understand what they believe are the minimum, essential human resources, systems and infrastructure necessary to perform the procedure safely and effectively. We also aim to determine the differences between practitioners perception of the minimal requirements versus the optimal or desired resources. We aim to use this data to help inform healthcare systems and governments which are trying to develop MT capabilities as part of their national or regional stroke programs.
Join us in our quest to make stroke care accessible to everyone
Who is eligible to fill out the survey?
We want to hear from medical practitioners who are trained and perform mechanical thrombectomy in their clinical practice. You may be a neurosurgeon, interventional neurologist or an neurointerventionalist.
Completing the survey will take 30-45 minutes
Frequently asked questions
How will responses be used?
Your responses will be collected and synthesized to arrive at a general consensus on what is essential to perform a thrombectomy in a low-resource setting. Your participation will help improve access to thrombectomy care across the world.
Will the surveys be anonymous?
Your name and other identifiers will be removed from any form of dissemination of our work.
Can I withdraw my responses after submitting the project?
Yes, please email at dgautam81a@gmail.com
Who is the project led by?
This project is led by Dr. Karol Budohoski at the University of Utah Department of Neurosurgery based in Salt Lake City, Utah, United States of America. You may contact Dr. Budohoski at karol.budohoski@hsc.utah.edu
Contact us
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