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Columbia, MO – New research from the University of Missouri School of Medicine has challenged the long-held belief that the number of mechanical thrombectomies (MT) performed at a hospital directly correlates with better patient outcomes.
MT is a critical procedure used to remove blood clots from arteries, often employed in treating ischemic strokes. The study, published in the journal Interventional Neuroradiology, analyzed data from nearly 1,000 hospitals and found that patients undergoing MTs at smaller, rural hospitals did not experience worse outcomes than those treated at larger, high-volume centers.
“Favorable outcomes” for stroke survivors refer to their ability to maintain functional independence – the capacity to perform daily activities without assistance.
The research has significant implications for stroke care. Many stroke centers require a high volume of MT procedures for certification, potentially limiting access to this life-saving treatment for patients in rural areas.
“This study suggests that the current focus on high-volume centers may be misguided,” said Dr. Adnan Qureshi, lead author of the study. “Many patients who could benefit from a thrombectomy are not receiving it due to limited access.”
Dr. Qureshi emphasized the need to re-evaluate current certification criteria. He proposed expanding the role of smaller hospitals by providing resources like traveling physicians with MT expertise, infrastructure upgrades, and improved access to necessary equipment. This would allow patients in remote areas to receive timely treatment closer to home.
The study also revealed an unexpected finding: larger hospitals with higher MT volumes experienced more adverse outcomes, such as death or permanent disability, compared to smaller hospitals. This may be attributed to several factors, including the severity of strokes treated at larger centers and the presence of complex patient conditions.
“This research highlights the need to consider factors beyond procedure volume when assessing the quality of stroke care,” Dr. Qureshi said. “Patient severity and other relevant factors should play a more significant role in certification processes.”
About the Study:
- Title: High mechanical thrombectomy procedural volume is not a reliable predictor of improved thrombectomy outcomes in patients with acute ischemic stroke in the United States.
- Journal: Interventional Neuroradiology
- DOI: 10.1177/15910199241288611
About Dr. Adnan Qureshi:
Dr. Qureshi is a neurologist at MU Health Care, a professor of neurology at the MU School of Medicine, and the program director of the Endovascular Surgical Neuroradiology Fellowship.
This news article aims to provide a concise and informative summary of the research findings for a general audience.
Disclaimer: This information is for general knowledge and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions regarding your health.
