Triaging patients with stroke-like symptoms using MRI with diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) could reduce the cost burden associated with unnecessary neurovascular imaging procedures. 

The protocol does not come at the expense of deteriorated image quality, according to work published recently in the European Journal of Radiology.

Researchers recently revamped the database in the hopes of expanding algorithm development in the field of stroke care. 

Emergency patients diagnosed with transient ischemic attack are supposed to receive, per multiple society guidelines, a complete imaging workup as soon as possible—preferably within 48 hours of ED discharge.

The updated document, developed by the American Heart Association and American Stroke Association, also emphasizes the potential benefits of caregiver training and MR imaging. 

Despite increases of 250% for CTA and 428% for CTP, researchers observed lower rates of neuroimaging utilization among rural residents, older individuals (80 years and above), women and Black patients.

Utilization of head CT perfusion (CTP) for imaging stroke patients spiked 428% between 2012 and 2019. Curiously, the uptrend was associated with higher mortality up to a year after discharge.

Physicians may not be aware of such devices' intended use, with potential for misdiagnosis resulting in patient injury or death, the agency announced.