Impact of computed tomography on stroke management and outcome.
Computed tomographic (CT) scanning is effective to show cerebrovascular lesions causing the symptoms and signs of a stroke. However, CT scanning may not change stroke morbidity or mortality. A retrospective medical chart review compared 93 patients with cerebral infarctions treated before CT scanning was available with 92 patients who had undergone scanning. The two groups showed no difference in type of treatment given or in subsequent severity of disability, mortality, or discharge destination. However, the post-CT group had a significant reduction in the total number of neurodiagnostic procedures, but estimated total charges for all diagnostic procedures were not significantly reduced. Computed tomographic scanning may not be beneficial for stroke patients who have a clear history of acute onset, are alert, and have no findings indicating an intracranial mass.
D000368:Aged; D002544:Cerebral Infarction / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000401:mortality / Q000534:rehabilitation; D002561:Cerebrovascular Disorders / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000401:mortality / Q000534:rehabilitation; D003365:Costs and Cost Analysis; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007902:Length of Stay; D008297:Male; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed