Mobile stroke units: Beyond thrombolysis

J Neurol Sci. 2024 Aug 15:463:123123. doi: 10.1016/j.jns.2024.123123. Epub 2024 Jul 2.

Abstract

In the last decade, mobile stroke units (MSUs) have shown the potential to transform prehospital stroke care, marking a paradigm shift in delivering ultra-rapid thrombolysis and streamlining triage processes. These units bring acute stroke care directly to patients, significantly shortening treatment times. This review outlines the rationale for MSU care and discusses the potential applications beyond the original purpose of delivering thrombolysis, including large vessel occlusion detection, intracerebral hemorrhage management, and innovative forms of prehospital research.

Keywords: Intracerebral hemorrhage, stroke; Large vessel occlusion; Mobile stroke units; Thrombolysis.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Emergency Medical Services / methods
  • Humans
  • Mobile Health Units* / organization & administration
  • Stroke* / drug therapy
  • Stroke* / therapy
  • Thrombolytic Therapy* / methods