Stroke, the second leading cause of death globally and the primary cause of acquired disability in adults, can result from an obstructed artery or a ruptured blood vessel causing hemorrhage. Advances in treatments like intravenous thrombolysis and mechanical thrombectomy have improved prognoses, making rapid diagnosis and treatment crucial.
To ensure this swift response, Catalonia launched the Stroke Code in 2006, a network connecting the Medical Emergency System (SEM) and specialized hospitals. Measuring care through the Catalan Stroke Code Registry (CICAT) has allowed for outcome evaluation and knowledge generation.
Over the past decade, the Clínic has seen an average of 2.2 daily stroke code activations, totaling 8,085 cases, approximately 11% of Catalonia's total. As a tertiary center, it offers all available reperfusion treatments, including mechanical thrombectomy, supported by a multidisciplinary team to minimize response times.
CICAT data confirms that rapid action makes a significant difference. The Clínic reports door-to-needle times of 26 minutes for intravenous thrombolysis and door-to-puncture times of 61 minutes for mechanical thrombectomy, both below the average for tertiary centers in Catalonia. These results position the hospital with leading indicators in speed, functional recovery, and mortality.
The CICAT has also fostered clinical research, examining the pandemic's impact on stroke care, the prognostic value of early neurological recovery, and the efficacy of thrombectomy in severe stroke cases. Its legacy lies in demonstrating that healthcare quality can be rigorously measured, leading to improved care and a focus on life after stroke, including managing fatigue, cognitive difficulties, and return to work.
