Time Lapse between Initial Stroke Symptoms to Performance of CT Scan in Patients with Ischemic Stroke in Pakistan

Objective To determine time lapse between first symptom to CT scan in stroke patients, in Lahore Pakistan. Methods Study was conducted at a local health facility in Lahore, Pakistan on 30 patients with confirmed ischemic stroke on CT. Results Time lapse ranged between 60-1200min, mean 250min. Factors that affected this duration were knowledge of the symptoms, patients socio-economic status and educational level, distance from medical facility and availability of CT scanner in medical facilities and transportation services. Conclusion Increasing knowledge of stroke symptoms and installation of CT scanners are urgently required in Pakistan to avoid permanent disabilities and mortality.