Code-ICH: time is brain.

Purpose of review

Intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) is the most devastating type of stroke resulting in severe disability and mortality. This review summarizes the emerging body of evidence supporting a new paradigm for care of patients called Code-ICH. It highlights the need for the adoption of time-based care bundles based on recent evidence, akin to those used in the management of acute ischemic stroke.

Recent findings

Numerous trials aimed at decreasing hematoma expansion through single interventions have historically failed to show significant effects on primary outcomes. Time-sensitive, multifaceted, bundled care approaches have emerged with substantial promise in improving functional outcomes in patients with ICH. These bundles include early aggressive control of blood pressure and reversal of anticoagulation, strict normalization of blood sugar and temperature, early surgical evaluation, and minimizing early withdrawal of care.

Summary

The paradigm of Code-ICH empowers acute care providers to continuously measure system performance, reflect on best practices, improve outcomes, and tackle disparities for patients with ICH.

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