| Abstract: | Background and purpose: Patients with TIA have a high short‐time risk of stroke and an increased long‐term risk of ischaemic vascular events compared with the general population. Urgent intervention may reduce short‐time stroke risk, but little is known about the effect beyond 3 months. We examined 1‐year outcome and risk factor management in patients with TIA after urgent intervention. Methods: All patients with TIA referred to Aarhus University Hospital 1 March 2007–28 February 2008 were seen by an acute TIA team (ATT), integrating outpatient care and stroke unit facilities. Preventive treatment was initiated immediately, including fast‐track surgery for carotid stenosis. Follow‐up including nurse‐conducted health counseling was carried out after 7, 90, and 365 days. Results: A total of 306 patients were included. Stroke, myocardial infarction, or vascular death occurred in 5.2% during 1 year of follow‐up. The cumulated stroke rate was 1.6%, 2.0%, and 4.4% after 7, 90, and 365 days, respectively, compared to expected 4.5% [relative risk (RR) 0.36, 95% CI 0.13–0.98] and 7.5% (RR 0.26, 95% CI 0.11–0.63) after 7 and 90 days using ABCD2 criteria. Recurrent TIA occurred in 10.2% (n = 32). Secondary prevention targets were attained in 47.6% after 1 year. Carotid surgery was performed in 8.1%; median time to operation was 11 days after contact with the ATT. Conclusion: Urgent intervention after TIA by an ATT covering outpatient and stroke unit facilities combined with nurse‐conducted health counseling is associated with a low 1‐year risk of new vascular events and may improve risk factor control. |
