We’re excited to share that our MAP-STROKE study was highlighted by Medscape Medical News for its potential to reshape prehospital stroke routing.

Using simulations of over 115 million stroke scenarios, the study showed that a data-driven algorithm could substantially improve functional outcomes by directing patients especially those with suspected large vessel occlusions (LVO) to the most appropriate stroke centers more quickly.

Highlights:

• Potential for 12,000 more patients/year in the U.S. to reach a good neurological recovery
• Up to 180 minutes saved in time-to-EVT for rural LVO stroke patients
• Based on NIH-funded research; next step: real-world validation

“The algorithm doesn’t replace clinical judgment, algorithm enhances it by helping paramedics make smarter routing decisions in the field,” said Dr. Santiago Ortega-Gutierrez.

We had been included in the April–May 2025 edition of Brain & Stroke, the official newsletter of the Indian Stroke Association.

Our feature, titled “Simplification of Imaging for Acute Stroke Triage with Artificial Intelligence Software,” explores how AI can enhance plain CT imaging to match the diagnostic power of CT perfusion potentially transforming stroke care access in low-resource and underserved regions worldwide.

The DONE SYMPLE trial has profound implications for expanding mechanical thrombectomy access globally, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.

At ESOC 2025 in Helsinki, our team presented the MAP-STROKE study—an ambitious simulation-based trial modeling over 115 million stroke scenarios across the U.S. The result? A hospital destination algorithm that could improve neurological outcomes for thousands of stroke patients each year.

Led by Dr. Santiago Ortega-Gutierrez, Dr. Nicholas Mohr, Dr. Grant Brown and colleagues, MAP-STROKE significantly outperformed current American Heart Association guidelines, especially in rural areas where time-to-treatment is often longest.

Key findings:

• Personalized EMS routing improved outcomes across stroke subtypes
• LVO patients in rural areas saw up to 3 hours saved
• Estimated 10,000+ more patients could achieve good recovery annually

This reinforces a central truth in stroke care—every minute counts. Optimizing triage could be one of the most impactful decisions made before a patient even reaches the hospital.

In a recent ESOC 2025 interview, our lab director shared insights from an exciting new frontier in acute stroke triage: imaging simplification through artificial intelligence.

For years, advanced imaging like CT perfusion has been crucial for identifying large vessel occlusions (LVO) and guiding treatment. But what if we could achieve similar accuracy—with just a plain CT scan?

Working alongside industry partners, our team has contributed to AI software capable of doing just that. Now, through the Done Simple Trial, we’re evaluating whether these tools can match the performance of advanced imaging in selecting stroke patients, even in the ultra-late window (24–72 hours).

If successful, this approach could make stroke triage more accessible worldwide—especially in settings with limited imaging infrastructure.

We’re happy to share that our lab director was interviewed at ESOC 2025 about the MAP-STROKE project—a major NIH-funded initiative redefining how EMS teams triage stroke patients before they ever reach a hospital.

In this 3-minute conversation, he explains:

How the algorithm integrates real-time field data and hospital capabilities

Why LVO and non-LVO patients need different routing

The science behind over 300 million simulated strokes across the U.S.

What the model showed: shorter treatment delays, better outcomes, especially in rural areas

Why a clinical trial is the next vital step

📰 Learn more about MAP-STROKE in the official ESOC press release HERE

"Mechanical thrombectomy saves lives—but only if patients can reach it in time. That’s why SVIN is committed to advancing stroke systems of care globally and making this lifesaving treatment a standard, not a luxury" Dr. Ortega-Gutierrez

What happens when cutting-edge AI, neurointervention, and global health equity come together? The answer might be DONE SYMPLE—a landmark clinical trial led by Dr. Santiago Ortega-Gutiérrez, aiming to extend stroke treatment up to 72 hours using only a standard CT scan. This bold approach could reshape how stroke is treated around the world.

The Cerebrovascular Lab at University of Iowa is leading the DONE SYMPLE clinical study with principal investigators Dr. Ortega-Gutierrez, Dr. Ribó, and Dr. Tudor Jovin, in collaboration with Methinks AI. The study evaluates artificial intelligence for non-contrast CT stroke diagnosis.

Explore the evolving conversation around chronic carotid artery occlusions in a compelling episode of the ACCESS podcast by the Stroke: Vascular and Interventional Neurology journal.

Dr. Santiago Ortega-Gutiérrez, Director of Neurointerventional Surgery at the University of Iowa, joins Dr. Vera Sharashidze of NYU to break down the complexities of diagnosing, classifying, and treating this challenging condition. From clinical imaging nuances to endovascular strategies and trial design insights, the episode offers a deep dive into current practice and future directions.

When Christi Eldred faced a rare and dangerous condition threatening her vision and life, she turned to the expertise of University of Iowa surgeons. Dr. Santiago Ortega-Gutiérrez, neurointerventional specialist and lab principal investigator, teamed up with oculoplastic surgeon Dr. Erin Shriver for a groundbreaking, two-part surgery that successfully treated Eldred’s carotid cavernous fistula—a feat made possible only through cross-specialty collaboration.