22. What are the benefits of TPA therapy?

The percentage of patients with excellent outcome

(Rankin 0–1) is increased by about 15% absolute, or 50% relative. The percentage with bad outcome (dead or Rankin 4–5) is reduced, even if you include the patients who bleed.

. The odds ratio of good outcome is 1.7 (95% CI 1.2–2.6).

. Patients treated with TPA are 30–50% more likely (relative risk increase) to have minimal or no disability at 3 months.

. NNT (number needed to treat) = 3 to result in 1 patient with better outcome than if not treated.

. NNH (number needed to harm) = 33 to result in 1 patient with worse outcome than if not treated.