Evidence-based Chinese Medicine Clinical Practice Guideline for Stroke in Hong Kong

BACKGROUND: Stroke in Chinese Medicine (CM) includes the concepts of ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes from Western Medicine and is a common disease in Hong Kong. This clinical practice guideline (CPG) aims to evaluate and demonstrate CM treatment options for stroke, provide guideline for local CM practice, and act as a reference for decision makers on drafting CM related health policies. METHODS: Based on the principle of multidisciplinary integration and evidence-based medicine, a steering committee oversaw the CPG development process in accordance with a published protocol. Clinical questions and evidences were identified, appraised, and synthesised through systematic literature reviews, text mining, and two rounds of Delphi surveys with a multidisciplinary panel of experts. RESULTS: In this CPG, we defined stroke from the perspectives of both CM and Western Medicine, reported corresponding CM treatment options, and carried out evaluation based on levels of evidence and grade of recommendation. Suggested CM interventions include herbal medicine treatment based on pattern differentiation, acupuncture treatment, and nursing care. CONCLUSION: The target population is Hong Kong stroke patients with prodrome or sequela stage. This CPG is intended to help standardizing CM clinical practice and enhancing efficiency of clinical service in Hong Kong.