Ischemic Stroke

Ischemic stroke, the most common type, occurs when a blood clot blocks or narrows an artery leading to the brain. Kasturba Hospital provides the following services:

• Diagnostic Testing: CT scans, MRI, carotid ultrasound, and cerebral angiography to identify the location and cause of the blockage.
• Medical Management: Administration of thrombolytics (clot-busting drugs) within the critical window period, antiplatelet agents, and anticoagulants.
• Endovascular Procedures: Mechanical thrombectomy to remove the clot using a catheter-based technique.

Hemorrhagic Stroke

Hemorrhagic stroke occurs when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures, causing bleeding. Services include:

• Diagnostic Testing: CT scans, MRI, and cerebral angiography to locate the bleeding site and determine its cause.
• Medical Management: Blood pressure control, medications to reduce intracranial pressure, and management of bleeding disorders.
• Surgical Interventions: Procedures such as aneurysm clipping, coil embolization, and craniotomy to repair the ruptured vessel and remove the accumulated blood.

Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA)

A TIA, often called a “mini-stroke,” is a temporary period of symptoms similar to those of a stroke. Services include:

• Diagnostic Testing: MRI, CT scan, carotid ultrasound, and echocardiogram to identify the cause of the TIA.
• Medical Management: Antiplatelet agents, anticoagulants, and medications to control risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes, and high cholesterol.
• Preventive Measures: Lifestyle modifications and surgical procedures like carotid endarterectomy or stenting to prevent future strokes.