Emergency Stroke Treatment
A stroke, also referred to as a brain attack or a cerebrovascular accident, occurs when blood flow to the brain is interrupted. It can be serious and can result in potentially permanent disabilities. The longer the brain goes without fresh blood, the more likely it is that brain damage will occur, as brain cells in the affected area can start to die within minutes.
A stroke is a medical emergency that requires immediate care. If you or a loved one are experiencing any of the common symptoms of a stroke, call 911 for transportation to the hospital.
We provide expert, high-quality stroke care to patients in New Jersey. In partnership with the Department of Neurosurgery at Rutgers Health and RWJBarnabas Health, our team of board-certified neurologists and neurosurgeons offers comprehensive stroke treatment. We have treated even the most complex cases with effective, compassionate care.
Treatment for stroke will vary depending on the type of stroke a patient a patient has experienced.
Ischemic Stroke Treatment
The most common type of stroke is an ischemic stroke, in which blood flow to the brain is restricted because blood vessels are either partially or fully blocked by clots or the narrowing of the blood vessels themselves. Ischemic strokes are most often treated by administering clot-busting drugs to restore blood flow to the affected region of the brain.
Patients may receive medication to dissolve blood clots through an injection or as oral medications. They may also be treated with medications delivered directly to the brain.
If the carotid artery is blocked by arterial plaque, or fat buildup on the inside of walls of the artery, a surgery called carotid endarterectomy may be done restore the blood flow to the brain. In this procedure, a surgeon makes an incision in the artery and physically remove the plaque.
Hemorrhagic Stroke Treatment
A hemorrhagic stroke is when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures and blood leaks into the brain, causing a buildup of pressure. The goal of hemorrhagic stroke treatment is to reduce pressure in the brain and control any brain bleeding. Emergency care will likely include surgical blood vessel repair.
Depending on the severity of the stroke and which region of the brain was affected, patients may require stroke rehabilitation. The aim of rehabilitative care is to stabilize the patient’s condition, prevent future occurrences and to restore any lost functions. Rehabilitation may include:
- Physical therapy
- Speech therapy
- Mental health support
Learn more about stroke recovery.
