ACUTE STROKE AND TREATMENT PROCESSES
Acute stroke is a sudden functional disorder that occurs due to the interruption or reduction of blood flow to the brain, resulting in oxygen deprivation and nutrient deficiency in brain cells. It is also commonly known as “paralysis” among the public. Permanent damage to the cells can lead to lasting functional loss in the area of the body controlled by these cells. For example, if the cells controlling motor functions in the right side of the brain are damaged, a complete or partial stroke may occur, causing weakness in the arm and leg on the left side of the body.
Impact of Stroke on Public Health
Approximately 200,000 acute stroke cases occur annually in our country. Stroke ranks third among causes of death both in Turkey and worldwide. For individuals who survive an acute stroke, this condition can result in long-term disability and dependence. In this context, acute stroke is the most significant cause of disability among the adult population.
Race Against Time: Treatment Methods
Time is the most critical, life-saving, and disability-preventing factor in acute stroke treatment. The earlier the intervention, the more successful the treatment outcomes. When a person or their relatives recognize stroke symptoms, they should rapidly reach a hospital capable of providing stroke treatment.
Thrombolysis (Clot-Dissolving Medication): Applied to patients with vessel occlusion detected through brain CT or MRI imaging and within the first 4.5 hours from symptom onset.
Mechanical Thrombectomy (Clot Removal Procedure): An interventional method applied to patients presenting within the first 6 hours (and up to 8–12 hours in suitable cases) with a major artery occlusion.
Supportive Treatments: Medication treatments continue to control blood pressure, prevent blood clotting, and regulate cholesterol levels after stroke.
Services Provided by Our Stroke Center
Recent scientific studies have shown that patients treated in hospitals with stroke centers have reduced mortality and disability rates, while their quality of life improves.
Within our hospital, the Stroke Center is composed of Neurology, Neurosurgery, Radiology, Emergency Medicine, and Intensive Care physicians working together as a multidisciplinary team. Our center operates on a “7 days/24 hours” continuous service principle, using current diagnostic and treatment guidelines and the most advanced technologies in modern medicine. All current interventions, including mechanical thrombectomy and other endovascular treatments, are offered with the goal of improving regional health.