Stroke Center Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to CNSI Stroke Center frequently asked questions.

What is stroke?

A stroke occurs when a blood vessel becomes obstructed by a blood clot, or when the blood vessel ruptures and bleeds. This deprives the brain of nutrients and oxygen that are essential to its function, and can have physical effects such as limited speech and movement. The longer the brain goes without the necessary blood supply, the more damage and long-term effects may result.

What are the different types of stroke?

Two major types of stroke are ischemic and hemorrhagic. An ischemic stroke, the most common type, occurs when a blood clot interrupts blood flow to the brain. A hemorrhagic stroke happens when a blood vessel ruptures and bleeds. A less-common type is a transient ischemic attack (TIA), in which blood flow is temporarily obstructed by a blood clot. Though it usually disappears before any brain damage occurs, a TIA may be a warning that a more serious event may happen.

How is stroke diagnosed?

A specialist will ask about symptoms, review a patient’s medical history and family history, and order certain medical imaging tests to arrive at a stroke diagnosis.

How is stroke treated?

Certain medications and procedures are available so specialists may remove the blockage in the artery or repair the blood vessel that has ruptured. Treatment of stroke depends largely on the type of stroke that has occurred.

What types of stroke are treated at the CNSI Stroke Center?

The specialists at CNSI Stroke Center are highly-qualified to treat ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes and transient ischemic attacks.

Do you offer clinical trials for stroke?

The physicians of the Clinical Neuroscience Institute participate in clinical trials that offer new treatments and technologies for stroke patients before they’re available elsewhere.

Why should patients choose CNSI’s Stroke Center for their care?

Our fellowship-trained and board-certified physicians specialize in neurocritical care, neurological surgery, interventional neuro radiology, and vascular neurology. This wide spectrum of disciplines allows our trained and professional specialists to provide comprehensive care of stroke. The CNSI Stroke Center is equipped with advanced technology that allows us to diagnose and treat stroke early and effectively when critical moments count. Our coordinated approach to treatment means you will receive care during and after a stroke, helping you to regain independence and prevent another stroke in the future.