Diagnostic, medical, and surgical approaches to stroke management
Hemorrhagic and ischemic brain damage causing stroke ranks third among the causes of death in the United States. The evaluation of patients with stroke must be extensive and the approach is reviewed. Epidemiologic data suggest a decreased incidence of both cerebral hemorrhage and cerebral thrombosis over the last 10 years. Neurologic signs and symptoms include changes in mental status, motor function, sensation, vision and audition, and language. Laboratory studies and radiologic evaluation, including MRI or CT scan, will assist in differentiation of various stroke syndromes such as TIA, RIND, progressive stroke, intracerebral hemorrhage, and subarachnoid hemorrhage. The acute stroke management, medically and surgically, is reviewed along with the risks and complications that may occur following stroke.
