The ischemic types of strokes are triggered by an embolus or thrombus. If there is a blood clot in an area outside the brain such as the neck or heart that dislodges, it can travel towards the brain where it can block a blood vessel. This is a condition commonly referred to a cerebral embolism that results to oxygen deprivation which will lead to an ischemia stroke. Immediate medical care is required to prevent further damage to the nerve cells in the brain. If you want to learn more about strokes and the proper management to be employed if an individual is suspected with the conditon, you can enroll in a first aid class today.
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Medications
There are thrombolytic drugs that help dissolve an existing clot once administered using an intravenous injection. An approved thrombolytic called as tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) has been used as an acute treatment of strokes. Starting from the time of onset of an ischemic stroke, there is a limited time frame that tPA can be administered to increase the chances for full recovery. If not given within 3 hours, the dangerous risks of bleeding with thrombolytics outweigh the benefits.
Other medications that can be given include antiplatelet and anticoagulant drugs. These medications help prevent the current clot from getting bigger and prevent formation of new clots. It is sad to note that only a small percentage of individuals suffering from stroke are taken to the hospital on time to be treated.
Retrieval of the clot
There are two forms of acute treatment available that extend beyond the 3-hour time span for intravenous tPA treatment. It is important to note that the Penumbra system is utilized within 8 hours after the onset of a stroke by restoring the flow of blood to the brain by suctioning out the blood clot. Another option is the MERCI retrieval system that can be used to treat those who are not suitable for thrombolytic therapy, those who missed the 3-hour time frame and those who do not respond to intravenous tPA. This involves using a tiny device that wraps around the blood clot and eliminates it from the body.
Surgical intervention
Right after a stroke, surgical procedures that are performed are aimed to restore the flow of blood and oxygenation in the brain to prevent further damage. There are revascularization techniques that involve bypassing the blocked area by grafting a vessel to the cerebral artery.
Angioplasty involves the insertion of a balloon-tipped catheter into the obstructed area. Once the balloon inflates, it places pressure on the plaque that is compressing the vessel wall, thus restoring the flow of blood. A miniature mesh-like tube called as a stent is inserted within the vessel to open up the newly compressed area and prevent it from recurring.