Here at Jefferson trials for this procedure are already in progress by neurosurgeon Robert H. Rosenwasser, MD, chief of cerebrovascular and neuroendovascular surgery. Brain attacks, like heart attacks, should be considered and handled as medical emergencies - something to be dealt with immediately by patients, their families, and emergency medical services and hospital staff. Quick recognition of the symptoms of stroke and response to them are critical, as well, to the testing and eventual use of these new, potentially powerful stroke treatments. Getting to the hospital immediately is important even in communities that don't have active stroke treatment research trials, like Jefferson's. The sooner stroke patients receive medical attention, the sooner physicians can diagnose the problem and begin lifesaving treatment.
Stroke symptoms are subtle and often painless.
It's important to learn what they are so you can call 911 as soon as possible for emergency medical attention if you ever experience the symptoms yourself or notice them in someone else. Ask your doctor for information.