Staff Reports | Community Updates
Doctors at Abrazo Arrowhead Campus recently performed a lifesaving procedure to successfully treat a patient suffering from a massive stroke using a state-of-the-art neurointerventional biplane system just acquired by the hospital earlier this year.
The patient was admitted to the Abrazo Arrowhead Emergency Room in March, exhibiting severe stroke symptoms. Doctors quickly identified a dissected carotid artery and a Large Vessel Occlusion, which is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical intervention.
“This was a highly complex case,” said Dr. Alexander Coon, vascular neurosurgeon at Abrazo Health. “LVO stroke is caused by a blockage in a major cerebral artery, which can lead to significant neurological damage or death if not treated promptly. We were able to perform a groundbreaking procedure to restore blood flow and save the patient’s life because of this advanced neurointerventional capability.”
In January, Abrazo Arrowhead introduced the cutting-edge neurointerventional biplane imaging system, which utilizes dual X-ray technology to generate high-resolution, 3D images of cerebral and spinal vasculature, according to a press release.
The system enhances stroke care, interventional radiology, and neurology by providing unparalleled imaging precision, enabling physicians to perform highly intricate procedures with enhanced accuracy, the release states.
“This case underscores the importance of rapid stroke intervention,” said Brody Plumb, Lead Interventional Radiology Technician at Abrazo Health. “Time is critical in stroke cases. The availability of the biplane system at Abrazo Arrowhead is a game-changer for stroke care in the Northwest Corridor of the Valley. No other facility in this region offers this level of neurointerventional capability.”
With May recognized as National Stroke Awareness Month, medical experts emphasize the importance of recognizing stroke symptoms and seeking immediate care.
“Prompt action is crucial for better outcomes of stroke. The phrase time is brain emphasizes that each minute without treatment results in the loss of millions of brain cells, potentially leading to permanent damage (long-term disability) or even death,” Dr. Coon said.
Note: Use the letters in F.A.S.T. to spot a stroke!
F = Face Drooping
Does one side of the face droop, or is it numb? Ask the person to smile. Is the smile uneven?
A = Arm Weakness
Is one arm weak or numb? Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?
S = Speech Difficulty
Is speech slurred?
T = Time to call 911
Every minute counts. Call 911 immediately. Note the time when any of the symptoms first appear.
