Neurological care

We use a variety of diagnostic exams and imaging to help our neurologists evaluate you thoroughly. Diagnostic procedures include:

• Computerized tomography scans (CT scans) — Tests that use computerized horizontal images to form a highly detailed image of the brain and nervous system
• Electroencephalogram test (EEG test) — Test that measures the electrical activity of the brain
• Magnetic resonance imaging scans (MRIs) — A procedure to make images of the brain using powerful magnets
• Specialized ultrasound — A procedure using sound waves to form an image of the brain and spinal fluid

We have neurologists and neurosurgeons that are prepared for even the most complex conditions. Our specialized teams can specifically assist with stroke symptoms and a traumatic brain injury (TBI).

Minimally invasive treatments

Our surgeons perform minimally invasive and traditional surgeries, including endovascular neuroradiology. This group of surgical procedures may be beneficial if you have central nervous system disorders, such as strokes and aneurysms.

Endovascular neuroradiology may reduce pain and intracranial swelling. Other advantages may include shorter hospital visits, reduced infection risks, and improved recovery outcomes. Our hospital performs several minimally invasive procedures including:

• Arterial venous malformation embolization — A procedure performed to prevent blood vessels from rupturing, which can cause stroke or damage to spinal tissue. Through a catheter in the groin, the physician injects various materials into the abnormal blood vessels to completely close them and prevent ruptures.
• Carotid stenting — A procedure that involves inserting a stent into a carotid artery, a major artery of the head and neck that supplies blood to the brain. The stent expands and increases blood flow in areas blocked by plaque.
• Endovascular aneurysm coiling — A neurosurgeon uses this treatment to thread a catheter into the affected cerebral blood vessel and position a microcatheter inside the aneurysm to treat it from within. Small platinum coils are placed to redirect the flow of blood away from the aneurysm.
• Intracranial stenting — A treatment from within the brain for a narrowing artery. During the procedure, a catheter is threaded from the thigh to the diseased blood vessel and a stent, or small metal tube is placed inside to return the vessel to its normal size and support the artery walls.

Stroke treatment and rehabilitation

A quick medical response can lower the risk of serious complications from stroke. Certain medications and treatments, such as the "clot-busting" drug (tPA), must be started within a set number of hours from the onset of symptoms.

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) diagnosis and treatment

A TBI, or concussion, refers to damage of the brain from incidents, such as vehicle accidents, falls, violent blows to the head or sports injuries. Due to the potential consequences of these injuries, anyone who experiences a blow to the head, even a minor one, should be watched carefully and evaluated by a physician.

Our emergency room staff, concussion doctors and neurosurgeons work closely together to ensure quick and effective responses to TBIs. They can result in a range of symptoms, including:

• Agitation
• Confusion
• Headache
• Loss of consciousness
• Nausea
• Seizures
• Slurred speech
• Weakness or numbness in the extremities

Depending on the issue, our concussion specialists have access to a number of examinations to help create your treatment plan. These may include CT scans, EEGs and ultrasounds. We ensure adequate blood and oxygen supply to the brain and minimize the effect of inflammation. If there is a risk of convulsions, anti-seizure drugs may be administered.

Our neurosurgeons may perform procedures to create an opening in the skull to allow accumulated blood or other fluids to drain, relieve pressure on the brain, remove clotted blood or repair skull fractures.

TBI rehabilitation

If you experienced a TBI, you'll most likely require a rehabilitation program to regain cognitive and motor skills. Our rehabilitation program brings together the services of physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech-language pathologists and other medical specialists to help recover living and mobility skills.