Stroke Case Studies

Strokes are caused by a temporary or permanent decrease in cerebral blood flow resulting from a stenosis or arterial occlusion (Montagu, et al., 2012). Despite being the predominant cause of acquired disability in England and Wales, a stroke can be both preventable and treatable (Lövblad, et al., 2015). The societal costs arising from stroke, including treatment and productivity loss, account for approximately 5% of total UK NHS costs, at around £8.9 billion a year (Saka, McGuire and Wolfe, 2008). Research shows, however, that with the correct treatment after a stroke, a patient can regain brain function and often independence, thereby reducing societal costs (Schellinger, et al., 2010).
Age, gender and family history are considered as non-modifiable
This decreases the patient’s risk of a recurrent stroke and helps to minimise morbidity and mortality, thus leading to a better patient prognosis (Brazzelli, et al., 2013).
Transient ischaemic attacks (TIAs) are brief neurological dysfunctions caused by brain ischemia, with symptoms usually lasting less than one hour. They indicate high vascular risk in patients; and up to 40% of stroke victims have suffered a prior TIA (Tziotzios, et al., 2011).
The author is going to evaluate the role of cross-sectional imaging in the clinical management of infarcted stroke, and the role of the radiographer within the patient’s pathway.
Non Imaging Tests

In the ambulance, the patient is screened using diagnostic tests to determine whether a stroke is suspected and to rule out hypoglaecemia (Royal College of Physicians, 2008).The hospital would be informed and the stroke specialist team alerted. After a Recognition of Stroke in the Emergency Room (ROSIER) test has been carried out, a request for brain imaging should be created (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence Guidelines,