Stroke & Brain Imaging
Stroke imaging is one of the most time-critical evaluations in medicine. Rapid CT and MRI scans determine whether a stroke is caused by a blocked artery (ischemic) or bleeding in the brain (hemorrhagic). At The Medical Group of New Jersey, our neuroradiologists provide immediate interpretation to guide emergency treatment.
Symptom Onset & Initial Evaluation
Stroke symptoms usually appear suddenly. Common warning signs include:
- One-sided weakness or numbness
- Facial droop
- Slurred speech or difficulty speaking
- Sudden severe headache
- Vision loss or double vision
- Loss of balance or coordination
Time is critical. Emergency providers begin evaluation immediately and order urgent imaging to determine the type of stroke.
Diagnosis
Imaging is essential to identifying the cause and location of the stroke. Common tests include:
- Head CT (non-contrast): Quickly detects bleeding
- MRI with diffusion: Shows early ischemic changes not visible on CT
- CT angiography (CTA): Identifies blocked arteries requiring intervention
- CT perfusion: Assesses salvageable brain tissue
These results determine whether a patient can receive clot-busting medication or needs a procedure to remove a blockage.
Treatment Guidance & Management
Imaging guides life-saving decisions, including:
- Eligibility for thrombolysis (tPA)
- Whether mechanical thrombectomy is needed for a large-vessel occlusion
- Management of hemorrhagic strokes
- Surgical planning if bleeding is severe
Radiologists and neurologists collaborate closely to support the stroke team.
Ongoing Management & Monitoring
Follow-up imaging helps evaluate:
- Brain swelling
- Rebleeding risk
- Stroke evolution
- Long-term brain recovery
- Potential complications such as hydrocephalus
Patients are monitored over time to determine rehabilitation needs and prevent future strokes.