Stroke

Stroke is the third leading cause of death in the United States. Stroke is a true emergency that demands evaluation and treatment to occur within the crucial time period. Tis requires a coordinated and practiced, multi-disciplinary team approach. An umbrella organization such as a stroke center can coordinate this effort.

Neurosurgery's Dr. Kerry Brega, is proud to be the Medical Director for the Stroke Service at University of Colorado Hospital. The UCH Stroke Center also has the distinctive competence of operating from a neuro-intensive care paradigm applied in an emergency setting. This entails a stroke team activated by the Neuro-ICU and coordinated with the emergency department staff. It offers 24/7 availability of a physician solely assigned to the Neuro-Intensive Care Unit who is familiar and comfortable with dynamic intervention. Our comprehensive Stroke Center establishes an integrated delivery system with a full continuum of care from patient arrival in the Emergency Department through the Rehabilitation program.

The care given at the time of a stroke can make the difference between a good outcome or a bad one - sometimes even life and death. If you or someone you know experience any of the following symptoms, call 911.

• Sudden numbness or weakness in the face, arms or legs - especially on one side of the body
• Sudden confusion or trouble speaking or understanding speech
• Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination
• Sudden severe headache with no known cause