Record Response to Stroke

Every 40 seconds, a stroke strikes someone in the United States. Annually, nearly 800,000 Americans experience this medical emergency, with approximately 80% facing their first or a new stroke.

CRMH, recognized as one of four Advanced Thrombectomy Capable Stroke Centers in Virginia and the pioneer in Southwest Virginia, stands at the forefront of stroke care in the region. Esteemed by U.S. News and World Report as a high-performing stroke center, CRMH includes a dedicated Stroke Alert Team including experts from Emergency Services, Neurology, Interventional Radiology and Neurosurgery.

Complementing this expertise, telestroke services extend across all of our community hospitals. This innovative service facilitates remote evaluation of stroke patients by providers stationed at CRMH, ensuring swift response and treatment at local hospitals, thereby eliminating the need for transfer to Roanoke in many cases. Given the critical importance of time in stroke management, this initiative significantly enhances patient outcomes.

The Stroke Alert Team's proficiency was recently exemplified in the case of Robert Wade, who was airlifted to CRMH displaying symptoms indicative of a stroke. In a remarkable feat, within 12 minutes of his arrival, the team achieved a new internal record for the swiftest treatment time. Conducting a comprehensive physical assessment, swiftly reviewing CT images, and administering "door to needle" thrombolytic treatment, they successfully salvaged brain tissue affected by a blood clot. This rapid sequence of actions proved instrumental in Mr. Wade's full recovery, devoid of any deficits.

In a heartfelt gesture, Mr. Wade attended a staff award ceremony last week, expressing his gratitude to the care team who played an instrumental role in his recovery. Their dedication and proficiency underscore the profound impact they make in the community, where every minute holds significance.

Congratulations to the Stroke Alert Team for their unwavering commitment to improving patient outcomes when time is of the essence.

Learn more about the BE FAST steps to spot a stroke at CarilionClinic.org/BE-FAST.