Vertebrobasilar Stroke

Head | Neurology | Vertebrobasilar Stroke (Disease)


Description

A vertebrobasilar stroke is the blockage of large blood vessels in specific areas of the brain, including parts of the pons, thalamus and cerebellum.

A branch of internal carotid obstruction causes hemiplegia, sometimes aphasia (speech disorder). The obstruction of a branch of basilar (artery born of the union of two vertebral arteries, designed the back of the cerebellum) causes or complex visual disorders (loss of part of the visual field, visual recognition disorder) or an alternate syndrome (hemiplegia one party, facial paralysis on the other side) or cerebellar syndrome and vestibular (movement disorders of coordination, vertigo).

Causes and Risk factors

This type of stroke becomes more common with age. It is slightly more prevalent among men. A family history of strokes, high blood pressure, cigarette smoking, coronary artery disease, diabetes and obesity all increase an individuals risk factor.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis and treatment, diagnosis is based on an examination scanner. Treatment in the acute phase, is mainly that of symptoms: it aims to maintain vital functions, avoiding injuries and complications related extension immobilization in bed. Long-term anticoagulants or antiplatelet drugs prevent relapse. Evolution is usually a gradual recovery to the deficit or neurological deficits (gross motor, language), recovery is aided by adapting them to each case. ...