Stroke Program

The Stroke Program at Cooper provides patients with expert diagnosis and treatment of transient ischemic symptoms and acute strokes. We want to reduce disability and suffering due to stroke while providing the most advance care possible. Patients are provided a full range of specialized services on an inpatient and outpatient basis.

Stroke occurs when the blood supply to the brain is interrupted or when bleeding occurs within the brain. TIA’s are important warning signs of stroke. These “mini-strokes,” which temporarily interrupt blood flow to the brain, puts patients at high risk for having a stroke in the following months. They also help direct attention to the specific part of the brain affected.

Stroke is the Primary Neurologic Problem Among Adults in the United States

• It affects more than 500,000 people every year.
• It is the third leading cause of death and the leading cause of disability.
• These “brain attacks” cause death in 18% to 37% of cases.
• The risk of death is even higher for second strokes, rising to 62%.
• At least two-thirds of stroke survivors have some degree of permanent disability, ranging from speech difficulty and loss of mental function to paralysis and even coma.

When a Stroke Occurs

Patients suffering from symptoms of acute stroke are immediately evaluated by a physician and actions are taken immediately to administer treatment. Patients admitted to the hospital for stroke are assured 24-hour coverage by physicians and other dedicated health professionals. When indicated, stroke patients are cared for in intensive care units where they receive constant observation, continuous heart monitoring, and other interventions such as mechanical ventilation.

After the patient has been diagnosed and treatment started, members of the Stroke Program administer to all of the patient’s health care needs including actions to correct high blood pressure and diabetes, which increase the risk of further stroke.

The rehabilitation process begins as soon as medically possible. Patients who cannot go home directly are discharged to facilities which can provide the intensity of rehabilitation suited to their situation.

Continuing Care for Stroke Patients

The Cooper Stroke Program provides an entire spectrum of outpatient services to assess changes in memory and mental function. A range of diagnostic tests is available on an outpatient basis. Physicians follow stroke patients over time for several reasons:

• To monitor recovery and treatment
• To watch for further stroke symptoms
• To treat those factors such as high blood pressure and diabetes which increase the risk of stroke