A stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is interrupted, either through a blockage, which is an ischemic stroke, or sudden bleeding, called a hemorrhagic stroke. A stroke is a medical emergency. As blood flow stops, the area in the brain affected by the stroke loses oxygen and brain cells begin to die. Stroke is the leading cause of disability in the United States. It can even result in death.
Getting treatment right away is critical. That’s why it’s important to recognize symptoms of a stroke, and to know what to do if they occur.
At the UMMC Stroke Center, we have rapid response protocols in place 24/7 to quickly treat stroke patients based on guidelines that have been shown to give patients the best possible outcomes. In fact, our team leads Mississippi with the fastest time for beginning thrombolytic treatment for patients who need it.
Additionally, as part of our publicly reported outcomes data, UMMC Stroke Center is maintaining a 1% or less complication rate for diagnostic cerebral angiography procedures since January 2023. This type of procedure is foundational for evaluating potential blood flow issues in the head and neck.
Learn more about the risk factors for stroke and stroke prevention.
The UMMC Stroke Center has earned designation from The Joint Commission (TJC) as a Comprehensive Stroke Center. This certification is the highest level of recognition by TJC, reserved for hospitals with specific abilities to manage the most complex stroke cases. In combination with our resources as the state’s only academic medical center, we have all the necessary facilities, expertise and experience to take care of every type of stroke patient, no matter how complicated. Our ability to very quickly provide quality care is recognized at the highest level by the American Heart Association.
Through our telehealth program with affiliated community hospitals, we support Mississippi patients across the state with physician-to-physician consultations for stroke care. When needed, AirCare™ is available to transport patients who need advanced stroke care to Jackson.
