How are cardiologists involved in treating stroke?
Our latest Ask a Cardiologist video featuring Dr. Samir N. Patel covers why a stroke, or a brain attack, is definitely something you should see your cardiologist about. A common underlying cause of stroke is vascular disease. An ischemic stroke occurs when a piece of thrombus or plaque that has been dislodged travels into the arteries in the brain causing a blockage. Plaque build-up in the carotid artery is often a culprit as is atrial fibrillation. Fortunately, cardiologists at Cardiovascular Institute also offer interventional treatment for stroke prevention such as a stent placement procedure to open up a clogged carotid artery.