Neurológia pre prax 6/2024

Vertebrobasilar ischemic stroke

Ischemic strokes in the posterior circulation represent 20 % to 25 % of all ischemic strokes. Making the diagnosis could be difficult, especially with a non-specific and less serious clinical picture. Low sensitivity of CT examination in the acute phase of stroke can complicate diagnosis. Incorrect or delayed diagnosis puts patients at high risk of early recurrence and worsens their clinical condition. The general principles of treatment are the same as for patients with lesions of the anterior cerebral circulation. Intravenous thrombolysis improved the prognosis of patients without an increased risk of complications. Endovascular treatment of basilar artery occlusion has reduced patient mortality and disability rates, but most patients nonetheless either survive with varying degrees of disability or die.

Keywords: ischemic stroke, posterior circulation, basilar artery, intravenous thrombolysis, endovascular treatment