Where in the Brain do Strokes Occur? A Pilot Study and Call for Data.
Larry Nichols1, Joshua C Bridgewater2, Nicholas B Wagner2
1Department of Pathology and Clinical Sciences Education, Mercer University School of Medicine, Macon, Georgia, USA nichols_l@mercer.edu.
Clinical Medicine & Research
|May 14, 2021
Summary
This study quantifies stroke locations, finding middle cerebral artery territories are most affected by large vessel strokes. This data aids in improving stroke patient care through evidence-based insights.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Radiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Stroke is a leading cause of death and disability in the US, with over 795,000 cases annually.
- Existing stroke research extensively covers epidemiology and risk factors, but lacks detailed neuroanatomical distribution data.
- Understanding precise stroke locations is crucial for targeted treatment and prevention strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantitatively determine the neuroanatomical distribution of acute ischemic cerebral infarcts.
- To establish a methodology for collecting specific numerical data on stroke locations.
- To provide data that can inform evidence-based improvements in stroke patient care.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of de-identified radiologic imaging reports.
- Study conducted at a single regional hospital over a one-year period (October 2018 - September 2019).
- Identification and categorization of acute ischemic cerebral infarcts by neurovascular anatomical location.
Main Results:
- A total of 418 acute ischemic strokes were identified.
- 54.6% of strokes occurred in single large vessel territories, predominantly the middle cerebral artery (MCA) (62.3%).
- Lacunar infarcts were common in the internal capsule (17.7%), brainstem (8.1%), and thalamus (5%).
Conclusions:
- This pilot study successfully demonstrated a method for quantifying stroke neuroanatomy.
- Specific numerical data on stroke distribution can replace general descriptions.
- Such data-driven insights are essential for advancing stroke care and patient outcomes.
