Posterior circulation ischemic stroke-a review part II: imaging and acute treatment

Neurol Sci. 2019 Oct;40(10):2007-2015. doi: 10.1007/s10072-019-03936-x. Epub 2019 May 24.

Abstract

Posterior circulation strokes affect the vertebrobasilar arterial system, account for about 20-25% of all ischemic strokes, and are a significant cause of patient disability and mortality. Diagnosis can be challenging; clinical presentation and common pitfalls facing posterior circulation stroke have been discussed elsewhere. In the first part of the review, we focus on the imaging, discussing the information that can be gathered through a correct selection and interpretation of different possible studies helping to achieve an early diagnosis and to select the best medical treatment. In the second part of the review, we will discuss the best therapeutic treatments available at the moment for posterior circulation ischemia.

Keywords: Endovascular therapy; Imaging; Posterior cerebral ischemia.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Stroke / diagnostic imaging*
  • Stroke / etiology*
  • Stroke / therapy*
  • Vertebrobasilar Insufficiency / complications*
  • Vertebrobasilar Insufficiency / diagnostic imaging*
  • Vertebrobasilar Insufficiency / therapy*