Stroke Management – Chennaionline

SRM Prime Hospital, Ramapuram, Chennai, has launched the Neuro Emergency Stroke Team (NEST) to deliver round-the-clock, integrated care for neurological emergencies, including stroke, by bringing together specialist expertise and supporting clinical services. The hospital has also introduced a dedicated hotline, 3500 3500 to facilitate ambulance services and access to hospital care exclusively for neurological emergencies. The launch comes on the eve of World Stroke Day, observed annually on October 29. NEST integrates neurological emergency services with advanced diagnostic imaging, neuro-intervention capabilities, critical care and rehabilitation to support patients throughout their treatment journey. The initiative brings together specialist neurologists and neurosurgeons, supported by a dedicated Neuro Cath Lab for neuro-interventional procedures, a Neuro ICU for specialised critical care, advanced 3T MRI technology for neurological evaluation and diagnosis, and neurorehabilitation facilities to support recovery. In his comments, Mr. P Siva, CEO said, “We are happy to launch NEST, an integrated care initiative that brings together relevant specialists and supporting departments to enable timely assessment, accurate diagnosis, informed treatment decisions, and continuity of care. Effective stroke management requires seamless coordination at every stage - from emergency evaluation and appropriate treatment to intensive care, when necessary, and rehabilitation. NEST is built on this multidisciplinary approach, bringing together emergency medicine, neurology, neurosurgery, neuroradiology, neuro-intervention, critical care, and rehabilitation to improve patient outcomes.” Prof. Dr. Subramaniyan K, Clinical Lead & Senior Consultant, Neurology said, “Stroke is a major health concern in India, with an estimated 105-152 new cases per 100,000 people annually. Early recognition of symptoms and immediate medical attention are crucial to reducing the risk of death and long-term disability. The BE FAST approach - Balance, Eyes, Face, Arms, Speech and Time, helps people recognise the warning signs, including sudden loss of balance, vision changes, facial drooping, arm weakness and speech difficulties. If any of these symptoms occur, seek emergency medical attention immediately. For eligible patients with an ischaemic stroke, intravenous clot-busting treatment can be administered within the recommended 4.5-hour window, and earlier treatment is associated with better functional outcomes. When it comes to stroke, every minute matters.” NEST is led by Prof. Dr. Subramaniyan, Clinical Lead & Sr. Consultant - Neurology and Dr. Chandrasekar, Clinical Lead & Sr. Consultant - Neurosurgery. The team also comprises; Dr. Swathi T, Consultant, Neurology; Dr. Akshaya S, Consultant, Neuroradiology; Dr. G. Krishna Kumar, Consultant, Neurosurgery; and Dr. Arulalan Mathialagan, Consultant, Neuro-otology & Skull Base Surgery.