When it comes to treating stroke and other emergencies with the potential to damage brain tissue, time is of the essence. That's why it's so crucial for patients to be treated as soon as possible — preferably at a primary stroke center with medical staff available 24/7 to administer the most advanced therapies in a time-sensitive manner.
NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center was one of the first accredited primary stroke centers to be established in New York City. Our large multidisciplinary team of specialists, including stroke neurologists, neurointensivists, and other subspecialists, has an extraordinary track record for providing excellent care based on the latest medical advances to hundreds of patients each year — one of the highest volumes in the area. Studies have shown that patients treated at medical centers with such high volumes have the best chance of recovery and a good outcome. Patients who come to us for stroke care often benefit from clot-busting drugs, minimally invasive endovascular therapy, or neurovascular surgery — all of which are available at our center.
Critically ill patients suffering from strokes, other cerebrovascular diseases, or injuries to the brain or spinal cord may be treated in our Neurological Intensive Care Unit (Neuro-ICU), which includes specially trained medical staff (including doctors who are board-certified specifically in neurocritical care), round-the-clock surveillance, sophisticated monitoring techniques, and specialized medical and surgical treatments. Our unit features a portable CT scanner used to monitor patients' progress during their recovery. Patients also benefit from rehabilitation services focused on improving their function and quality of life.
We take a compassionate and family-centered approach to patient care, keeping patients' loved ones informed of their medical status and progress and involving family members in decision-making. Our comprehensive care and the ability to deliver it rapidly have been recognized with awards such as the Gold Plus Award and Target Stroke Award for superior stroke care from the American Heart Association (AHA) and American Stroke Association (ASA) — the highest honors given to recognize excellence among stroke centers. We have also received a Beacon Award from the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses, which honors critical care units dedicated to improving every facet of patient care.