Banner-University Medicine Earns Top Stroke Center Status

Banner-University Medical Center Tucson has earned comprehensive stroke certification from The Joint Commission. This accreditation, developed in collaboration with the American Heart Association and the American Stroke Association, is recognized nationwide as the gold standard in the treatment of the most complicated stroke cases.

Banner-UMC Tucson is the first Joint Commission certified comprehensive stroke center in southern Arizona and joins Banner-University Medical Center Phoenix as the second Joint Commission-certified comprehensive stroke center in the state.

The comprehensive stroke certification recognizes hospitals that are equipped to treat the most complex stroke cases and provide specialized care, ultimately leading to better outcomes.

Why Choose Banner-UMC Tucson for Stroke Care?

As a comprehensive stroke center, Banner-UMC Tucson brings together experts from Banner-University Medicine and the University of Arizona Health Sciences including specialized cerebrovascular neurologists and neurosurgeons, multidisciplinary trained physicians, nurses and staff, neuro-intensive care units, advanced imaging, post hospital care and access to stroke research and clinical trials.

"Our multidisciplinary team has earned this certification through their commitment to provide age appropriate, culturally sensitive, evidence-based specialized stroke care," said Mohammad El-Ghanem, MD, Banner–University Medicine neuroendovascular physician, co-medical director of Banner-UMC Tucson Stroke Center and University of Arizona assistant professor of neurology and medical imaging. "We are thrilled to be able to deliver the highest quality care to southern Arizona, 24 hours a day, seven days a week."

What Is A Stroke?

A stroke, sometimes called a brain attack, occurs when a clot blocks blood supply to the brain or when a blood vessel in the brain bursts. Banner-UMC Tucson offers cutting-edge, evidence-based treatments for all types of strokes.

Recognizing The Signs Of A Stroke

Recognizing the symptoms of stroke and seeking immediate medical attention can dramatically improve the prospects for recovery. Use the letters in "BE FAST" to identify stroke signs and know when to call 911.

B — Balance: Does the person have a sudden loss of balance?

E — Eyes: Has the person lost vision in one or both eyes?

F — Face: Does the person's face look uneven?

A — Arms: Is one arm week or numb?

S — Speech: Is the person's speech slurred? Does the person have trouble speaking or seem confused?

T — Time: Call 911 now!

Stroke Treatment

Banner-UMC Tucson's experienced, compassionate emergency and trauma stroke teams are ready to treat you as soon as you come through the hospital doors. They offer treatments for acute ischemic stroke (which occurs when a blood vessel in the brain is blocked by a blood clot) including clot busting medication up to 4.5 hours from stroke onset and minimally invasive clot retrieval procedures up to 24 hours from stroke onset.

For hemorrhagic stroke (which occurs when a blood vessel in the brain bursts, causing blood to leak into or around the brain tissue), Banner-UMC Tucson offers surgery to minimize the damage to the brain, as well as state of the art technology and medication to minimize swelling of the brain. They also provide advanced procedures to treat brain aneurysms and carotid artery blockage.

After Your Stroke

As a comprehensive stroke center, Banner-UMC Tucson will provide you around-the clock-care. They work with you to create a personal recovery plan, which may include several types of rehabilitation such as physical, speech, occupational and recreation therapies as well as support groups.

If you need care for neurological issues, Banner-UMC Tucson's large network of specialists in brain health, imaging and physical therapy can offer you the latest treatments.

Learn More About Banner's Neurosciences & Stroke Care Services

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Sources:
Ask the Expert: Using FAST to tell if you are having a stroke
Fast & Precise Stroke Care