Leading Technologies & Treatments: DAWN Stroke Protocols
We offer patients screening using advanced image processing technology known as RAPID CT Perfusion, which pinpoints the area of damage caused by an ischemic stroke, locates salvable areas of brain tissue, and can establish a timeline for when the stroke occurred. This increases the window for acute treatment up to 24 hours.
The DAWN Stroke Protocols are used at Backus Hospital, Hartford Hospital, The Hospital of Central Connecticut and MidState Medical Center.
Learn more about the DAWN Stroke Protocols
Leading Technologies & Treatments: Telehealth
"It was like the neurologist was right in the room with me. I was very impressed,” says Robert Hill of Coventry, recovering from a TIA (frequently referred to as a mini-stroke) in his hospital bed at Windham Hospital. On March 18, 2013, Robert became the first patient at the hospital to be assessed and diagnosed using Hartford HealthCare’s Telehealth Network.
Click here to view this WFSB "Better Connecticut" story on the hospital's use of tel-conferencing technology to assess and treat stroke patients. (Published July 3, 2013.)
Located in the hospital’s emergency department, the device is used 24/7 to help assess neurological symptoms. At the core of the new service is a computer on wheels equipped with a high-definition camera remotely connecting the patient with a Telehealth neurologist who assists with the exam and provides specialized evaluations.
“Many neurology issues are time-sensitive, such as the ability to administer clot-busting medicine called thrombolysis,” says Gregory Shangold, MD, Emergency Department Medical Director. “In the past, we have accomplished this with phone conversations with neurologists. Now, patients and neurologists will be able to have face-to face conversations in a very timely fashion.”
For a small community hospital like Windham, Telehealth is a valuable tool.
“The purpose is to enhance the timeliness and quality of care for patients with neurologic complaints and to keep them in the community,” says Cary Trantalis, Vice President of Operations at Windham Hospital.
The technology can also help physicians select patients who may be candidates for alternative stroke therapies such as catheter-based interventions that include clot retrieval devices and the newest stroke trials available at Hartford Hospital.
Clinical Trials
Become an integral part of our research and quality practices by volunteering to participate in one of our many innovative clinical trials. Your contribution will aid in developing the safest and most effective treatments and medical practices possible. We couldn’t do it without your help.
Clinicaltrials.gov
Neurology Residency Site
Hartford Hospital is the primary Neurology Residency site for the University of Connecticut.
Learn more about the Neurology Residency Program