Experts deliberate latest advancements in stroke management

Srinagar, Oct 29: In an event marking World Stroke Day, the Department of Neurology at Government Medical College (GMC) Srinagar held a Continuing Medical Education (CME) programme, bringing together a diverse group of experts to discuss stroke prevention, innovative treatments, and current trends in stroke management.

The event, described by Principal GMC Srinagar, Prof Iffat Hassan Shah, as an “academic feast”, aimed at equipping the next generation of doctors with knowledge that could save lives.

Principal GMC Srinagar expressed her enthusiasm about the gathering of prominent specialists from various fields, highlighting the sessions as invaluable for medical education.

“Today, we delved into the latest techniques and intricacies in stroke management, a focus that will significantly aid our doctors in saving lives,” she said.

Head of the Department of Neurology, GMC Srinagar and Organising Chairperson of CME, Prof Bashir Ahmed Sanaie emphasised the importance of awareness in combating strokes.

Explaining the basic mechanism, he said, “A stroke occurs when blood flow to a part of the brain is disrupted, either by a blocked or ruptured blood vessel, leading to cell destruction and potential death. While strokes are more common in certain age groups, everyone is at risk. Our role as doctors is to improve the outcomes for stroke patients through swift and effective management.”

The event highlighted the critical role of preventive care and timely intervention in reducing stroke-related disability and mortality.

Experts shared insights on recognising stroke symptoms early, with Prof Parvaiz Ahmed Shah, former Principal of GMC Srinagar, stressing that “early recognition of symptoms is crucial. The general public, along with healthcare providers, need to be more aware of stroke signs, as prompt action can make all the difference.”

The CME was structured into three sections, each covering diverse topics within stroke care.

A series of lectures addressed specific areas, from thrombolysis to stroke-related ICU care.

Notable talks included Roadblocks in Stroke Thrombolysis by Dr Eijaz Ahmed Bhat; ICU Care in Stroke by Dr Sheikh Zulfikar Ali; Maternal Stroke by Dr Sheikh Hilal Ahmed,

addressing the relatively small but notable risk in women during childbearing years; Anticoagulation in Stroke by Dr Tanveer Hassan; Mechanical Thrombectomy by Dr Trilochan Srivastava; Post-Stroke Morbidity by Dr Irfan Shah; Uncommon Causes of Stroke by Dr Adnan Firdous Raina; Stroke Rehabilitation by Dr Gulam Saidan.

Each session provided insights into cutting-edge therapies and the challenges in managing strokes, with particular emphasis on techniques like thrombolytic therapy and anticoagulation regimens that have shown efficacy in minimising stroke damage.

The gathering of neurologists, cardiologists, neurosurgeons, physicians, and preventive medicine experts underscored the multidisciplinary approach necessary for optimal stroke care.

Through discussions and debates, the CME illuminated both established and emerging treatment modalities, equipping healthcare professionals with actionable knowledge to enhance patient outcomes.

The event highlighted that while advances in stroke treatment offer promising paths forward, public awareness and preventive healthcare are essential to curbing the incidence and impact of stroke in the community.