Stroke Center
Redlands Community Hospital Earns Thrombectomy-Capable Stroke Center Certification

Stroke is one of the leading causes of death and long-term disability in
the United States. The majority of cases are ischemic strokes, which are
caused by a clot that cuts off blood flow to a part of the brain. Fortunately,
these strokes are largely treatable if a patient gets to the hospital
quickly, and goes to a hospital like Redlands Community Hospital (RCH)
that has the expertise and technology to provide the right treatment.
Recently, RCH was recognized for even greater capabilities in treating
stroke patients. RCH has earned Thrombectomy-Capable Stroke Center (TSC)
certification from the Joint Commission in collaboration with the American
Heart Association/American Stroke Association. TSC certification signifies
that our hospital meets rigorous and exacting standards to perform what
is known as mechanical Endovascular Thrombectomy (EVT). This specialized
surgical procedure is used to remove a blood clot from the brain during
an ischemic stroke. Removing the clot that is causing the blockage helps
the patient’s blood flow normally again.
Around-the-clock stroke capabilities
To be eligible for TSC certification, RCH was required to meet strict guidelines.
These include performing the thrombectomy procedure on a certain number
of patients, and having the capability to perform it around the clock,
seven days a week. The hospital’s primary neurointerventionists
– the physicians who perform emergency Endovascular Thrombectomy
– must also meet the highest standards of subspecialty training.
“This award is a testament to the stroke team’s relentless
focus on strengthening our neurointerventional program at the hospital
and brings advanced life-saving stroke care to the community,” said
Vladimir Cortez, MD, neurosurgeon at Redlands Community Hospital. “We
are pleased to continue providing this excellent standard of care our
patients have come to expect.”
The first hybrid operating room in the Inland Empire
The hospital’s 1,100-square-foot neurointerventional/neurosurgical
operating suite also sets us apart to perform surgery for stroke patients.
Our hybrid bi-plane suite is equipped with a sophisticated imaging system
that is vital for the complexities and precision of neurological and vascular
procedures. As a multi-purpose operating room, a patient can stay in the
same place even if a minimally invasive procedure needs to be converted
to an open surgical approach. This saves precious time and keeps the patient
in a sterile environment.
The Joint Commission’s Primary Stroke Center Certification is based
on the recommendations for primary stroke centers published by the Brain
Attack Coalition and the American Stroke Association’s statements
and guidelines for stroke care. The Joint Commission launched the program—the
nation’s first—in 2003. A list of programs certified by The
Joint Commission is available at
www.qualitycheck.org.
