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.