Cerebrovascular disorders in children encompass a range of conditions that affect the blood vessels in the brain, leading to issues such as strokes, aneurysms and arteriovenous malformations (AVMs). The risk of stroke is highest during the first year of life, but it can occur at any point during childhood or adolescence. These conditions can have serious consequences on a child's neurological development and overall health.
The Stroke Program at Barrow Neurological Institute at Phoenix Children’s are a multidisciplinary team of experts dedicated to providing comprehensive care to children affected by acute and chronic neurovascular disorders. We provide rapid, specialized care for children experiencing a stroke. Our unwavering commitment ensures the quickest and most effective response and treatment, facilitating the best possible recovery for each child. Early detection and accurate diagnosis of stroke are critical for achieving optimal outcomes, and our team is equipped with the expertise and tools to make swift and accurate assessments.
Phoenix Children’s is one of the few children's health systems in the nation to utilize tissue plasminogen activator (tPA), the most studied and well-known treatment for pediatric strokes. This medication dissolves blood clots that obstruct blood flow to the brain. When delivered in a timely manner, tPA reduces a child’s risk of brain damage.
In addition to tPA, we are among a select group of pediatric stroke programs equipped with capabilities for acute intracranial clot retrieval using mechanical embolectomy. This advanced procedure ensures the prompt and effective removal of clots, which helps restore blood flow and minimize brain damage. Our comprehensive approach, which may involve tPA, mechanical embolectomy, or a combination of both, is designed to provide optimal recovery outcomes for our young stroke patients.
Our specialized stroke program combines advanced medical techniques, state-of-the-art technology and a compassionate approach to support children and their families through the challenging journey of stroke treatment and recovery. By prioritizing education, early intervention and cutting-edge therapies, we strive to offer the highest standard of care for young stroke patients. This helps to ensure they receive the support and treatment needed for optimal recovery and improved quality of life.
