Stroke imaging services; guidance and advice

This is the fourth edition of the advice and guidance document The Role of the Radiographer in Stroke Management that was originally issued on 1st September 2007. Radiographers are a vital part of the specialist stroke care team. Patients with acute brain attack require rapid access to high quality and appropriate imaging in order to diagnose the type of stroke.

Patients who suffer a Transient Ischaemic Attack (TIA) have been shown to be at high risk of suffering an ischaemic stroke and also require urgent imaging after appropriate assessment in order to ensure reduced morbidity.

These patients also require follow up imaging, either by Computed Tomography (CT) or Magnetic Resonance (MR) in order to assess the efficacy, and/or options for further treatment.