University:
York University
Course:
NURSING 2534 | Pathophysiology
Academic year:

2023
Views:

328

Pages:

2
Author:

Niklas

Key Points: Ischemic strokes occur when there is a sudden complete or near-complete blockage of blood flow (BF) to the brain. They are more common than hemorrhagic strokes. The damage caused by an ischemic stroke depends on the location of the blockage and the affected brain regions. Mechanisms: Embolism: Clot breaks from the heart or arteries Lodges in small brain vessels Usually from atrial fibrillation or plaque breaks from the heart Thrombosis: Plaque buildup in small arteries Blood stagnates, leading to clot formation Dangerous unless there's collateral circulation Locations: Middle Cerebral Artery (MCA): Affects movement, executive function, sensory information, and language Anterior Cerebral Artery (ACA): Affects movement, executive function, and urinary bladder control Internal Carotid Artery (ICA): Supplies blood to the brain Blockage can lead to widespread damage Consequences: Loss of consciousness Circle of Willis can provide collateral circulation, reducing damage Adaptation can occur, but brain may still be damaged Key Points: Aortic aneurysms are abnormal dilations of the aorta. Risk factors include: age, male gender, smoking, hypertension, family history, and certain medical conditions. Clinical manifestations may include: chest or back pain, unequal pulses in arms, hoarseness, cough, difficulty swallowing, and sudden onset of severe pain. Management: Asymptomatic aneurysms: Monitor with imaging studies (CT, MRI, ultrasound) Consider surgery if aneurysm reaches a certain size (usually 5.5 cm or larger) Symptomatic aneurysms: Immediate surgical repair Surgery carries a high risk of complications. Complications: Rupture: Can lead to massive internal bleeding and death. Dissection: Tear in the inner lining of the aorta, causing blood to flow between layers. Aortic insufficiency: Leakage of blood back into the left ventricle.