Is cerebral embolism the same as cerebral infarction?

Written by Zhang Hui
Neurology
Updated on September 14, 2024
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Brain embolism is a form of cerebral infarction, so essentially, it is also a type of cerebral infarction. Cerebral infarction encompasses a wider range, including cerebral thrombosis, lacunar infarction, watershed infarction, and others. Brain embolism primarily refers to abnormal substances entering the bloodstream, which then enter the arteries of the brain, causing obstruction in these arteries and leading to ischemia and hypoxia of the brain tissue, thus presenting clinical symptoms of cerebral infarction. The onset of the condition in patients is quite severe, rapidly leading to paralysis of limbs and disorders of speech function. In cases of extensive brain embolism, patients may even experience coma and death as serious complications. Most patients with brain embolism have a history of atrial fibrillation. Atrial fibrillation can lead to the formation of mural thrombi, and when these thrombi dislodge, they can cause brain embolism.

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Written by Zhang Hui
Neurology
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Can cerebral embolism be treated with thrombolysis?

Cerebral embolism is a relatively common ischemic cerebrovascular disease. If the area of cerebral embolism is very large and it exceeds the time window for thrombolysis, and if the patient is elderly with multiple underlying diseases, then thrombolysis is not recommended. Patients with large-area cerebral embolism have a higher probability of transitioning to cerebral hemorrhage, thus the risk of thrombolysis is very high. However, if it is within the time window for arterial thrombectomy, it is advocated to undergo arterial thrombectomy treatment. Family members can communicate more with the doctor to choose the appropriate treatment plan. If the symptoms of cerebral embolism are relatively mild, the affected area is considered small, and it is within three hours, then intravenous thrombolysis treatment could be considered. Patients undergoing intravenous thrombolysis must ensure that a cranial CT is rechecked within 24 hours to exclude any secondary bleeding.

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Written by Zhang Hui
Neurology
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Which department should I go to for a cerebral embolism?

The patient has experienced a cerebral embolism, and it is definitely recommended to seek appropriate medical care in neurology. Neurologists have seen many patients with cerebral embolism and have rich experience in the pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment of this disease. The onset of cerebral embolism is quite severe, and patients generally may have a history of cardiac diseases, such as atrial fibrillation. It is crucial to go to the hospital as soon as possible if a cerebral embolism occurs. If within the time window for thrombectomy, such as within eight hours, relevant thrombectomy treatment can be performed. Additionally, some hospitals carry out thrombectomy treatments in neurosurgery or interventional departments. Therefore, if a cerebral embolism requires surgical treatment, one can also visit the interventional department or neurosurgery. After the condition of a cerebral embolism patient stabilizes, routine anticoagulation therapy is necessary to prevent a recurrence of the cerebral embolism.

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Written by Zhang Hui
Neurology
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What department should I go to for a cerebral embolism?

Brain embolism is a disease in the field of neurology, and one can consult a department of neurology for it. Patients with brain embolism often have a rapid onset, generally with a history of atrial fibrillation. Some thrombi attached to the heart dislodge into the cerebral arteries, causing brain embolism. Symptoms can rapidly develop, including limb paralysis and speech disorders. If the affected area in the brain is large, it may even lead to consciousness disorders and epileptic seizures. For the treatment of brain embolism, interventional thrombectomy can be performed, but there is a strict limitation on the timing window. It should be noted that patients with brain embolism have a high probability of transforming into cerebral hemorrhage, and caution must be exercised during treatment.

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Written by Zhang Hui
Neurology
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What to do about cerebral embolism?

The onset of cerebral embolism is very sudden, and most cases of cerebral embolism are caused by heart disease. For instance, atrial fibrillation or myocardial infarction can lead to cerebral embolism, which requires immediate medical attention. If it is within the time window for arterial thrombectomy, it is best to proceed with the arterial thrombectomy treatment, and this window typically ranges from six to eight hours. If the time window is missed, the patient should primarily be kept on bed rest and given medications to protect and nourish brain cells. If intracranial pressure is high, medications to reduce dehydration and lower cranial pressure should be administered. After the acute phase, anticoagulation treatment should also be provided to prevent future occurrences of cerebral embolism. Additionally, care should be taken to prevent complications such as pulmonary infections, urinary system infections, and bedsores.

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Written by Zhang Hui
Neurology
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Does cerebral embolism require surgery?

Most cases of cerebral embolism in patients are caused by heart diseases, especially in patients with atrial fibrillation. Thrombi form in the atrium, detach, and travel to the cerebral arteries, causing a cerebral embolism. If the area affected by the cerebral embolism is small and the symptoms are mild, surgical treatment may not be necessary. Patients should rest, engage in rehabilitation exercises, and be treated with medications that invigorate the blood, remove blood stasis, protect brain cells, and use anticoagulants. However, if the embolism affects a large area, such as the middle cerebral artery, interventional surgical thrombectomy can be performed according to current medical advancements, which may be effective for some patients but also carries risks of bleeding and potential surgical failure. (Please use medications under the guidance of a doctor and do not self-medicate.)