Complications of ischemic stroke: Prevention and management

Prevention and proper management of complications in the hospitalized patient with stroke may improve both short-term and long-term prognosis. General medical and neurologic complications may be encountered in the early days after stroke. Common medical complications include deep venous thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, falls, systemic infections, and neuropsychiatric disturbances. Frequent neurologic complications include cerebral edema, elevated intracranial pressure, hemorrhagic transformation, and seizures. Anticipation of complications can expedite initiation of preventive and therapeutic measures. This chapter focuses on common medical and neurologic complications that occur after stroke in the acute hospital setting.