Stroke Treatment in Bengaluru
Every Second Saves Brain
A stroke kills 1.9 million brain cells every minute. Knowing the signs, reaching the right hospital, and acting within the golden hour can mean the difference between full recovery and permanent disability.
1.9M
4.5 hrs
80–85%
#1
⚡ Recognize a Stroke — FAST
FACE Drooping
One side of the face droops or feels numb. Ask them to smile — is it uneven?
ARM Weakness
One side of the face droops or feels numb. Ask them to smile — is it uneven?
SPEECH Difficulty
Is speech slurred, strange, or absent? Can they repeat a simple sentence?
TIME — Act Now
Note the exact time symptoms started. Rush to a stroke-ready hospital immediately.
Understanding the Condition
What is a Stroke?
A stroke — also called a “brain attack” — occurs when blood supply to part of the brain is suddenly blocked or a vessel bursts. Brain cells begin dying within minutes. The type of stroke determines the treatment approach.
80–85%
of all strokes
Ischemic Stroke
A blood clot blocks an artery supplying the brain, depriving tissue of oxygen. The most common type — and the one most responsive to emergency clot-dissolving treatment.
15–20%
of all strokes
Hemorrhagic Stroke
A blood vessel in or around the brain ruptures. Often linked to uncontrolled high blood pressure. Treatment focuses on stopping the bleed, reducing brain pressure, and sometimes surgery. Clot-dissolving drugs are not used here.
TIA
Mini-Stroke Warning
Transient Ischemic Attack
Blood flow to part of the brain is briefly interrupted. Symptoms typically resolve within minutes to hours — but a TIA is a critical warning. The risk of a full stroke is highest in the days immediately after. Never ignore it.
Time Is Brain
Why the Golden Hour is Everything
The brain is extraordinarily sensitive to blood loss. Every minute without treatment accelerates permanent damage. This timeline shows exactly what is at stake.
Thrombolysis within the first 60 minutes increases odds of full functional recovery by 40%. Door-to-needle time is critical. Parallel processing — CT scan + specialist assessment simultaneously.
Intravenous tPA (alteplase or tenecteplase) remains effective in eligible patients up to 4.5 hours from symptom onset. CT scan must confirm no bleeding. 1.9M neurons lost every minute — urgency remains critical.
For large vessel occlusions (ICA, M1, selected M2, basilar artery), thrombectomy can restore blood flow up to 24 hours when imaging shows salvageable brain tissue (penumbra). Basilar artery up to 48 hours in selected patients.
In 1 hour the brain ages by 3.6 years. Untreated stroke leads to permanent paralysis, speech impairment, cognitive loss, and significantly increased mortality. The brain cannot regenerate lost cells.
1.9M
+40%
🧠Restore blood flow and reverse early brain damage
🚶Enable patients to walk out of hospital independently
💬Protect speech, memory, and cognitive function
❤️Dramatically reduce risk of death in severe cases
Advanced Care
Stroke Treatment Options in Bengaluru
The right treatment depends on stroke type, time elapsed, and imaging findings. At NeuroWellness, a specialist assessment guided by CT/MRI begins within minutes of arrival — parallel to imaging, not after it.
Thrombolysis (IV tPA)
Ischemic Stroke — Clot Dissolving
Intravenous thrombolysis — administration of tPA (alteplase or tenecteplase, preferred where approved) — is the primary emergency treatment for ischemic stroke. It dissolves the clot, restores blood flow, and significantly reduces disability when given within 4.5 hours.
- Most effective within the first 60 minutes (golden hour)
- Administered intravenously over approximately 60 minutes
- Requires CT scan to confirm no bleeding present
- Close monitoring in stroke unit / neuro-ICU after
- Imaging-guided window extension now possible beyond 4.5 hrs
Mechanical Thrombectomy
Large Vessel Occlusion — Clot Removal
For large vessel occlusions (ICA, M1, selected M2, basilar artery), a specialist uses a thin catheter guided through blood vessels to physically remove the clot. Basilar artery occlusion can now be treated up to 48 hours in selected patients — a major advance over older practice.
- Highly effective for major artery blockages in the brain
- Minimally invasive catheter-based technique under imaging guidance
- Often combined with thrombolysis (hybrid strategy)
- Penumbra (salvageable tissue) is key to decision-making
- Direct Cathlab approach for suspected LVO without waiting
Neurocritical Care
All Severe Strokes — Intensive Management
Severe strokes — including large ischemic strokes and hemorrhagic strokes — require intensive monitoring in a dedicated neuro-ICU. Early rehabilitation begins alongside emergency care. Workflow focus has shifted from sequential to parallel processing for faster outcomes.
- Blood pressure monitoring and rapid optimisation
- Brain swelling (cerebral oedema) detection and management
- Monitoring for seizures, aspiration, DVT complications
- Early physiotherapy, speech and occupational therapy
- Psychological support for patient and family
Clinical Reference
Acute Stroke ER Decision Guide
Modern stroke management has evolved dramatically. This table — curated by Dr. Ganesh Veerabhadraiah — shows how the approach has shifted from rigid time-based rules to imaging-guided, individualised decision-making.
| Factor | ❌ Older Approach (Before) | ✅ Current Best Practice (After) |
|---|---|---|
| Time Since Last Known Well | Strict cut-off driven — time alone excluded patients | Time important, but imaging now overrides the clock |
| Stroke Severity (NIHSS) | Mild strokes often excluded from treatment | Treat even if NIHSS low — if deficit is disabling |
| IV Thrombolysis Drug | Alteplase only | Tenecteplase preferred where approved |
| Thrombolysis Window | Strict ≤4.5 hours | Imaging-guided extension now possible beyond 4.5 hrs |
| Infarct Core Size | Large core = no treatment | Selected large cores can now be treated |
| Penumbra (Salvageable Tissue) | Not routinely assessed | Now central to decision-making |
| Large Vessel Occlusion (LVO) | Only ICA / M1 treated | ICA, M1, selected M2, basilar artery now included |
| Basilar Artery Occlusion | No treatment / supportive care only | Mechanical thrombectomy up to 48 hours in selected patients |
| Mechanical Thrombectomy Window | ≤6 hours only | 6–24 hours (anterior); extended for basilar artery |
| Wake-Up Stroke | No treatment — onset time unknown | Treat if imaging shows favourable mismatch |
| Age | Relative exclusion — elderly often excluded | Age is not a contraindication to treatment |
| Blood Pressure | Delay treatment if BP is elevated | Lower BP rapidly and proceed if safe |
| IV Thrombolysis Strategy | Give thrombolysis and wait | Hybrid strategy: direct Cathlab to simultaneously assess for LVO/MVO |
| Workflow Focus | Sequential — one step at a time | Parallel processing — door-to-needle & door-to-puncture critical |
| Transfer Decisions | Late referral — delay in reaching EVT centre | Early transfer to EVT-capable centre is standard |
Know Your Risk
Who is at Risk of Stroke?
Rising rates of hypertension, diabetes, and sedentary lifestyles are driving a growing stroke burden in India — including among those under 40. 1 in 4 stroke patients in India is under 40.
❤️ High Blood Pressure
The #1 modifiable risk factor. Uncontrolled hypertension dramatically increases stroke risk.
🩸 Diabetes Mellitus
Elevated blood sugar damages blood vessels and accelerates clot formation.
🚬 Smoking & Tobacco
Smoking doubles stroke risk by damaging arterial walls and promoting clotting.
❤️ Heart Disease / AFib
Atrial fibrillation causes blood clots that can travel to the brain, causing stroke.
🍔 Obesity & Sedentary Life
Excess weight and inactivity contribute to hypertension, diabetes and dyslipidaemia
🍷 Excessive Alcohol
Heavy alcohol use raises blood pressure and increases risk of both stroke types.
⚠️ Previous TIA or Stroke
Risk of major stroke is highest in the days immediately following a TIA.
🧬 Clotting Disorders
Hypercoagulable states can cause stroke even in young, otherwise healthy individuals.
- Emergency Action
When You Suspect a Stroke — Act Immediately
Note the exact time symptoms began or when the person was last seen normal. This “last known well” time is critical for determining treatment eligibility.
✅ DO These Things Immediately
- Call emergency services (108) or +91 7259 669 911 immediately
- Note the exact time symptoms started — or last time seen normal
- Keep the person calm, lying down with head slightly elevated
- Go directly to the nearest stroke-ready hospital — call ahead
- Bring a list of medications, known allergies, and medical history
- Stay with the patient and monitor breathing continuously
- Use the FAST test to assess and share results with paramedics
❌ Never Do These Things
- Wait to see if symptoms improve on their own — TIA can precede major stroke
- Give food, water, or any medication to the person
- Let the person sleep or lie face-down
- Attempt any home remedies or traditional treatments
- Drive yourself if you are the one experiencing symptoms
- Delay getting to hospital even if symptoms seem to improve
- Assume it cannot be stroke because the person is young or healthy
Clinical Evidence
Real Patient Recovery Stories
Complex cases treated by Dr. Ganesh Veerabhadraiah — demonstrating what timely, expert intervention can achieve even in the most critical situations.
A previously healthy gentleman presented with sudden severe headache, giddiness, and brief unconsciousness. Imaging revealed Grade 4 Subarachnoid Hemorrhage (SAH) from a ruptured aneurysm in the right A2 anterior cerebral artery. He underwent minimally invasive endovascular coiling — sealing the aneurysm from within without opening the skull. An intra-operative arterial spasm was swiftly reversed with intra-arterial nimodipine.
Patient Voices
What Families Say About Dr. Ganesh
Real experiences shared by patients and families — verified Google reviews from people whose lives were changed by timely, expert neuro care.
5.0
3 years ago
“My uncle had Basilar artery stenosis. He was referred to Dr. Ganesh V. It was identified that there was 70% occlusion of right vertebral artery and 90% occlusion of Basilar artery. Dr. Ganesh did the procedure with his excellent team so well that the Basilar artery blood flow was fully restored.
Thank you Doctor for explaining in detail about uncle’s condition and giving a new lease of life to my uncle. Forever grateful to you and your team.”
“Dr. Ganesh Veerabhadraiah treated my father for bleeding in the brain. My father has four cardiac stents and was on blood thinners. To stop the brain bleed, blood thinners had to be stopped — but that was extremely risky for his heart. It was a rare and complicated case, handled very carefully.
He underwent two procedures, after which he is completely normal and leading a normal life. We are extremely thankful to Dr. Ganesh for treating my father and handling every complication with skill and care.”
→ Complete Recovery
Meet the Expert
Stroke Specialist in Bengaluru
Dr. Ganesh Veerabhadraiah
Senior Consultant Neurosurgeon & Interventional Neuro Specialist · HOD Neurosurgery
Dr. Ganesh Veerabhadraiah is a senior neurosurgeon and founder of NeuroWellness India — Bengaluru’s collaborative neurosurgery and neurocare network. He specialises in acute stroke intervention, endovascular neurosurgery, complex brain and spine surgery, and neurovascular procedures including aneurysm coiling, mechanical thrombectomy, and thrombolysis. With a commitment to “Time is Brain,” he has pioneered rapid-response stroke care and public education across Bengaluru.
NeuroWellness Stroke Connect
Explore the Stroke Network
Everything you need — from emergency guidance and hospital listings to patient referral and specialist second opinions — all in one place.
🚨
Stroke Emergency Guide
Step-by-step emergency guide — FAST symptoms, what to do in the first 10 minutes, and how to reach the nearest stroke-ready hospital immediately.
🏥
Stroke-Ready Hospitals
Verified list of stroke-ready hospitals in South Bengaluru — with addresses, 24×7 contacts, CT/MRI availability, and ambulance details.
🔄
Refer a Stroke Patient
Bengaluru's first digital stroke referral system for doctors, GPs, and families coordinating specialist transfer or second opinion.
🩺
Stroke Specialists
Meet the neurosurgeons and neurologists at NeuroWellness — profiles, expertise, and how to book a consultation or second opinion.
💪
Stroke Recovery & Rehab
Post-stroke rehabilitation guide — physiotherapy, speech therapy, occupational therapy, and long-term recovery planning by the NeuroWellness team.
💬
NeuroWellness Stroke Connect
NeuroWellness Stroke Connect WhatsApp 24×7 stroke triage system — send symptoms and location to get immediate guidance and nearest stroke-ready hospital within minutes.
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions – Stroke Treatment in Bengaluru
An ischemic stroke occurs when a blood clot blocks an artery supplying the brain — accounting for around 80–85% of all strokes. A hemorrhagic stroke occurs when a blood vessel ruptures and bleeds into or around the brain. Both require immediate emergency care, but the treatment is fundamentally different: clot-dissolving medication (thrombolysis) is used for ischemic stroke and is contraindicated in hemorrhagic stroke, where management focuses on controlling bleeding and reducing brain pressure.
Yes — modern imaging-guided treatment has expanded the window significantly. For large vessel occlusions, mechanical thrombectomy can now be performed within 6–24 hours when brain scans show salvageable tissue (penumbra). For basilar artery occlusion, treatment up to 48 hours is now possible in selected patients. Wake-up strokes — where the patient was asleep and onset time is unknown — can also be treated if imaging is favourable. Always come to hospital immediately regardless of time elapsed.
No. In India, 1 in 4 stroke patients is under 40. Modern risk factors — uncontrolled blood pressure, diabetes, smoking, obesity, sedentary work, and stress — are driving a significant increase in stroke among younger adults. Structural heart abnormalities, clotting disorders, and arterial dissection are important causes in young patients. Stroke is a lifestyle emergency, not just an age-related one.
A Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA) is a brief interruption of blood flow to the brain. Symptoms typically resolve within minutes to hours — which is why people often ignore it. However, a TIA is a critical warning signal. The risk of a major stroke is highest in the 48–72 hours immediately after a TIA. Urgent evaluation, imaging, and preventive treatment can dramatically reduce this risk. Never dismiss stroke-like symptoms even if they seem to pass.
NeuroWellness Stroke Connect is a 24×7 stroke rapid-response system — accessible via WhatsApp and phone. When you contact us with suspected stroke symptoms, our trained team immediately: (1) walks you through a triage checklist, (2) identifies the nearest stroke-ready hospital, (3) helps coordinate emergency transport if needed, and (4) notifies the receiving hospital team ahead of your arrival. Call or WhatsApp: +91 7259 669 911.
A Stroke is a Brain Attack.
Treat it as an Emergency.
Recognise FAST. Act FAST. Save the Brain. Save a Life.
Your awareness today can save a family, a career, and a future.