Vascular Neurology: How a Multidisciplinary Approach Improves Outcomes

When a patient experiences a vascular neurological issue – including a TIA, stroke or brain aneurysm – specialized, multidisciplinary care has been demonstrated to improve outcomes. At the Eastside Neuroscience Institute, our experts provide this care by working across specialties to design treatment plans tailored to each patient’s needs. We offer the full spectrum of treatment options – including open endarterectomy, minimally invasive carotid stenting and proactive care in asymptomatic patients with carotid narrowing, to prevent other arteries from needing treatment.

“We’re working to elevate the quality of neuroscience care on the Eastside, by offering a comprehensive stroke program that provides university-level care in a patient-centric community setting,” says Asif Khan, MD. “It truly is the best of both worlds.”

Multidisciplinary Evaluation

Our care begins with an evaluation by a team that includes a neurologist, a stroke neurologist, a neuro-interventionalist and a neurosurgeon. This evaluation includes state-of-the-art imaging such as CT angiography, a thorough review of each patient’s medical history and consideration of risk factors that could make the patient more likely to experience complications from anesthesia and surgery.

Our physicians have subspecialty training in areas such as stroke neurology, neurology critical care, endovascular neurosurgery and open vascular neurosurgery.

“We trade ideas on what would work best for each patient, and our diverse training means we bring many perspectives to bear as we map out potential care plans and come to an agreement on what’s most appropriate,” Dr. Khan says.

Collaboration in Action: How We Approach Carotid Artery Disease

When we see a patient with carotid artery disease, for example, we use angiography to understand the extent of their condition, and if it can be initially managed by lifestyle changes and/or medications. If surgical treatment is appropriate, we consider risk factors like past radiation exposure, advanced age, a high neck lesion and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

“If there are significant risk factors, the patient might be best served by carotid stenting, which can be done under local anesthesia, instead of carotid endarterectomy,” Dr. Khan says. “We offer both options here, and we’ll educate patients about the relative risks and benefits, so they can make an informed decision about what’s right for them.”

Putting Patients First

Our collaborative approach extends to how we work with patients. We work to understand their lifestyle and goals, we educate them about their options, and we take time to answer all of their questions. We maintain that relationship for as long as in they’re in our care, via follow-up appointments and by making sure we’re doing everything we can to help them stay as healthy and happy as possible.

“One thing I love about working here is that our culture includes a commitment to building long-lasting relationships with each and every patient,” Dr. Khan says. “Those relationships are vital to helping each patient feel comfortable and make the best medical decisions, and it makes it even more gratifying when we see them have a good outcome and get back to enjoying life.”

The Eastside Neuroscience Institute is a growing practice and is accepting patients from across our region.

To refer a patient

Bellevue Location: 425-635-6560

Kirkland Location: 425-899-3135