What does LVO refer to in stroke terminology?

LVO, or Large Vessel Occlusion, refers to a specific type of stroke caused by a blockage in one of the large blood vessels supplying the brain. This is critical to understand in the context of stroke management because identifying LVO is essential for determining the appropriate treatment pathway. Large vessel occlusions are known to cause more severe strokes and can lead to significant brain damage if not treated promptly.

In emergency medical services, the recognition of signs that suggest an LVO can prompt faster intervention, such as thrombolytic therapy or endovascular procedures like thrombectomy, which aim to restore blood flow to the affected area of the brain. Understanding this term is crucial for first responders and healthcare providers when assessing stroke patients to ensure rapid and effective treatment and improved outcomes.