Minneapolis man saved from stroke by new ultrasound technology

A man from Minneapolis had his life saved thanks to new technology at HCMC. This technology helps doctors detect and prevent strokes using a method called transcranial doppler (TCD). TCD uses ultrasound to examine blood flow in the brain's major arteries. It is less invasive and does not use radiation, making it safer for patients. In December, Troy Behnke experienced a medical emergency. He woke up with a severe headache and later dropped a glass of water because he could not hold it. Realizing something was wrong, he went to the emergency room with his wife. Doctors performed an ultrasound on his brain using the TCD tool. Dr. Edward Labin, a neurologist, found that Behnke's blood flow was severely impaired because his carotid artery had torn. Although he was not having a stroke at that moment, the lack of blood flow could have led to one very soon. Dr. Labin warned that Behnke could have suffered serious brain damage or even died. The TCD technology allows doctors to see a real-time view of blood flow in the brain. This is different from other imaging methods, like CAT scans or MRIs, which only provide static images. Dr. Labin said the invention of TCD has greatly improved patient care. Behnke expressed his gratitude, saying, “I was very, very lucky that they caught it that early.” Currently, TCD imaging is available only at HCMC and Mayo Clinic in Minnesota.