Lucknow: Vivekananda Polyclinic & Institute of Medical Sciences on Monday announced a major new initiative aimed at strengthening emergency stroke care, introducing Rapid Intravenous (IV) Thrombolysis treatment for acute stroke patients within the critical 4 to 4.5-hour “golden window” period.
The announcement was made during a press conference held at the institute’s first-floor seminar hall at 4:00 PM, where senior administrators and neurologists detailed the life-saving protocol and emphasized the urgent need for public awareness regarding stroke symptoms and timely treatment.
Focus on the “Golden Period”
Addressing media representatives, the institute’s Secretary, Swami Muktinathanand, underlined the importance of immediate medical intervention in stroke cases. He explained that when blood supply to the brain is obstructed, brain cells begin to die within minutes. If treatment is not administered within the crucial golden period — typically within 4 to 4.5 hours of symptom onset — the opportunity to reverse damage significantly diminishes.
“In stroke cases, time is brain,” he said. “If patients reach the hospital within this window, Rapid IV Thrombolysis can dissolve the clot and restore blood flow, substantially improving recovery outcomes.”
The newly launched initiative ensures that suspected stroke patients arriving within the golden window will receive immediate CT scan evaluation followed by prompt administration of IV thrombolytic therapy, if deemed suitable.
Special Emergency OPD on 57th Annual Day
The hospital also announced that on February 18, 2026, it will celebrate its 57th Annual Day as “Samarpan Diwas” (Dedication Day). On this occasion, a special emergency OPD service will be organized specifically for stroke patients.
Swami Muktinathanand stated that the institute, a 500-bed super-specialty medical center, consistently organizes awareness programs to educate the public about life-threatening conditions such as stroke, which remains one of the leading causes of death and long-term disability worldwide.
“Our aim is to provide maximum benefit to patients at minimal cost and to ensure that no life is lost due to lack of awareness or delayed treatment,” he said, thanking media professionals for their continued support in spreading health awareness.
Understanding Stroke: Symptoms and Early Warning Signs
Senior Neurologist Professor U.K. Mishra explained the medical aspects of stroke and the benefits of IV thrombolysis. He clarified that stroke occurs when blood flow to a part of the brain is either blocked (ischemic stroke) or when a blood vessel ruptures (hemorrhagic stroke). The newly introduced treatment is particularly effective for ischemic strokes caused by clots.
He urged the public to recognize the early warning signs of stroke, which often appear suddenly:
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Weakness in one arm or leg
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Facial drooping or mouth deviation
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Slurred speech or difficulty speaking
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Numbness or tingling in limbs
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Sudden imbalance or confusion
“If a person suddenly develops weakness on one side of the body, facial asymmetry, or difficulty in speaking, it must be treated as a medical emergency,” he said. “Immediate CT scanning helps us determine the type of stroke. If it is ischemic, IV thrombolysis can be administered intravenously to dissolve the clot. In many cases, weakness improves significantly, and some patients may even return to near-normal function.”
He further explained the concept of a Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA), often referred to as a “mini-stroke.” If symptoms resolve within a few minutes, it may be a TIA, but such episodes serve as a serious warning sign for a major stroke and should never be ignored.
Round-the-Clock Neurology Services
When asked about emergency helpline services, hospital authorities clarified that instead of relying on helpline numbers, patients should immediately report to the nearest emergency department.
“At our hospital, emergency doctors are trained to identify stroke symptoms quickly. CT scan facilities are available without delay, and neurology services are accessible round-the-clock,” said Dr. Rajeev, another senior physician present at the briefing.
He emphasized that recovery chances are significantly higher when patients arrive early. However, delays — especially for patients traveling from distant districts — often push them beyond the 4.5-hour window, limiting treatment options.
“This is why awareness is critical,” he added. “If people recognize symptoms early and come directly to emergency services, we can administer therapy within the golden period and achieve much better outcomes.”
Commitment to Affordable Super-Specialty Care
Vivekananda Polyclinic & Institute of Medical Sciences, one of Lucknow’s prominent super-specialty healthcare institutions, reiterated its commitment to accessible and affordable healthcare. With approximately 500 beds and a full team of specialists, trained nurses, and advanced diagnostic facilities, the hospital aims to expand advanced neurological services for the wider population.
Hospital officials stated that through this initiative, they hope to reduce stroke-related disability rates in Uttar Pradesh by ensuring that patients receive timely, evidence-based treatment.
Public Awareness is Key
Medical experts at the conference repeatedly stressed that community awareness is the most critical factor in reducing stroke mortality and disability. Recognizing symptoms early, avoiding delays, and reaching a well-equipped hospital can mean the difference between full recovery and lifelong disability.
As part of its Samarpan Diwas activities, the institute plans to conduct educational outreach efforts to inform citizens about stroke prevention, early identification, and emergency response.
With the launch of Rapid IV Thrombolysis services, the institute has taken a significant step toward strengthening emergency neurological care in the region — reinforcing the message that in stroke management, every minute counts.
