Interview Spotlight - Can AI Make Stroke Imaging Simpler and Smarter?
In a recent ESOC 2025 interview, our lab director shared insights from an exciting new frontier in acute stroke triage: imaging simplification through artificial intelligence.
For years, advanced imaging like CT perfusion has been crucial for identifying large vessel occlusions (LVO) and guiding treatment. But what if we could achieve similar accuracy—with just a plain CT scan?
Working alongside industry partners, our team has contributed to AI software capable of doing just that. Now, through the Done Simple Trial, we’re evaluating whether these tools can match the performance of advanced imaging in selecting stroke patients, even in the ultra-late window (24–72 hours).
If successful, this approach could make stroke triage more accessible worldwide—especially in settings with limited imaging infrastructure.
Interview Spotlight - How MAP-STROKE Could Change Stroke Triage Forever
We’re happy to share that our lab director was interviewed at ESOC 2025 about the MAP-STROKE project—a major NIH-funded initiative redefining how EMS teams triage stroke patients before they ever reach a hospital.
In this 3-minute conversation, he explains:
How the algorithm integrates real-time field data and hospital capabilities
Why LVO and non-LVO patients need different routing
The science behind over 300 million simulated strokes across the U.S.
What the model showed: shorter treatment delays, better outcomes, especially in rural areas
Why a clinical trial is the next vital step
📰 Learn more about MAP-STROKE in the official ESOC press release HERE
Time is Brain
"Mechanical thrombectomy saves lives—but only if patients can reach it in time. That’s why SVIN is committed to advancing stroke systems of care globally and making this lifesaving treatment a standard, not a luxury" Dr. Ortega-Gutierrez
🔬 Stroke in the Extended Window? DONE SYMPLE May Have an Answer
What happens when cutting-edge AI, neurointervention, and global health equity come together? The answer might be DONE SYMPLE—a landmark clinical trial led by Dr. Santiago Ortega-Gutiérrez, aiming to extend stroke treatment up to 72 hours using only a standard CT scan. This bold approach could reshape how stroke is treated around the world.
DONE SYMPLE Clinical Trial
The Cerebrovascular Lab at University of Iowa is leading the DONE SYMPLE clinical study with principal investigators Dr. Ortega-Gutierrez, Dr. Ribó, and Dr. Tudor Jovin, in collaboration with Methinks AI. The study evaluates artificial intelligence for non-contrast CT stroke diagnosis.
🎙️ Dr. Santiago Ortega-Gutiérrez Joins ACCESS Podcast
Explore the evolving conversation around chronic carotid artery occlusions in a compelling episode of the ACCESS podcast by the Stroke: Vascular and Interventional Neurology journal.
Dr. Santiago Ortega-Gutiérrez, Director of Neurointerventional Surgery at the University of Iowa, joins Dr. Vera Sharashidze of NYU to break down the complexities of diagnosing, classifying, and treating this challenging condition. From clinical imaging nuances to endovascular strategies and trial design insights, the episode offers a deep dive into current practice and future directions.
🧠 Vision Saved Through Precision and Teamwork UI Surgeons Perform Rare Eye-Brain Procedure
When Christi Eldred faced a rare and dangerous condition threatening her vision and life, she turned to the expertise of University of Iowa surgeons. Dr. Santiago Ortega-Gutiérrez, neurointerventional specialist and lab principal investigator, teamed up with oculoplastic surgeon Dr. Erin Shriver for a groundbreaking, two-part surgery that successfully treated Eldred’s carotid cavernous fistula—a feat made possible only through cross-specialty collaboration.