Explore the fundamentals of stroke in this comprehensive lecture by Dr. Gregory W. Albers, Director of the Stanford Stroke Center. Delve into the importance of stroke prevention and rapid treatment, covering pioneering medical therapies, innovative neurosurgical techniques, and groundbreaking interventional neuroradiologic procedures. Learn about stroke morbidity, mortality, and associated costs, as well as the different types of strokes, their causes, and risk factors. Discover effective strategies for reducing stroke risk, including blood pressure control and medication choices. Examine surgical treatments for carotid stenosis and the latest advancements in acute stroke treatment, such as tissue plasminogen activator (t-PA) and the MERCI Retrieval System. Gain valuable insights into stroke prevention, diagnosis, and treatment through a comprehensive overview and a detailed case study.