The ASPECTS scale

The ASPECTS (Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score) is a tool clinicians use to assess early brain scans (CT scans) of patients with ischemic stroke. It helps determine the amount of brain damage by scoring specific regions within the brain's middle cerebral artery territory. The score ranges from 10 (no damage) to 0 (extensive damage). A higher score suggests less brain injury and a better chance for successful treatment, while a lower score indicates more widespread damage and potentially poorer outcomes. ASPECTS helps guide treatment decisions and predict prognosis.