Dr. Arsida Bajrami is an interventional neurologist whose hands have guided countless patients back from the brink of devastating stroke outcomes. From the moment she witnessed her first successful endovascular procedure in 2015—watching a 41-year-old patient reclaim their life within hours—to her current position at the vanguard of Istanbul Aydın University's Stroke Center, Dr. Bajrami has forged a path marked by breaking through barriers in a system where consensus often remains elusive.
Meet Dr. Arsida Bajrami
I am Arsida Bajrami, an interventional neurologist practicing at Istanbul Aydın University and Florya Medicalpark Stroke Center. My passion for stroke intervention began in 2015 when I witnessed the transformative results of the MR CLEAN study presented in Istanbul. That same year, I had the privilege of diagnosing and participating in the endovascular treatment of a 41-year-old patient with large vessel occlusion who recovered fully within 24 hours. Witnessing this remarkable recovery left me speechless and ignited my determination to immerse myself in the stroke field.
A Multidisciplinary Approach to Excellence
My journey to becoming an interventional neurologist has been both rewarding and challenging. Unlike many European institutions, I trained in a setting where neurology and radiology specialists worked collaboratively under the same stroke organization. This multidisciplinary approach, guided by principles of inclusivity, has profoundly shaped my clinical and interventional experience.
"My clinical and interventional experience was shaped by encountering numerous cases, guided by principles of a multidisciplinary approach and inclusivity, joining the forces of neurology and radiology. I've witnessed firsthand the tremendous positive impact when two disciplines unite to improve stroke care."
Embracing Technological Innovation
In stroke treatment, speed is crucial, yet making life-altering decisions in minutes presents significant challenges. Over the past decade, the stroke pathway has evolved from patient selection to occlusion detection, making artificial intelligence increasingly important in clinical practice.
Working at one of the world's busiest thrombectomy centers has afforded me experience with various artificial intelligence platforms that facilitate faster and more accurate diagnoses for both large and small-medium vessel occlusions.
"The multidisciplinary and inclusive environment of my training, where neurology and radiology seamlessly joined forces, profoundly shaped my clinical and interventional experience. This firsthand exposure demonstrated the tremendous positive impact this collaborative approach can bring towards improving stroke care. "
Key Innovations in Practice
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Integration of AI platforms like Brainomix to expedite diagnosis and treatment decisions
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Development of a multidisciplinary approach combining neurological and radiological expertise
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Promotion of stroke education and awareness throughout Türkiye
Navigating Challenges in Turkish Healthcare
Despite the advances in stroke treatment, practicing in Türkiye presents unique challenges. The lack of defined subspecialty programs for neurointerventional therapies makes maintaining professional standards and expertise particularly difficult. This disconnect between global progress and local infrastructure has been a persistent obstacle in Dr. Bajrami's career.
"I think the most fundamental problem is that there is no subspecialty program defined for neurointerventional therapies in Türkiye, regardless of physician's background. Therefore, it is very difficult to try to continue a profession that requires great discipline in an environment with unmet needs."
Breaking Gender Barriers in Interventional Neurology
As a woman in a traditionally male-dominated field, Dr. Bajrami has faced unique challenges. Yet her experience offers valuable insights into creating more inclusive environments in interventional neurology.
"Although we all know the difficulties that come with being a woman in this field, I am incredibly lucky to have the opportunity to work with many peers in the same clinic. I deeply believe that women empowering and supporting each other is the main key for addressing gender-based issues in interventional neuroradiology."
However, broader institutional and social barriers persist, even as Dr. Bajrami experiences positive collaboration within her immediate team. "Being recognized worldwide for your work but left unnoticed in your own country is the mismatch of our daily practice. Lack of collaboration reflects in each step of the stroke chain."
Bridging Divides Through Technology
Dr. Bajrami sees artificial intelligence systems as potential bridges between specialties, creating a common language that can facilitate better communication and collaboration.
"AI systems make stroke accessible to interpret across different specialties, creating a kind of common language. Once you find that language, communication can begin. The power of inclusivity and acceptance should overcome barriers."
Advice for Aspiring Interventional Neurologists
For those considering a career in interventional neurology and stroke care, Dr. Bajrami offers this guidance:
"Understanding the nature of the disease is crucial. Being a competitive field, resilience is the key. Stroke and technology are evolving together and rapidly, so staying updated is essential. Collaboration is fundamental for good stroke care."
Dr. Bajrami's work exemplifies how dedication to excellence, embracing innovation, and championing collaboration can transform stroke treatment even in challenging environments. Her contributions continue to shape the future of interventional neurology in Türkiye and inspire practitioners worldwide.
Stay tuned for more editions of Stroke Visionaries – Women at the Forefront.
