Cortex Neurovascular — Neurovascular Subspecialty Care

Your First Visit

We want your first visit to go smoothly. Here is what you can expect when you come to see our neurovascular team.

Check In

If you are seeing us in clinic (not for a procedure), arrive 15 minutes before your appointment to complete any remaining paperwork. Our front desk team will verify your information and insurance details.

Consultation

You will meet with your neurovascular specialist, who will review your medical history, discuss your symptoms or condition, and answer any questions you may have.

Evaluation

Your provider may review existing imaging studies or order additional diagnostic tests to better understand your condition and determine the best course of action.

Discussion & Plan

Your specialist will explain their assessment, walk you through recommended next steps, and make sure you understand your treatment options. Our goal is to ensure you feel informed and confident about your care.

How to Prepare for Your Procedure

Proper preparation helps ensure your procedure goes smoothly and safely. Your care team will provide specific instructions tailored to your treatment, but the following general guidelines apply to most neurovascular procedures.

Arrive 1 Hour Before Your Procedure

Arrive one hour before your scheduled procedure time to complete pre-procedure preparation, including check-in, consent forms, vital signs, and any necessary prep work. This extra time ensures everything is ready so your procedure can start on schedule.

Follow Fasting Instructions

If your procedure requires sedation, you will be instructed not to eat or drink for a specified period before your appointment. This is a critical safety requirement — please follow these instructions exactly.

Discuss Medications

Tell your provider about all medications, supplements, and vitamins you are currently taking. You may be asked to temporarily stop certain medications, such as blood thinners, before your procedure. Never stop a medication without first consulting your care team.

Arrange Transportation

Most neurovascular procedures require sedation or anesthesia, which means you will not be able to drive yourself home afterward. Please arrange for a responsible adult to accompany you and drive you home after the procedure.

Plan for Recovery Time

Depending on the type of procedure, you may need anywhere from a few hours to several days of recovery. Ask your care team what to expect so you can plan work, childcare, and other obligations accordingly.

Leave Valuables at Home

Do not bring jewelry, large amounts of cash, or other valuables to the procedure center. Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that is easy to change in and out of.

What to Bring to Your Appointment

Having the right items with you helps your visit go efficiently.

Valid photo ID (driver's license or state ID)

Insurance card(s)

Referral paperwork (if required by your insurance)

Relevant imaging studies on CD or USB (CT, MRI, angiography)

Complete list of current medications, including dosages

List of allergies and past surgical history

Contact information for your primary care physician and any referring providers

Copayment or payment method, if applicable

Aftercare & Recovery

Your recovery is just as important as the procedure itself. Below are general guidelines — your care team will provide specific instructions based on your treatment.

Follow Post-Procedure Instructions

Your specialist will provide detailed discharge instructions. These may include activity restrictions, wound care for the access site, and follow-up timing. Follow these instructions carefully and contact our office if you have any questions.

Monitor the Access Site

If your procedure involved a catheter through the groin or wrist, you will have a small access site. Keep it clean and dry for the first 24–48 hours. Some mild bruising or tenderness is normal, but watch for signs of infection or excessive swelling.

Stay Hydrated and Rest

Drink plenty of water after your procedure to help flush the contrast dye from your system. Take it easy for the first 24–48 hours, and gradually resume normal activities as directed by your care team.

Medications

Your provider may prescribe new medications or adjust your current ones. Take all medications exactly as directed and do not stop or change doses without consulting your care team.

Follow-Up Appointments

Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments. These visits allow your specialist to monitor your recovery, check on the treated area, and make any necessary adjustments to your care plan.

When to Call Our Office

Contact our office if you experience worsening pain, new or unusual symptoms, fever, increasing redness or swelling at the access site, or any concerns about your recovery. We are here to help.

When to Call 911 vs. Our Office

Call 911 Immediately If You Experience:

●Sudden numbness or weakness on one side of the face or body

●Sudden confusion, trouble speaking, or difficulty understanding speech

●Sudden vision loss or changes in one or both eyes

●Sudden difficulty walking, dizziness, or loss of balance

●Sudden severe headache with no known cause

●Seizure or loss of consciousness

●Difficulty breathing or chest pain

Call Our Office For:

●Mild pain or tenderness at the procedure access site

●Minor bruising or slight swelling around the access site

●Questions about medications or post-procedure instructions

●Scheduling or rescheduling follow-up appointments

●General questions about your condition or treatment plan

●Concerns that are not life-threatening emergencies

(833) 4-CORTEX

Referrals & Insurance

We work with most major insurance providers and are committed to making the referral and scheduling process as smooth as possible.

Referring Providers

We accept referrals from physicians across the region. Our team coordinates closely with referring providers to ensure seamless communication and continuity of care. Providers can refer patients by calling our office or using our secure referral form.

Insurance Coverage

We accept most major insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid. Our billing team will verify your benefits before your appointment and can help answer questions about coverage, copays, and prior authorizations.

Prior Authorization

Some procedures require prior authorization from your insurance plan. Our office handles the authorization process on your behalf and will keep you informed of the status.

Self-Pay Options

For patients without insurance, we offer transparent self-pay pricing and payment plans. Please contact our office for more information about costs and payment arrangements.