First in Durham Region: New Technology Advances Life-Saving Stroke Care

DURHAM REGION, September 28, 2026 – When someone is having a stroke, every second matters. A blood clot can block blood and oxygen from reaching the brain, quickly causing damage. For the first time in Durham Region, Lakeridge Health stroke teams have access to advanced brain imaging that can help better understand what is happening and determine the right treatment. 

Called CT Perfusion with RapidAI, the technology is now available at Ajax Pickering and Oshawa Hospitals. “CT Perfusion” is a specialized CT scan that shows how blood is flowing through the brain. “RapidAI” uses artificial intelligence (AI) to quickly analyze images. This helps doctors see which areas of the brain may be damaged and which may still be saved with treatment. 

Lakeridge Health already administers clot-busting medication for acute stroke in appropriate cases, and this new imaging technology will help guide this therapy. For some patients, treatment may involve physically removing the clot using specialized procedures to restore blood flow to the brain. With this new imaging technology available locally, we can more quickly identify the right patients that may benefit from transfer to a specialized stroke centre in Toronto. 

“We’re proud to offer this enhanced brain scan which strengthens stroke care for people across Durham Region,” said Dr. Randy Wax, Chief of Staff, Lakeridge Health. “Having this technology here means more care can begin closer to home, while keeping patients connected to specialized stroke centres when they need them. We are also another step closer to developing our own comprehensive stroke centre here in Durham Region.” 

For some patients, treatment may involve removing the clot to restore blood flow to the brain. If specialized treatment is needed, Lakeridge Health can use the information from the scan to help coordinate a transfer to a regional stroke centre in Toronto. 

“This technology gives our physicians and clinical teams more detailed information to support safe, informed treatment decisions,” said Lorel Morrison, Program Director, Diagnostic Imaging and Lab, Lakeridge Health. “Combined with their clinical expertise, it helps them better understand what each patient needs and determine the right care.” 

The arrival of CT perfusion with RapidAI expands how Lakeridge Health uses innovative technology to support patient care. It follows July’s launch of the Stryker 4.0 Orthopedic Robotics Platform at Ajax Pickering Hospital, which allows surgical teams to plan and perform joint replacement procedures with an even greater level of precision. From planned surgery to urgent stroke assessment, these investments put Lakeridge Health’s 2026–2031 Strategic Plan priority of Innovation and Technology for Better Care into practice, making a meaningful difference for patients and families. 

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About Lakeridge Health   

Lakeridge Health is one of Ontario’s largest community health systems, serving Durham Region and beyond through five hospitals, a same-day surgical centre, a long-term care home and more than 30 community locations. Guided by its vision, One System. Best Health., Lakeridge Health provides a broad range of acute, ambulatory, community and specialized services, while advancing education, research and partnerships that connect care across the region. Learn more at lh.ca. 

For more information, contact: 

Strategic Communications Media  

communications@lh.ca