Kelly D. Flemming, M.D.

The goal of Kelly D. Flemming, M.D., is to further elucidate the clinical outcomes in patients with cavernous malformations of the brain. How these lesions behave over time is important to patients who have them. Dr. Flemming and her colleagues are currently studying bleeding risk, seizure risk, risk during pregnancy and risk associated with various medications.

Over the years, Dr. Flemming has seen a disparity in the post-hospitalization treatment of stroke survivors, so another goal is to improve care as patients transition from hospital to home. This includes assessing and treating vascular risk factors, identifying patients at risk of rehospitalization and complications from stroke, and ultimately reducing further stroke and other vascular events. Dr. Flemming works to do this from a patient-centered approach aimed at meeting a patient's goals.

Focus areas

• Natural history of intracerebral cavernous malformations
• Natural history of fusiform aneurysms and intracerebral dolichoectasia
• Stroke prevention and models of delivery
• Stroke center quality improvement and outcome

Significance to patient care

By further elucidating the natural history of cavernous malformations, clinicians can help patients know what to expect and ultimately prevent complications from these lesions. Knowing the natural history — what happens if you do nothing — can help physicians and patients compare the risks and benefits of surgery.

Improving patient care during transitions will potentially reduce rehospitalizations and recurrent vascular events. Aiming to do this from a patient-centered approach will hopefully lead to improved adherence to lifestyle changes and medication use.