Fundamentals of the neurologic examination for patients undergoing central nervous system interventional procedures.

The basic neurologic history and exam for the interventional radiologist performing intracranial procedures need not be exhaustive and will not supplant that by neurologic specialist. It should include a pertinent history, focused neurologic exam, and a brief physical exam. The interventional radiologist should be familiar with the grading scales commonly used for patients with intracranial pathology to understand the severity and prognosis of various pathologies. The goal of the examination is to mitigate risk, direct the evaluation, aid in medical decision making, and allow the establishment of an appropriate physician-patient relationship.