Overview of Lecce's Stroke Network
Lecce’s stroke network covers an area of approximately 800,000 residents, one of the largest catchment areas in southern Italy. At its core, Vito Fazzi Hospital acts as the main hub, coordinating acute stroke care and advanced thrombectomy services. Through an expanded neurointerventional program, the hospital has nearly doubled the number of thrombectomies performed in recent years, bringing lifesaving treatment closer to every corner of the province.
This initiative is led by Dr. Adriana Paladini, Director of the Diagnostic and Interventional Neuroradiology Unit at Vito Fazzi Hospital. Working to balance clinical leadership, resource management, and high-pressure decision-making, she plays a pivotal role in shaping stroke care for the region.
Leading With Respect
Her leadership philosophy centers on respect and structure. “I like to put order among my collaborators, never to command,” she says. By fostering shared rules and mutual trust, Dr. Paladini builds a solid rapport, and ensures her team can focus entirely on what matters most - patient well-being.

Facing the Daily Challenges, Together
That human-centered approach guides her through daily challenges such as staffing shortages and resource pressures. “We must avoid prejudice and stereotypes,” she stresses. “Our focus should be on professionalism and patient care.”
To support her team’s efficiency, Dr. Paladini embraces technology as an ally. She highlights Brainomix 360 Stroke as a trusted extension of her workflow: “I love the speed of the results. It arrives in real time on my phone, allowing us to plan quickly for potential interventions.”
For her, innovation and leadership work together, hand in hand. “Brainomix facilitates results in the immediacy of interpretation, complementing our work and strengthening our ability to deliver effective stroke care.”