Mechanical Thrombectomy – Redefining Stroke Intervention

Mechanical Thrombectomy for Stroke Care

Mechanical thrombectomy is a minimally invasive, catheter-based procedure designed to remove blood clots from arteries, most commonly in the treatment of acute ischemic stroke. A catheter is carefully guided through the blood vessels, usually from the groin, to the site of the blockage. Once positioned, devices such as stent retrievers or aspiration catheters are used to capture and extract the clot, restoring blood flow to the brain.

Endovascular Mechanical Thrombectomy (EMT) is typically recommended for patients with large vessel occlusions, particularly when thrombolytic therapy is unsuitable or ineffective. With a treatment window of up to 24 hours in select cases, EMT can be a crucial option for timely intervention. The procedure is performed by a neurointerventional specialist, who navigates the catheter to the affected artery and removes the thrombus, aiming to re-establish circulation.

Key Benefits and Recovery

• Restoration of Blood Flow: Helps reopen blocked arteries and improve brain circulation
• Minimally Invasive Approach: Catheter-based treatment avoids the need for major surgical intervention
• Recovery Potential: Some patients may regain mobility in a relatively short period if treated early and if brain injury is limited.

Outcomes depend primarily on the extent of the stroke

At Yashoda Hospitals, comprehensive stroke care is delivered through specialized services, including:

• “Stroke Care on Wheels” emergency response ambulances
• Advanced treatments such as mechanical thrombectomy and thrombolysis
• A Bi-Plane Cath Lab designed for complex neurovascular procedures
• Dedicated Neuro ICU and Neuro Angio Procedure Suite
• Multidisciplinary teams comprising neurologists, neurosurgeons, and allied specialist