Mechanical Thrombectomy for Acute Ischemic Stroke
Mechanical thrombectomy is an emergency, minimally invasive procedure used to remove a blood clot blocking a major artery in the brain during an acute ischemic stroke. Restoring blood flow quickly can help limit brain injury and reduce the risk of long-term disability.
Who May Need Mechanical Thrombectomy?
The procedure is primarily considered for eligible patients with a large vessel occlusion (LVO). Doctors use brain and blood-vessel imaging, such as CT, CT angiography or MRI, along with the patient's clinical condition to determine whether thrombectomy is appropriate. Selected patients may remain eligible several hours after symptoms begin, including up to 24 hours in certain circumstances.
How Is the Procedure Performed?
A specialist guides a thin catheter through an artery, commonly from the groin or wrist, toward the blocked blood vessel in the brain. Using X-ray imaging, the clot can be removed with a stent retriever, suction catheter, or a combination of techniques.
Benefits and Recovery
The primary goal is to restore circulation to the affected area of the brain as quickly as possible. After treatment, patients require close monitoring in a stroke or intensive care setting, followed by individualized rehabilitation when appropriate. Recovery varies according to the location and severity of the stroke, overall health, and how quickly blood flow is restored.