Mechanical Thrombectomy for Stroke
Mechanical thrombectomy for stroke
When the brain is starved of oxygen, neurons starts dying. It is, however, possible to reverse the damage to some extent or in full, with the help of mechanical thrombectomy. In simple words, mechanical thrombectomy treat brain stroke by removing the clot that causes the clogging of the arteries carrying blood to the brain.
Blood vessels to the brain may narrow down naturally over time due to the deposit of fats or plaque. This is why patients who have high levels of cholesterol are supposed to get themselves screened regularly for clogs. Imaging such as CT or MRI scan can help estimate the blockade so that a doctor can recommend whether the patient can use mechanical thrombectomy as a resource for treatment.
Mechanical thrombectomy has to be carried out within 6 hours of the last known normal and in some cases up to 24 hours.
The factors working against mechanical thrombectomy are multi-fold:
- Logistical factors : Patients may not be aware of the brain stroke and the need for immediate treatment. The application of intra-arterial thrombectomy is required within the window of stroke. This window for treatment has been extended to a period of 24 hours from the last known normalcy.
- Another logistical factor is the availability of hospitals that are equipped to carry out mechanical thrombectomy. In sites where the resources and expertise required to conduct mechanical thrombectomy is not available, an intravenous intervention can be used as a stop-gap until the patient reaches a suitable facility.
Given the above constraints, and considering that not all ischemic stroke victims qualify for mechanical thrombectomy, the use of tPA is a recourse to be used – as a stop-gap or as an alternative. tPA stands for tissue plasminogen activator and is the only drug approved by the Food and Drug Administration agency of the United States Department of Health and Human Services.
The process involves introducing a catheter bearing a stent retriever into the site of the occlusion. X-ray powered imaging is carried out side-by-side so that the stent goes past the clot, expands, and retraces its path, bringing the clot out with it. This clears the path for the blood flow to resume.
Where tPA is ineffective, especially when the clot to be broken up is too large, Mechanical Thrombectomy is used in combination with a stent retriever.
The effects of mechanical thrombectomy are almost immediate in some cases and the patient can become mobile again. The patient will take 3 months to improve in the majority of the cases.
Looking for Neuro
Surgeon?
Simply give us a call and book an appointment for yourself. We are here to help. Walk into our Hospital and let us take a closer look to suggest the best treatment you need.
