What Is Mechanical Thrombectomy?

Mechanical thrombectomy is a minimally invasive procedure used to remove a blood clot from a blocked artery in the brain. It is one of the most advanced treatments for ischemic stroke—where a clot stops blood flow to parts of the brain.

Unlike the clot-busting drug (IV tPA), which must be given within 4.5 hours of stroke onset, mechanical thrombectomy extends the treatment window up to 24 hours for selected patients, based on brain imaging and clinical condition.

• Why it matters: Every second counts during a stroke. This treatment can save lives and prevent long-term disability when done in time.

Who Is Eligible for Mechanical Thrombectomy?

Doctors may recommend this procedure for patients who:

• Have a large vessel ischemic stroke
• Arrive at the hospital within 6–24 hours after symptoms begin
• Show viable brain tissue on a CT or MRI scan
• Are assessed by a stroke specialist or neurointervention team

Eligibility is based on imaging and clinical evaluation—not just time alone.

How the Procedure Works: Step-by-Step

1. Access
   A catheter is inserted through the groin or wrist and guided toward the brain.
2. Navigation
   Using real-time X-ray imaging, the doctor moves the catheter to the blocked artery.
3. Clot Removal
   Devices like stent retrievers (Solitaire, Trevo) or aspiration catheters (Penumbra) are used to extract the clot.
4. Blood Flow Restored
   An angiogram is used to confirm that blood is flowing again to the brain.
5. Post-Procedural Care
   The patient is closely monitored in the ICU, followed by medications and stroke rehabilitation.

Benefits of Mechanical Thrombectomy

Patients treated with this procedure at leading neuro hospitals in Chennai experience:

• Faster neurological recovery
• Higher chances of independent living at 90 days
• Reduced risk of complications and brain damage
• Improved outcomes when combined with IV tPA

Risks and Limitations

As with any medical procedure, there are some risks:

Potential Risks

• Bleeding in the brain (intracranial hemorrhage)
• Injury to blood vessels
• New clot formation (distal embolism)

Limitations

• Requires specialized neurointerventional setup
• Not suitable if extensive brain damage has already occurred
• Needs post-procedure monitoring, imaging, and physiotherapy

Real-World Impact

“We had a patient who was unable to speak or move one side. Within hours of thrombectomy, her speech returned and she began walking with assistance the next day. It’s a game-changer in stroke care.”

– Dr. Aravinth Kumar A, Senior Neurologist, MGM Healthcare Malar

Where to Get Treatment

At MGM Healthcare Malar, we provide 24/7 stroke care with:

• An expert team of neurologists and neurosurgeons
• Rapid imaging and diagnosis
• Minimally invasive intervention and full rehabilitation support

Visit: MGM Neurosciences Department

Call: 099625 99933

Final Thoughts

Mechanical thrombectomy is transforming stroke treatment in India. If you or your loved one experiences sudden stroke symptoms—like facial drooping, arm weakness, or slurred speech—don’t wait. Seek immediate medical help. Early treatment could save a life and prevent permanent disability.