Know the Facts
A remarkable transformation in stroke care has occurred over the last two decades with the development of evidence-based stroke detection, increased access to advanced care, and improved emergency management of stroke.
A Breakthrough Treatment
Mechanical thrombectomy (MT) is considered a breakthrough in stroke treatment for large vessel occlusion (LVO) strokes. The mechanical removal of blood clots from blood vessels supplying the brain leads to better outcomes for stroke patients, including faster and greater independence and mobility. Numerous clinical trials established proof of better outcomes with MT in 2015, leading to widespread adoption.
Despite the effectiveness of treatment, less than 3% of patients globally are estimated to receive this life-saving therapy each year.
Benefits of Thrombectomy
Mechanical thrombectomy has become a game changer in the field of stroke care. This treatment may:
- Restore speech and mobility
- Reverse paralysis
- Ensure a return to a quality of life closer to the patient’s pre-stroke quality of life than without thrombectomy
- Enable patients are able to return as contributors to family and community
- Reduce long-term healthcare costs from long-term disability and adverse effects from stroke complications
Thrombectomy Across the Globe
On a global level, access to mechanical thrombectomy is extremely low.
Based on income level, access to this treatment varies between countries, but wealth isn’t the only factor. The implementation of mechanical thrombectomy is impacted by other elements as well, including prehospital LVO triage policies and mechanical thrombectomy operator and stroke center availability.
Mechanical thrombectomy is costly but is cost-effective.
