Endovascular Thrombectomy for Stroke in Chennai for Bangladesh Patients

For many patients in Bangladesh facing a stroke, the urgent need for specialized care like Endovascular Thrombectomy can bring significant worry. The search for effective, timely treatment options often extends beyond local borders, leading to questions about advanced medical facilities and expert opinions.

This is why many families consider destinations like Chennai, known for its established healthcare infrastructure. Patients look for a care environment where sophisticated neurological interventions are readily available, alongside efficient coordination for international visitors seeking critical treatment for stroke.

Chennai's hospitals and neurological specialists offer a strong foundation of trust, built on extensive experience with complex stroke cases. The city provides a comprehensive care pathway, ensuring smooth transitions from initial assessment to treatment and post-procedure follow-ups, which is crucial for conditions like stroke.

Chennai offers a focused and reliable option for Endovascular Thrombectomy for stroke patients.

What is Endovascular Thrombectomy for Stroke?

Endovascular Thrombectomy is an advanced medical procedure used to remove a blood clot from a large artery in the brain, restoring blood flow. This intervention is critical for certain types of acute ischemic stroke, where a clot blocks the supply of oxygen-rich blood to brain tissue. Performed by neuro-interventional specialists, the procedure involves inserting a catheter into an artery, usually in the groin, and navigating it to the clot's location in the brain. Using specialized devices like stent retrievers or aspiration catheters, the clot is carefully removed, aiming to minimize brain damage and improve patient outcomes when performed within a critical time window after stroke onset.

Techniques in Endovascular Thrombectomy

When is Endovascular Thrombectomy Required?

• Acute ischemic stroke caused by a large vessel occlusion in the anterior circulation (e.g., ICA, M1, M2 segments).
• Onset of stroke symptoms typically within 6 to 24 hours for selected patients, though earlier intervention is always preferred for better outcomes.
• Presence of significant neurological deficits, often indicated by a high NIHSS (National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale) score.
• Imaging confirmation (CT angiography or MRI) of a large vessel occlusion amenable to thrombectomy.
• Absence of extensive irreversible brain damage in the affected area, as determined by imaging studies.
• Patients who are not candidates for intravenous thrombolysis, or who have failed intravenous thrombolysis.
• No contraindications to the procedure, such as severe bleeding disorders or intracranial hemorrhage.

Pre-Treatment Evaluation for Stroke Intervention

• Neurological Assessment: A rapid and comprehensive neurological exam to determine the severity and location of the stroke.
• Brain Imaging: Urgent CT scan of the brain, often followed by CT angiography (CTA) to identify the clot location and extent of damage. MRI with diffusion-weighted imaging might also be used.
• Blood Tests: Complete blood count, coagulation profile (PT, INR, aPTT), blood sugar, kidney function, and liver function tests.
• Cardiac Evaluation: Electrocardiogram (ECG) and sometimes an echocardiogram to assess heart health and identify potential sources of clots.
• Blood Pressure Monitoring: Close monitoring and management of blood pressure to ensure it is within a safe range before and during the procedure.
• Medical History Review: Assessment of past medical conditions, current medications, and allergies, especially to contrast dye.

How Endovascular Thrombectomy is Performed

The Endovascular Thrombectomy procedure is highly specialized and is tailored based on the individual's condition and the specific stroke characteristics.

Recovery Process After Endovascular Thrombectomy

Recovery following Endovascular Thrombectomy varies significantly depending on the stroke's severity, the extent of brain damage, and the patient's overall health. Immediately after the procedure, patients are typically transferred to an intensive care unit (ICU) for close monitoring of neurological status, blood pressure, and vital signs. Early mobilization and rehabilitation are crucial. Physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy often begin soon after the patient stabilizes, aiming to regain lost functions. The duration of hospital stay can range from a few days to several weeks. Follow-up appointments with neurologists are essential to monitor progress, manage risk factors for future strokes, and adjust medication. Long-term recovery is a continuous process that may involve ongoing rehabilitation at home or in a specialized facility.

Risks and Success Rates of Endovascular Thrombectomy

• Potential Complications: There is a risk of bleeding at the access site or within the brain.
• Vessel Damage: Damage or dissection of blood vessels during catheter navigation is a rare but serious risk.
• Embolism: Fragments of the clot could break off and travel to other parts of the brain, causing new blockages.
• Infection: As with any invasive procedure, there is a risk of infection at the catheter insertion site.
• Contrast Reactions: Allergic reactions to the contrast dye used during imaging are possible.
• Recurrent Stroke: Though the procedure addresses the acute clot, underlying risk factors for future strokes remain.

The success rates of Endovascular Thrombectomy in achieving reperfusion (restoring blood flow) are generally high, often exceeding 80-90% in experienced centers. Clinical outcomes, however, vary widely based on factors such as the time from stroke onset to treatment, the patient's age, the extent of pre-existing brain damage, and the severity of the stroke. Patients treated early within the recommended time windows tend to have better functional outcomes, including reduced disability. Long-term expectations focus on ongoing rehabilitation and secondary stroke prevention strategies to maintain improvements and minimize recurrence risks.

Cost of Endovascular Thrombectomy for Stroke in Chennai

The cost of Endovascular Thrombectomy for stroke in Chennai is influenced by several factors. These include the specific hospital chosen (e.g., multi-specialty corporate hospitals vs. smaller specialized centers), the experience and fees of the neuro-interventional specialist, the complexity of the clot removal, the devices used, and the duration of the hospital stay, particularly in the ICU. Post-operative care, including rehabilitation and medications, also contributes to the overall expenditure.

For Endovascular Thrombectomy in Chennai, the estimated cost typically ranges from INR 6,50,000 to INR 15,00,000.

Assistance for Your Treatment Journey in Chennai

• Expert coordination for quick appointments with leading neuro-interventional specialists in Chennai.
• Personalized guidance on hospital selection based on your specific medical needs and budget.
• Support with travel arrangements and comfortable accommodation options in Chennai.
• Assistance with visa application processes and medical travel documentation.
• Dedicated language support and translation services for seamless communication.
• Guidance on local transportation and essential services during your stay.

Important Medical Documents for Your Visit

• All recent medical reports, including CT/MRI scans and angiography reports related to the stroke.
• A detailed medical history from your referring doctor in Bangladesh.
• Passport and visa documents for all traveling individuals.
• Proof of address and contact information for local relatives or emergency contacts.
• A list of all current medications, including dosages.
• Any previous discharge summaries or treatment records.

Steps to Prepare Before You Arrive in Chennai

• Consult with your local doctor to confirm Endovascular Thrombectomy is the recommended path.
• Collect all necessary medical records and personal identification documents.
• Arrange for your travel and accommodation logistics in Chennai in advance.
• Discuss your dietary needs and any specific cultural considerations with our team.
• Ensure you have sufficient funds or travel insurance for the medical expenses and stay.
• Understand the pre-procedure instructions provided by the Chennai medical team.

Recovery and Follow-Up Care After Treatment

• Adherence to all medication schedules and follow-up instructions from your neurologist.
• Participation in prescribed rehabilitation therapies (physical, occupational, speech) as advised.
• Regular monitoring of blood pressure and blood sugar levels, if applicable.
• Careful attention to diet and lifestyle changes to prevent future strokes.
• Scheduling necessary follow-up scans or consultations, either in Chennai or back home.
• Avoiding strenuous activities and heavy lifting during the initial recovery period.

Ready to Explore Treatment Options?

Connect with our patient care team today to understand how we can support your journey for Endovascular Thrombectomy in Chennai.