Endovascular Thrombectomy for Stroke in India for Bangladesh Patients

For many patients from Bangladesh facing an acute stroke, the immediate concern is securing the best possible urgent care. The critical time window for effective intervention often leads to worries about accessing advanced treatment quickly and efficiently. This urgent need for specialized neurological intervention is paramount.

Patients often look beyond their immediate geographical reach when seeking highly specialized procedures like Endovascular Thrombectomy. India offers a nationwide network of advanced medical facilities across various cities, providing accessible options for complex neurological care that might not be readily available elsewhere.

The medical infrastructure in India has earned global trust, featuring a wide array of accredited hospitals and highly skilled neurointerventional specialists. These facilities are equipped with modern technology, ensuring comprehensive and expert care from initial diagnosis through to recovery across the country.

India stands as a reliable destination for advanced stroke interventions.

What is Endovascular Thrombectomy for Stroke?

Endovascular Thrombectomy (EVT) is a minimally invasive medical procedure used to remove a blood clot from a large artery in the brain. This treatment is crucial for patients experiencing an acute ischemic stroke, which occurs when a clot blocks blood flow to part of the brain. By restoring blood flow quickly, EVT aims to minimize brain damage and improve patient outcomes, often within a critical time window after stroke onset. It involves guiding a catheter through blood vessels to the clot and then physically removing it.

Approaches in Endovascular Thrombectomy

When is Endovascular Thrombectomy for Stroke Required?

• Acute ischemic stroke caused by a large vessel occlusion in the brain.
• Treatment initiation typically within 6 to 24 hours of symptom onset, depending on specific imaging criteria.
• Significant neurological impairment as assessed by stroke scales.
• Evidence of a treatable clot on advanced brain imaging such as CT angiography or MR angiography.
• When intravenous thrombolysis (clot-busting medication) is ineffective, contraindicated, or fails to open the blocked vessel.
• Patient age and overall health status are suitable for the procedure.

Pre-Treatment Evaluation for Stroke

• Neurological Examination: A rapid assessment to determine the extent of stroke symptoms and neurological deficits.
• CT Scan or MRI of the Brain: To confirm the stroke type (ischemic or hemorrhagic) and rule out other conditions.
• CT Angiography (CTA) or MR Angiography (MRA): Imaging to visualize the brain's blood vessels and identify the exact location and size of the clot.
• Perfusion Imaging (CTP or MRP): To assess the amount of salvageable brain tissue (penumbra) around the core infarct.
• Blood Tests: Including complete blood count, coagulation profile, kidney function, and blood glucose levels.
• Electrocardiogram (ECG) and Cardiac Assessment: To evaluate heart function, as cardiac issues can be a cause of stroke.

How Endovascular Thrombectomy for Stroke is Performed

The procedure for Endovascular Thrombectomy is highly specialized, with specific steps that depend on the individual patient's condition and the medical team's plan.

Recovery After Endovascular Thrombectomy

Recovery from Endovascular Thrombectomy for stroke begins immediately after the procedure. Patients are typically monitored closely in an intensive care unit for the first 24-48 hours to manage any potential complications and stabilize their condition. The hospital stay usually ranges from a few days to a week, depending on the stroke severity and individual progress. Rehabilitation is a critical component of recovery, often beginning in the hospital and continuing as an outpatient. This can include physical therapy to regain motor skills, occupational therapy for daily activities, and speech therapy for communication or swallowing difficulties. Long-term recovery involves adhering to prescribed medications, attending follow-up appointments, and making lifestyle adjustments to prevent future strokes.

Risks and Success Rates of Endovascular Thrombectomy

• Potential for intracranial hemorrhage (bleeding in the brain), which is a serious complication.
• Risk of damage to blood vessels, such as dissection or perforation, during catheter navigation.
• Possibility of distal embolization, where fragments of the clot break off and block smaller vessels further downstream.
• Infection at the catheter insertion site in the groin.
• Allergic reaction to the contrast dye used during imaging.
• Reperfusion injury, which can occur when blood flow is restored to previously deprived brain tissue.

The success rate of Endovascular Thrombectomy for achieving reperfusion (restoring blood flow) is generally high, often ranging from 70% to 90%. However, successful reperfusion does not always translate to complete neurological recovery, as outcomes vary significantly among patients. Factors influencing the overall success and patient outcome include the time from stroke onset to treatment, the initial severity of the stroke, the patient's age and pre-existing health conditions, and the extent of brain tissue already damaged. Long-term expectations focus on maximizing functional independence and preventing future strokes through ongoing medical management and rehabilitation.

Cost of Endovascular Thrombectomy for Stroke in India

The cost of Endovascular Thrombectomy for stroke in India can vary significantly based on several factors. These include the reputation and accreditation of the hospital, the experience of the neurointerventional specialist, the specific technique and technology used for clot removal, the duration of hospital stay, particularly in the ICU, and any additional medical interventions or complications that may arise during recovery. The comprehensive package often covers the procedure, hospital charges, surgeon fees, and initial post-operative care.

Generally, the cost of Endovascular Thrombectomy for stroke in India ranges from approximately ₹8,00,000 to ₹18,00,000.

Support Services for Your Medical Journey in India

• Visa and Travel Assistance: Guidance on medical visa applications and coordination for travel itineraries.
• Accommodation Support: Help with finding suitable lodging for patients and accompanying family members near the hospital.
• Interpreter Services: Provision of language interpreters to ensure clear communication between patients and medical staff.
• Local Transportation: Arrangement of transport for hospital visits, airport transfers, and local movement.
• Post-Treatment Follow-up Coordination: Assistance with scheduling remote consultations or coordinating follow-up care plans after returning home.

Essential Documents for Treatment in India

• Passport and Medical Visa: Valid passport and the necessary medical visa for travel to India.
• Comprehensive Medical Reports: All previous diagnostic reports, scans, doctor's notes, and treatment summaries related to your stroke.
• Doctor's Referral Letter: A formal letter from your primary care physician or neurologist outlining your condition and need for Endovascular Thrombectomy.
• Insurance Details (if applicable): Any relevant health insurance policy information or financial guarantee.
• Patient Consent Forms: Documents required by the hospital for treatment consent, which will be provided upon arrival.

Preparing for Endovascular Thrombectomy in India

• Medical Consultation and Review: Engaging in preliminary consultations with Indian specialists to review your medical history and confirm treatment suitability.
• Travel Logistics Planning: Finalizing travel dates, flights, and accommodation based on medical appointments.
• Financial Arrangements: Ensuring all financial aspects of the treatment and stay are understood and prepared for.
• Understanding the Procedure: Taking time to discuss the procedure details, potential risks, and expected recovery with your medical team.
• Family and Support Network: Communicating your plans with family and ensuring you have adequate support during your medical journey.

Post-Treatment Care and Recovery Guidance

• Adhering to Medication Regimen: Strictly following all prescribed medications, especially blood thinners and blood pressure management drugs.
• Attending Follow-up Appointments: Regular check-ups with your neurologist to monitor recovery and manage any long-term effects.
• Engaging in Rehabilitation: Actively participating in physical, occupational, and speech therapy as recommended to maximize functional recovery.
• Lifestyle Modifications: Adopting a heart-healthy diet, regular exercise, smoking cessation, and managing conditions like diabetes or hypertension to prevent future strokes.
• Awareness of Emergency Contacts: Knowing when and whom to contact if new symptoms or complications arise after returning home.

Ready to Explore Your Treatment Options?

Our team is here to guide you through every step of your medical journey, providing clear information and support.