Endovascular Thrombectomy for Stroke in New Delhi for Bangladesh Patients

For patients in Bangladesh facing an acute ischemic stroke, the immediate concern often revolves around swift access to advanced treatment options. Uncertainty about where to find high-quality, urgent care for conditions like stroke can add immense stress during a critical time.

Many families exploring medical options beyond their home country specifically consider New Delhi. The city's well-developed medical infrastructure and experienced neurology teams offer a compelling reason to seek care here, especially for time-sensitive interventions.

New Delhi's hospitals are recognized for their commitment to rapid stroke response, housing specialized neuro-intervention units. Patients benefit from a coordinated care environment where specialists work together to ensure effective treatment and follow-up support within the city.

New Delhi provides established pathways for international patients seeking stroke interventions.

What Is Endovascular Thrombectomy for Stroke?

Endovascular Thrombectomy is a minimally invasive procedure designed to remove a blood clot from a large artery in the brain, restoring blood flow. This treatment is critical for certain types of acute ischemic stroke, which occurs when a clot blocks blood supply to part of the brain. Performed by neuro-intervention specialists, it involves guiding a catheter through an artery, typically in the groin, up to the brain to retrieve or dissolve the clot. The primary goal is to minimize brain damage and improve patient outcomes by reopening the blocked vessel as quickly as possible.

What Are the Approaches to Endovascular Thrombectomy?

When Is Endovascular Thrombectomy for Stroke Required?

• Acute onset of stroke symptoms, such as sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body.
• Difficulty speaking or understanding speech.
• Sudden severe headache with no known cause.
• Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes.
• Loss of balance or coordination.
• Imaging confirmation of a large vessel occlusion in the brain.
• Presentation within a specific time window, typically within 6 to 24 hours of symptom onset, depending on patient selection criteria and imaging findings.
• Significant neurological deficit determined by clinical assessment.

How Is a Patient Evaluated Before the Procedure?

• Neurological Examination: A comprehensive assessment of motor skills, sensory function, speech, and coordination.
• Imaging Studies: Urgent CT scan of the brain to rule out hemorrhage and identify early signs of ischemia. CT angiography (CTA) or MR angiography (MRA) to confirm large vessel occlusion. Perfusion imaging to assess salvageable brain tissue.
• Blood Tests: Including complete blood count, coagulation profile, kidney and liver function tests, and blood sugar levels.
• Electrocardiogram (ECG): To check heart rhythm and rule out cardiac causes of stroke.
• Chest X-ray: To assess lung health before any procedure.

How Is Endovascular Thrombectomy Performed?

The procedure for Endovascular Thrombectomy depends on the precise location and nature of the clot, as well as the patient's overall health.

What Does the Recovery Process Involve?

Recovery from Endovascular Thrombectomy varies greatly depending on the severity of the stroke, the amount of brain damage, and the patient's overall health. Immediate recovery involves close monitoring in the hospital, often in a specialized stroke unit. Patients may experience some residual weakness or speech difficulties. Rehabilitation is a crucial part of recovery, often beginning within days of the procedure. This includes physical therapy to regain strength and coordination, occupational therapy for daily living skills, and speech therapy for communication issues. Follow-up appointments with neurologists are essential to manage risk factors and monitor progress.

What Are the Risks and Success Rates of This Procedure?

• Bleeding: At the access site or within the brain (hemorrhage).
• Vessel Damage: Injury to the artery during catheter navigation.
• Re-occlusion: The treated vessel may re-close, or new clots may form.
• Infection: At the incision site.
• Contrast Reaction: Allergic reaction to the imaging dye.
• Distal Embolization: Small pieces of the clot breaking off and moving to block smaller vessels further downstream.
• Failure to Revascularize: The procedure may not successfully remove the clot.

The success rate of Endovascular Thrombectomy in achieving reperfusion (restoring blood flow) is generally high, often ranging from 70% to 90% in experienced centers, especially when performed within the optimal time window. Clinical outcomes, such as significant improvement in neurological function, can vary widely based on individual patient factors, the extent of the stroke, and how quickly the treatment is initiated. Many patients experience substantial recovery, though some may have residual deficits. Long-term outcomes are positively influenced by timely intervention and comprehensive post-procedure rehabilitation.

Cost of Endovascular Thrombectomy in New Delhi

The cost of Endovascular Thrombectomy in New Delhi can vary significantly due to several factors. These include the choice of hospital (private vs. corporate hospitals), the expertise and fee structure of the treating neuro-interventionist, the specific type of devices used during the procedure, the duration of hospital stay, the need for intensive care, and any required post-procedure rehabilitation. Additional diagnostic tests or management of complications can also influence the overall expenditure.

In New Delhi, the estimated cost for Endovascular Thrombectomy for Stroke typically ranges from INR 9,00,000 to INR 18,00,000.

Essential Support Services for International Patients

• Comprehensive medical visa assistance for you and your accompanying family.
• Arrangement of comfortable accommodation close to the hospital.
• Seamless airport transfers for arrival and departure.
• Dedicated patient coordinators for continuous support and communication.
• Language interpretation services to ensure clear understanding.
• Assistance with local travel and logistics within New Delhi.
• Guidance for post-treatment follow-up and rehabilitation planning.

What Documents Are Needed for Your Medical Visit?

• Valid passport and medical visa.
• Copies of all relevant medical reports, including previous imaging scans (CT, MRI), discharge summaries, and laboratory results.
• Doctor's referral letter or recommendation for Endovascular Thrombectomy.
• Proof of financial capacity to cover treatment expenses.
• Travel insurance details, if applicable.
• Any previous consultation notes or treatment history for your stroke condition.

Steps to Prepare Before You Arrive in New Delhi

• Ensure all necessary medical documents are translated into English and organized.
• Discuss travel plans and expected duration of stay with your medical coordinator.
• Arrange for a travel companion, especially important given the nature of stroke recovery.
• Pack essential personal items and any regular medications you are currently taking.
• Familiarize yourself with the local climate and customs in New Delhi.
• Confirm hospital admission details and appointment schedules well in advance.

Understanding Your Aftercare and Recovery in New Delhi

• Adhere strictly to the neurologist's medication schedule and follow-up advice.
• Actively participate in prescribed physical, occupational, and speech therapy sessions.
• Monitor for any new or worsening neurological symptoms and report them immediately.
• Maintain a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and avoidance of smoking or excessive alcohol.
• Attend all scheduled follow-up consultations with your medical team in New Delhi.
• Ensure your accommodation is suitable for your recovery needs before returning home.

Taking Your Next Step Toward Better Health

Choosing the right medical care for Endovascular Thrombectomy is a significant decision. New Delhi offers advanced facilities and skilled professionals dedicated to effective stroke treatment.