Endovascular Thrombectomy for Stroke Treatment in India

Understanding Endovascular Thrombectomy for Stroke in India

An Endovascular Thrombectomy for Stroke is a medical procedure used to diagnose, manage or treat conditions related to Acute Ischemic Stroke. It is commonly recommended for patients experiencing acute ischemic stroke due to large vessel occlusion and is considered one of the most effective approaches for long-term recovery and functional improvement. Every year, India receives thousands of international patients from countries such as Ethiopia, Nigeria, the UAE, Oman and neighbouring Asian regions for advanced medical care, including Endovascular Thrombectomy for Stroke. With experienced specialists, structured treatment programs and cost-effective medical care, India has become a preferred global destination. India is a major centre for Endovascular Thrombectomy for Stroke due to experienced specialists, advanced diagnostics, regulated clinical protocols and cost-effective care pathways.

1. Indications for Endovascular Thrombectomy for Stroke

Endovascular Thrombectomy for Stroke may be recommended in the following situations:

• Acute ischemic stroke caused by a large vessel occlusion (LVO) in the anterior circulation.
• Within 6-24 hours of symptom onset (time window can vary based on imaging).
• Significant neurological deficit (e.g., NIHSS score ≥ 6).
• Favourable imaging findings (e.g., small infarct core, good collateral flow).
• Age 18 years or older.
• Pre-stroke functional independence.

2. Types of Endovascular Thrombectomy for Stroke in India

2.1 Mechanical Thrombectomy

This is the most common technique. It uses a stent retriever or an aspiration catheter to physically remove the blood clot from the blocked brain artery. It is crucial for restoring blood flow quickly.

2.2 Aspiration Thrombectomy

Aspiration thrombectomy involves a large-bore catheter. This catheter is advanced to the clot site. It then directly suctions the clot out of the vessel.

2.3 Combination Therapy

In some cases, specialists might use a combination of techniques. This involves both stent retrievers and aspiration methods. This approach aims for more complete and effective clot removal.

2.4 Advanced or Minimally Invasive Procedures

Advanced methods include using sophisticated imaging. Perfusion imaging (CT Perfusion, MRI Perfusion) helps select patients. This extends the treatment window beyond standard timelines. It identifies salvageable brain tissue. This approach maximises positive outcomes.

3. Pre-Treatment Evaluation

Before performing Endovascular Thrombectomy for Stroke, patients undergo a complete evaluation:

3.1 Laboratory Testing

• CBC
• Kidney/liver function tests
• Coagulation profile
• Blood sugar levels

3.2 Imaging Studies

• CT scan of the brain (non-contrast)
• CT Angiography (CTA) to identify vessel occlusion
• CT Perfusion (CTP) or MRI (for extended window cases)
• Chest X-ray

3.3 Functional Assessment

• Cardiac evaluation (ECG)
• Pulmonary evaluation
• Neurological assessment (NIHSS score)

3.4 Infection Screening

HIV, HBV, HCV, TB and other infections.

4. Endovascular Thrombectomy for Stroke Procedure Overview

The procedure typically includes:

• Pre-operative planning based on imaging.
• Anesthesia assessment (usually general anesthesia).
• A small incision in the groin accesses the femoral artery.
• A catheter is threaded through blood vessels to the brain.
• X-ray imaging (fluoroscopy) guides the catheter.
• A stent retriever or aspiration device is deployed to capture the clot.
• The clot is carefully removed, restoring blood flow.
• Monitoring vital parameters throughout the procedure.
• Completion and closure of the access site.
• Transfer to recovery or ICU.

The exact steps depend on the type and complexity of Endovascular Thrombectomy for Stroke.

5. Recovery & Post-Treatment Care

After Endovascular Thrombectomy for Stroke, patients receive:

• Vital monitoring in the ICU or stroke unit.
• Pain management and medication protocol.
• Nutrition and mobility guidance.
• Scheduled follow-up visits with neurologists.
• Imaging and lab tests to evaluate progress.
• Rehabilitation therapy (physical, occupational, speech).

Recovery duration varies according to the patient’s condition and stroke severity.

6. Risks & Complications

6.1 Early Complications

• Intracerebral hemorrhage (bleeding in the brain).
• Vessel dissection or perforation.
• Groin hematoma or bleeding at the access site.
• Distal embolization (clot fragments moving to smaller vessels).

6.2 Late Complications

• Reocclusion (the treated vessel re-blocks).
• Persistent neurological deficits despite successful treatment.
• Seizures.
• Infection (rare).

7. Success Rates of Endovascular Thrombectomy for Stroke in India

Success rates depend on the severity of Acute Ischemic Stroke, the complexity of the procedure and the patient’s overall health.

• Recanalization rates: 80% – 90%.
• Good functional outcome (mRS 0-2) at 90 days: 40% – 60%.
• Improved functional recovery for most patients.
• Lower complication rates in high-volume centres.

8. Cost of Endovascular Thrombectomy for Stroke in Major Indian Cities (2025)

City-wise cost range for Endovascular Thrombectomy for Stroke: Delhi — ₹7,00,000 – ₹15,00,000 Mumbai — ₹8,00,000 – ₹16,00,000 Bangalore — ₹7,50,000 – ₹15,50,000 Chennai — ₹7,00,000 – ₹14,00,000 Hyderabad — ₹6,50,000 – ₹13,00,000 Kolkata — ₹6,00,000 – ₹12,00,000 Pune — ₹6,50,000 – ₹13,50,000 Gurgaon — ₹7,50,000 – ₹16,00,000 Costs vary due to procedure type, hospital category and specialist expertise.

9. India vs USA Cost Comparison

Component	Cost in India (USD)	Cost in USA (USD)
Pre-Procedure Evaluation	$500 – $1,500	$2,000 – $5,000
Standard Procedure	$9,000 – $20,000	$30,000 – $60,000
Advanced Procedure	$10,000 – $22,000	$40,000 – $80,000
Medications	$200 – $500	$1,000 – $3,000
Follow-Up Care	$100 – $300	$500 – $1,500

10. Condition-Wise Success & Treatment Options

Condition	Success Rate (Good Functional Outcome)	Treatment Options
Acute Ischemic Stroke (Large Vessel Occlusion)	40-60% at 90 days	Endovascular Thrombectomy; IV Thrombolysis (if eligible)

11. India vs Global Cost Comparison (USD)

Region	Cost (USD)
India	$9,000 – $22,000
USA	$30,000 – $80,000
UK	$25,000 – $50,000
Canada	$20,000 – $45,000
Turkey	$15,000 – $30,000
Thailand	$12,000 – $25,000
Middle East	$20,000 – $40,000

12. International Patient Services

• Specialist consultations.
• Remote medical report review.
• Personalized cost estimate.
• Medical visa support.
• Assistance with accommodation.
• Airport transfers.
• Interpreter support.
• Pre-treatment evaluation coordination.
• Post-treatment follow-up planning.
• Digital access to medical records.

13. Required Documentation

• Identity proof.
• Passport (for international patients).
• Previous medical reports.
• Recent lab results.
• Diagnostic images (CT, MRI).
• Treatment consent forms.

14. Pre-Treatment Guidelines

• Complete all evaluations thoroughly.
• Avoid infections before arrival.
• Follow medication instructions carefully.
• Follow fasting guidelines as advised.
• Disclose all ongoing medications to your doctor.

15. Post-Treatment Guidelines

• Follow prescribed medications strictly.
• Attend scheduled follow-ups with the medical team.
• Maintain strict hygiene to prevent infections.
• Follow dietary recommendations for recovery.
• Avoid strenuous activity until advised by your doctor.
• Monitor for any warning signs or complications.

16. Why India for Endovascular Thrombectomy for Stroke?

• High-volume specialist centres with dedicated stroke units.
• Internationally trained neurologists and neuro-interventionalists.
• Advanced diagnostics and state-of-the-art technology.
• Regulated treatment protocols ensuring patient safety.
• Higher success rates in major centres.
• Cost-effective medical care compared to Western countries.

DivinHeal supports international patients in accessing reliable, well-guided and specialist-driven Endovascular Thrombectomy for Stroke treatment in India through safe and structured medical pathways.