Clot Removal for Stroke Victims
When it comes to stroke, time is critical. St. Luke's offers both the
traditional clot-busting drug tPA (tissue plasminogen activator), along
with endovascular thrombectomies, the most advanced stroke treatment option.
With stroke thrombectomy, more of the brain can be saved.
Stroke victims who arrive at St. Luke’s Emergency Department are
immediately assessed and, if criteria is met, given a computed tomography
(CT) and CT angiography (CTA). This allows physicians to determine the
location and size of the clot. Large-vessel ischemic stroke patients may
be good candidates for an endovascular thrombectomy.
This procedure is performed by interventional radiologists in the hybrid
operating room. They insert a catheter into the patient’s leg and
remove the clot, which can instantly restore blood flow to the brain.
The sooner the patient is assessed and rushed into the hybrid OR, the
better the outcomes.
To learn more, contact St. Luke's Stroke Program Coordinator Stan Sadenwasser,
218.249.5652,
stan.sadenwasser@slhduluth.com