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