Mechanical clot retrieval for treating acute ischaemic stroke

The condition

Ischaemic stroke is the most common type of stroke. It happens when an artery (blood vessel) is blocked by a blood clot, cutting off blood flow to part of the brain. Without a blood supply, brain cells can be damaged or destroyed because they may not receive enough oxygen. Symptoms may include numbness or weakness on one side of the body and problems with balance, speech and swallowing. Treatment usually involves drug treatment as soon as possible after the stroke to dissolve the blood clot (thrombolysis).

NICE has looked at using mechanical clot retrieval as another treatment option.

NHS Choices may be a good place to find out more.