What Is Mechanical Thrombectomy In Singapore

If you’ve recently encountered the term mechanical thrombectomy, you may be wondering what it means and why it’s a game-changer in stroke care. In this article, we will explain what mechanical thrombectomy in Singapore is, when it is used, its benefits, risks, and the specialists who perform this life-saving procedure.

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Understanding What Mechanical Thrombectomy Is

Mechanical thrombectomy in Singapore is a minimally invasive procedure used to remove blood clots from large arteries in the brain. It is primarily performed in patients experiencing an acute ischaemic stroke, which occurs when a blood clot blocks blood flow to the brain.

The procedure involves inserting a thin, flexible catheter through a blood vessel (usually from the groin or wrist), navigating it up to the brain, and physically removing the clot using a stent retriever or suction device. This restores blood flow and prevents further brain damage.

When Is It Needed?

Mechanical thrombectomy is not suitable for all stroke patients. It is typically recommended when:

• The stroke is caused by a large vessel occlusion (e.g., middle cerebral artery or internal carotid artery).
• The patient arrives at the hospital within 6 hours of symptom onset. In some cases, the time window can extend up to 24 hours, depending on advanced imaging and specific criteria.
• Clot-busting medications like intravenous thrombolysis (tPA) are either not suitable or not sufficient on their own.

Early diagnosis and transport to a comprehensive stroke centre are critical, as time is brain—every minute of delay can lead to further loss of brain function.

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Advantages Of Mechanical Thrombectomy

There are several compelling advantages to this advanced stroke treatment:

1. Higher Survival Rates

Clinical trials have shown that patients who receive mechanical thrombectomy have significantly better outcomes and lower mortality rates.

2. Improved Recovery

Patients are more likely to regain independence and return to normal daily activities if the clot is removed quickly and effectively.

3. Can Be Combined With Other Treatments

Mechanical thrombectomy can be performed in conjunction with intravenous thrombolysis, offering dual benefits when clot-busting drugs are insufficient alone.

4. Minimally Invasive

Unlike traditional brain surgery, the procedure is performed through a small puncture, reducing recovery time and the risk of infection.

Potential Risks And Complications

As with any medical procedure, mechanical thrombectomy carries potential risks, although serious complications are rare when performed by experienced specialists. These may include:

• Bleeding in the brain (intracerebral haemorrhage)
• Vessel injury or dissection
• Allergic reaction to contrast dye
• Infection at the catheter insertion site
• Reocclusion (clot returning)

That said, the benefits often outweigh the risks, especially when performed in eligible patients within the recommended time window.

Who Performs Mechanical Thrombectomy In Singapore?

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Mechanical thrombectomy is performed by a highly specialised group of doctors known as neurologists with advanced training in neurointervention.

These specialists are typically found in comprehensive stroke centres, which are equipped with:

• Advanced imaging technologies
• 24/7 neurointerventional teams
• Multidisciplinary stroke units

A Breakthrough In Stroke Treatment

To recap, if you’re wondering what is mechanical thrombectomy, it is a cutting-edge, minimally invasive technique to remove large blood clots in stroke patients. When performed promptly and by trained specialists, it dramatically improves outcomes and can be life-saving.

If you or a loved one is at risk of stroke, ensure you are familiar with stroke warning signs and have quick access to an emergency stroke centre.

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