An ischemic stroke occurs when a blood clot blocks an artery in the brain, preventing oxygen and nutrients from reaching the affected area. This can cause damage to the brain tissue and lead to a variety of long-term disabilities or even death.

Along with symptoms of slurred speech, weakness down one side and facial droop a CT scan of the head can help diagnose an ischaemic stroke. Importantly it can exclude a hemorrhagic stroke, when the same symptoms are caused by a bleed on the brain, usually after an aneurysm rupture.

Many UK centres now use artificial intelligence to determine the patient’s Alberta stroke programme early CT score (ASPECTS). This 10-point score helps rapidly triage patients who may be suitable for mechanical thrombectomy. In hospitals without a thrombectomy service this can mean urgent patient transfer to a thrombectomy centre.

Thrombectomy is a minimally invasive procedure that can quickly and effectively remove blood clots from blocked arteries, restoring blood flow and reducing the risk of long-term damage.

The procedure is typically performed by an interventional neuroradiologist and involves the use of a thin, flexible tube called a catheter. The catheter is inserted into an artery, usually through the groin, and guided to the site of the clot in the brain. Once in place, a specialised device (much like a hoover) is used to remove the clot from the vessel, allowing blood flow to be restored to the affected area of the brain.