Thrombectomy: A Life-Saving Advancement in Modern Stroke Care

When a stroke occurs, every second matters. Rapid loss of blood flow to the brain can lead to permanent neurological damage, long-term disability, or death. Thanks to major advancements in neurovascular medicine, one approach has dramatically changed outcomes for patients facing the most serious type of stroke: thrombectomy, a minimally invasive procedure that removes a blood clot from a blocked artery in the brain.

As a neurosurgeon specializing in cerebrovascular and endovascular care, I have seen firsthand how thrombectomy has transformed the way we treat stroke—and more importantly, how it helps patients return to their lives with greater independence and hope.

What Is a Thrombectomy?

A thrombectomy is a procedure that allows surgeons to remove a blood clot directly from a blocked blood vessel in the brain. Using real-time imaging, a thin catheter is carefully guided through an artery (typically from the wrist or groin) up into the brain. Special devices are then used to capture and remove the clot, restoring blood flow immediately.

Unlike traditional medication-only treatments for ischemic stroke, thrombectomy offers a highly targeted and effective option for patients experiencing large vessel occlusions (LVOs), which are often the most devastating strokes.

Why Thrombectomy Is So Effective

Thrombectomy is now considered the standard of care for eligible patients with LVO strokes—and for good reason. Research has shown that this approach can:

• Restore blood flow rapidly

• Reduce long-term disability

• Increase the likelihood of returning to everyday activities

• Improve quality of life after stroke

• Offer a treatment window of up to 24 hours for selected patients

In practical terms, this means we can help many more patients—even those who arrive outside the traditional medication-only time window.

Who Qualifies for a Thrombectomy?

Not all stroke patients are candidates, but many benefit from evaluation. Typically, thrombectomy is offered to patients who:

• Are experiencing an ischemic stroke due to a large vessel occlusion

• Can undergo advanced imaging to confirm a treatable blockage

• Arrive at a hospital equipped with the right expertise and technology

One of the biggest factors in successful treatment is how quickly patients get to a stroke center. That’s why it’s critical to call 911 immediately at the first signs of stroke.

Understanding Stroke Symptoms: BE FAST

Recognizing signs of a stroke can save a life. I encourage everyone to remember BE FAST:

• Balance: Sudden loss of coordination

• Eyes: Vision changes

• Face: Facial drooping

• Arms: Weakness or numbness

• Speech: Slurred or confused speech

• Time: Call 911 immediately

Fast action gives patients the best chance of reaching a center where thrombectomy can be performed.

Thrombectomy in Central Florida: Advanced Care Close to Home

Through the collaborative partnership between Orlando Neurosurgery and AdventHealth, we have worked intentionally to broaden access to comprehensive stroke services across Central Florida. Our integrated care model brings together neurosurgery, neurology, emergency medicine, stroke nursing, and EMS—allowing patients to move quickly from diagnosis to intervention.

In my role as Medical Director of the Neurovascular Program, I am proud of the protocols and team-based systems we’ve established to ensure patients receive fast, effective, and coordinated care during a stroke event.

A Better Future for Stroke Patients

Thrombectomy has fundamentally reshaped what is possible for stroke survivors. It gives patients a chance not only to survive, but to maintain independence, recover function, and return to the people and activities they love.

For those of us in neurovascular medicine, this is the heart of our work: restoring lives when seconds matter most.