How Is Interventional Therapy Performed for Cerebral Infarction?

Interventional therapy is an effective approach for treating cerebral infarction, particularly in emergency situations. This type of treatment aims to restore blood flow to the brain as quickly as possible and minimize long-term damage. There are two primary techniques used in interventional therapy for cerebral infarction: thrombectomy and stent placement.

1. Thrombectomy: Rapid Removal of Blood Clots

During the acute phase of cerebral infarction, a blood clot often blocks a cerebral artery, interrupting blood flow and causing neurological symptoms. While thrombolytic drugs can dissolve clots in some cases, not all patients arrive at the hospital within the safe window for clot-busting medications.

In such situations, mechanical thrombectomy becomes a life-saving option. A thin catheter is inserted through the femoral artery in the groin or the radial artery in the wrist. Using advanced imaging guidance, a wire is carefully maneuvered through the blood vessels until it reaches the location of the clot in the brain. The clot is then physically removed, restoring blood flow almost immediately.

This procedure significantly improves the chances of a better outcome, especially when performed within the critical time window. It helps reduce the risk of severe complications such as long-term disability or death.

2. Stent Placement: Opening Narrowed Blood Vessels

In some patients, chronic narrowing of cerebral arteries leads to reduced blood flow and an increased risk of stroke. If a vessel is severely narrowed, even after clot removal, it may still pose a risk of future blockage.

To address this issue, doctors may perform a stent placement procedure. A small, expandable mesh tube called a stent is delivered through a catheter and positioned at the site of the narrowing. Once in place, the stent is expanded, effectively opening up the vessel and allowing blood to flow more freely. This helps prevent future strokes by maintaining proper oxygen and nutrient delivery to the brain tissue.

Stent placement is often combined with medication therapy to reduce the risk of blood clots forming around the stent and to support long-term vascular health.