ISC 2023 | Endovascular thrombectomy remains underutilized

Xiaochuan Huo, MD, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China, discusses the need to tackle thrombectomy usage rates in China. Despite clear evidence labelling endovascular therapy as the most effective management approach in acute ischemic stroke, it remains unavailable or underutilized in many areas of the world. In many cases, this is due to a lack of access to stroke centers capable of performing the procedure. Dr Huo notes that establishing guidelines is very important to guide clinicians. The introduction of acute stroke care guidelines in China has led to an almost 10-fold increase in EVT use from 2015-2020, and the number continues to rise rapidly. Public education is also key to promoting the time-critical nature of ischemic stroke. Although uptake is improving, continued efforts to standardize triage protocols, increase availability, and improve public and professional education is necessary. This interview took place during the International Stroke Conference (ISC) 2023 in Dallas, TX.

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