Stroke patients can now have the blood clot in their brain removed if they make it to hospital in time – and in some cases walk off paralysis-free.
The clot retrieval treatment is finally possible in Malta through a new tool which is now available at Mater Dei Hospital.
Neuroradiologist Reuben Grech is in fact appealing to those struck by a stroke to skip the GP and head straight to Mater Dei.
The young radiologist accesses the clot through the femoral artery and then uses the Stentriever tool to pull it out of the sedated patient.
Dr Grech is one of a group of young radiologists who have completed their training in different sub-specialties and are offering new services at Mater Dei Hospital.
This new procedure does away with CT scan radiation and makes diagnosis even more accurate.
When stroke strikes, skip the GP and act Fast*
Face: Has the face fallen on one side? Can they smile?
Arms: Can they raise both arms and keep them there?
Speech: Is their speech slurred?
Time: Call emergency if you see any single one of these signs.
*From the NHS’ Act Fast campaign
Read more in the Times of Malta.