Many ‘missing miracle stroke treatment’

THOUSANDS of stroke patients may miss out on a ‘miracle’ treatment which can save lives and prevent life-changing disability.

A mechanical thrombectomy uses a stent to remove large blood clots from the brain.

The Stroke Association says more than 47,000 will miss out on it over the next seven years unless NHS England and the Government act. This is based on the thrombectomy rate in 2020-21.

Juliet Bouverie, of the charity, said: ‘Thrombectomy is a miracle treatment that pulls patients back from near-death and alleviates the worst effects of stroke.’

The charity says a 24/7 service would save £73million a year.

It said NHS England missed a target to make thrombectomy available to more, delivering to only 2 per cent of those who would benefit. An NHS spokesman said: ‘Through newly-created stroke networks, we are supporting local clinicians to deliver 24/7 access to thrombectomy... and other life-saving specialist stroke services.’