Information for the public

What has NICE said?

Mechanical clot retrieval for treating acute ischaemic stroke is safe enough and works well enough for use in the NHS.

What does this mean for me?

Your health professional should fully explain what is involved in having this procedure, and discuss the possible benefits and risks with you. You should also be told how to find more information about the procedure. All of this should happen before you decide whether you want to have this procedure or not.

Other comments from NICE

NICE noted that this procedure has better results the sooner after the onset of stroke symptoms it is done. In the studies NICE looked at, patients mostly had treatment within 8 hours of their symptoms starting.

In an emergency, healthcare professionals may give treatment immediately, without obtaining your informed consent, when it is in your best interests.

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