Life changing stroke patient service to be made available in Grampian
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STROKE patients in Grampian are to benefit from a new pilot thrombectomy service.
The highly specialised procedure involves physically removing the blood clot in the brain which has caused the stroke. It can help reduce disability caused by a stroke and in turn reduce dependency.
In November 2020, NHS Tayside took the first step towards a national thrombectomy service by establishing a pilot service, with the aim of providing a 24/7 service by April 2023. Stroke patients admitted to Aberdeen Royal Infirmary will now benefit from this service which is being delivered at Ninewells Hospital in Dundee.
Lead clinician at Aberdeen Royal Infirmary John Reid said: "We are delighted patients in Grampian will be able to benefit from this pilot.
"Evidence shows this treatment can vastly improve outcomes for certain stroke suffers and that has already been shown to be the case in many of those who have received the care at Ninewells.
"We'd like to thank our colleagues in Tayside for involving us and our patients in this pilot."
Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland, who campaigned heavily to see the service service established throughout the country, has welcomed its extension to help stroke survivors in Grampian.
Jane-Claire Judson, Chief Executive at Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland, said: "It is fantastic to see thrombectomy being made available to people across Grampian.
"Everyone in Scotland should have access to the best possible care following a stroke and we will continue to campaign until this life changing treatment, which would benefit at least 600 people each year, is available across the country."
