Singh, chairman, neurosurgery-neurosciences, at Medanta, Gurugram, lists five emerging treatment options for stroke patients.
Thrombolytic therapy advancementsThrombolytic therapy, or the use of drugs to dissolve blood clots, has been a cornerstone of acute stroke treatment.
Mechanical thrombectomy involves the physical removal of a blood clot from a patient’s brain.
Hyperbaric Oxygen TherapyHyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) involves patients breathing pure oxygen in a pressurised chamber, which increases the amount of oxygen delivered to the brain.
While HBOT is primarily used for other medical conditions, its application in stroke treatment is gaining attention, with ongoing research evaluating its efficacy and safety for stroke patients.
Stroke, a leading cause of disability and death globally, has had significant treatment advancements over the past decade. In India, the annual incidence of stroke over the past 20 years has ranged from 105 to 152 cases per 100,000 people, varying across regions.
While the burden of stroke is substantial due to a large and ageing population, innovative research is paving the way for new and effective treatments. The landscape of treatment is rapidly evolving, with new therapies offering hope for better recovery and improved quality of life for patients.
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Dr V.P. Singh, chairman, neurosurgery-neurosciences, at Medanta, Gurugram, lists five emerging treatment options for stroke patients. While many of these treatments are still under investigation, their potential to transform stroke management is substantial.
Thrombolytic therapy advancements
Thrombolytic therapy, or the use of drugs to dissolve blood clots, has been a cornerstone of acute stroke treatment. Recent advancements aim to improve the efficacy and safety of these drugs. At the Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) in Chandigarh, scientists are developing new thrombolytic agents with fewer side-effects and a broader therapeutic window. These advancements could make thrombolytic therapy viable for a larger number of patients, especially in rural areas where immediate medical intervention may not be available.
Mechanical thrombectomy involves the physical removal of a blood clot from a patient’s brain. It is particularly beneficial for patients with large artery occlusions, who are not eligible for thrombolytic (clot-dissolving) drugs. Using a catheter, a surgeon navigates through the blood vessels to the site of the clot and removes it using specialised devices. This procedure can restore blood flow quickly and has been shown to significantly improve survival rates and functional outcomes. Advances in imaging technology and catheter design continue to enhance the effectiveness and safety of mechanical thrombectomy.
Neuroprotective agents
Neuroprotection aims to prevent the death of neurons following a stroke. During a stroke, the brain experiences oxidative stress and inflammation, which can lead to cell death. Neuroprotective drugs work by reducing these harmful processes, thereby protecting brain tissue. Researchers are investigating various compounds, including antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents, that could be administered during an acute phase of stroke. If successful, these drugs could significantly reduce the extent of brain damage and improve long-term outcomes for patients.
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) involves patients breathing pure oxygen in a pressurised chamber, which increases the amount of oxygen delivered to the brain. This heightened oxygenation can enhance the brain’s natural healing processes and reduce the effects of stroke-induced damage. Studies have shown that HBOT can improve neuroplasticity—the brain’s ability to reorganise and form new connections—thus aiding in recovery. While HBOT is primarily used for other medical conditions, its application in stroke treatment is gaining attention, with ongoing research evaluating its efficacy and safety for stroke patients.
Robotics-assisted rehabilitation
Rehabilitation is a critical component of stroke recovery, and robotics-assisted therapy is an innovative tool that offers consistent and intensive physical therapy. Robotic devices can help patients perform repetitive movements crucial for regaining motor skills. These devices provide precise assistance and feedback, enabling personalised therapy sessions tailored to each patient’s needs. Studies have shown that patients using robotic rehabilitation systems experience better outcomes compared to conventional therapy. As technology advances, these systems are becoming more affordable and accessible, broadening their potential impact on stroke recovery.
Stem cell therapy
Stem cell therapy is one of the most promising advancements in stroke treatment. Researchers are at the forefront of this innovation, investigating how stem cells can aid in the regeneration of damaged brain tissue. Studies conducted at institutions like the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS) in Bengaluru have shown that stem cells can differentiate into various types of brain cells, potentially replacing those lost during a stroke. Clinical trials are ongoing, and initial results are promising, with patients showing improved motor functions and cognitive abilities.
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Published By: Aditya Mohan Wig Published On: Jul 9, 2024
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