Doctors at KIMS Icon Hospital, Visakhapatnam, have set a remarkable medical milestone by successfully treating a stroke patient in just 9 minutes, showcasing exceptional precision, preparedness, and medical expertise.
Dr. Venkatesh Pothula, Head of Neuro and Vascular Interventional Radiology, shared details of the case:
A 60-year-old man from the city suddenly developed paralysis and was brought to the hospital. A brain scan revealed a major blood vessel blockage caused by a clot. Our stroke team immediately initiated treatment. We performed a mechanical thrombectomy, and within just 9 minutes, restored normal blood flow to the brain. The patient made a full recovery within hours. Rapid restoration of blood flow dramatically improves recovery outcomes,” he explained.
Highlighting the critical nature of the procedure, Dr. Pothula added:
“Mechanical thrombectomy is truly a race against time. Every minute of delay during a stroke results in the loss of nearly 2 million brain cells. Completing the procedure in such a short span demonstrates the hospital’s advanced technology, the skill of our neuro-intervention team, and our efficient rapid-response systems.”
Stroke remains one of the leading causes of death and long-term disability worldwide. Common symptoms include sudden paralysis on one side, facial drooping, slurred speech, or blurred vision. Dr. Pothula emphasized the importance of urgent medical attention:
“If any of these signs appear, one must rush to the hospital immediately. Treatments like thrombolysis or mechanical thrombectomy can save lives and significantly reduce disability.”
The record-setting intervention at KIMS Icon Hospital stands as a powerful reminder of how timely action, medical excellence, and advanced infrastructure can transform patient outcomes in critical emergencies.