In the field of Neuro, there are several other sub-specialties including Neuro Intervention that are used to treat various conditions and diseases affecting the nervous system. But there are very rare hospitals that have installed cath labs and use neuro intervention minimally invasive surgical techniques. Anyhow, Uppal Hospital is the first healthcare centre in Amritsar to have Cath Lab and Neuro Intervention services. In this blog, we will explore the real definition of neuro intervention, the surgeries involved in it and various services provided by the experts of the Uppal Hospital.

Introduction to Neuro Intervention

Neuro Intervention is a subspecialty field of neurology that offers minimally invasive therapies for a diverse range of neurovascular diseases. This technique is widely recognised due to its complex set of surgeries including Neuro Interventional Radiology, neurosurgical angiography and surgical neurology. It is a field of medicine which is mainly specialised in the endovascular treatment of vascular disorders of the brain, spinal cord, head, and neck as well as other peripheral vascular transformations.

Surgeries Involved in Neuro Intervention 

Neurointerventional surgery involves a variety of techniques aimed at treating conditions within the blood vessels of the brain and spinal cord. Some common surgeries in it include: 

1. Mechanical Thrombectomy:

This procedure is primarily performed in cases of acute stroke, where a blood clot (thrombus) blocks a blood vessel in the brain, leading to reduced blood flow and potentially causing brain damage. Moreover, 

• A specialised catheter is carefully inserted through an artery, typically in the groyne and threaded up to the site of the clot in the brain. 

• A mechanical device, often called a stent retriever, is used to physically remove the clot, restoring blood flow to the affected area of the brain.

• By promptly removing the clot, this procedure can significantly improve the chances of a positive outcome, reducing disability and minimising long-term neurological damage after an acute stroke.

2. Intracranial Angioplasty and Stenting:

These procedures are used to address specific conditions affecting blood vessels within the brain. They aim to restore blood flow in arteries that have become narrowed or blocked.

• In angioplasty, a balloon-tipped catheter is inserted into the narrowed area of the artery and inflated to widen the vessel. 

• In stenting, a tiny mesh-like device (stent) is often placed at the site of the narrowing to help keep the artery open.

• These interventions improve blood flow, reducing the risk of stroke and enhancing overall brain function. 

• They’re particularly effective in managing conditions like intracranial atherosclerotic disease (narrowing due to plaque buildup) and preventing future vascular events.

3. Intracranial Embolization:

This procedure is used to treat specific vascular abnormalities within the brain, such as cerebral arteriovenous malformations (AVMs), dural arteriovenous fistulas (AVFs) and pial fistulas.

• By using specialised embolic materials, a catheter is guided to the site of the abnormal blood vessel connection. 

• The embolic material is then injected to block off or reduce blood flow through the abnormal vessels.

• Intracranial embolization is effective in treating these vascular malformations, reducing the risk of bleeding and other complications associated with these conditions.

4. Carotid Stenosis – Endovascular Revascularization/Carotid Stenting:

Carotid stenosis occurs when the carotid arteries, which supply blood to the brain, become narrowed due to a buildup of plaque. This procedure aims to restore proper blood flow.

• A stent is inserted into the narrowed portion of the carotid artery to hold it open, allowing improved blood flow to the brain.

• This procedure reduces the risk of stroke caused by decreased blood flow due to carotid artery narrowing.

5. Intracranial Atherosclerotic Disease (ICAD) – Intracranial Stenting/Angioplasty:

ICAD is a condition where the arteries within the brain become narrowed or blocked due to atherosclerosis (plaque buildup). This can lead to stroke and other neurological issues.

• Similar to the previously mentioned angioplasty and stenting procedures, this intervention is performed within the intracranial arteries to improve blood flow and prevent strokes.

• Intracranial stenting and angioplasty can effectively treat ICAD, reducing the risk of stroke and improving overall brain health.

All the above techniques and surgeries listed are performed in the catheterization laboratory or normally known as the Cath Lab Surgery room. In the next part of the blog, we will discuss the general overview of the Cath Lab.

About Cath Lab & Its Various Benefits: 

Uppal Hospital is the first neuro centre to install a cath lab in the region. Also, a cath lab is a specialised medical room where doctors use thin tubes (catheters) to do tests and treatments inside your body, especially in blood vessels and organs. It’s like a high-tech room where they can see and fix things without doing large surgeries. Here is a more detailed overview:

1. Minimally Invasive: Cath lab procedures are minimally invasive, meaning they typically involve small incisions or punctures in the skin rather than large surgical openings. This approach reduces trauma to the body, leads to faster recovery times, and often allows patients to return home on the same day.

2. Diagnostic and Interventional: Cath labs are used for both diagnostic purposes and interventional treatments. They enable healthcare professionals to visualise and assess the condition of blood vessels, organs and other structures, as well as to perform certain therapeutic procedures.

3. Cardiac Procedures: Cath labs are most commonly associated with cardiac procedures. They are used for diagnostic angiograms to visualise the coronary arteries and assess blood flow. Cath labs are also used for interventional procedures such as angioplasty (opening narrowed arteries) and the placement of stents to keep arteries open.

4. Vascular Procedures: Cath labs are used for a wide range of vascular procedures, including angiography to visualise blood vessels throughout the body, endovascular repairs of aortic aneurysms and treatments for peripheral artery disease (PAD).

5. Neurointerventional Procedures: In the field of neuro intervention, cath labs are essential for treating conditions within the blood vessels of the brain and spinal cord. This includes procedures to remove blood clots (mechanical thrombectomy), open narrowed vessels (angioplasty) and place stents. 

6. Electrophysiology Studies: Cath labs are also used for electrophysiology studies (EPS) to diagnose and treat abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias). These studies may involve the placement of pacemakers or other devices.

7. Real-Time Imaging: One of the key features of a cath lab is the availability of real-time imaging technology, such as fluoroscopy and digital radiography, which guides healthcare professionals during procedures, allowing them to see the catheter’s movement and placement. 

Moreover, cath labs are staffed by highly trained medical professionals including the Best Neurologist in Amritsar, interventional cardiologists, vascular surgeons, radiologists and other specialists. The advanced capabilities of the cath lab make it a vital resource for diagnosing and treating a wide range of conditions while minimising the impact on the patient’s body.

In the End…

Uppal Hospital is a trusted healthcare centre that diagnoses patients and provides effective solutions to maintain their health. The hospital’s skilled doctors offer personalised care and they’re even using advanced techniques of Neuro Intervention for treating brain and blood vessel issues. This shows the hospital’s commitment to staying at the forefront of medical advancements. If you’re facing any problems related to neurological services, it’s a good idea to visit the hospital as soon as possible. If you have questions about treatment options, you can also reach out to them at neuroamritsar@yahoo.com.