Learn about Intra Arterial Thrombolysis Treatment in Turkey — how it works, who it is for, recovery timelines, and what to expect before and after surgery. Compare hospitals and doctors experienced in Intra Arterial Thrombolysis and request assistance for cost estimates or appointments.

About Intra Arterial Thrombolysis

Intra-Arterial Thrombolysis (IAT) is a specialized, minimally invasive endovascular procedure performed by a neurologist, often in collaboration with an interventional neuroradiologist, to treat acute ischemic stroke. It involves threading a microcatheter through the arteries directly to the site of a blood clot (thrombus) in the brain. A clot-dissolving (thrombolytic) medication, such as alteplase, is then delivered precisely into the blockage to restore blood flow. This targeted approach is typically used when intravenous thrombolysis is contraindicated or has failed, or for larger clots in major brain arteries. The goal is to rapidly recanalize the occluded vessel, minimize brain tissue damage, and improve neurological outcomes, making it a critical intervention in comprehensive stroke care.

Key Highlights

    Targeted Treatment: Delivers clot-busting medication directly to the site of the brain blockage for higher local concentration.Extended Time Window: Can be performed up to 6-24 hours after stroke onset in select patients, unlike intravenous thrombolysis.Effective for Large Clots: Particularly beneficial for dissolving large clots in major brain arteries (e.g., MCA, basilar artery).listrongMinimally Invasive:/strong Performed via a small puncture in the groin or wrist, avoiding open brain surgery./lilistrongPotential for Improved Outcomes:/strong Aims to rapidly restore blood flow, potentially reducing long-term disability from stroke./li/ul

Who is this surgery for?

  • Acute ischemic stroke caused by a large vessel occlusion (LVO) in the anterior or posterior circulation.
  • Patient presentation within an extended time window (often 6-24 hours) who meet specific imaging criteria (e.g., significant penumbra).
  • Contraindication to intravenous thrombolysis (e.g., recent surgery, coagulation disorder).
  • Failure of intravenous thrombolysis to recanalize the artery ("bridging therapy").
  • Ischemic stroke in a critical location, such as the basilar artery, where outcomes without intervention are often poor.

How to prepare

  • Emergency Imaging: Immediate non-contrast CT head to rule out hemorrhage, followed by CT angiography or MR angiography to locate the clot.
  • Lab Tests: Rapid blood tests including complete blood count, coagulation profile, and renal function.
  • Neurological Assessment: Evaluation using the NIH Stroke Scale (NIHSS) to quantify stroke severity.
  • Patient Consent: Discussion of risks, benefits, and alternatives with the patient or family members due to the urgent nature.
  • Pre-Procedure: Establishment of intravenous access, monitoring lines, and shaving/prepping the groin or wrist access site.

Risks & possible complications

  • Symptomatic Intracranial Hemorrhage: The most serious risk, involving bleeding into the brain, which can worsen neurological function.
  • Artery Damage or Dissection: Injury to the blood vessel wall from the catheter.
  • Distal Embolization: Fragments of the clot breaking off and traveling to block smaller arteries downstream.
  • Access Site Complications: Bleeding, hematoma, or pseudoaneurysm at the catheter insertion point.
  • Allergic Reaction: To contrast dye used during imaging.
  • Failure to Recanalize: The procedure may not successfully dissolve or remove the clot.

Recovery & hospital stay

  • Immediate Post-Procedure: Transfer to Neuro-ICU or stroke unit for close monitoring of vital signs and neurological status for 24 hours.
  • Monitoring: Frequent neurological checks and strict blood pressure control to prevent bleeding.
  • Imaging Follow-up: A repeat CT scan is typically performed within 24 hours to check for hemorrhage.
  • Mobilization: Bed rest for several hours, followed by gradual mobilization as tolerated.
  • Rehabilitation: Early initiation of physical, occupational, and speech therapy as needed to maximize recovery.
  • Medications: Often started on antiplatelet agents (e.g., aspirin) to prevent future clots, unless contraindicated.
  • checked Typical hospital stay: 5-10 days
  • checked Expected recovery time: Several weeks to months (highly variable)

Frequently Asked Questions

If you are considering intra arterial thrombolysis in Turkey, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.

Procedure cost in other countries

Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for intra arterial thrombolysis compare across other countries where we have data.

Country Estimated cost range Typical stay Recovery time View details
India USD 1,632 – USD 4,895 5-10 days ~ Several weeks to months (highly variable) Know More
Turkey USD 12,079 – USD 36,236 5-10 days ~ Several weeks to months (highly variable) Know More

Top hospitals for Intra Arterial Thrombolysis in Turkey

These partner hospitals in Turkey have dedicated neurology teams and experience managing patients undergoing intra arterial thrombolysis.

Liv Hospital Ankara

  • IconIstanbul, Turkey
  • Icon140 Doctors

Liv Hospital Bahçeşehir

  • IconIstanbul, Turkey
  • Icon38 Doctors
PATIENT REVIEW

Had my gallbladder out last week....

Had my gallbladder out last week. The surgery itself was fine, but the first two days after were rough. Dr. Madhumitha was really on top of my pain meds, adjusting them a few times until it was manageable. She checked on me every morning and evening at MGM, which helped a lot. I'm home now and the recovery is going okay, just taking it slow.