How do we ensure that more patients receive stroke thrombectomy in the UK?

Stroke is a major cause of death in the UK. Mechanical thrombectomy is the most effective treatment for large vessel ischaemic strokes. Despite this, very few patients in the UK receive mechanical thrombectomy. This editorial explores the main barriers to mechanical thrombectomy use and mechanisms to improve uptake.

Automated summary

Stroke is a leading cause of death in the UK, and mechanical thrombectomy is the most effective treatment for large vessel ischaemic strokes. Unfortunately, the use of mechanical thrombectomy is low among UK patients. In this editorial, the main barriers to its use and strategies to improve its uptake are explored.