MGM Healthcare has reported encouraging progress in stroke prevention after carrying out around 100 brain bypass procedures on adults with a history of mild strokes or early warning signs. The hospital said more than 95 per cent of the patients remained free from ischemic strokes during the follow-up period, highlighting the potential of the procedure for carefully selected high-risk individuals.
The procedures were performed on adults whose brain circulation was severely compromised and whose risk of another stroke remained high despite medical treatment.
The surgery, known as superficial temporal artery to middle cerebral artery (STA-MCA) bypass, connects an artery from the scalp to a blood vessel inside the brain. This creates an alternative pathway to improve circulation in areas that may not receive enough blood through the usual routes.
The surgical team was led by Dr Roopesh Kumar, Director of Neurosurgery at MGM Healthcare. Patients who underwent the procedure were between 28 and 72 years old, with most falling in the 40–60 age group.
Before surgery, doctors assess the brain’s blood supply using MRI-based cross-circulation evaluation, perfusion studies and a Diamox challenge test. These investigations help determine whether the brain can maintain adequate circulation when blood flow is challenged.
According to the hospital, patients showing a Type 3 response to the Diamox test, indicating severely impaired cerebrovascular reserve, may be considered for surgery after specialist evaluation.
A stroke develops when blood flow to the brain is blocked or a blood vessel ruptures. The resulting injury can affect speech, movement, vision, memory and the ability to carry out routine activities.
Dr Kumar highlighted the value of identifying high-risk patients before further damage occurs.
“More than 95 per cent of patients who underwent this procedure remained stroke-free during the observed follow-up period,” he said, adding that research, including studies from Japan, had renewed interest in bypass surgery for selected patients.
Slurred speech, weakness in the arms or legs, persistent headaches and seizures warrant medical evaluation. Depending on the clinical findings, doctors may recommend brain MRI with perfusion imaging and angiography of the brain and neck to investigate possible vascular problems.
Brain bypass surgery is not appropriate for everyone who has experienced a stroke. Specialists must assess each patient’s condition, circulation and future stroke risk before deciding whether the procedure is suitable.
The reported outcomes at MGM Healthcare highlight a potential option for reducing stroke risk in a carefully selected group of patients. Recognising warning signs early and obtaining a timely specialist assessment remain important steps in preventing further complications.
(The above image is for illustrative purposes only)