MCI injection, also known as microcatheter contrast injection, is a procedure used in neurothrombectomy, a treatment for acute ischemic stroke. It involves injecting a contrast agent through a microcatheter into the blood vessel where the clot is located, allowing for visualization of the clot and surrounding blood vessels. This technique helps the neurointerventionist to accurately deploy the stent retriever, a device used to remove the clot.
MCI injection is helpful because it:
- Provides real-time visualization of the clot and the blood vessels. This allows the neurointerventionist to assess the size and location of the clot, as well as the flow of blood in the surrounding vessels.
- Enables accurate placement of the stent retriever. By visualizing the clot and surrounding vessels, the neurointerventionist can accurately position the stent retriever to effectively remove the clot.
Example:
Imagine a patient experiencing a stroke due to a blood clot in a major brain artery. Using MCI injection, doctors can see the clot and the surrounding blood vessels clearly. This information helps them position the stent retriever accurately to remove the clot, thereby restoring blood flow to the brain and potentially preventing further damage.
