In a significant advancement for stroke treatment, the Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research (Jipmer) has completed clinical trials for the Supernova, a cutting-edge mechanical thrombectomy device aimed at removing blood clots from brain arteries in stroke patients. This device, created by engineers and interventional radiologists of Indian descent in the United States and manufactured with a facility in Hyderabad, has received approval from the Drug Controller General of India for commercial distribution.
The findings of this study, known as the Grassroot Trial, were presented at the World Stroke Congress in Barcelona, which took place from October 22 to 24. The Supernova device exhibited safety and effectiveness comparable to expensive imported systems currently utilized in stroke therapies. With local manufacturing, it is anticipated that the cost of Supernova will be reduced by 50 to 70 percent compared to imported alternatives, making advanced stroke treatments more accessible for public hospitals and patients in low-income countries.
This milestone coincides with the observance of World Stroke Day, themed “Act fast: Every minute counts.” Medical professionals underscore the importance of prompt treatment; clot-dissolving medications are most effective when administered within 3 to 4.5 hours of the onset of a stroke, while mechanical thrombectomy can benefit patients who arrive at medical facilities within six to seven hours.
To enhance public awareness, doctors encourage adherence to the FAST checklist—Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulty, and Time to call an ambulance. Furthermore, they advocate for lifestyle modifications to prevent strokes, such as managing blood pressure, diabetes, and cholesterol levels, refraining from tobacco and alcohol, engaging in physical activity, and ensuring adequate sleep.
On October 24, an awareness program was conducted, attended by over 100 patients and caregivers, who participated in interactive discussions focused on emergency responses and long-term care strategies. Educational materials in Tamil were distributed, and a skit performed by students highlighted common warning signs of strokes.
To bolster the region”s medical response capabilities, Jipmer held a Continuing Medical Education program on stroke care on October 26, with participation from more than 50 doctors. The President of the Indian Stroke Association, Dr. P Vijaya, served as the chief guest and unveiled the Jipmer Stroke Guidelines during the event.
According to Dr. Sunil Narayan, Head of Neurology at Jipmer, the institution has progressively developed stroke care facilities over the years. “We now provide 24/7 thrombolysis, neurosurgical decompression, mechanical thrombectomy, and advanced robotic neuro-rehabilitation,” he stated.
Medical Superintendent Dr. Vinod Kumar noted that all acute stroke services are offered free of charge around the clock under government health schemes. Plans are in progress to integrate pre-hospital stroke care with emergency services in order to expedite treatment for patients. Additionally, Acting Dean Dr. Pankaj Kundra announced the intention to create a dedicated neuroscience center providing 24-hour MRI access for the management of complex and late-arriving stroke cases.
