30/11/2025
⏱️ Thrombectomy Timing vs. Arterial Lines – What Matters More?
During the recent NACCS webinar, a question came up: “With time to get to the IR suite being highly variable, is saving 3 minutes by skipping an arterial line worth the possible reduced detection of hypo/hypertension?”
Dr. Rebecca Campbell answered:
“If a patient medically requires an arterial line—like if they’re cardiovascularly unstable—then absolutely, place it. But the vast majority of patients don’t need one. Our data shows arterial lines didn’t reduce hypotension or other complications.
Improving pathway timings is a team effort—think Dave Brailsford’s marginal gains. To hit the 60-minute goal safely, we all need to move as quickly as possible. Every hour of delay means 7 fewer patients benefit from thrombectomy. Every 10-minute delay reduces disability-free survival and increases NHS costs.”
💡 Takeaway: Prioritize patient safety, but avoid unnecessary delays—time is brain in thrombectomy.
