Around 6.5 million people die of stroke annually, with 12 million suffering from the silent killer every year. With 1.25 million new stroke cases, India made up 10 percent of the global burden in 2021. This conveys the healthcare threat and disease burden of this deadly disease. On the occasion of World Stroke Day, Paras Health Srinagar showcases its achievements in interventional neurology and neurosurgery, with success stories that underscore the hospital's commitment to offering quality brain and spine care in the region. As the dedicated center for neurological and neurosurgical treatments, Paras Health is making a positive impact on the healthcare landscape of Kashmir through its life-saving procedures, modern technology, and skilled medical professionals.

Breakthrough in Stroke Prevention and Brain Care

The interventional neurology team at Paras Health, Srinagar, led by Dr. Hilal Ahmad Ganaie, Associate Director of Neurology and Neurointerventional procedure, recently saved a patient with a 99% blockage in the left internal carotid artery (ICA) from a life-threatening stroke. This was possible with Carotid Digital Subtraction Angiography (DSA), a diagnostic imaging technique that helped in identifying the level of blockage in this patient. The team successfully performed Carotid Angioplasty and Stenting, restoring blood flow and preventing the stroke. This minimally invasive procedure is a prime example of how early detection and timely intervention can prevent devastating outcomes.
"Carotid artery disease is a silent threat that can lead to catastrophic strokes, but with the advent of interventional neurology, we can offer patients safer, faster, and more effective treatment options. Our recent successes in stroke prevention show the impact of effective neurology services in the region," said Dr. Hilal Ahmad Ganaie.

Advanced Neurosurgery: Vision Restored through Endoscopic Tumor Excision

In another exceptional case, Basheer Ahmad, a 68-year-old patient from Pattan, experienced significant vision loss and severe headaches due to a large pituitary tumor. The neurosurgical team at Paras Health, Srinagar, led by Dr. Basharat Ahmad Kanth, Associate Director of Neurosurgery, performed a minimally invasive Endoscopic Trans-Nasal Trans-Sphenoidal (TNTS) Pituitary Tumor Excision. Dr. Danish Andrabi, Senior Consultant, ENT & Endoscopic Skull Base Surgery and Dr. Azhar Khalid Bhat, Associate Consultant, Neurosurgery, also contributed to this successful surgery. The four-handed endoscopic approach enabled the complete removal of the tumor, leading to the restoration of the patient’s vision with no postoperative complications.
Innovative Flow Diverter-Assisted Aneurysm Coiling Saved 51-Year-Old Patient's Life
The ENT & Skull Base Surgery Department also played a crucial role in saving Naseema Akhter, a 51-year-old patient diagnosed with a giant ruptured left ICA aneurysm causing subarachnoid hemorrhage. Under the leadership of Dr. Hilal Ahmad Ganaie, the team performed Flow Diverter-Assisted Aneurysm Coiling, successfully treating the life-threatening condition. With precise care and expertise, the patient made a full recovery and was discharged in stable condition.
"These cases demonstrate the success of our comprehensive stroke and brain care program, which includes advanced minimally invasive procedures such as DSA, aneurysm coiling, endoscopic tumor excision, and carotid angioplasty. Our team is dedicated to providing the best possible care to our patients and bringing highly effective neurosurgical solutions to the people of Kashmir," said Dr. Gautam Das, Zonal Director, Paras Health.

Comprehensive Stroke Clinic and 24/7 Emergency Services

Paras Health Srinagar’s Stroke Clinic offers continuous support, ensuring that patients receive the best care, from early detection to timely treatment. The hospital is also equipped with 24/7 emergency services, providing immediate intervention for stroke and neurological emergencies, supported by a team of expert neurologists, neurosurgeons, and a modern Cath Lab.If there are symptoms related to stroke, it is crucial to consult a doctor or expert immediately to save lives within the vital 'golden hour' window.

A Commitment to Saving Lives

With these recent successes, Paras Health Srinagar reaffirms its leadership in interventional neurology, neurosurgery, and skull base surgery. By introducing minimally invasive procedures such as Digital Subtraction Angiography (DSA), Carotid Stenting, Aneurysm Coiling, and Endoscopic Tumor Excision, the hospital is redefining stroke management and brain care in Kashmir. The hospital is also equipped with up-to-date CT scan and MRI facilities, prioritizing the 'Golden Hour' to save vital lives through timely diagnosis and intervention.