Summary
An evaluation of an image analysis tool has demonstrated its potential in the mechanical thrombectomy pathway following stroke. This included input from clinicians, patients and carers. Further analysis is needed to support widespread adoption.
What is the challenge?
Mechanical thrombectomy (MT) is a specialist procedure to treat acute ischaemic stroke. It’s highly time-sensitive and requires skilled navigation of complex blood vessels. Tools that improve visibility during the procedure and give real-time support can be vital, especially for less-experienced operators.
What did we do?
1View is a real-time 3D image analysis tool designed by Medical iSight to aid clinicians during MT. It provides clearer visuals and guidance during each stage of the procedure.
Health Innovation Oxford and Thames Valley (HIOTV) conducted a feasibility study to assess the acceptance, perceived usefulness and potential barriers to adoption of 1View within NHS neuroscience centres in England. This was based on Lean Assessment Process (LAP) methodology, which integrates both qualitative and quantitative approaches to provide a holistic evaluation of emerging healthcare technologies.
The clinical study, led by Imperial College Hospital London, collated the insights of ten expert stakeholders, including interventional neuroradiologists, trainee neuroradiologists, clinical leads and medical directors from eight NHS neuroscience centres across England, ensuring a diverse range of perspectives from various clinical settings.
Qualitative and quantitative data was thematically analysed to provide a robust and comprehensive understanding of both the perceived potential benefits and challenges associated with implementing 1View in the mechanical thrombectomy pathway.
What has been achieved?
The feasibility study demonstrated the potential of 1View in NHS neuroscience services, both as a training tool and for real-time support. Early use also suggested value in complex cases, where improved visualisation could enhance both patient outcomes and the confidence of clinicians in their decision-making in the use of mechanical thrombectomy following stroke. These findings mark an important first step towards potential wider adoption, with next priorities focusing on gathering evidence, system integration and demonstrating cost-effectiveness.
Co-designing with stroke survivors
Involving members of the public in the design of patient-facing materials is not just valuable; it’s essential. For the Medical iSight thrombectomy project, HIOTV collaborated with stroke survivors to co-design leaflets and consent documents that reflect their lived experiences and priorities. Their insights highlighted the emotional and cognitive challenges faced during acute care, including feelings of confusion, vulnerability and difficulty processing information.
One participant shared, “I didn’t understand what I was being asked.” This feedback emphasised the need for clear, compassionate communication using simple language, supported by both verbal and written explanations. In a facilitated workshop involving 12 people and through an ongoing small patient panel survivors and carers stressed the importance of human connection, tailored care and being spoken to, not just about. These views were fed back to Medical iSight and shaped materials that are not only clinically accurate but also empathetic and accessible.
What people said
“Working with HIOTV to co-design patient facing leaflets and consent documents via a facilitated workshop with stroke survivors was incredibly valuable. At the end of our research ethics committee meeting, the committee chair made a specific point about the facilitated workshop (run by HIOTV), and how impressed both the committee and the independent reviewer were with what the team had done.” Chris Johnson, Head of Product, Medical iSight.
What next?
The findings of the HIOTV feasibility study serve as a roadmap for the continued development and refinement of 1View towards adoption in the mechanical thrombectomy pathway following stroke.