St. Bernards Advances Regional Stroke Care with Neurointerventional Suite

St. Bernards Healthcare has opened the first neurointerventional care suite in Northeast Arkansas, bringing advanced, life-saving stroke treatment to patients closer to home.

The new suite allows physicians to diagnose and treat certain types of stroke more quickly by restoring blood flow to the brain, a critical factor in saving lives and preventing long-term disability. Until now, many patients in the region had to be transported to larger cities for this level of care.

At the center of the suite is a specialized imaging system known as a biplane, which uses two X-ray cameras to produce highly detailed, real-time images of blood vessels in the brain. This technology helps doctors precisely locate and remove blood clots during emergency stroke procedures.

Cerebrovascular neurosurgeon Dr. Nicolas Khattar, who joined St. Bernards in August 2025, will lead the program.

“When someone has a stroke, every minute matters — time lost is brain lost,” said Dr. Khattar. “In the past, many patients had to be flown hours away for advanced treatment. Now, we can provide that care immediately, right here in Jonesboro.”

One of the most common procedures performed in the suite is a mechanical thrombectomy, during which a physician guides a thin tube through the blood vessels to remove a clot blocking blood flow to the brain. The new imaging system acts as a real-time roadmap, allowing doctors to work faster and more accurately.

Key features of the neurointerventional suite include:

• Rapid, detailed imaging: The system can generate a CT-like, three-dimensional scan of the brain in about eight seconds, helping physicians quickly assess damage and plan treatment.
• Live blood-flow tracking: Advanced software shows how blood moves through the brain in real time, helping doctors identify areas at risk and evaluate treatment success.
• All-in-one treatment space: Imaging and procedures are performed in the same room, reducing delays during critical moments.

While stroke treatment is most effective when delivered quickly, recent studies show that some patients may benefit from advanced intervention up to 24 hours after symptoms begin. According to Dr. Khattar, successful treatment during that window depends on having both specialized technology and an experienced team available.

St. Bernards Medical Center administrator Michael Givens expressed gratitude to offer this new level of stroke care.

"It is more than bringing in a new piece of equipment or creating additional surgery space. It is focused on a commitment to our community by providing life-saving treatment here in Jonesboro,” said Givens. “Having Dr. Khattar lead our program ensures that our patients receive the best possible care during their most critical moments."

St. Bernards marked the opening of the suite with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on February 2, attended by patients, healthcare professionals, community leaders and emergency responders. Capping the event, volunteers with the St. Bernards Auxiliary announced plans to donate $300,000 to support the suite’s installation.