UHNM Stroke Thrombectomy and Interventional Neuroradiology teams shortlisted for three HSJ Awards
University Hospitals of North Midlands NHS Trust (UHNM) is proud to announce its stroke thrombectomy and interventional neuroradiology teams have been shortlisted for three HSJ Awards.
The nominations recognise the team’s use of artificial intelligence and technology to speed up diagnosis, the creation of one of the UK’s only sustainable 24/7 neurovascular and thrombectomy services, and the transformation of UHNM’s acute stroke pathway.
Last year more than 250 stroke patients at UHNM benefited from a life-saving mechanical thrombectomy procedure, and now the service has been recognised in the following categories:
• Modernising Diagnostics Award
• Driving Efficiency Through Technology Award
• Acute Sector Innovation of the Year
Dr Sanjeev Nayak, Consultant Interventional Neuroradiologist at UHNM, said: "This recognition reflects the innovation, collaboration, and patient-focused care that defines our service. It’s a testament not only to the expertise and dedication of the stroke thrombectomy and interventional neuroradiology team and our colleagues in anaesthetics, stroke, neurosurgery, neurology, and critical care, but also to UHNM’s position as a national leader in delivering cutting-edge clinical innovation.
“These nominations highlight how we’ve harnessed artificial intelligence and advanced technology to speed up diagnosis and treatment for stroke and brain haemorrhages, developed a sustainable 24/7 thrombectomy service, and completely transformed the acute stroke pathway so that every minute counts. We also deliver outstanding results for patients undergoing minimally invasive neurosurgical procedures, such as aneurysm treatments, ensuring timely interventions and excellent outcomes.
“More than 250 patients benefited from a mechanical thrombectomy at UHNM last year, one of the highest rates in the country, and we expect that figure to rise to around 300 in 2025. Stroke is on the rise, with increasing numbers of patients living with chronic conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure, and a more than 60 per-cent increase in cases among people aged 50 and under over the past decade. Patients can be reassured that if they reach us in time, they have the best possible chance of an improved recovery."
Dr Simon Constable, chief executive, said: “This recognition is a testament to the remarkable innovation and teamwork of our stroke thrombectomy and neuroradiology teams. It shows that people locally can rely on having one of the most advanced, responsive, and effective stroke services in the country, right here at UHNM when they need it most.”
The service received national recognition earlier in the year, winning all three categories it was shortlisted for at the prestigious HSJ Digital Awards 2025.
It also received national recognition in 2024 from NHS England’s Medical Director, Professor Sir Stephen Powis, who called it “the best service in the country” during a thrombectomy awareness event at UHNM.
The HSJ Awards ceremony takes place in London on 20 November.