Doctors perform rare brain clot removal procedure to save child on Christmas Eve

Christmas Eve is a time for joy and celebration, but for the Patton family in Illinois in 2023, it turned into a life-threatening medical emergency. Six-year-old Preston Patton suddenly collapsed at the dinner table, prompting his father, Shawn Patton, to call 911 immediately.

After being rushed to OSF HealthCare, it was discovered that Preston had a blood clot in his brain, causing paralysis on the left side of his body. Dr. Sourabh Lahoti, a vascular and interventional neurologist, led Preston’s care and determined that a thrombectomy was necessary to remove the clot and prevent a major stroke.

The procedure was successful, and Preston experienced a miraculous recovery, regaining movement in his left arm and leg. It was a moment of true relief for the Patton family, especially considering Preston’s mother had previously passed away from a pulmonary embolism.

Doctors believe Preston’s stroke was a rare complication from a recent flu infection, which triggered an immune response that led to the formation of the clot. Despite the emotional challenges, Preston is now on the road to recovery, undergoing occupational and physical therapy to regain full function.

While he hasn’t been able to return to playing baseball yet, Preston is determined to keep working hard and has even expressed a desire to become a nurse inspired by the care he received during his recovery.

This heartwarming story of resilience and determination serves as a reminder of the importance of early intervention and quality healthcare in saving lives. The Patton family’s Christmas Eve scare has now turned into a story of hope and healing, with Preston looking towards a bright future ahead.