Abstract
BACKGROUND Mechanical thrombectomy is a critical intervention for patients with acute ischemic stroke with large vessel occlusion. However, significant barriers remain in its widespread implementation, particularly in low‐ to middle‐income countries, including a shortage of trained physicians and limited access to advanced medical technologies. This systematic review and meta‐analysis aimed to comprehensively evaluate current mechanical thrombectomy training methodologies and assess their effectiveness in improving procedural skills among neurointerventional teams. METHODS We conducted a systematic review following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta‐Analyses guidelines, searching PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. Eight studies were included, with 3 studies eligible for meta‐analysis. We assessed training approaches, participant demographics, and procedural outcomes using the Risk of Bias in Non‐randomized Studies of Interventions tool and performed statistical analysis using OpenMetaAnalyst software. RESULTS Various training modalities, including virtual reality simulations and hands‐on workshops, consistently demonstrated positive effects on procedural skills and professional confidence, demonstrating significant improvements across multiple metrics. Our systematic review and meta‐analysis revealed statistically significant reductions in total procedure time (average decrease of 17.84 minutes, 95% CI: [−22.19 to −13.48]), number of handling errors (decreased by 6.34 errors, 95% CI: [−13.16 to 0.48]), contrast volume (decreased by 27.35 mL, 95% CI: [−45.11 to −9.60]), and fluoroscopy time (reduced by 8.07 minutes, 95% CI: [−10.71 to −5.44]). Participants showed increased procedural steps completed, with an average increase of 6.52 steps (95% CI: [3.99–9.05]). CONCLUSION Structured, simulation‐based mechanical thrombectomy training programs can significantly enhance procedural skills, clinical decision‐making, and professional confidence among neurointerventional teams, potentially improving stroke care.