Recanalization therapy for acute ischemic stroke, part 2: mechanical intra-arterial technologies

Document Type

Article

Abstract

Stroke therapy has been revolutionized in the past two decades with the widespread implementation of chemical thrombolysis for acute stroke. However, chemical thrombolysis continues to be limited in its efficacy secondary to relatively short time windows and a high associated risk of hemorrhage. In an attempt to minimize hemorrhagic complications and extend the available therapeutic window, mechanical devices designed specifically for thrombus removal, clot obliteration, and arterial revascularization have experienced a recent surge in development and utilization. As such, chemical thrombolytics now represent only one of many options in acute stroke therapy. These new mechanical devices have extended the potential treatment window and now provide alternatives to patients who do not respond to conventional intravenous thrombolysis. This review will discuss the development of these devices, supporting literature, and the individual strengths that each engenders towards a life-saving therapy for stroke.

Medical Subject Headings

Angioplasty; Brain Ischemia (complications, surgery); Cerebral Arteries (surgery); Humans; Neurosurgical Procedures; Stents; Stroke (etiology, surgery); Thrombolytic Therapy; Vascular Surgical Procedures

Publication Date

1-1-2011

Publication Title

Neurosurgical review

E-ISSN

1437-2320

Volume

34

Issue

1

First Page

11

Last Page

20

PubMed ID

21107630

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1007/s10143-010-0294-1

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