AUTHOR=Nguyen Thanh , Babikian Viken , Romero Rafael , Pikula Aleksandra , Kase Carlos , Jovin Tudor G., Norbash Alexander M. TITLE=Intra-Arterial Treatment Methods in Acute Stroke Therapy JOURNAL=Frontiers in Neurology VOLUME=2 YEAR=2011 URL=https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/neurology/articles/10.3389/fneur.2011.00009 DOI=10.3389/fneur.2011.00009 ISSN=1664-2295 ABSTRACT=

Acute revascularization is associated with improved outcomes in ischemic stroke patients. It is unclear which method of intra-arterial intervention, if any, is ideal. Promising approaches in acute stroke treatment are likely a combination of intravenous and endovascular revascularization efforts, combining early treatment initiation with direct clot manipulation and/or PTA/stenting. In this review, we will discuss available thrombolytic therapies and endovascular recanalization techniques, beginning with chemical thrombolytic agents, followed by mechanical devices, and a review of ongoing trials. Further randomized studies comparing medical therapy, intravenous and endovascular treatments are essential, and their implementation will require the wide support and enthusiasm from the neurologic, neuroradiologic, and neurosurgical stroke communities.