Guest Editorial: An Update on Stroke Intervention

Abstract

Endovascular treatment for acute ischemic stroke has changed remarkably over the past decade. Beginning with IA thrombolytic administration, endovascular strategies have evolved to include aspiration, self-expanding intracranial stents, and now retrievable stents. With the recent publication of 5 randomized, controlled studies (MR CLEAN, EXTEND-IA, ESCAPE, SWIFT PRIME, and REVASCAT), mechanical thrombectomy, when used in combination with IV tPA, has demonstrated a significant radiographic and clinical benefit over traditional strategies with IV tPA alone. These results have placed endovascular therapy at the forefront of stroke treatment, redefining the standard of care.