Endovascular Therapy in Hyperacute Ischaemic Stroke: History and Current Status

Abstract

This is a literature review on to the use of endovascular therapy in hyperacute ischaemic stroke secondary to large vessel occlusion (LVO). The prognosis for LVO is generally poor and the efficacy of intravenous tissue plasminogen activator (IV TPA) in the treatment of this subtype of stroke is questionable. It is well documented that recanalisation is associated with improved outcomes but IV TPA has limited efficacy in LVO recanalisation and the complication rates are higher for IV TPA in this stroke subset. Improved recanalisation rates have been demonstrated with intra-arterial TPA and first and second generation mechanical techniques but the rate of favourable outcome has not overtly mirrored this improvement. Several controversial trials using these early techniques have recently been published but fail to reflect modern practice which centres on the use of stent-retriever technology. This has been proven to be superior to older techniques. Not only are recanalisation rates higher, but the speed of recanalisation is greater and clinical results are improved. Multiple observational studies demonstrate consistently high rates of LVO recanalisation; TICI 2b/3 in the order of 65–95% and, rates of favourable outcome (mRS 0–2) in the order of 55% (42.5–77%) in clinically moderate to severe stroke with complicating symptomatic haemorrhage in the order of 1.5–15%. A major factor determining outcome is time to treatment but success has been demonstrated using these devices with bridging therapy, after IV TPA failure or as a stand-alone treatment.