First reported use of retrievable stent technology for removal of a large septic embolus in the middle cerebral artery.

Abstract

The treatment of acute ischemic stroke in the setting of infective endocarditis (IE) is not well established. Although there have been a few reports on the use of intravenous thrombolysis, the role of mechanical thrombolysis through embolectomy is unknown. A 78-year-old woman with an acute middle cerebral artery stroke secondary to septic embolization underwent successful stent retrieval of the septic embolus, followed by complete revascularization and neurologic improvement. Mechanical thrombolysis with embolectomy may be a safe and efficacious option for selected patients with acute ischemic stroke secondary to IE.