Advances in treatments for acute ischemic stroke.

Abstract

Acute ischemic stroke is a leading global cause of death and disability. Intravenous thrombolysis was the first acute treatment developed for ischemic strokes. First with alteplase and now with tenecteplase, intravenous thrombolysis has remained a cornerstone of acute ischemic stroke management. In large vessel occlusions, endovascular thrombectomy has become the standard of care in acute stroke management for anterior and posterior circulation strokes. The boundaries for these treatments have expanded, which has improved outcomes in patients who were previously ineligible. This review summarizes the latest advances in interventions for acute ischemic stroke, extending beyond existing guidelines and review articles to explore emerging strategies and treatments currently under investigation.