AAN 2021 | Thrombectomy with or without thrombolytics for the treatment of acute ischemic stroke

Thrombectomy for the treatment of acute ischemic stroke has proven very effective in certain patient subsets. Recent investigations into the benefits of administering thrombolytics prior to endovascular thrombectomy have demonstrated non-inferiority of thrombectomy alone. Michel Torbey, MD, MPH, FAAN, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, NM, discusses how these findings could change current management approaches for stroke patients. Given the recognized risks of thrombolytic treatments, including thrombus fragmentation and cerebral hemorrhage, understanding its benefits on functional outcomes is critical. Further trials in this area are needed. This interview took place during the American Academy of Neurology (AAN) 2021 Annual Meeting.