Mechanical thrombectomy for acute ischemic stroke: The road thus far

Early restoration of flow to perfuse the salvageable brain tissue in acute ischemic stroke significantly reduces mortality and morbidity. Recanalization of large vessel occlusions has not been more than 10-20% with intravenous thrombolysis. Use of mechanical devices in acute ischemic stroke has shown promise in greater recanalization rates and hopefully will yield more optimal stroke outcomes. The results of the recent trials appear promising as the devices continue to evolve, become more operator friendly, and patient outcomes improve.