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Updated: Sep 25, 2026

Optimized Management of Endovascular Treatment for Acute Ischemic Stroke
Published on: January 18, 2018
Antithrombotic and thrombolytic therapy for ischemic stroke
1Department of Neurology, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Box 681, 601 Elmwood Avenue, Rochester, NY 14642, USA. curtis_benesch@urmc.rochester.edu
Insights
Antithrombotic therapy, including antiplatelet agents and anticoagulation, is crucial for stroke prevention. Recent trials guide its use in acute and secondary stroke prevention, with tissue plasminogen activator and intra-arterial thrombolysis as key treatments.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Cardiology
- Vascular Medicine
Background:
- Antithrombotic therapy is fundamental for preventing strokes.
- Antiplatelet agents are established options for stroke risk.
- Warfarin anticoagulation is standard for atrial fibrillation patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current evidence on antithrombotic therapy for stroke prevention.
- To clarify the role of anticoagulation in acute and secondary stroke.
- To highlight emerging thrombolytic therapies for ischemic stroke.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent clinical trials.
- Analysis of treatment guidelines for stroke prevention.
- Evaluation of therapeutic options for acute ischemic stroke.
Main Results:
- Multiple antiplatelet agents are effective for stroke risk reduction.
- Warfarin remains the primary anticoagulation for atrial fibrillation.
- Intravenous tissue plasminogen activator is the sole approved acute ischemic stroke therapy.
- Intra-arterial thrombolysis shows promise in select cases.
Conclusions:
- Antithrombotic strategies are vital for stroke prevention.
- Evidence supports diverse antiplatelet and anticoagulation uses.
- Advanced thrombolytic therapies offer new treatment avenues for acute stroke.
Abstract:
Antithrombotic therapy is the mainstay of treatment for stroke prevention. Multiple antiplatelet agents are now proven options for patients at risk for stroke, whereas warfarin anticoagulation remains the preferred therapy for most patients with atrial fibrillation. Recent clinical trials have clarified the role of anticoagulation in acute stroke and in secondary prevention of noncardioembolic stroke. Intravenous tissue plasminogen activator is the only approved therapy for patients with acute ischemic stroke. Intra-arterial thrombolysis is emerging as a promising therapy in selected patients.
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