Current trends in thrombolysis: implications for diagnostic and interventional radiology

Current trends in thrombolysis are of relevance to both diagnostic and interventional radiologists. In addition to the traditional use of thrombolytic therapy in conditions such as peripheral arterial thrombosis, venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolic disease, more recent interest has focused on the potential use of thrombolysis in acute stroke. There will be significant implications for the provision of radiological services if current trials show a favourable outcome for thrombolysis in stroke. This article looks at a range of conditions in which thrombolysis may be useful, on the strength of currently available evidence. Future trends will depend on the outcomes of the current trials.