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Updated: Jun 26, 2026

Optimized Management of Endovascular Treatment for Acute Ischemic Stroke
Published on: January 18, 2018
[Patient selection for thrombolysis using perfusion and diffusion MRI. An overview]
G Thomalla1, P Ringleb, M Köhrmann
1Klinik und Poliklinik für Neurologie, Neuro-Zentrum, Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistrasse 52, 20246, Hamburg, Deutschland.
Abstract:
Multiparametric MRI including diffusion and perfusion imaging provides information on the extent of irreversibly damaged ischemic and/or critically hypoperfused tissue. Magnetic resonance angiography provides additional information on vessel status. The concept of perfusion-diffusion mismatch allows the estimation of tissue at risk of infarction which might be salvaged by timely reperfusion. In large case series and nonrandomized cohort studies, perfusion-diffusion mismatch-based thrombolysis was performed not less than 3 h after symptom onset with excellent safety and signs of good efficacy. However no randomised controlled trial has confirmed this to date. Recent studies improved the understanding of the mismatch concept and identified reperfusion unequivocally as an important predictor of the clinical response to thrombolysis. At the moment MRI-based thrombolysis can be performed after 3 h based on individual benefit:risk assessment in experienced stroke centers.
Insights
Multiparametric MRI, using perfusion and diffusion imaging, helps identify salvageable brain tissue after stroke. This advanced imaging guides timely reperfusion therapy, improving outcomes for stroke patients.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Radiology
- Medical Imaging
Context:
- Multiparametric MRI, including diffusion and perfusion imaging, assesses ischemic tissue extent.
- Magnetic resonance angiography evaluates vessel status.
- Perfusion-diffusion mismatch quantifies salvageable brain tissue at risk of infarction.
Purpose:
- To evaluate the role of perfusion-diffusion mismatch in guiding thrombolysis for acute ischemic stroke.
- To assess the safety and efficacy of MRI-based thrombolysis beyond 3 hours from symptom onset.
Summary:
- Perfusion-diffusion mismatch imaging aids in identifying tissue at risk, potentially salvageable by reperfusion.
- Non-randomized studies suggest good safety and efficacy for mismatch-based thrombolysis after 3 hours.
- Reperfusion is a key predictor of clinical response to thrombolysis.
Impact:
- MRI-based thrombolysis can be considered after 3 hours based on individual benefit:risk assessment in experienced stroke centers.
- Improved understanding of mismatch concept enhances stroke treatment strategies.
- Highlights the importance of advanced neuroimaging in acute stroke management.
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