Overview of Mechanical Thrombectomy Techniques

The recently reported superiority of mechanical thrombectomy to intravenous thrombolytics has jettisoned endovascular intervention into the forefront of acute ischemic stroke (AIS) management. These successes have allowed a chance for recanalization for patients not meeting the strict eligibility criteria for intravenous thrombolytics. Stent retrieval and aspiration have emerged as two of the most popular and effective approaches for AIS thrombectomy. Since the beginning of mechanical thrombectomy with the Merci device (Stryker) and first-generation Penumbra aspiration system (Penumbra Inc), contemporary techniques have demonstrated reliable recanalization and improved clinical outcomes. Here, we review the use of stent retrieval and aspiration, as well as their synergy, in the management of AIS.