Anesthetic consideations for endovascular treatment of acute ischemic stroke

The purpose of this Continuing Professional Development module is to provide information pertaining to anesthetic considerations and management of endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) for patients with acute ischemic stroke.

Acute ischemic stroke is a devastating neurologic disorder and timely intervention is key to a good neurologic outcome. This article provides an overview of three important concepts: pathophysiology and disease characteristics of acute ischemic stroke, and the procedural and anesthetic aspects of EVT. Key considerations include recognition of stroke symptoms, timing and urgency of intervention, procedural considerations for anesthesiologists, risks and benefits of different anesthetic techniques, and a summary of recent guidelines. In particular, current recommendations for blood pressure management in this setting are reviewed.

Timely intervention for patients with acute ischemic stroke is of utmost importance. Endovascular thrombectomy is a minimally invasive procedure that has evolved over recent decades and improves outcomes for selected patients with ischemic stroke. Anesthesiologists should have a good understanding of potential complications and anesthetic options. Recent randomized trials have shown that both general anesthesia and sedation are associated with good outcomes; the anesthetic approach should be individualized and may vary by institution. Careful monitoring and maintenance of hemodynamic goals are critical, as is effective communication with the multidisciplinary team.