Acute Ischemic Stroke

Endovascular treatment for acute ischemic stroke (AIS) caused by large-vessel occlusion (LVO) has been proven repeatedly in recent history to be a beneficial and life-saving treatment modality for patients meeting criteria for intervention. Several randomized controlled trials have shown the efficacy of endovascular therapy over medical therapies. The benefits of mechanical thrombectomy (MT) often outweigh the risk of intervention when the potential disability and long-term effects of stroke are taken into consideration. Albeit an evolving and life-enhancing therapy, MT is not immune to significant risks, which include intraprocedural or postprocedural complications. Complications may be life-threatening and lead to increased length of stay while adding to hospital costs and delaying the commencement of rehabilitation. From access-site problems to device-related complications, endovascular treatment of LVO is fraught with peril even in experienced hands. A thorough understanding of preventable complications and the minimization of often unavoidable complications are integral components in providing the best care and outcomes for patients suffering from AIS.