Update on interventional treatment of acute ischemic stroke

New options have been developed for the prevention and treatment of acute ischemic stroke in the last 20 years, such as carotid endarterectomy and intravenous thrombolysis with tissue plasminogen activator. Scientific evidence has supported their use in developed countries, while there is an evident delay in their use among emerging countries. Other promising modalities require the conclusion of ongoing randomized, controlled trials. Malignant middle or carotid cerebral artery infarction accounts for 10 to 15% ischemic strokes and constitutes a devastating event associated with high morbidity and mortality. Decompressive craniectomy seems to be an effective and safe approach for rapidly lowering intracranial pressure. Although randomized trials are lacking, there is enough evidence to support this surgical procedure in appropriately selected patients.