Mechanical thrombectomy - is time still brain? The DAWN of a new era.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study is to review the history of treatments for acute ischemic stroke, examine developments in endovascular therapy, and discuss the future of the management of acute ischemic stroke.

METHODS: A selective review of recent clinical trials for the treatment of acute ischemic stroke was conducted.

RESULTS: We reviewed completed trials of the management of acute ischemic stroke including intravenous thrombolytics, intraarterial thrombolytics, and thrombectomy. We also assessed the future direction of research by reviewing ongoing clinical trials.

CONCLUSIONS: The advancement of endovascular treatment for stroke has led to improved morbidity and mortality for patients. Future challenges include delivering these treatments to stroke centers worldwide.