Interdisciplinary cooperation for a maximum acceleration of availability of modern therapy for ischemic stroke for all patients in need of endovascular thrombectomy

Abstract

Catheter-based (endovascular) thrombectomy is class I.A indication for the treatment of acute ischemic stroke. However, its availability in most countries is extremely low due to the lack of trained staff. Even the countries with best stroke services (e.g. Czech Republic) currently treat only one third of patients, who would be indicated to such therapy and in many countries the treatment simply is not available. It is estimated, that on the European level only 10% of the suitable patients are currently treated. This review manuscript is written by representatives of the three main specializations dealing with acute ischemic stroke treatment and prevention: a neurologist, a radiologist and a cardiologist. The aim is to demonstrate, that only close interdisciplinary cooperation may improve the outcomes of this devastating disease.