Thrombolytic Treatments for Addressing Acute Ischemic Strokes

Dr. Jeff Lovin practices medicine in Southern California, where he provides patient-centered musculoskeletal and neuro radiology care. Experienced in a wide range of diagnostic procedures, Dr. Jeff Lovin also practices interventional radiology, and is experienced in neurological therapy pathways such as cerebral thrombolysis.

Thrombolytic treatments are used to restore blood flow to the brain among some patients who have experienced acute ischemic strokes. They involve the use of drugs to target and break up the clots that are responsible for cerebral blood flow disruption.

Time is of the essence when applying thrombolytics, which typically need to be administered by arterial catheter or intravenously during the first 3 hours following the initial signs of a stroke.

One common “clot-buster” is alteplase (tPa, Activase), which works to break up clots and restore normal blood flow to the stroke area. Because of the time-sensitive nature of thrombolytics, it is essential that patients be aware of warning signs that may indicate a stroke. These include sudden numbness, trouble speaking, vision issues, dizziness, and a sense of confusion.