Mechanical Extraction of a Basilar-Artery Embolus with the Use of Flow Reversal and a Microbasket

Abstract

Local intraarterial fibrinolysis has improved the outcome for patients with acute vertebrobasilar occlusion. The procedure has increased survival rates to 30 to 45 percent^1-3 and resulted in rates of recanalization ranging from 50 to 75 percent.^2-5 However, thrombolysis can also lead to intracerebral hematomas, even in the posterior circulation (incidence, 0 to 15 percent),^1-5 as well as to systemic hemorrhage.