The Future of Endovascular Therapy

Neurology. 2021 Nov 16;97(20 Suppl 2):S185-S193. doi: 10.1212/WNL.0000000000012807.

Abstract

Purpose of the review: This article summarizes a broad range of the most recent advances and future directions in stroke diagnostics, endovascular robotics, and neuromodulation.

Recent findings: In the past 5 years, the field of interventional neurology has seen major technological advances for the diagnosis and treatment of cerebrovascular diseases. Several new technologies became available to aid in complex prehospital stroke triage, stroke diagnosis, and interpretation of radiologic findings. Robotics and neuromodulation promise to expand access to established treatments and broaden neuroendovascular indications.

Summary: Mobile applications offer a solution to simplify prehospital diagnostic and transfer decisions. Several prehospital devices are also under development to improve the accuracy of detection of large vessel occlusion (LVO). Artificial intelligence is now routinely used in early diagnosis of LVO and for detecting salvageability of the affected brain parenchyma. Technological advances have also paved the way to incorporate endovascular robotics and neuromodulation into practice. This may expand the deliverability of established treatments and facilitate the development of cutting-edge treatments for other complex neurologic diseases.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Endovascular Procedures* / trends
  • Forecasting
  • Humans
  • Stroke* / surgery