Identifying implications of thrombolysis for stroke rehabilitation: Knowledge gaps in current research

Abstract

PURPOSE: Thrombolysis with tissue plasminogen activator (rtPA) is currently used throughout the world in acute ischaemic stroke management. In this review, we will explore the status of our current knowledge about the effects of rtPA on specific rehabilitation domains and highlight some key knowledge gaps. METHODS: Narrative review of the larger clinical and postmarketing surveillance studies. RESULTS: To date, most of the previous research into rtPA for acute ischaemic stroke has focused on safety and efficacy using general outcome measures and has ceased following patients 90 days after rtPA administration. This research has provided valuable information about the safety and efficacy of rt..