Mechanical thrombectomy for the acute ischemic stroke using the Penumbra system

On acute ischemic stroke within the 3 hours, intravenous tissue plasminogen activator (IV tPA) is sometimes effectiveness. But for occlusion of large vessels, such as the internal carotid artery and vertebrobasilar artery, IV tPA is often not effective. In Japan, Penumbra system (Penumbra Inc.) is available in 2011. We have used Penumbra system for 6 cases with acute ischemic stroke. The purpose of this report is to assess the safety and effectiveness of the Penumbra system in the revascularization of patients presenting with acute ischemic stroke.