EXTEND-IA trial

The EXTEND-IA trial tested whether treating stroke patients with a special drug called alteplase before performing a procedure to remove a blood clot (mechanical thrombectomy) improves their recovery. The study found that patients who received both treatments had better outcomes, such as increased chances of regaining independence and reduced brain damage, compared to those who only received the mechanical removal. This research suggests that giving alteplase early, even shortly before clot removal, can enhance stroke recovery.