May 5th, 2025
When a stroke strikes, every second counts. The brain is incredibly sensitive to interrupted blood flow, and timely intervention can mean the difference between full recovery and long-term disability. At IGEA Brain, Spine & Orthopedics, we’re committed to advancing stroke care through evidence-based approaches—one of the most effective of which is intravenous thrombolysis.
Intravenous thrombolysis is a treatment that uses a clot-busting medication—most commonly tPA (tissue plasminogen activator)—to dissolve the blood clot causing an ischemic stroke. This type of stroke, which accounts for about 87% of all strokes, occurs when a clot blocks blood flow to the brain.
Administered through a vein in the arm, tPA can restore blood flow to affected brain tissue if given within a critical window—ideally within 4.5 hours of symptom onset. This makes rapid recognition and emergency care absolutely vital.
According to the American Stroke Association, nearly 2 million brain cells die each minute during a stroke. The faster a patient receives thrombolytic therapy, the better the chance of a positive outcome. In fact, studies show that patients treated with tPA within 90 minutes of symptom onset are significantly more likely to recover with little to no disability.
That’s why we emphasize the phrase “Time is brain.”
Not all stroke patients are candidates for intravenous thrombolysis. Eligibility depends on several factors, including:
At IGEA, our experienced stroke specialists rapidly assess each patient to determine whether thrombolytic therapy is safe and appropriate.
At IGEA, we integrate cutting-edge neuroimaging, swift diagnostics, and multidisciplinary expertise to provide advanced stroke treatment in real time. Our teams work in coordination with emergency departments and local hospitals to ensure stroke patients receive the right care—fast.
We’re also deeply involved in stroke education and community awareness. Recognizing the signs of a stroke using the BE FAST acronym (Balance, Eyes, Face, Arms, Speech, Time) and seeking emergency help immediately can make all the difference.
While intravenous thrombolysis is a powerful first-line treatment, it’s only one part of a larger strategy. In some cases, patients may require additional interventions such as mechanical thrombectomy—a minimally invasive procedure to physically remove the clot from the brain’s arteries.
At IGEA, we’re proud to offer comprehensive care that includes advanced interventions, neuro-rehabilitation, and long-term support.