What is the window for considering mechanical intervention based on LKW?

When considering mechanical intervention for acute ischemic stroke based on the last known well (LKW) time, the correct answer focuses on the established guidelines that support patient safety and effective treatment outcomes. The recommendation allows for mechanical thrombectomy, which is a procedure aimed at removing a blood clot from a blood vessel in the brain, to be performed on patients who present within a certain time frame after the onset of symptoms.

The window for this intervention is generally accepted to be less than 6 hours from the last known well. This allows healthcare providers to maximize the likelihood of restoring blood flow to the affected area of the brain while minimizing the risk of irreversible neuronal damage. The 6-hour timeframe is backed by clinical studies that show improved functional outcomes in patients treated within this period.

While interventions such as intravenous thrombolysis may occur within a shorter time frame of 3 to 4.5 hours, the window for mechanical thrombectomy can extend further to 6 hours based on evidence that supports its efficacy in eligible patients with large-vessel occlusions. This distinction highlights the importance of timely assessment and treatment in managing acute strokes effectively.

The periods beyond 6 hours and up to 12 hours are generally not recommended for mechanical intervention due to diminished chances of a