Intra-Arterial Thrombolysis for Acute Central Retinal Artery Occlusion - Preliminary Data and Methodologic Approach

Central retinal artery occlusion [CRAO] generally produces severe monocular visual loss with a poor prognosis for recovery. Conventional therapies offer little or no benefit. Systemic thrombolysis has provided mixed results and carries a small risk of intracerebral hemorrhage. Recent reports suggest that selective intra-arterial thrombolysis of the central retinal artery can produce dramatic visual recoveries. When treated within six hours of symptom onset, 5/17 (30%) recovered acuity ( 20/301. No major complications were reported.