Surgery, drugs, acute hospital care and rehabilitation are all accepted treatments for stroke. When a neck artery has become partially blocked, surgery might be used to remove the buildup of atherosclerotic plaque. This is called carotid endarterectomy .
Cerebral angioplasty is a new, experimental technique.
Balloons, stents and coils are used to treat some types of cerebral vascular problems. Its widespread use will require more study of its safety and effectiveness. This was a major advance because physicians can use this approved treatment for ischemic strokes caused by blood clots, which constitute 80 percent of all strokes. It is the only FDA-approved drug proven to be effective in treating ischemic stroke. Studies have shown that tPA can significantly reduce the debilitating effects of stroke and minimize permanent disability, if administered promptly.