The Stentriever-Mediated Aspiration Thrombectomy (SMAT) Technique

Endovascular treatment strategies for acute ischemic stroke are evolving. The stent retriever-mediated aspiration thrombectomy (SMAT) technique utilizes a stent retriever device, a large-bore aspiration catheter, and manual syringe suction aspiration. It is a highly effective thrombectomy strategy for acute large vessel occlusions of the proximal intracranial arteries in patients with suspected salvageable brain. Herein we describe the SMAT technique in detail and discuss special considerations and tips, pearls, and lessons learned.