The studies showed promising rechannelisation and neurological results obtained with MERCI as a first line treatment. In addition, the use of MERCI combined with intravenous or intra-arterial thrombolytic treatment displayed similar results to that achieved with device therapy alone.
Regarding safety, an important proportion of patients (around 7%) underwent clinically significant complications related to the procedure (worsening of the neurological situation, subarachnoid haemorrhage or complications in the place of vascular access that required surgery or blood transfusion).
Mechanical thrombectomy with MERCI was cost-effective compared with standard antiplatelet treatment.