For the first time in Sardinia, tenecteplase, a next-generation fibrinolytic, has been successfully administered to a patient suffering from acute ischemic stroke . This revolutionary treatment was performed in the Stroke Unit at Brotzu Hospital , one of the first facilities in Italy to adopt the drug , which represents "a significant innovation in stroke management and a major opportunity for the island's entire stroke network."
The patient, a 53-year-old man, arrived at the hospital in critical condition due to thrombosis of the left middle cerebral artery . After prompt evaluation with advanced imaging, he was treated with a single intravenous bolus administration of tenecteplase. Angiography performed a few minutes later revealed complete recanalization of the occluded vessel, with marked clinical improvement within the first few hours .
"This is a significant step forward in the management of acute ischemic stroke," emphasizes Dr. Jessica Moller, head of the Stroke Unit . "The ability to administer an effective drug through a single intravenous bolus injection saves precious time. And every minute gained equals neurons saved ."
Tenecteplase, already widely used in the treatment of myocardial infarction, stands out for its rapid administration and high efficacy in restoring cerebral blood flow, key characteristics in ischemic stroke.
"We are proud to be among the first centers in Italy to begin using tenecteplase in clinical practice ," says Dr. Giovanni Cossu, Director of the Neurology Unit . "This is the result of collaborative work between clinicians, pharmacists, and healthcare institutions, demonstrating our team's ongoing commitment to providing innovative, high-quality care."
The Brotzu Stroke Unit has been active since 2001 and is one of two hub centers in the regional stroke network. In 2024 alone, 201 intravenous thrombolysis treatments, 182 mechanical thrombectomies, and 61 combined therapies (IV + mechanical thrombolysis) were performed.
