The world's leading experts detail the basic rationale, scientific evidence, and treatment protocol for thrombolytic therapy in acute stroke patients. These experienced clinicians show how promptly delivered thrombolysis can restore cerebral blood flow in time to salvage brain and neurologic functions, first by reviewing the preclinical development of thrombolytics, and then by presenting the pivotal clinical trials that proved their efficacy and safety. Their description of the treatment protocol discusses field triage and management, emergency department therapy, brain imaging, clinical decision making and patient selection, drug administration, post-thrombolysis management, and the treatment of complications. Comprehensive and highly practical, Thrombolytic Therapy for Stroke offers the practicing physician everything necessary-background, protocols, and case studies-for the safe and effective treatment of the emergency stroke patient today.