Intra-Arterial Thrombolysis for Acute Central Retinal Artery Occlusion: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background and purpose Acute central retinal artery occlusion (CRAO) is a serious ophthalmologic emergency that may result in monocular blindness. To date, studies evaluating intra-arterial thrombolysis (IAT) have not shown a definitive clinical benefit. We have conducted a systematic review with a meta-analysis to effectively evaluate this treatment option. Methods A systematic literature search was focused on studies containing five or more patients undergoing IAT that included a control group treated with standard therapy. Pooled meta-analysis was performed. Results Five retrospective controlled studies and one randomized clinical trial were identified satisfying all inclusion criteria resulting in the analysis of 236 patients treated with IAT and 255 patients treated with ST. A pooled fixed effects analysis resulted in an estimated odds ratio of 2.52, 95% CI (1.69, 3.77) (P < 0.0001) favoring IAT. Conclusion IAT is a promising therapeutic option for CRAO with great potential. Further randomized trials are needed to establish a significant benefit and ensure the safety of the intervention.