Session 1 - Cerebroprotective treatment strategies after stroke – Evidence from 3 new studies - Introduction

Dr. Manzano opened the session on optimizing treatment in cerebrovascular emergencies. She questioned whether recanalization alone is sufficient in acute ischemic stroke, noting that while reperfusion is the gold standard, many patients still do not achieve good recovery.

She highlighted the need for additional strategies such as physiological cerebroprotection and effective cerebroprotective agents. Among these, only Cerebrolysin has shown strong evidence for improving motor function, language recovery, daily living, quality of life and reducing depression. It is now recommended in several international guidelines, particularly as adjunct therapy in moderate to severe stroke.

Cerebrolysin works by reducing inflammation, protecting the blood-brain barrier and supporting neuroplasticity. Dr. Manzano then introduced the three speakers of the first session: Sławomir Michalak, Jacek Staszewski and Dafin Muresanu.