Thrombus perviousness, depicting the interaction of occlusive clot with contrast media as measured with computed tomography (CT) is a relatively new imaging biomarker in acute ischemic stroke (AIS). This approach holds the potential to tailor revascularization strategies and post-interventional treatments, thereby enhancing functional outcomes. However, its predictive value is not yet conclusive despite its association with several clinical parameters. METHODS: This scoping review provides a comprehensive overview of 51 articles that explore this issue. It focuses on the analysis of applied methodology in measuring perviousness, the predictive value of perviousness based on available data, and the future perspectives and potentials this biomarker may have in AIS imaging. RESULTS: Although some data are contradictory, in the vast majority of published studies, pervious thrombi were easier to remove with mechanical thrombectomy, responded better to thrombolytic treatment and showed better functional outcome than impervious thrombi. The methodology of measuring perviousness is not yet standardized, which may lead to inconsistency in the findings. New data on time-resolved (dynamic) perviousness show more promising results and refined characterization of occlusive thrombi in AIS.
Keywords: Acute ischemic stroke; Clinical outcome; Computed tomography; Dynamic perviousness; Mechanical thrombectomy; Thrombus perviousness; Thrombus structure.
© 2025. The Author(s).