Abstract
Endovascular treatment for acute ischemic stroke ( AIS) has been proven repeatedly in recent history as a beneficial and life-saving treatment modaility for patients meeting criteria for intervention. Several randomized control trials have demonstrated the efficacy of endovascular therapy over medical therapies.  The benefits of mechanical thrombectomy (MT) often outweigh the risk of intervention when the potential disability and long term effects of stroke are taken into consideration.  Albeit an evolving and life-enhancing therapy, MT is not immune to significant risks, which include intra-procedural or post-operative complications.  Complications may be life-threatening and many lead to increased length of stay while adding costs and delaying the commencement of rehabilitation. From access-site problems  to device-related complications, endovascular treatment of large vessel occlusion (LVO) is fraught with peril even in experienced hands.  Thorough understanding of preventable complications and the minimization of often unavoidable complications is an integral component in providing the best care and possible outcomes for patients suffering from acute ischemic stroke.