Outcomes following thrombectomy for acute large vessel occlusion beyond 24 hours or with unknown time of onset

BackgroundEndovascular thrombectomy (EVT) is recommended in medically eligible patients with large vessel occlusions (LVO) within 24 hours of symptom onset. While there is evidence that EVT ≥24h after last known well (LKW) is associated with favorable outcomes in patients who meet DAWN/DEFUSE-3 criteria, it is unknown if more liberal criteria can be applied.MethodsA single center, prospective observational cohort of consecutive adult stroke patients was queried for symptomatic occlusions of the internal carotid (ICA) or proximal middle cerebral (M1) arteries (October 2019-January 2022), with a National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) ≥6, pre-stroke modified Rankin Scale (mRS) 0-2, and Alberta Stroke Program Early Computed Tomography Scale score 3-10. These inclusion criteria were extrapolated from recently published data indicating a benefit with EVT with more liberal patient selection. Patients who underwent EVT ≥24h after LKW were compared against those treated medically. The primary outcome was a good functional outcome (90-day mRS 0-2), which was evaluated using multivariable logistic regression.ResultsOf the 27 included patients, the median age was 65y (IQR 49-76) with a median NIHSS of 15 (IQR 8-26), and 17 (63.0%) underwent EVT (median LKW-to-puncture 35.5h (IQR 26.9-65.8h). The primary outcome was no different with EVT in unadjusted regression (OR 1.17, 95%CI 0.17-8.09), and there remained no association across all multivariable models tested. Age, pre-stroke disability, and M1 occlusions were non-significantly associated with the primary outcome (p>0.05). There was a non-significant trend indicating a favorable shift in 90-day mRS with EVT (proportional OR 2.04, 95%CI 0.44-9.48).ConclusionsUsing more liberal inclusion criteria for EVT in the ultra-extended window, there was no statistically significant difference in the rate of good functional outcome with EVT. Larger studies are called upon to evaluate outcomes when more liberal criteria are used to assess thrombectomy eligibility.     

Functional Recovery in Patients with Acute Stroke and Pre-Existing Disability: A Natural History Study

ObjectivesWe aimed to determine which factors influence recovery in stroke patients with pre-existing disability, as these patients are often excluded from acute treatment trials.Materials and MethodsA prospective stroke center registry of admitted patients from 2019-2021 with acute stroke was queried for patients with pre-stroke modified Rankin Scale (mRS) of 0-4. Multivariable logistic regression was used to estimate odds of functional recovery at 90 days (mRS 0-2, or return to pre-stroke mRS).ResultsOf 1228 patients, 856 (70%) included patients had pre-stroke mRS 0-4 and 90-day follow-up mRS. The median age was 68y (IQR 59-78), with a median National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) of 5 (IQR 2-17). Compared to those with mRS 0-1 (n = 596), patients with pre-stroke mRS of 2 (n = 126), 3 (n = 96), or 4 (n = 38) were less likely to achieve functional recovery in univariate analysis. After multivariable adjustment, odds of functional recovery were significantly lower for patients with pre-stroke mRS of 2 (adjusted odds ratio [OR_adj] 0.45, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.28-0.72), but not those with pre-stroke mRS of 3 (OR_adj 1.14, 95%CI 0.66-1.97) or 4 (OR_adj 0.50, 95%CI 0.21-1.19). Older age (OR_adj per year 0.97, 95%CI 0.95-0.97) and higher NIHSS (OR_adj per point 0.89, 95%CI 0.88-0.91) were associated with lower odds of functional recovery, while thrombolysis (OR_adj 2.43, 95%CI 1.42-4.15) and a cryptogenic stroke mechanism (OR_adj 1.57, 95%CI 1.07-2.31) were protective.ConclusionsRecovery of patients with pre-existing disability was driven by age and stroke severity. Thrombolysis remained predictive of recovery irrespective of age, stroke severity, and pre-stroke disability.     

急性前循环缺血性卒中血管内治疗术后早期脑血流自动调节功能与预后关系研究

目的 使用传递函数分析（transfer function analysis，TFA）和Spearman相关性分析计算急性前循环 缺血性卒中血管内治疗术后患者早期脑血流自动调节（cerebral autoregulation，CA）功能，比较两种方 法得出的自动调节参数与临床预后的相关性。 方法 前瞻性纳入急性前循环缺血性卒中且进行了血管内治疗的患者，收集患者的影像、临床信息。 术后48 h内使用TCD联合无创动脉压，连续采集患者双侧大脑中动脉脑血流速度（flow velocity，FV） 和逐搏动脉压（arterial blood pressure，ABP）。使用TFA计算FV和ABP信号的极低频（0.02～0.07 Hz）、 低频（0.07～0.20 Hz）、高频（0.20～0.50 Hz）的相位差和增益；使用Spearman相关性分析计算平均血 流速度指数（mean flow velocity index，Mx）。根据患者90 d mRS评分分为预后良好（mRS≤2分）和预 后不良（mRS＞2分），比较不同预后患者上述CA参数的差异，并用多因素分析评估不同方法计算的CA 参数对患者90d预后的影响。另外，分析CA参数与术后7 d NIHSS评分相对术前的改善（ΔNIHSS）、90 d mRS评分、术前梗死体积、术后48 h增加的梗死体积等临床指标的相关性。 结果 共纳入52例患者，90 d预后良好18例，预后不良34例。与预后良好患者相比，预后不良患者 Mx较高[0.40（0.18～0.50）vs 0.26（0.05～0.36），P =0.012]，但两组各频段相位差和增益的差异均 无统计学意义。Mx与术后7 d的ΔNIHSS、90 d mRS评分、术前梗死体积、术后48 h增加的梗死体积 均为正相关性（r 值分别为0.299、0.382、0.561和0.286，P值分别为0.031、0.005、<0.001和0.040）， 极低频相位差与术前梗死体积、90 d mRS评分均呈负相关（r 值分别为-0.282、-0.276，P值分别 为0.043、0.048）。多因素回归分析提示Mx值是90 d预后不良的独立影响因素（OR 132.69，95%CI 5.71～3081.96，P =0.002）。 结论 急性前循环缺血性卒中血管内治疗术后早期CA功能相对保留与预后良好相关。相比于相位 差和增益，Mx与90 d临床结局有更强的相关性。     

ASPECTS-Region-Dependent Functional Outcomes after Endovascular Therapy in Patients with Cardioembolic Stroke

ObjectivesCardioembolic stroke has a poor prognosis. We evaluated the region-dependent efficacy of endovascular therapy (EVT) based on diffusion-weighted imaging-Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score (DWI-ASPECTS).MethodsThis post-hoc analysis of the RELAXED study, which investigated the optimal timing of rivaroxaban to prevent nonvalvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF) recurrence in patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS), included NVAF patients admitted with AIS or transient ischemic attack in the middle cerebral artery (MCA), with internal carotid artery (ICA), M1, or M2-MCA occlusion. Relationships between DWI-ASPECTS region and functional outcome (modified Rankin Scale [mRS]), mortality, recurrence, and hemorrhagic stroke were compared between patients with and without EVT, and adjusted odds ratios for age, pre-stroke mRS, National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS), ICA occlusion, infarct size, recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (rt-PA) use, and onset-to-hospitalization time were estimated.ResultsEVT patients had significantly lower hemoglobin levels, higher median NIHSS scores, more lentiform nucleus infarcts, ICA or M1-MCA occlusions, treatment with rt-PA, and fewer M3, M5, or M6 infarcts and M2-MCA occlusions than no-EVT patients. EVT patients had shorter onset-to-hospitalization times and more frequent favorable functional outcomes (p=0.007). Mortality, recurrent ischemic stroke, and hemorrhagic infarction were similar in both groups. EVT was associated with significantly better functional outcomes among patients with insular ribbon (p=0.043) and M3 (p=0.0008) infarcts. M3 patients had significantly fewer rt-PA and EVT, and longer onset-to-hospitalization times.ConclusionsAn occlusion in the insular ribbon or M3 region was associated with favorable functional outcomes in patients treated with EVT after cardioembolic stroke.     

急性前循环缺血性卒中血管内治疗术后早期脑血流自动调节功能与预后关系研究

目的 使用传递函数分析（transfer function analysis，TFA）和Spearman相关性分析计算急性前循环
缺血性卒中血管内治疗术后患者早期脑血流自动调节（cerebral autoregulation，CA）功能，比较两种方
法得出的自动调节参数与临床预后的相关性。
方法 前瞻性纳入急性前循环缺血性卒中且进行了血管内治疗的患者，收集患者的影像、临床信息。
术后48 h内使用TCD联合无创动脉压，连续采集患者双侧大脑中动脉脑血流速度（flow velocity，FV）
和逐搏动脉压（arterial blood pressure，ABP）。使用TFA计算FV和ABP信号的极低频（0.02～0.07 Hz）、
低频（0.07～0.20 Hz）、高频（0.20～0.50 Hz）的相位差和增益；使用Spearman相关性分析计算平均血
流速度指数（mean flow velocity index，Mx）。根据患者90 d mRS评分分为预后良好（mRS≤2分）和预
后不良（mRS＞2分），比较不同预后患者上述CA参数的差异，并用多因素分析评估不同方法计算的CA
参数对患者90d预后的影响。另外，分析CA参数与术后7 d NIHSS评分相对术前的改善（ΔNIHSS）、90 d
mRS评分、术前梗死体积、术后48 h增加的梗死体积等临床指标的相关性。
结果 共纳入52例患者，90 d预后良好18例，预后不良34例。与预后良好患者相比，预后不良患者
Mx较高[0.40（0.18～0.50）vs 0.26（0.05～0.36），P =0.012]，但两组各频段相位差和增益的差异均
无统计学意义。Mx与术后7 d的ΔNIHSS、90 d mRS评分、术前梗死体积、术后48 h增加的梗死体积
均为正相关性（r 值分别为0.299、0.382、0.561和0.286，P值分别为0.031、0.005、<0.001和0.040），
极低频相位差与术前梗死体积、90 d mRS评分均呈负相关（r 值分别为-0.282、-0.276，P值分别
为0.043、0.048）。多因素回归分析提示Mx值是90 d预后不良的独立影响因素（OR 132.69，95%CI
5.71～3081.96，P =0.002）。
结论 急性前循环缺血性卒中血管内治疗术后早期CA功能相对保留与预后良好相关。相比于相位
差和增益，Mx与90 d临床结局有更强的相关性。     

Long-term mortality after endovascular thrombectomy for stroke

ObjectivesEndovascular thrombectomy (EVT) has become the standard treatment for large vessel occlusion (LVO) in acute ischemic stroke. Stroke trials typically report clinical outcome at the three-month time point but there is a lack of studies focusing on the long-term outcome after EVT.The aim of this study is to assess the long-term mortality after EVT for stroke and to determine the factors that are associated with mortality.MethodsRetrospective single-center analysis of 323 patients who underwent EVT for stroke between the years 2015-2019 and survived at least 30 days. Patients were followed up until the end of the year 2020. Cox regression analysis was used to identify the factors associated with mortality.ResultsA total of 53 (16.4%) of the 30-day survivors died during the follow-up. According to the Cox regression analysis, mortality was associated with functional dependence (modified Rankin Scale (mRS) >2, HR 2.7 (95% CI 1.2-5.9), p=0.013), comorbidity (Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) ≥3, HR 2.7 (95% CI 1.4-5.5), p=0.004), stroke severity at baseline (National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) >8, HR 1.9 (95% CI 1.1-3.3), p=0.026), and medical complications (HR 2.4 (95% CI 1.2-4.8), p=0.011). Procedural variables did not have an impact on mortality.ConclusionsFunctional dependence, stroke severity, comorbidity, and medical complications during the hospital stay were associated with the long-term mortality after EVT for stroke.     

后循环急性缺血性卒中血管内治疗与静脉溶栓的对照研究

目的 比较后循环大血管闭塞致急性缺血性卒中患者接受血管内治疗（endovascular treatment，EVT） 与单纯静脉溶栓（intravenous thrombolysis，IVT）治疗后的临床结局。 方法 纳入2012年3月-2016年11月期间在北京天坛医院行EVT与IVT治疗的后循环大血管闭塞所致 急性缺血性卒中患者，以1∶1比例匹配两组的年龄、性别、基线NIHSS评分、发病至治疗时间及卒中亚型 （TOAST分型），匹配患者的NIHSS评分≥10分。主要疗效结局为治疗后90 d的mRS评分，安全性结局为 24 h ICH及90 d全因死亡率。 结果 共纳入328例后循环急性缺血性卒中患者，其中EVT组69例，IVT组259例，匹配后两组基线数 据相似，每组各55例。各卒中亚型比例在两组均有显著性差异（所有P <0.001），两组均以大动脉粥 样硬化型为主，其中EVT组63例（91.3%），IVT组164例（63.3%）。临床疗效结局显示匹配后EVT组90 d mRS评分≤1分比例（30.9% vs 38.2%，校正OR 0.724，95%CI 0.329～1.595，P =0.423）及mRS评分≤2 分比例（38.2% vs 50.9%，校正OR 0.596，95%CI 0.279～1.272，P =0.181）均低于IVT组，但差异均无统 计学意义。安全性结局方面，24 h症状性脑出血及治疗后90 d全因死亡率，两组比较差异也无统计学 意义。 结论 对于后循环大血管闭塞所致急性缺血性卒中患者行EVT治疗和单纯IVT治疗，在疗效及安全 性结局方面均无显著性差异。     

The effect of intravenous ginkgolide on clinical improvement of patients with acute ischemic stroke

ABSTRACT

Aims: To compare the efficacy of ginkgolide in the treatment of Chinese patients with ischemic stroke between pre-marketing and post-marketing studies.

Methods: This is a re-analysis of a pre-marketing (phase II/III, multicenter, double-blind, parallel-controlled; February 2005 to September 2005) and post-marketing (phase IV, multicenter, open, single-arm registration; April 2013 to June 2014) studies. The intervention groups received intravenous ginkgolide (10 mL daily, 14 days). Primary outcome was an improvement of National Institute of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) and modified Rankin Scale (mRS) scores after 14 days.

Results: In pre- and post-marketing studies, NIHSS and mRS scores all improved, compared to that of baseline (P < 0.001) in acute phase. Those factors significantly associated with △NIHSS after 14 days of therapy with ginkgolide were grouping (pre-marketing vs. post-marketing; OR 2.169, 95%CI = 1.462–3.216, P < 0.001), male (OR = 1.532, 95%CI = 1.152–2.037, P = 0.003), enrollment within 30 days after onset (OR = 1.915, 95%CI = 1.452–2.526, P < 0.001) and NIHSS score more than 8 points at baseline (OR = 15.140, 95%CI = 11.436–20.045, P < 0.001) after adjustment. Ginkgolide had a greater effect on patients in a relatively acute phase (time of onset to enrollment ≤30 days) and moderate-severe stroke (baseline NIHSS>8 points). Incidences of adverse reactions in the pre-marketing and post-marketing studies were 0.46% and 5.28%, respectively (P < 0.001).

Conclusion: Intravenous ginkgolide may improve the outcome of acute ischemic stroke. Differences in effect between pre-marketing and post-marketing studies may be associated with gender, time of onset to enrollment and severity of stroke.     

A Predictive Model for Functional Outcome in Patients with Acute Ischemic Stroke Undergoing Endovascular Thrombectomy

IntroductionEndovascular thrombectomy (EVT) is a well-established treatment of acute ischemic stroke. Variability in outcomes among thrombectomy patients results in a need for patient centered approaches to recovery. Identifying key factors that are associated with outcomes can help prognosticate and direct resources for continued improvement post-treatment. Thus, we developed a comprehensive predictive model of short-term outcomes post-thrombectomy.MethodsThis is a retrospective chart review of adult patients who underwent EVT at our institution over the last four years. Primary outcome was dichotomized 90-day mRS (mRS 0–2 v mRS 3–6). Bivariate analyses were conducted, followed by logistic regression modelling via a backward-elimination approach to identify the best fit predictive model.Results326 thrombectomies were performed; 230 cases were included in the model. In the final predictive model, adjusting for age, gender, race, diabetes, and presenting NIHSS, pre-admission mRS = 0–2 (OR 18.1; 95% 3.44–95.48; p < 0.001) was the strongest predictor of a good outcome at 90-days. Other independent predictors of good outcomes included being a non-smoker (OR 5.4; 95% CI 1.53–19.00; p = 0.01) and having a post-thrombectomy NIHSS<10 (OR 9.7; 95% CI 3.90–24.27; p < 0.001). A decompressive hemicraniectomy (DHC) was predictive of a poor outcome at 90-days (OR 0.07; 95% CI 0.01–0.72; p = 0.03). This model had a Sensitivity of 79%, a Specificity of 89% and an AUC=0.89.ConclusionOur model identified low pre-admission mRS score, low post-thrombectomy NIHSS, non-smoker status and not requiring a DHC as predictors of good functional outcomes at 90-days. Future works include developing a prognostic scoring system.     

Poor Outcomes Related to Anterior Extension of Large Hemispheric Infarction: Topographic Analysis of GAMES-RP Trial MRI Scans

BackgroundWe aimed to assess the correlation of lesion location and clinical outcome in patients with large hemispheric infarction (LHI).MethodsWe analyzed admission MRI data from the GAMES-RP trial, which enrolled patients with anterior circulation infarct volumes of 82-300 cm³ within 10 hours of onset. Infarct lesions were segmented and co-registered onto MNI-152 brain space. Voxel-wise general linear models were applied to assess location-outcome correlations after correction for infarct volume as a co-variate.ResultsWe included 83 patients with known 3-month modified Rankin scale (mRS). In voxel-wise analysis, there was significant correlation between admission infarct lesions involving the anterior cerebral artery (ACA) territory and its middle cerebral artery (MCA) border zone with both higher 3-month mRS and post-stroke day 3 and 7 National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) total score and arm/leg subscores. Higher NIHSS total scores from admission through poststroke day 2 correlated with left MCA infarcts. In multivariate analysis, ACA territory infarct volume (P = .001) and admission NIHSS (P = .005) were independent predictors of 3-month mRS. Moreover, in a subgroup of 36 patients with infarct lesions involving right MCA-ACA border zone, intravenous (IV) glibenclamide (BIIB093; glyburide) treatment was the only independent predictor of 3-month mRS in multivariate regression analysis (P = .016).ConclusionsAnterior extension of LHI with involvement of ACA territory and ACA-MCA border zone is an independent predictor of poor functional outcome, likely due to impairment of arm/leg motor function. If confirmed in larger cohorts, infarct topology may potentially help triage LHI patients who may benefit from IV glibenclamide.Clinical Trial RegistrationURL: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov. Unique identifier: NCT01794182.     

Differences between males and females following endovascular therapy for stroke: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BackgroundEndovascular therapy (EVT) represents the standard of care for eligible patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS) and large vessel occlusion. To better understand differences in baseline characteristics and outcomes between males and females following EVT, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis.MethodsWe identified, using the Nested Knowledge AutoLit platform, prospective studies that reported 90-day outcomes in males and females treated with EVT for AIS. The primary outcome of interest was 90-day modified Rankin Scale (mRS) 0-2. Secondary outcome variables included mRS 0-1, symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (sICH), thrombolysis in cerebral infarction (TICI) score 2b-3, and mortality. Using R software version 4.1.2, we calculated pooled odds ratios (ORs) and their corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CI).ResultsWe included 10 studies with 10,209 patients. There was no difference between males and females in rate of mRS 0-2 (OR= 1.16; 95% CI= 0.87-1.56; P-value= 0.316); however, after removing outliers, males had higher rates of mRS 0-2 (OR= 1.40; 95% CI= 1.19-1.66; P-value< 0.001). Similar results were reported for mRS 0-1 (OR= 1.21; 95% CI= 0.93-1.56; P-value= 0.15), after removing outliers (OR= 1.32; 95% CI= 1.17-1.50; P-value< 0.001). There was no difference between males and females in rate of sICH (OR= 0.89; 95% CI= 0.74-1.08; P-value= 0.246), mortality (OR= 0.88; 95% CI= 0.74-1.05; P-value= 0.15), or TICI 2b-3 (OR= 1.19; 95% CI= 0.85-1.67; P-value= 0.309).ConclusionsMales tend to experience better outcomes following EVT for AIS, even in the setting of similar reperfusion. The mechanisms underlying this phenomenon remain unclear, and further research is warranted. EVT remains a safe and effective option for both males and females with AIS.     

Associations of Neutrophil-Lymphocyte Ratios with Reperfusion and Functional Outcomes in Ischemic Stroke after Endovascular Therapy

ObjectivesTreatment of ischemic stroke with endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) leads to improved outcomes compared to IV tPA. The neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), a marker of inflammation, has been proposed to predict outcomes in ischemic stroke patients and may be used to identify patients at risk for poor outcomes after EVT.Materials and MethodsThis was a retrospective study of adult ischemic stroke patients undergoing EVT between 1/1/2018 and 12/31/2020. Outcomes were successful reperfusion (TICI score ≥2B), favorable discharge NIHSS (≤4), favorable discharge and 3-month mRS (≤2), and symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (sICH). The primary exposure was NLR, measured pre- and post-EVT. Other variables collected included demographics and timing of stroke onset, arrival, groin puncture, tPA, and recanalization.ResultsA total of 592 patients were included. The most common vessel involved was the middle cerebral artery (73%). Lower admission NLR was associated with favorable discharge NIHSS and favorable discharge and 3-month mRS (all P < 0.01). NLRs measured after EVT were associated with all the primary outcomes. Improvements in NLR after EVT were associated with favorable discharge (P = 0.02) and 3-month mRS (P = 0.02) and lower incidence of sICH (P = 0.01).ConclusionsBecause of the long-term functional deficits that can persist after ischemic stroke, it is vital to identify patients with higher probability for these outcomes. The results from this study showed that favorable NLR measures, as well as favorable trends in NLR over time, are associated with improved outcomes, indicating that NLR is a useful marker to identify patients at risk for poor functional outcomes.     

First-pass effect in posterior acute ischemic stroke undergoing endovascular thrombectomy: A systematic review and meta-analysis

ObjectivesFirst-pass effect (FPE) has been shown to be a predictor of favorable clinical outcomes following endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) for acute ischemic stroke (AIS) in the anterior circulation. Literature regarding FPE for posterior circulation AIS is sparse; we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to explore FPE in posterior circulation stroke undergoing EVT.Materials and MethodsWe conducted a systematic review of the English literature in PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science. FPE was defined as thrombolysis in cerebral infarction (TICI) 2c-3 and modified FPE (mFPE) was defined as TICI 2b-3 in one pass. Definitions of non-FPE and non-mFPE varied among studies. The primary outcome of interest was modified Rankin Scale (mRS) 0-2. Secondary outcomes of interest were mRS 0-3, symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (sICH), and mortality. We calculated odds ratios (OR) and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CI). Heterogeneity was assessed with Q statistic and I² test.ResultsSeven studies with 417 patients in the mFPE group, 942 in the non-mFPE group, 545 in the FPE group, and 1023 in the non-FPE group were included. Overall, FPE was associated with greater rates of 90-day mRS 0-2 (OR= 2.78, 95% CI= 2.11-3.65; P-value< 0.001) and mRS 0-3 (OR= 2.67, 95% CI= 1.98-3.60; P-value< 0.001); however, there was significant heterogeneity among studies for both mRS 0-2 (I²= 69%; P-value< 0.001) and mRS 0-3 (I²= 69%; P-value< 0.001). FPE and non-FPE were associated with similar rates of sICH (OR= 0.65, 95% CI= 0.40-1.07; P-value= 0.09), and no heterogeneity was observed (I²= 0%; P-value= 0.95). FPE was associated with lower rates of mortality (OR= 0.44, 95% CI= 0.33-0.58; P-value< 0.001), although heterogeneity was observed (I²= 58%; P-value= 0.01).ConclusionsFPE is associated with favorable clinical outcomes in patients undergoing EVT for posterior circulation AIS. Future studies should work to further quantify the impact of FPE on outcomes in the posterior circulation.     

The Prognostic Value of CT-Angiographic Parameters After Reperfusion Therapy in Acute Ischemic Stroke Patients With Internal Carotid Artery Terminus Occlusion: Leptomeningeal Collateral Status and Clot Burden Score

Background

The objective of this study was to investigate the prognostic value of computed tomographic angiography (CTA) based on leptomeningeal collateral (LMC) status and other parameters in acute ischemic stroke (AIS) patients with internal carotid artery (ICA) terminus occlusion treated with endovascular treatment (EVT).

Endovascular thrombectomy is beneficial for functional nonagenarians – a multicenter cohort analysis

IntroductionThe use of endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) has dramatically increased in recent years. However, most existing studies used an upper age limit of 80 and data regarding the safety and efficacy of EVT among nonagenarians is still lacking.Methods767 consecutive patients undergoing EVT for large vessel occlusion (LVO) in three participating centers were recruited into a prospective ongoing database. Demographic, clinical and imaging characteristics were documented. Statistical analysis was done to evaluate EVT outcome among nonagenarians compared to younger patients.ResultsThe current analysis included 41 (5.4%) patients older than 90 years. Compared to younger patients, nonagenarians were more often female (78% versus 50.3%, p ≤ 0.001), had worse baseline mRS scores (2 [0–3] versus 0 [0–2], p < 0.001), higher rates of hypertension and hyperlipidemia and a higher admission NIHSS (20 [14–23] versus 16 [11–20], p < 0.001). No differences were found between groups regarding the involved vessel, stroke etiology, time from symptoms to door or symptoms to EVT, successful recanalization rates and hemorrhagic transformation rates. Nonagenarians had worse mRS at 90 days (5 [3–6] versus 3 [2–5], p = 0.001), similar discharge NIHSS (5 [1–11] versus 4 [1–11], p = 0.78) and higher mortality rates (36.6% versus 15.8%, p < 0.001). All nonagenarians with baseline mRS 4 have died within 90 days. 36.4% of nonagenarian patients with baseline MRS of 3 or less had favorable outcome.DiscussionThis study demonstrates that nonagenarian stroke patients with baseline mRS of 3 or less benefit from EVT with no significant difference in the rate of favorable outcome compared to octogenarians.     

Endovascular thrombectomy with or without intravenous thrombolysis in acute basilar artery occlusion ischemic stroke: A meta-analysis

IntroductionIt is poorly understood if endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) with or without intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) better facilitates clinical outcomes in patients with acute basilar artery occlusion (BAO) ischemic stroke.MethodsA systematic literature review and meta-analysis was completed to investigate the outcomes of EVT with IVT versus direct EVT alone in acute BAO. Data was collected from the literature and pooled with the authors’ institutional experience. The primary outcome measure was 90-day modified Rankin sale (mRS) of 0-2. Secondary measures were successful post-thrombectomy recanalization defined as mTICI ≥2b, 90-day mortality, and rate of symptomatic ICH.ResultsOur institutional experience combined with three multicenter studies resulted in a total of 1,127 patients included in the meta-analysis. 756 patients underwent EVT alone, while 371 were treated with EVT+IVT. Patients receiving EVT+IVT had a higher odds of achieving a 90-day mRS of ≤ 2 compared to EVT alone (OR: 1.50, 95% CI 1.15 to 1.95, P =0.002, I² =0%). EVT+IVT also had a lower odds of 90-day mortality (OR: 0.57, 95% CI 0.37 to 0.89, P=0.01, I²=24%). There was no difference in sICH between the two groups (OR: 1.0, 95% CI: 0.56 to 1.79, P=0.99, I²=0%). There was also no difference in post-thrombectomy recanalization rates defined as mTICI ≥2b (OR: 1.11, 95% CI 0.70 to 1.75, P = 0.65, I²=37%).ConclusionsOn meta-analysis, EVT with bridging IVT results in superior 90-day functional outcomes and lower 90-day mortality without increase in symptomatic ICH. These findings likely deserve further validation in a randomized controlled setting.     

Racial and Ethnic Disparities in Functional Outcome after Thrombectomy: A Cohort Study of an Integrated Stroke Network

ObjectivesPrevious studies have shown racial disparities in access to treatment and outcomes in ischemic stroke patients. We sought to define racial disparities in functional outcomes among ischemic stroke patients receiving endovascular thrombectomy (EVT).Materials and MethodsWe performed a retrospective review of patients in our institution's prospectively collected stroke patient registry from 08/2015 to 06/2019 at 1 comprehensive and 2 thrombectomy-ready stroke centers. We reviewed patients aged ≥ 18 who received mechanical thrombectomy including only patients with race/ethnicity data belonging to the 3 largest race/ethnic groups: Non-Hispanic White (NHW), Non-Hispanic Black (NHB), and Hispanic (HIS). We compared baseline characteristics and performed multivariable logistic regression to evaluate differences in good functional outcome defined as 90-day modified Rankin score (90 day mRS 0–2) as the primary outcome. Secondary outcomes were discharge disposition, length of stay, and excellent functional outcome (90 day mRS 0-1). Results are given as OR [95% CI].ResultsAmong 666 patients that met inclusion criteria, 45% were NHW, 30% were NHB, and 19% were HIS. NHB and HIS patients were younger than NHW (average age NHB 62; HIS 64; and NHW 70; p < 0.001). Diabetes was more prevalent in NHB (32%, p = 0.02) and HIS (47%, p < 0.001) compared to NHW (23%). There were no significant racial differences in pre-morbid mRS, arrival NIHSS, tPA treatment rates. There was no difference in primary outcome by race comparing NHW to the other racial groups (OR 1.08 [0.68–1.72]) but compared to HIS patients, NHW had a higher likelihood of the secondary outcome of excellent functional outcome (aOR 2.23 [1.01–4.93]) defined as mRS 0-1.ConclusionsIn this study of over 600 patients treated with EVT, we did not find significant racial disparities in functional outcome except for less excellent functional outcome in HIS compared to NHW. Further study on disparities in post-acute stroke care is needed.     

The Role of Vascular Imaging atReferral Centers in the Drip and Ship Paradigm

BackgroundIn drip-and-ship protocols, non-invasive vascular imaging (NIVI) at Referral Centers (RC), although recommended, is not consistently performed and its value is uncertain. We evaluated the role of NIVI at RC, comparing patients with (VI+) and without (VI-) vascular imaging in several outcomes.MethodsObservational, multicenter study from a prospective government-mandated population-based registry of code stroke patients. We selected acute ischemic stroke patients, initially assessed at RC from January-2016 to June-2020. We compared and analyzed the rates of patients transferred to a Comprehensive Stroke Center (CSC) for Endovascular Treatment (EVT), rates of EVT and workflow times between VI+ and VI- patients.ResultsFrom 5128 ischemic code stroke patients admitted at RC; 3067 (59.8%) were VI+, 1822 (35.5%) were secondarily transferred to a CSC and 600 (11.7%) received EVT. Among all patients with severe stroke (NIHSS ≥16) at RC, a multivariate analysis showed that lower age, thrombolytic treatment, and VI+ (OR:1.479, CI95%: 1.117-1.960, p=0.006) were independent factors associated to EVT.The rate of secondary transfer to a CSC was lower in VI+ group (24.6% vs. 51.6%, p<0.001). Among transferred patients, EVT was more frequent in VI+ than VI- (48.6% vs. 21.7%, p<0.001).Interval times as door-in door-out (median-minutes 83.5 vs. 82, p= 0.13) and RC-Door to puncture (median-minutes 189 vs. 178, p= 0.47) did not show differences between both groups.ConclusionIn the present study, NIVI at RC improves selection for EVT, and is associated with receiving EVT in severe stroke patients. Time-metrics related to drip-and-ship model were not affected by NIVI.     

Single Word Repetition Predicts Long-Term Outcome of Aphasia Caused by an Ischemic Stroke

Purpose: Better understanding of clinical predictors of aphasia outcome is of the utmost importance, in patients’ rehabilitation planning, expectation management, and further physiopathology understanding.We aimed to identify clinical predictors of long-term poststroke aphasia's outcome. Methods: We conducted a prospective longitudinal observation study of patients with left-Middle Cerebral Artery stroke with aphasia. Patients were evaluated at baseline, day 7 and 6 months with National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) and Aphasia Rapid Test Other demographic variables and vascular risk factors were collected. A linear regression was performed to identify best predictors of aphasia at 6 months. Findings: We included 113 patients with a left hemisphere stroke, with 81 reaching the final evaluation. Aphasia Handicap Score at 6 months was predicted by baseline total NIHSS (β = .077, 95%CI = [.026, .127]. P = .004), infarct volume on CT-scan (β = .009, 95%CI = [.003, .015]. P = .003), single word repetition at baseline (β = .188, 95%CI = [.040, .335]. P = .013), and infection during hospitalization (β = .759, 95%CI = [.263, 1.255]. P = .003). Conclusions: Aphasia's outcome in patients with stroke is predicted by a single word repetition task at baseline. Infection during hospitalization has a negative impact on aphasia's outcome at 6 months.     

Sex-Related Differences after Endovascular Treatment of Acute Ischemic Stroke in the ‘Real World’

BackgroundGender differences are often reported in the field of ischemic stroke, although most of such discrepancies were observed in randomized trials involving highly selected populations. We therefore explored gender differences regarding 90-day outcomes in large vessel occlusion (LVO) strokes receiving endovascular treatment in a real world setting.MethodsThis prospective registry included anterior and/or posterior circulation LVO strokes admitted between January 2014 and December 2019 who received mechanical thrombectomy up to 24 hours from symptoms onset or last known to be well. We explored sex-related differences in rates of functional independence (modified Rankin Scale, mRS, ≤2) at 90 days. Secondary outcomes included “National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale” (NIHSS) at 24 hours, successful reperfusion defined as modified Thrombolysis in Cerebral Infarction (mTICI) scale 2b/3, death, and symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (sICH).ResultsA total of 288 LVO stroke patients comprised the study population, involving 148 (51.4%) women. Females were older (71.4±15.7 vs. 66.1±14.0 years, p=0.003) and had lower rates of coronary artery disease (15% vs. 24%, p=0.05). The median time from symptoms onset to hospital arrival was 315 min (IQR 139.5-495.0) in females and 255.0 (IQR 117.0-405.0) in males (p=0.052). Rates of mRS ≤2 at 90 days were comparable (females 46% vs. males 49%, p=0.50). Successful reperfusion was achieved in 82% of females and 89% of males (p=0.10). Rates of sICH (females 10% vs. males 13%, p=0.47) and death (females 18% vs. males 21%, p=0.50) at 90 days were similar. NIHSS at 24 hours was the strongest predictor of functional independence at 90 days (area under ROC curve 0.92 (95%CI 0.87; 0.95)].ConclusionsOur prospective registry involving a real world setting suggests that females are equally likely to achieve good outcomes after endovascular treatment despite being older and having delayed hospital arrival compared to males. In addition, we found that NIHSS at 24 hours was the strongest predictor of functional independence at 90 days, sICH, and death.