Successful thrombectomy is beneficial in patients with pre-stroke disability: Results from an international multicenter cohort study

BackgroundPatients with pre-stroke disability, defined as a modified Rankin Scale (mRS) ≥3, were excluded from most trials of endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) for acute stroke. We sought to evaluate the prognostic factors associated with favorable outcome in stroke patients with known disability undergoing EVT, and the impact of successful reperfusion.MethodsConsecutive acute stroke patients with pre-stroke disability, undergoing EVT, were retrospectively collected between 2016 to 2019 from a Canadian cohort and a multicenter French cohort (Endovascular Treatment in Ischemic Stroke registry-ETIS). Favorable outcome was defined as an mRS equal to pre-stroke mRS. Patients achieving successful reperfusion (defined as a modified Thrombolysis in Cerebral Infarction score of 2b/3) were compared with patients without successful reperfusion to determine if successful EVT was associated with better functional outcomes.ResultsAmong 6220 patients treated with EVT, 280 (4.5%) patients with a pre-stroke mRS ≥3 were included. Sixty-one patients (21.8%) had a favorable outcome and 146 (52.1%) died at 3 months. Patients with successful reperfusion had a higher proportion of favorable 90-day mRS (27.6% versus 19.6%, p = 0.025) and a lower mortality (48.3% versus 69.6%, p = 0.008) than patients without successful reperfusion. After adjusting for baseline prognostic factors, successful reperfusion defined by TICI ≥2b was associated with favorable functional outcome (OR 3.16 CI95% [1.11–11.5]; p 0.048).ConclusionIn patients with pre-stroke disability, successful reperfusion is associated with a greater proportion of favorable outcome and lower mortality.     

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.     

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.     

Endovascular Thrombectomy Reduces Risk of Poor Functional Outcomes in Patients Presenting within 0-6 Hours with Large Ischemic Core Volumes on Computed Tomography Perfusion

IntroductionPatients presenting with large ischemic core volumes (LICVs) on computed tomography perfusion (CTP) are at high risk for poor functional outcomes. We sought to identify predictors of outcome in patients with an internal carotid artery (ICA) or middle cerebral artery (MCA) occlusion and LICV.MethodsA large healthcare system's prospectively collected code stroke registry was utilized for this retrospective analysis of patients presenting within 6 hours with at least 50 ml of CTP reduced relative cerebral blood flow (CBF) < 30%. A multivariable logistic regression model was constructed to identify independent predictors (p < 0.05) of poor discharge outcome (modified Rankin scale score 4-6).ResultsOver a 38-month period, we identified 104 patients meeting inclusion criteria, with a mean age of 65.4 ± 16.2 years, median presenting National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score 20 (IQR 16–24), median ischemic core volume (CBF < 30%) 82 ml (IQR 61-118), and median mismatch volume 80 ml (IQR 56-134). Seventy-five patients (72.1%) had a discharge modified Rankin scale score of 4-6. Sixty-six of 104 (63.5%) patients were treated with endovascular thrombectomy (EVT). In the multivariable regression model, EVT (OR 0.303; 95% CI 0.080-0.985; p = 0.049) and lower blood glucose (per 1-point increase, OR 1.014; 95% CI 1.003-1.030; p = 0.030) were independently protective against poor discharge outcome.ConclusionsEVT is independently associated with a reduced risk of poor functional outcome in patients presenting within 6 hours with ICA or MCA occlusions and LICV.     

Infarct volume after ischemic stroke as a mediator of the effect of endovascular thrombectomy on early postprocedural neurologic deficit

ObjectivesThe beneficial effect of endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) on clinical outcome is assumed to be caused by reduced follow-up infarct volume (FIV), which could serve as an early imaging endpoint. However, the effect of EVT on the modified Rankin Scale (mRS) was poorly explained by FIV. NIHSS at 5-7 days could be a more specific measure of the effect of reperfusion therapy, as opposed to the mRS at 3 months. Therefore, we aimed to assess to what extent the effect of EVT on NIHSS is explained by FIV.Materials and methodsWe used data from the MR CLEAN (Multicenter Randomized Clinical Trial of Endovascular Treatment for Acute Ischemic Stroke in the Netherlands; n = 500) trial to evaluate the mediating role of FIV within 1 week in the relationship between EVT and baseline adjusted NIHSS at 5–7 days.ResultsLarger FIVs were associated with higher NIHSS after treatment (adjusted beta-coefficient (aβ) 0.47;95%CI 0.39-0.55). EVT was associated with smaller FIVs (β -0.35;95%CI-0.64 to -0.06) and lower NIHSS (β -0.63;95%CI-0.90 to -0.35). After adjustment for FIV, the effect of EVT on NIHSS decreased (aβ -0.47;95%CI-0.72 to -0.23), indicating that effect of EVT on neurologic deficit is partially mediated by FIV. Reduction of FIV explained 34% (95%CI;5%–93%) of the effect of EVT on the NIHSS at 5–7 days.ConclusionsLarger FIV was significantly associated with larger neurological deficits after treatment. Reduced infarct volume after EVT explains one third of treatment benefit in terms of neurological deficit. This suggests that FIV is of interest as an imaging biomarker of stroke treatment effect.     

Safety and efficacy of mechanical thrombectomy with the Solitaire device in large artery occlusion

Background and Purpose: Intravenous tissue plasminogen activator (TPA) has limited efficacy in proximal large vessel occlusions. This study was to assess the safety and efficacy of mechanical thrombectomy with a retrievable Solitaire stent in acute large artery occlusions . Materials and Methods: This is a single center study enrolling patients treated with Solitaire-assisted thrombectomy between November 2010 and March 2011. Inclusion criteria were severe stroke of National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score ≥10, treatment initiation within 6 hours from onset, and an angiographically verified occlusion of proximal middle cerebral artery (MCA) or internal carotid artery (ICA). The primary outcome was recanalization defined as Thrombolysis in Cerebral Infarct (TICI) reperfusion grade 2b/3. Secondary outcomes were good functional outcome at 3 months (modified Rankin Scale [mRS] ≤2), early substantial neurological improvement (NIHSS score improvement ≥8 at 24 hours), and symptomatic hemorrhagic transformation (SHT). Results: Ten patients were consecutively enrolled: Age: 72.4 ? 5.7 years; female: 70%; baseline median NIHSS score: 19.5; and ICA occlusion in 50% and M1 portion of MCA occlusion in 50%. Six patients received intravenous TPA before intra-arterial treatment, and five patients were treated with adjuvant intra-arterial urokinase. Successful recanalization was achieved in 7 (70%) patients. Four (40%) patients had a good functional outcome at 3 months, and three (30%) patients had an early substantial neurological improvement. SHT occurred in two patients (20%), and 3-month mortality rate was 30%. There was no procedure-related complication. Conclusions: Mechanical thrombectomy with the Solitaire device can effectively recanalize proximal large vessel occlusions, and potentially improves clinical outcome.     

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.     

Thrombectomy in Acute Ischemic Stroke in the Extended Time Window: Real-Life Experience in a High-Volume Center

ObjectivesSelected patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS) caused by proximal middle cerebral artery (MCA) or internal carotid artery occlusion benefit from endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) in extended time window (6–24 h from last seen well) based on two landmark randomized controlled trials (RCTs) DAWN and DEFUSE-3. We evaluated patients’ outcome in the real-life with the focus on adherence to protocol of the two RCTs.Materials and methodsWe included consecutive patients with AIS (excluding basilar artery occlusions) referred to EVT in our stroke center in the extended time window between January 2018 and December 2019 and compared the outcome of patients who fulfilled criteria of the RCTs with those who did not.ResultsOf the total of 100 patients, 23 complied with RCT's criteria and 18 presented with minor non-adherence (lower NIHSS score or longer treatment delay), whereas 22 patients had large baseline ischemia (>1/3 MCA), 28 presented with M2 and more distal occlusions, and 9 patients did not undergo perfusion imaging prior to EVT. Good 3-month outcome (modified Rankin Scale 0-2) was observed in 54% of those who either met the RCT criteria or presented with lower NIHSS score or longer treatment delay, but only in 30% of M2 occlusions, and in none of the patients with large baseline ischemia.ConclusionsOur findings highlight the impact of mostly large baseline ischemia but also vessel status when selecting patients for EVT in the extended time window and emphasize the need for further data in these patient subgroups.     

Predicting 90-day Functional Dependency and Death after Endovascular Thrombectomy for Stroke: The BET Score

ObjectivesDespite being the current standard of care, outcomes after endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) for acute ischemic stroke (AIS) remain highly variable. Though several scoring systems exist to predict outcomes in AIS, they were mainly developed to direct patient selection for treatment. Recognizing the integral role peri-procedural metrics play on outcome, our study aimed to develop a post-EVT prognostic score to predict 90-day functional dependency and death.Materials and MethodsWe included all eligible adult AIS patients treated with EVT at our institution from June 2016 to January 2020. Data was systematically collected via chart review including pre-, intra- and post-procedural variables. The outcome was modified Rankin score (mRS) at 90 days post-EVT where a poor outcome was defined as mRS 3-6: 3-5 for functional dependency and 6 for death. Model selection methods including stepwise and Lasso were evaluated via cross-validation where the final multivariable logistic regression model was chosen by optimizing the Area Under the Receiver Operating Characteristic Curve (ROC AUC).ResultsWe included 224 patients (mean age: 65 years old, male: 55%, 90-day poor outcome: 60%). The final model achieved a median AUC of 0.84, IQR: (0.80, 0.87). A 7-point score, called Bronx Endovascular Thrombectomy (BET) score, was developed with more points indicating higher likelihood of 90-day poor outcome (0 point: ≤21% risk; 1-2: 24%; 3: 61%; 4: 86%; 5: 96%; 6-7: ≥99%). One point was awarded for the following variables: current smoker, diabetic, general anesthesia received, puncture to perfusion time ≥45 minutes, and Thrombolysis in Cerebral Infarction (TICI) score <3. Two points were awarded for a post-EVT National Institute of Health Stroke scale (NIHSS) of ≥10.ConclusionIncorporating peri-procedural data we developed the competitive BET score predicting 90-day functional dependency and death, which may help providers, patients and caregivers manage expectations and organize early rehabilitative services.     

Yield of ASPECTS and Collateral CTA Selection for Mechanical Thrombectomy within 6–24 hours from Symptom Onset in a Hub and Spoke System

BackgroundRecent extended window trials support the benefit of mechanical thrombectomy in anterior circulation large vessel occlusions with clinical-radiographic dissociation. Using trial imaging criteria, 6% were found eligible for MT in the EW in a hub-and-spoke system. We examined the eligibility and outcomes in consecutive extended window-mechanical thrombectomy patients using more pragmatic selection criteria.MethodsWe retrospectively analyzed single-institution data of anterior circulation large vessel occlusions patients presenting between 6–24 h who underwent mechanical thrombectomy based on a priori determined criteria including non-contrast CT head ASPECTS ≥ 6 and/or CTA collateral scores ASITN/SIR 2-4. Primary outcomes consisted of post-mechanical thrombectomy TICI 2b-3 and 3-month modified Rankin scores; safety outcomes consisted of in-hospital mortality and symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage.Results767 consecutive acute ischemic strokes patients presented within the 6-24 hour window, and of these 48 (6%) anterior circulation large vessel occlusions patients underwent mechanical thrombectomy. In this cohort the mean age was 63±17 years, 56% were male, the median NIHSS was 16 [IQR 10–19], the median ASPECTS was 9 (IQR 8-10), and 79% (n=38) had good CTA collaterals. Occlusions were primarily M1 MCA (46%), with 29% tandem occlusions. Successful recanalization (mTICI 2b or 3) was achieved in 73% (n=35), while 6% (n=3) of patients developed symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage. In-hospital mortality was 25% (n=12) while 40% (n=19) achieved 3-month modified Rankin Scores 0–2.ConclusionsOur data suggest the use of pragmatic imaging approach of ASPECTS ≥6 with CTA collateral grade in extended time window which is already established in most hospitals.     

Chronic Kidney Disease and Outcome Following Endovascular Thrombectomy for Acute Ischemic Stroke

Background and Objectives: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is present in 20% to 35% of acute ischemic stroke patients and may increase the risk of poor functional outcome or death. We aimed to determine whether CKD was associated with worse outcome in stroke patients treated with endovascular thrombectomy (EVT). Design, Setting, Participants, and Measurements: Consecutive EVT patients were identified from a prospective registry and dichotomized into patients with and without CKD, defined as an eGFR of less than 60 mL/min/1.73m². The primary outcome was 3-month mortality following EVT. Secondary outcomes included symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage (defined by the Safe Implementation of Thrombolysis in Stroke-Monitoring Study), early neurological recovery (defined as change in National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale [NIHSS] score of ≥8 at 24 hours or an NIHSS of 0-1 at 24 hours) and functional independence (defined as a modified Rankin Scale [mRS] score of 0, 1 or 2) at 3 months. Results: 378 EVT patients (223 men; mean ± SD age 65 ± 15 years) were included. The median (IQR) admission eGFR was 71 (58-89) mL/min/1.73 m² and 117 (31%) patients had CKD. Multiple logistic regression adjusted for potential confounders demonstrated that CKD was a significant predictor of lower rates of functional independence (OR = .54, 95% CI, .31 to .90, P = .02), higher mRS scores (common OR = 1.78, 95% CI, 1.14 to 2.81, P = .01), and increased mortality (OR = 2.19, 95% CI, 1.16 to 4.12, P = .01). There was no association between CKD and early neurological recovery (OR = .92, 95% CI, .55 to 1.49, P = .71) or symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage (OR = 1.18, 95% CI, .38 to 3.69, P = .77). Conclusions: CKD was a significant predictor of worse functional outcome and mortality in stroke patients treated with EVT. The presence of CKD should not preclude patients from proceeding to EVT, but may help with prognostication and improve shared decision-making between patients, families and physicians.     

Critical Use of Balloon Angioplasty after Recanalization Failure with Retrievable Stent in Acute Cerebral Artery Occlusion

Objective

Sudden major cerebral artery occlusion often resists recanalization with currently available techniques or can results in massive symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (sICH) after thrombolytic therapy. The purpose of this study was to examine mechanical recanalization with a retrievable self-expanding stent and balloon in acute intracranial artery occlusions.

Methods

Twenty-eight consecutive patients with acute intracranial artery occlusions were treated with a Solitaire retrievable stent. Balloon angioplasty was added if successful recanalization was not achieved after stent retrieval. The angiographic outcome was assessed by Thrombolysis in Cerebral Infarction (TICI) and the clinical outcomes were assessed by the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) and the modified Rankin Scale (mRS).

Results

At baseline, mean age was 69.4 years and mean initial NIHSS score was 12.5. A recanalization to TICI 2 or 3 was achieved in 24 patients (85%) after stent retrieval. Successful recanalization was achieved after additional balloon angioplasty in 4 patients. At 90-day follow-up, 24 patients (85%) had a NIHSS improvement of ≥4 and 17 patients (60%) had a good outcome (mRS ≤2). Although there was sICH, there was one death associated with the procedure.

Conclusion

Mechanical thromboembolectomy with a retrievable stent followed by additional balloon angioplasty is a safe and effective first-line therapy for acute intracranial artery occlusions especially in case of unsuccessful recanalization after stent thrombectomy.     

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。     

Aspiration-Retriever Technique for Stroke with Large Bore Intermediate Catheter : A Single Center Experience

ObjectiveEarly successful reperfusion is associated with favorable outcomes in acute ischemic stroke (AIS). The purpose of this study was to achieve successful recanalization by a combined mechanical thrombectomy technique, the Aspiration-Retriever Technique for Stroke (ARTS), which is composed of a flexible large lumen distal access catheter and a retrievable stent as the first-line strategy of mechanical thrombectomy. MethodsWe retrospectively reviewed 62 patients with AIS who underwent mechanical thrombectomy from 2018 to 2019 at our institute by a senior neurointerventionalist. Among them, patients who were treated using the ARTS technique with the soft torqueable catheter optimized for intracranial access (SOFIA^®; MicroVention-Terumo, Tustin, CA, USA) as the first-line treatment were included. Patients who had tandem occlusions or underlying intracranial artery stenosis were excluded. The angiographic and clinical outcomes were evaluated. The angiographic outcome was analyzed by the rate of successful recanalization, defined as a Thrombolysis in Cerebral Infarction score of 2b or 3 at the end of all procedures and the rate of successfully achieving the first pass effect (FPE), defined as complete recanalization with a single pass of the device. The clinical outcomes included the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score, modified Rankin Scale (mRS), and mortality. ResultsA total of 27 patients (mean age, 59.3 years) fulfilled the inclusion criteria. The successful recanalization rate was 96% (n=26) while the FPE rate was 41% (n=11). The mean post-procedural NIHSS change was -3.0. Thirteen patients (48%) showed good clinical outcomes after thrombectomy with the ARTS technique (mRS at 90 days ≤2). Postoperative complications occurred in seven of 25 patients : hemorrhagic transformation in six patients (22%) and distal embolization in one patient (4%). Mortality was 15% (n=4). ConclusionAlthough the clinical outcomes using the ARTS technique with a flexible large lumen distal access catheter performed as the frontline thrombectomy in patients with AIS were not significantly superior than those of other studies, this study showed a high rate of successful endovascular recanalization which was comparable to that of other studies. Therefore, ARTS using the SOFIA^® catheter can be considered as the first choice of treatment for AIS due to large vessel occlusion.     

The Eligible study: ultrasound assessment in acute ischemic stroke within 3 hours

BACKGROUND: Aims of the study: to identify with echo color Doppler ultrasound of the supra-aortic vessels and transcranial color-coded duplex sonography (TCCD) various patterns of vessel occlusion within 3 h from stroke onset, to compare each group defined at the admission with clinical findings and outcome, and to study the recanalization process, independent of therapy. METHODS: We enrolled 89 consecutive patients (mean age 68.9 years). Ultrasound evaluation was done within 3 h from stroke onset, and was repeated at 3-6 and 24-36 h, at day 5, and at 3 months. At admission, patients were divided into the following groups: internal carotid artery occlusions and stenoses (<50%, 50-69%, > or =70%, near occlusion), middle cerebral artery stenoses and occlusions, tandem occlusions and T occlusions. Vascular recanalization in each group was evaluated. Subgroups were compared for NIH Stroke Scale (NIHSS) and the outcome measures mortality, Barthel index (BI) and modified Rankin scale (mRS). Favorable outcome was defined as mRS < or =2 and BI > or =90. RESULTS: Each subgroup differed significantly for baseline NIHSS (p < 0.0001), 3-month mortality (p = 0.0235), BI at day 5 (p = 0.0458) and mRS at 3 months (p = 0.0028), even after adjustment for treatment. T and tandem occlusions were the subgroups with the highest NIHSS scores and the poorest outcomes, and the same subgroups had the worst recanalization rates. CONCLUSIONS: TCCD in the acute setting of stroke patients allows identification of the presence and site of clots, prediction of outcome and study of the dynamic process of vessel recanalization, in both the acute phase and follow-up.     

Basal ganglia ischaemic infarction after thrombectomy: cognitive impairment at acute stage

Background and purpose

After successful mechanical thrombectomy for middle cerebral artery occlusion, basal ganglia infarction is commonly detectable. Whilst the functional outcome of these patients is often good, less knowledge is available about the cognitive outcome. The aim of our study was to assess the presence of cognitive impairment within 1 week after thrombectomy.

Methods

In all, 43 subjects underwent a general cognitive assessment using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment and an extensive battery of tests. Patients were classified as cognitively impaired (CImp) or not (noCImp) according to a Montreal Cognitive Assessment score below 18.

Results

Cognitively impaired and noCImp subjects did not differ either in their National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) and modified Rankin Scale (mRS) at admittance, or in their Fazekas score and Alberta Stroke Program Early Computed Tomography Score. At discharge, CImp subjects showed higher scores than noCImp subjects on NIHSS (p = 0.002) and mRS (p < 0.001). The percentage of pathological performances on each neuropsychological test in the whole sample and in CImp and noCImp patients shows a similar cognitive profile between the groups.

Conclusions

Some patients who underwent thrombectomy experienced a detectable cognitive impairment that probably led to worse NIHSS and mRS. The neuropsychological profile of such cognitive impairment at the acute stage consists of wide deficits in numerous cognitive domains, suggesting that basal ganglia damage may lead to complex functional impairments.     

Stroke in Airplane Passengers: A Study from a Large International Hub

IntroductionStroke in air travelers is being increasingly recognized. We report on stroke among passengers arriving at or transiting through a busy air travel hub.MethodsThe stroke database of the sole tertiary care center for stroke in a large busy international hub was interrogated. Demographic data of transit passengers, their stroke risk factors, stroke severity, National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS), acute stroke interventions, discharge status and outcome utilizing the Modified Raking scale (mRS) were retrieved and compared between passengers and non-passenger controls.ResultsForty-three flight-related stroke patients were compared to 2564 non-passenger stroke patients. The mean age in the flight-related stroke group was 59.53±10.83 years, 30/43 (69.8%) were males. The stroke subtypes were ischemic in 30 (69.8%) patients, hemorrhagic in 9 (20.9%), and transient ischemic attack in 3 (7.0%), with one cerebral sinus venous thrombosis (2.3%). The mean NIHSS score was 7.79±6.44 in passengers, demonstrating moderate severity. Ten patients (23.3%) received thrombolysis, one (2.3%) received thrombectomy, and one (2.3%) received both thrombolysis and thrombectomy. Outcomes, 54.8% had a good outcome (mRS 0-2), and 45.2% had dependence/death (mRS 3-6).ConclusionAir passengers with stroke were found to be older with more severe strokes and a higher probability of receiving acute stroke treatment compared to non-passengers. Increased awareness with appropriate and timely recognition and triaging of transit passengers with stroke is warranted.     

Last Electrically Well: Intraoperative Neurophysiological Monitoring for Identification and Triage of Large Vessel Occlusions

IntroductionIntra-operative stroke (IOS) is associated with poor clinical outcome as detection is often delayed and time of symptom onset or patient's last known well (LKW) is uncertain. Intra-operative neurophysiological monitoring (IONM) is uniquely capable of detecting onset of neurological dysfunction in anesthetized patients, thereby precisely defining time last electrically well (LEW). This novel parameter may aid in the detection of large vessel occlusion (LVO) and prompt treatment with endovascular thrombectomy (EVT).MethodsWe performed a retrospective analysis of a prospectively maintained AIS and LVO database from May 2018-August 2019. Inclusion criteria required any surgical procedure under general anesthesia (GA) utilizing EEG (electroencephalography) and/or SSEP (somatosensory evoked potentials) monitoring with development of intraoperative focal persistent changes using predefined alarm criteria and who were considered for EVT.ResultFive cases were identified. LKW to closure time ranged from 66 to 321 minutes, while LEW to closure time ranged from 43 to 174 min. All LVOs were in the anterior circulation. Angiography was not pursued in two cases due to large established infarct (both patients expired in the hospital). EVT was pursued in two cases with successful recanalization and spontaneous recanalization was noted in one patient (mRS 0–3 at 90 days was achieved in all 3 cases).ConclusionsThis study demonstrates that significant IONM changes can accurately identify patients with an acute LVO in the operative setting. Given the challenges of recognizing peri-operative stroke, LEW may be an appropriate surrogate to quickly identify and treat IOS.     

Functional recovery continues beyond 3 months post-basilar artery thrombectomy: A retrospective cohort study

Introduction

Untreated basilar artery occlusion (BAO) carries 70% mortality. Guidelines recommend thrombectomy with or without thrombolysis.

Aim

We compared Modified Rankin Scores (mRS) at 3 and 12 months post thrombectomy to determine benefit of long-term follow up.

Methods

Retrospective, single centre analysis of BAO thrombectomies between 2015 and 2019. Inclusion criteria were symptomatic BAO on CT angiography, absent early ischemic changes, premorbid independence and intervention within 24 h. All received stroke ward care. Results were analysed with simple statistics and binary logistic regression as appropriate.

Results

Of 82 patients: most were male (61%, 50/82) with median age 68 years (IQR 17 years) and median NIHSS 14 (IQR 15). Median door-to-puncture time was 42 min (IQR 72 min). Total deaths were 34.1% (28/82) at 3 months, and 37.8% (31/82) at 12 months. Of 51 patients alive at 12 months: 41% (21/51) had improved mRS, 16% (8/51) had worse mRS and 43% (22/51) had unchanged mRS, compared to 3 months. Improvements to mRS were: one point in 57.1% (14/21), two points in 28.9% (6/21) and three points in 4.8% (1/21). Nursing home admission was avoided in 11.8% (6/51) who improved from mRS4. Increased age was associated with decreased likelihood of reaching the primary outcome OR 0.87, 95% CI 0.76–0.99 (p value = 0.03).

Conclusion

Over a quarter of patients improved beyond 3 months. Future studies should adopt long-term follow up as primary outcome.     

Mechanical Thrombectomy in Patients Presenting with NIHSS Score <6: A Safety and Efficacy Analysis

Background and ObjectivesGroundbreaking trials have shown the tremendous efficacy of mechanical thrombectomy for large vessel occlusions. Currently, mechanical thrombectomy is limited to patients with NIHSS scores ≥6. We investigated the feasibility and safety of MT in patients presenting with NIHSS scores <6.Materials and MethodsA retrospective review of patient who presented with acute ischemic stroke due to large vessel occlusion with an NIHSS score <6 between 2015 – 2021. The patients were then divided into two groups: those who received mechanical thrombectomy and those who did not.ResultsAmong 83 patients, 41 received a mechanical thrombectomy while 42 received medical treatment only. The mean age in the mechanical thrombectomy group was 66 years versus 60 years in the medical group (p = 0.06). Risk factors for stroke did not differ significantly between both groups. 14 patients (34.1%) in the mechanical thrombectomy group and 20 (47.6%) in the medical group received tissue plasminogen activator. No significant difference in clinical improvement (NIHSS) at discharge (p=0.85) or the mRS score at 90 days (p = 0.15) was noted. Mechanical thrombectomy was associated with smaller infarct size (p=0.04) and decreased mortality (p=0.03).ConclusionsMechanical thrombectomy is safe and effective for patients who present with large vessel occlusions and low initial NIHSS scores. Therefore, the decision to offer the patient mechanical thrombectomy or not should not be decided by NIHSS score alone. Rather, the decision should be multifactorial with the aim of maximizing the patients’ outcomes.