Mechanical Thrombectomy Versus Intravenous Thrombolysis in Distal Medium Vessel Acute Ischemic Stroke: A Multinational Multicenter Propensity Score-Matched Study.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: The management of acute ischemic stroke (AIS) due to distal medium vessel occlusion (DMVO) remains uncertain, particularly in comparing the effectiveness of intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) plus mechanical thrombectomy (MT) versus IVT alone. This study aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy in DMVO patients treated with either MT-IVT or IVT alone. METHODS: This multinational study analyzed data from 37 centers across North America, Asia, and Europe. Patients with AIS due to DMVO were included, with data collected from September 2017 to July 2023. The primary outcome was functional independence, with secondary outcomes including mortality and safety measures such as types of intracerebral hemorrhage. RESULTS: The study involved 1,057 patients before matching, and 640 patients post-matching. Functional outcomes at 90 days showed no significant difference between groups in achieving good functional recovery (modified Rankin Scale 0-1 and 0-2), with adjusted odds ratios (OR) of 1.21 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.81 to 1.79; P=0.35) and 1.00 (95% CI 0.66 to 1.51; P>0.99), respectively. Mortality rates at 90 days were similar between the two groups (OR 0.75, 95% CI 0.44 to 1.29; P=0.30). The incidence of symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage was comparable, but any type of intracranial hemorrhage was significantly higher in the MT-IVT group (OR 0.43, 95% CI 0.29 to 0.63; P<0.001). CONCLUSION: The results of this study indicate that while MT-IVT and IVT alone show similar functional and mortality outcomes in DMVO patients, MT-IVT presents a higher risk of hemorrhagic complications, thus MT-IVT may not routinely offer additional benefits over IVT alone for all DMVO stroke patients. Further prospective randomized trials are needed to identify patient subgroups most likely to benefit from MT-IVT treatment in DMVO.

Predictive value of follow-up infarct volume on functional outcomes in middle cerebral artery M2 segment vessel occlusion stroke treated with mechanical thrombectomy.

BACKGROUND: Medium vessel occlusion (MeVO) strokes, particularly affecting the M2 segment of the middle cerebral artery, represent a critical proportion of acute ischemic strokes, posing significant challenges in management and outcome prediction. The efficacy of mechanical thrombectomy (MT) in MeVO stroke may warrant reliable predictors of functional outcomes. This study aimed to investigate the prognostic value of follow-up infarct volume (FIV) for predicting 90-day functional outcomes in MeVO stroke patients undergoing MT. METHODS: This multicenter, retrospective cohort study analyzed data from the Multicenter Analysis of primary Distal medium vessel occlusions: effect of Mechanical Thrombectomy (MAD-MT) registry, covering patients with acute ischemic stroke due to M2 segment occlusion treated with MT. We examined the relationship between 90-day functional outcomes, measured by the modified Rankin Scale (mRS), and follow-up infarct volume (FIV), assessed through CT or MRI within 12-36 h post-MT. RESULTS: Among 130 participants, specific FIV thresholds were identified with high specificity and sensitivity for predicting outcomes. A FIV ⩽5 ml was highly specific for predicting favorable and excellent outcomes. The optimal cut-off for both prognostications was identified at ⩽15 ml by the Youden Index, with significant reductions in the likelihood of favorable outcomes observed above a 40 ml threshold. Receiver Operator Curve (ROC) analyses confirmed FIV as a superior predictor of functional outcomes compared to traditional recanalization scores, such as final modified thrombolysis in cerebral infarction score (mTICI). Multivariable analysis further highlighted the inverse relationship between FIV and positive functional outcomes. CONCLUSIONS: FIV within 36 h post-MT serves as a potent predictor of 90-day functional outcomes in patients with M2 segment MeVO strokes. Establishing FIV thresholds may aid in the prognostication of stroke outcomes, suggesting a role for FIV in guiding post intervention treatment decisions and informing clinical practice. Future research should focus on validating these findings across diverse patient populations and exploring the integration of FIV measurements with other clinical and imaging markers to enhance outcome prediction accuracy.

Glioblastoma in the real-world setting: patterns of care and outcome in the Austrian population.

PURPOSE: We present results of a retrospective population-based investigation of patterns of care and outcome of glioblastoma patients in Austria. PATIENTS AND METHODS: In this nation-wide cooperative project, all Austrian glioblastoma patients newly diagnosed between 2014 and 2018 and registered in the ABTR-SANOnet database were included. Histological typing used criteria of the WHO classification of CNS tumors, 4th edition 2016. Patterns of care were assessed, and all patients were followed until the end of 2019. RESULTS: 1,420 adult glioblastoma cases were identified. 813 (57.3%) patients were male and 607 (42.7%) female. Median age at diagnosis was 64 years (range: 18-88). Median overall survival (OS) was 11.6 months in the total cohort and 10.9 months in patients with proven IDH-wildtype. Median OS in the patient group ≤ 65 years receiving postoperative standard of care therapy was 16.1 months. In the patient group > 65 years with postoperative therapy, median OS was 11.2 months. Follow-up ≥ 5 years identified 13/264 (4.9%) long-term survivors. Brain tumor surgery frequently was assisted by 5-aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA) fluorescence (up to 55%). Postoperative treatment was initiated around one month after surgery (median: 31 days) following standardized protocols in 1,041/1,420 (73.3%) cases. In 830 patients (58.5%), concomitant radiochemotherapy was started according to the established standard of care. Treatment in case of progressive disease was considerably variable. 170/1,420 patients (12.0%) underwent a second surgical procedure, 467 (33.0%) received systemic treatment after progression, and 173 (12.2%) were re-irradiated. CONCLUSION: Our data illustrate and confirm nation-wide translation of effective standard of care to Austrian glioblastoma patients in the recent past. In the case of progressive disease, highly variable therapeutic approaches were used, most frequently accompanied by anti-angiogenic therapy. Long-term survival was observed in a minor proportion of mostly younger patients who typically had gross total tumor resection, a favorable postoperative ECOG score, and standard of care therapy.

Endovascular therapy versus best medical management in distal medium middle cerebral artery acute ischaemic stroke: a multinational multicentre propensity score-matched study.

BACKGROUND: The efficacy of endovascular treatment (EVT) in acute ischaemic stroke due to distal medium vessel occlusion (DMVO) remains uncertain. Our study aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of EVT compared with the best medical management (BMM) in DMVO. METHODS: In this prospectively collected, retrospectively reviewed, multicentre cohort study, we analysed data from the Multicentre Analysis of primary Distal medium vessel occlusions: effect of Mechanical Thrombectomy registry. Patients with acute ischaemic stroke due to DMVO in the M2, M3 and M4 segments who underwent EVT or received BMM were included. Primary outcome measures comprised 10 co-primary endpoints, including functional independence (mRS 0-2), excellent outcome (mRS 0-1), mortality (mRS 6) and haemorrhagic complications. Propensity score matching was employed to balance the cohorts. RESULTS: Among 2125 patients included in the primary analysis, 1713 received EVT and 412 received BMM. After propensity score matching, each group comprised 391 patients. At 90 days, no significant difference was observed in achieving mRS 0-2 between EVT and BMM (adjusted OR 1.00, 95% CI 0.67 to 1.50, p>0.99). However, EVT was associated with higher rates of symptomatic intracerebral haemorrhage (8.4% vs 3.0%, adjusted OR 3.56, 95% CI 1.69 to 7.48, p<0.001) and any intracranial haemorrhage (37% vs 19%, adjusted OR 2.61, 95% CI 1.81 to 3.78, p<0.001). Mortality rates were similar between groups (13% in both, adjusted OR 1.48, 95% CI 0.87 to 2.51, p=0.15). CONCLUSION: Our findings suggest that while EVT does not significantly improve functional outcomes compared with BMM in DMVO, it is associated with higher risks of haemorrhagic complications. These results support a cautious approach to the use of EVT in DMVO and highlight the need for further prospective randomised trials to refine treatment strategies.

Symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage in proximal and distal medium middle cerebral artery occlusion patients treated with mechanical thrombectomy.

BACKGROUND: Acute ischemic stroke (AIS) caused by distal medium vessel occlusions (DMVOs) represents a significant proportion of overall stroke cases. While intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) has been a primary treatment, advancements in endovascular procedures have led to increased use of mechanical thrombectomy (MT) in DMVO stroke patients. However, symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage (sICH) remains a critical complication of AIS, particularly after undergoing intervention. This study aims to identify factors associated with sICH in DMVO stroke patients undergoing MT. METHODS: This retrospective analysis utilized data from the Multicenter Analysis of Distal Medium Vessel Occlusions: Effect of Mechanical Thrombectomy (MAD-MT) registry, involving 37 centers across North America, Asia, and Europe. Middle cerebral artery (MCA) DMVO stroke patients were included. The primary outcome measured was sICH, as defined per the Heidelberg Bleeding Classification. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression were used to identify factors independently associated with sICH. RESULTS: Among 1708 DMVO stroke patients, 148 (8.7%) developed sICH. Factors associated with sICH in DMVO patients treated with MT included older age (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 1.01, 95% confidence interval (95% CI) 1.00 to 1.03, P=0.048), distal occlusion site (M3, M4) compared with medium occlusions (M2) (aOR 1.71, 95% CI 1.07 to 2.74, P=0.026), prior use of antiplatelet drugs (aOR 2.06, 95% CI 1.41 to 2.99, P<0.001), lower Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Scores (ASPECTS) (aOR 0.75, 95% CI 0.66 to 0.84, P<0.001), higher preoperative blood glucose level (aOR 1.00, 95% CI 1.00 to 1.01, P=0.012), number of passes (aOR 1.27, 95% CI 1.15 to 1.39, P<0.001), and successful recanalization (Thrombolysis In Cerebral Infarction (TICI) 2b-3) (aOR 0.43, 95% CI 0.28 to 0.66, P<0.001). CONCLUSION: This study provides novel insight into factors associated with sICH in patients undergoing MT for DMVO, emphasizing the importance of age, distal occlusion site, prior use of antiplatelet drugs, lower ASPECTS, higher preoperative blood glucose level, and procedural factors such as the number of passes and successful recanalization. Pending confirmation, consideration of these factors may improve personalized treatment strategies.

Pretreatment predictors of very poor clinical outcomes in medium vessel occlusion stroke patients treated with mechanical thrombectomy.

BACKGROUND: Acute ischemic stroke (AIS) from primary medium vessel occlusions (MeVO) is a prevalent condition associated with substantial morbidity and mortality. Despite the common use of mechanical thrombectomy (MT) in AIS, predictors of poor outcomes in MeVO remain poorly characterized. METHODS: In this prospectively collected, retrospectively reviewed, multicenter, multinational study, data from the MAD-MT (Multicenter Analysis of primary Distal medium vessel occlusions: effect of Mechanical Thrombectomy) registry were analyzed. The study included 1568 patients from 37 academic centers across North America, Asia, and Europe, treated with MT, with or without intravenous tissue plasminogen activator (IVtPA), between September 2017 and July 2021. RESULTS: Among the 1568 patients, 347 (22.2%) experienced very poor outcomes (modified Rankin score (mRS), 5-6). Key predictors of poor outcomes were advanced age (odds ratio (OR): 1.03; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.02 to 1.04; p < 0.001), higher baseline National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) scores (OR: 1.07; 95% CI: 1.05 to 1.10; p < 0.001), pre-operative glucose levels (OR: 1.01; 95% CI: 1.00 to 1.02; p < 0.001), and a baseline mRS of 4 (OR: 2.69; 95% CI: 1.25 to 5.82; p = 0.011). The multivariable model demonstrated good predictive accuracy with an area under the receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curve of 0.76. CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrates that advanced age, higher NIHSS scores, elevated pre-stroke mRS, and pre-operative glucose levels significantly predict very poor outcomes in AIS-MeVO patients who received MT. These findings highlight the importance of a comprehensive risk assessment in primary MeVO patients for personalized treatment strategies. However, they also suggest a need for cautious patient selection for endovascular thrombectomy. Further prospective studies are needed to confirm these findings and explore targeted therapeutic interventions.

Contour Neurovascular System for endovascular embolization of cerebral aneurysms: a multicenter cohort study of 10 European neurovascular centers.

BACKGROUND: Intrasaccular devices have become increasingly popular in the treatment of cerebral aneurysms, particularly at the bifurcation. Here we evaluate the Contour Neurovascular System, an intrasaccular device for the endovascular treatment of cerebral aneurysms, in a multicenter cohort study, the largest to the best of our knowledge. METHODS: Consecutive patients with intracranial aneurysms treated with the Contour Neurovascular System between February 2017 and October 2022 at 10 European neurovascular centers were prospectively collected and retrospectively reviewed. Patient and aneurysm characteristics, procedural details, and angiographic and clinical outcomes were evaluated. RESULTS: During the study period, 279 aneurysms (median age of patients 60 years, IQR 52-68) were treated with Contour. In 83.2% of patients the device was placed electively, whereas the remaining patients were treated in the setting of acute subarachnoid hemorrhage. The most common locations were the middle cerebral artery (26.5%) followed by the anterior communicating region (26.2%). Median aneurysm dome and neck size were 5.2 mm (IQR 4.2-7) and 3.9 mm (IQR 3-5). Contour size 7 (39%) and 9 (25%) were most used. Thromboembolic and hemorrhagic complications occurred in 6.8% and 0.4% of aneurysms, respectively. Raymond-Roy 1 and 2 occlusions at last follow-up were achieved in 63.2% and 28.3%, respectively, resulting in adequate occlusion of 91.5% of aneurysms. CONCLUSION: This is the largest multicenter study reporting the outcome on the Contour Neurovascular System. At 1 year, the self-evaluated data on safety and efficacy are comparable to data of existing intrasaccular devices. Contour is a promising technology in the treatment of cerebral aneurysms.

Distance to thrombus, ischemic lesion volume and clinical outcome after thrombectomy for M1 middle cerebral artery occlusion.

BACKGROUND: Stroke resulting from occlusion of the middle cerebral artery (MCA) can have devastating consequences, potentially leading to a loss of independence. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between the distance to the thrombus (DT) and both ischemic lesion volume (ILV) and clinical outcomes. METHODS: We retrospectively evaluated patients with thromboembolic MCA M1 segment occlusion who underwent neurovascular imaging followed by endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) at two comprehensive stroke centers over a 3-year period (2018-2020). Preinterventional computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance (MR) angiography was used to measure DT, defined as the distance from the carotid­T bifurcation to the proximal surface of the M1 occlusion. Postinterventional CT or MR imaging was employed to determine the ILV and clinical outcomes were assessed using the modified Rankin scale (mRS) at 3 months. RESULTS: There were 346 patients evaluated. The median DT was 9.4 mm (interquartile range, IQR 6.0-13.7 mm) and the median ILV was 13.9 ml (IQR 2.2-53.1 ml). After adjustment, an increase in DT was associated with a decrease in odds for a larger ILV (odds ratio, OR 0.96, 95% confidence interval, CI 0.92-0.99, p = 0.041). Through this association, more distal thrombi were associated with good clinical outcome (mRS 0-2; clinical outcome available in 282 patients, p = 0.018). The ILV was inversely associated with better clinical outcome OR 0.52 (95% CI 0.40-0.67). CONCLUSION: Based on the findings, DT was identified as an independent albeit weak predictor for ILV and clinical outcomes in patients with MCA M1 occlusion who underwent EVT.

Effect of concomitant usage of alteplase and mechanical thrombectomy for M1 middle cerebral artery occlusion on clinical outcome: a retrospective analysis of 457 patients from two centers.

Introduction: Endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) and concomitant usage of intravenous alteplase (alteplase) in large vessel occlusion stroke may produce unwanted excess intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). Whether this applies specifically to isolated occlusion of the M1 segment of the middle cerebral artery (MCA) is unknown. Methods: A retrospective study from two tertiary thrombectomy centers. ICH was determined according to Heidelberg Bleeding Classification (HBC). Factors associated with the occurrence of ICH in EVT alone vs. EVT with alteplase were evaluated using logistic regression analysis. Factors related to the clinical outcome as determined with a modified Rankin scale (mRS) were investigated with univariate and adjusted multivariate logistic regression analysis. The interaction between clinical variables and the usage of alteplase on the occurrence of ICH was evaluated. Results: Any ICH occurred in 156/457 (34.1%) patients Class 1a bleeding in 37 (8.1%), type 2 in 45 (9.8%) Class 1c in 22 (4.8%), Class 2 in 25 (5.5%), and Class 3 (extraparenchymal) in 27 (5.9%). ICH occurred in similar frequency between alteplase-treated patients vs. EVT alone (85/262 [32%] vs. 71/195 [36%]; OR 1.19 (95% CI 0.81-1.76). After adjustment, odds for clinical outcome were lower in ICH patients (OR 0.44 [95% CI 0.25-0.74]), p = 0.002). Higher ICH rate was associated with more EVT steps (p for interaction -0.005), and usage of only stent-retriever (p for interaction =0.005). Conclusion: Utilization of alteplase alongside EVT for MCA M1 occlusion did not result in excessive ICH occurrences or clinical deterioration.

Comparison of the Contour Neurovascular System and Woven EndoBridge device for treatment of wide-necked cerebral aneurysms at a bifurcation or sidewall.

OBJECTIVE: The authors compared the Contour Neurovascular System (Contour) with the Woven EndoBridge (WEB) device for the treatment of wide-necked cerebral aneurysms at a bifurcation or sidewall. METHODS: Prospective clinical and radiological data were collected for all patients treated with either the Contour or WEB at a tertiary university hospital from May 2018 to June 2022. RESULTS: In patients who had at least 3 months of follow-up data available (median patient age 60.0 [IQR 51.8-67.0] years, male/female ratio 1:1.4), the authors compared 40 aneurysms in 34 patients treated with the Contour and 30 aneurysms in 30 patients treated with the WEB. Overall, 26 middle cerebral artery, 24 anterior communicating artery, 9 basilar artery tip, 4 posterior communicating artery, 4 internal carotid artery, 1 anterior cerebral artery, 1 posterior inferior cerebellar artery, and 1 superior cerebellar artery aneurysm were treated. In the Contour cohort, complete occlusion at last follow-up was achieved for 30 aneurysms (75%) and a small neck remnant was seen in 6 aneurysms (15%), summing up to an adequate occlusion rate of 90%. One aneurysm (2.5%) had to be retreated, and 1 symptomatic thromboembolic event (2.5%) was observed with complete remission at discharge. Three adjunctive stents (10%) had to be used due to branch occlusion. In the WEB cohort, adequate occlusion was also seen in 90% of aneurysms (complete occlusion in 19 [63.3%] and remnant neck in 8 [26.7%], with a retreatment rate of 20%). Four WEBs (13.3%) needed additional stent placement due to device protrusion into a branch, 2 asymptomatic thromboembolic events (6.7%) were noted, and 1 major ischemic event (3.3%) due to M2 occlusion was noted. One patient treated with the WEB died between follow-ups of causes unrelated to the aneurysm, treatment, or device. Time from first measurement to deployment and thus total treatment time was significantly shorter in the Contour group (p = 0.004), regardless of whether a prior angiogram was available for aneurysm measurement and device sizing. CONCLUSIONS: Results for the Contour were promising, although longer follow-up is necessary to draw more solid conclusions on the utility and risk profile of this new device compared with the already widely used WEB device. Adequate occlusion at last follow-up was the same for both devices, whereas the probability of complete occlusion at last follow-up was significantly higher for the Contour, and the WEB showed a significantly higher retreatment rate. Median deployment times were significantly shorter with the Contour than the WEB.

A mini-review of intrasaccular flow diverters.

Treatment of wide-necked complex intracranial aneurysms continues to challenge neurointerventionalists. Intrasaccular flow diverters have expanded the armamentarium considerably and are now used extensively. While five types of devices have already obtained the CE mark for use within Europe, only the Woven EndoBridge (WEB) device is approved by the US Food and Drug Administration. Other intrasaccular devices are the Luna/Artisse Aneurysm Embolization System (Medtronic), the Medina Embolic Device (Medtronic), the Contour Neurovascular System (Cerus), and the Neqstent Coil Assisted Flow Diverter (Cerus). This mini review will provide a compact overview of these devices and a summary of the current literature.

Mechanical Thrombectomy for Anterior versus Posterior Circulation Large Vessel Occlusion Stroke with Emphasis on Posterior Circulation Outcomes.

PURPOSE: Although there is class I evidence for mechanical thrombectomy (MT) for anterior circulation large vessel occlusion (LVO) stroke, no high-class evidence exists for the posterior circulation. Here, we sought to compare clinical features of anterior versus posterior LVO as well as predictors of a posterior LVO MT outcome. METHODS: Patients with acute ischemic stroke who underwent MT for anterior and posterior LVO stroke between February 2016 and August 2020 from 2 comprehensive stroke centers were reviewed. Anterior and posterior LVO strokes were compared. In addition, predictors for a favorable outcome (modified Rankin scale [mRS] 0-3), death (mRS 6), and futile revascularization (mRS 4-6 despite TICI 2b/3 revascularization) for posterior LVO were analyzed. RESULTS: Collectively, 813 LVO thrombectomy cases were analyzed, and 77 of 813 cases (9.5%) were located in the posterior circulation. Although favorable 90-day functional outcome rates did not differ between anterior and posterior LVO (P = 0.093), death was significantly more frequent among posterior LVO cases (P = 0.013). In the posterior LVO subgroup, a primary aspiration technique and successful revascularization TICI 2b/3 irrespective of time to the intervention were independently associated with achieving a favorable outcome. Primary aspiration was identified to inversely associate with futile revascularization. CONCLUSION: Anterior and posterior circulation MT patients have distinct clinical profiles. The use of primary aspiration appears fundamental for beneficial outcomes in posterior circulation MT.

Evaluation of a novel flow diverter, the DiVeRt system, in an animal model.

BACKGROUND: Using a surgical aneurysm model, this study assessed the performance of a new flow diverter (FD), the DiVeRt, and evaluated the angiographic and histologic features at different periods after stent deployment. METHODS: Fifteen New Zealand White rabbits were treated 3 days prior to intervention and until euthanization with dual antiplatelets. DiVeRt was implanted in bilateral carotid aneurysms (n=30) as well as in the aorta (n=15). The rate of technical success, assessment of aneurysm occlusion (measured by the O'Kelly-Marotta grading (OKM) scale), and stent patency were examined using angiography and histologic examinations in three groups at 1, 3, and 6 months follow-up (FU). In each FU group one control animal was included and treated with the XCalibur stent (n=3). RESULTS: Overall, DiVeRt placement was successful and without apparent intraprocedural complications. In total, four stents in the carotid artery were occluded and in-stent stenosis was registered in two carotid (7%) and one aortic (6%) vessels. Complete or near complete aneurysm occlusion (OKM scale D1 and C3) was seen in 100% in the 1-month FU group, 70% in the 2-month FU group, and 100% in the 3-month FU group. Histology showed loose, organizing fibrous tissue matrix within the sac and adequate neck endothelialization in all vessels. All branches covered by the DiVeRt remained patent. CONCLUSIONS: The DiVeRt system appears to be feasible and effective for the treatment of aneurysms with high rates of complete aneurysm occlusion, excellent vessel patency, and evidence of high biocompatibility. Occurrences of parent artery occlusion at follow-up did not result in clinical consequences.

Outcome Following Mechanical Thrombectomy for Anterior Circulation Large Vessel Occlusion Stroke in the Elderly.

BACKGROUND: Pooled data of randomized controlled trials investigating mechanical thrombectomy (MT) to treat anterior circulation large vessel occlusion have demonstrated safety and effectiveness across all age groups, including ≥ 80 years of age; however, only a few nonagenarians were in the ≥ 80 years subgroup. Therefore, the benefit of MT in nonagenarians is mostly unknown. METHODS: Two comprehensive stroke centers retrospectively reviewed all acute ischemic stroke patients who underwent MT for anterior circulation large vessel occlusion (LVO) stroke between February 2016 and August 2020. Revascularization TICI2b/3, symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (ICH), and functional outcome using modified Rankin scale (mRS) were assessed for cases aged < 80 years, 80-89 years, and 90-99 years. Favorable functional outcome was defined as mRS 0-2 or reaching the prestroke mRS and moderate as mRS 0-3. RESULTS: The final data set comprised a total of 736 cases. Of these, 466 aged < 80 years, 219 aged 80-89 years, and 51 aged 90-99 years. In nonagenarians, TICI 2b/3 revascularization was observed in 84.3% while symptomatic ICH was observed in 4%. These rates were similar to 80-89 years and < 80 years age groups. Favorable and moderate functional outcome as well as death rates differed significantly between nonagenarians and < 80 years (19.6%, 29.4%, 51.0% vs 47.9%, 60.7%, 18.7%, respectively, p < 0.001), but were similar between nonagenarians and octogenarians (29.7%, 38.8%, 38.8%, p = 0.112-0.211). CONCLUSION: A moderate outcome among nonagenarians was observed in about 30%, while mortality rates were about 50%. Withholding mechanical thrombectomy does not appear justifiable, although the absolute treatment effect among nonagenarians remains unknown.

Update on treatment strategies for vasculitis affecting the central nervous system.

Vasculitis affecting the nervous system is a rare disease that can not only present with nonspecific initial symptoms, but also run a severe course without accurate treatment. Although improvements have been achieved, diagnosis of vasculitis remains challenging, because many classification criteria are unspecific or inconclusive with regard to central nervous system (CNS) manifestations. Currently, beside an isolated primary CNS vasculitis, several systemic types of vasculitis are known to affect the nervous system. In this review, we provide an overview of the pathophysiology, current therapeutic guidelines, and highlight novel treatment strategies for CNS vasculitis.

Neurologist-Led Management of Implantable Loop-Recorders After Embolic Stroke of Undetermined Source.

INTRODUCTION: Upon completion of the workup for stroke, etiology cannot be identified in approximately one-third of the patients, with an embolic stroke of undetermined source (ESUS) accounting for around 50% of these cryptogenic etiologies. Whether management of complex long-term monitoring in order to detect suspected atrial fibrillation (AFib) could be initiated and managed through a neurologist is not sufficiently investigated. PATIENTS AND METHODS: We recruited all consecutive patients with ESUS who received implantation after neurological adjudication of Reveal LINQ® loop recorder between January 2016 and July 2020. We collected demographic, clinical, heart- and neuroimaging, laboratory, and electrocardiographic data assessed on prolonged baseline ECG monitoring, number of supraventricular (SVEs) and ventricular (VEs) extrasystolic complexes, and from preimplantation ECG-PQ interval. AFib detection was manually supervised and determined positive when the duration was over 120 s. RESULTS: We followed a total of 131 patients for a median of 504 days. There were 45 (34%) manually verified AFib diagnoses. In univariate analysis, earlier implantation after ESUS was associated with AFib detection (13 vs. 31 days, p = 0.011). In multivariate analysis, increased rate of AFib was associated with a more prolonged PQ interval (per 50-ms increase) (HR 1.99, 95% CI 1.39-2.85) and number of SVEs (HR 1.29, 95% CI 1.05-1.57) measured on pre-implantation ECG. CONCLUSION: We observed similar predictors for Afib after ESUS, albeit with higher frequency than previously reported. This study suggests that the neurologist-led decision, management, and evaluation of ILR after ESUS is feasible.

Severe Leukoaraiosis Is Associated with Poor Outcome after Successful Recanalization of M1 Middle Cerebral Artery Occlusion Strokes.

BACKGROUND: Severe leukoaraiosis (LA) is an established risk factor for poor outcome after mechanical thrombectomy (MT) for large vessel occlusion stroke. There is uncertainty whether this association also applies to successfully recanalized patients with M1 segment middle cerebral artery (MCA) occlusions. METHODS: A retrospective single-centre study of patients with successful reperfusion (thrombolysis in cerebral infarction, TICI 2b or 3) after MT for an M1 MCA occlusion was performed over a 7-year period. LA score (LAS) was assessed using the age-related white matter change scale on pre-interventional brain imaging. RESULTS: A total of 209 patients (median age 75.0 years) were included. LAS was assessed on pre-interventional imaging by computed tomography in 177 (84.7%) patients and magnetic resonance imaging in 32 (15.3%) patients. The median LAS was 1 (IQR 0-8), and severe LA consisted of the top 25 percentile, ranging from 9 to 24. Multivariable analysis demonstrated an association of severe LA (OR 0.32, 95% CI 0.12-0.88, p = 0.023), higher NIHSS on admission (OR 0.89, 95% CI 0.84-0.94, p < 0.001), advanced age (OR 0.97, 95% CI 0.95-1.00, p = 0.039), good leptomeningeal collaterals (OR 3.65, 95% CI 1.46-8.15, p = 0.001), and TICI 3 score (OR 3.26, 95% CI 10.52-7.01) with good clinical outcome after 3 months as measured with the modified Rankin scale. CONCLUSION: Severe LA is associated with poor clinical outcome at 3 months in acute stroke patients undergoing MT due to emergent M1 MCA occlusion.

Contribution of Serum Lipid Profiles to Outcome After Endovascular Thrombectomy for Anterior Circulation Ischemic Stroke.

The contribution of lipids, including low- and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C and HDL-C, respectively) and triglycerides (TG), to stroke outcomes is still debated. We sought to determine the impact of LDL-C concentrations on the outcome of patients with ischemic stroke in the anterior circulation who received treatment with endovascular thrombectomy (EVT). We performed a retrospective analysis of consecutive patients with acute ischemic stroke treated at a tertiary center between 2012 and 2016. Patients treated with EVT for large artery occlusion in the anterior circulation were selected. The primary endpoint was functional outcome at 3 months as measured with the modified Rankin Scale (mRS). Secondary outcome measures included hospital death and final infarct volume (FIV). Blood lipid levels were determined in a fasting state, 1 day after admission. We studied a total of 174 patients (44.8% men) with a median age of 74 years (interquartile range [IQR] 61-82) and median National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale at admission of 18 (14-22). Bridging therapy with intravenous tissue-plasminogen activator (t-PA) was administered in 122 (70.5%). The median LDL-C was 90 mg/dl (72-115). LDL-C demonstrated a U-type relationship with FIV (p = 0.036). Eighty-three (50.0%) patients had an mRS of 0-2 at 3 months. This favorable outcome was independently associated with younger age (OR 0.944, 95% CI 0.90-0.99, p = 0.012), thrombolysis in cerebral infarction 2b-3 reperfusion (OR 5.12, 95% CI 1.01-25.80, p = 0.015), smaller FIV (0.97 per cm3, 95% CI 0.97-0.99, p < 0.001), good leptomeningeal collaterals (OR 5.29, 95% CI 1.48-18.9, p = 0.011), and LDL-C more than 77 mg/dl (OR 0.179, 95% CI 0.04-0.74, p = 0.018). A higher LDL-C concentration early in the course of a stroke caused by large artery occlusion in the anterior circulation is independently associated with a favorable clinical outcome at 3 months. Further studies into the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying this observation are warranted.

Influence of the circle of Willis on leptomeningeal collateral flow in anterior circulation occlusive stroke: Friend or foe?

BACKGROUND: Clinical outcome after large vessel occlusion (LVO) stroke depends on collateral integrity. We aimed to evaluate whether the completeness of the circle of Willis (CoW) and anterior temporal artery (ATA) determines the status of leptomeningeal collaterals (LC) in patients with acute LVO (internal carotid artery (ICA) and middle cerebral artery M1 (MCA) occlusion) treated with endovascular thrombectomy. PATIENTS AND METHODS: LC, cross-flow through the anterior communicating artery (ACoA), presence of the ipsilateral posterior communicating artery (IpsiPCoA) and presence of the ATA were evaluated using CT angiography. LC was graded as good when ≥50% collateral filling was noted compared to the unaffected hemisphere. RESULTS: We included 159 patients with a median age of 75 years (IQR 63-82), MCA M1 occlusion in 96 (60%) and good outcome in 68 (45.6%). The LC were good in 129 (81.1%) patients. Complete IpsiPCoA and incomplete ACoA status was inversely associated with good LC in LVO (OR 0.51 (95% CI 0.02-0.07)). A complete CoW was associated with good LC in ICA occlusions, OR 8.4 (p = .025). Good outcome (modified Rankin scale 0-2 at 3 months) was associated with good LC (OR 5.63 (95% CI 1.11-28.4)), small ischemic lesion volume (OR 0.94 (95% CI 0.97-0.98)) and absence of the ACoA and IpsiPCoA (OR 4.47 (95% CI 1.09-18.3)). CONCLUSIONS: ATA presence was associated with good leptomeningeal collaterals in LVO (OR 8.13 (95% CI 1.69-39.0)) and in MCA M1 patients (OR 7.9 (95% CI 1.7-36.4)). The effect of ATA was most pronounced in MCA M1 occlusions, and that of ACoA was most pronounced in ICA occlusions.

Life-threatening vitamin D intoxication due to intake of ultra-high doses in multiple sclerosis: A note of caution.

Knowledge about complications of chronic ultra-high dose vitamin D supplementation is limited. We report a patient with primary progressive multiple sclerosis (MS) who presented with generalized weakness caused by hypercalcemia after uncontrolled intake of more than 50,000 IU of cholecalciferol per day over several months. Various treatment strategies were required to achieve normocalcemia. However, renal function improved only partly and further progression of MS was observed. We conclude that patients need to be informed about the risks of uncontrolled vitamin D intake and neurologists need to be alert of biochemical alterations and symptoms of vitamin D toxicity.