Evaluation of demographic/clinical features and hemorrhagic complications in patients with ischemic stroke who underwent reperfusion therapy.

ABSTRACT

The relationship between demographic/clinical characteristics, clinical outcomes and the development of hemorrhagic complications in patients with ischemic stroke who underwent reperfusion therapy has not been studied sufficiently. We have aimed to compare genders and age groups in terms of clinical features and outcome; and types of reperfusion treatments and clinical features regarding the development of hemorrhagic complications in patients with ischemic stroke who underwent recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (rtPA) and/or thrombectomy. Patients with acute ischemic stroke undergoing rtPA and/or thrombectomy were divided into six age groups. Parameters including hemorrhagic complications, anticoagulant and antiaggregant use, hyperlipidemia, smoking status, biochemical parameters, and comorbidities were documented. National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) scores, modified Rankin Score (mRS) and Glasgow Coma Scale scores were recorded. Etiological classification of stroke was done. These parameters were compared in terms of age groups, genders, and hemorrhagic complications. Significant differences were found between age groups concerning hypertension, coronary artery disease, smoking status, and antiaggregant use. Rate of hemorrhagic complications in rtPA group was significantly lower when compared with other treatment groups. Hemorrhagic complications developed mostly in the rtPA+thrombectomy group. Among the patients who developed hemorrhagic complications, NIHSS scores on admission were found to be significantly lower in men than women. Admission, discharge, and 3rd month mRS values in men were significantly lower than those of women. Knowing demographic and clinical features of patients that may have an impact on the clinical course of ischemic stroke managed with reperfusion therapy will be useful in predicting the hemorrhagic complications and clinical outcomes.