IV thrombolysis plus thrombectomy versus IV thrombolysis alone for minor stroke with anterior circulation large vessel occlusion from the IRETAS and Italian SITS-ISTR cohorts.

INTRODUCTION: The aim of this study was to compare the outcomes of patients treated with intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) <4.5 h after symptom onset plus mechanical thrombectomy (MT) <6 h with those treated with IVT alone <4.5 h for minor stroke (NIHSS ≤5) with large vessel occlusion (LVO) in the anterior circulation. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Patients enrolled in the Italian Registry of Endovascular Treatment in Acute Stroke (IRETAS) and in the Italian centers included in the SITS-ISTR were analyzed. RESULTS: Among the patients with complete data on 24-h ICH type, 236 received IVT plus MT and 382 received IVT alone. IVT plus MT was significantly associated with unfavorable shift on 24-h ICH types (from no ICH to PH-2) (OR, 2.130; 95% CI, 1.173-3.868; p=0.013) and higher rate of PH (OR, 4.363; 95% CI, 1.579-12.055; p=0.005), sICH per ECASS II definition (OR, 5.527; 95% CI, 1.378-22.167; p=0.016), and sICH per NINDS definition (OR, 3.805; 95% CI, 1.310-11.046; p=0.014). Among the patients with complete data on 3-month mRS score, 226 received IVT plus MT and 262 received IVT alone. No significant difference was reported between IVT plus MT and IVT alone on mRS score 0-1 (72.1% versus 69.1%), mRS score 0-2 (79.6% versus 79%), and death (6.2% versus 6.1%). CONCLUSIONS: Compared with IVT alone, IVT plus MT was associated with unfavorable shift on 24-h ICH types and higher rate of 24-h PH and sICH in patients with minor stroke and LVO in the anterior circulation. However, no difference was reported between the groups on 3-month functional outcome measures.

The safety and efficacy of hypothermia combining mechanical thrombectomy or thrombolysis in the treatment of ischemic stroke: A systematic meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Stroke is a major global public health problem, affecting 13.7 million people worldwide. Previous studies have found a neuroprotective effect of hypothermia therapy and the efficacy and safety of combined hypothermia and mechanical thrombectomy or thrombolysis in the treatment of ischemic stroke have also attracted attention. OBJECTIVE: In the present research, the authors conducted a meta-analysis to comprehensively assess the safety and efficacy of hypothermia combining mechanical thrombectomy or thrombolysis in the treatment of ischemic stroke. METHODS: Articles published from January 2001 to May 2022 were searched from Google Scholar, Baidu Scholar and PubMed to evaluate the clinical significance of hypothermia treatment in ischemic stroke. Complications, short-term mortality, and the modified Rankin Scale (mRS) in the full text was extracted. RESULTS: 89 publications were selected and 9 among them were included in this study with sample size of 643. All selected studies are in accordance with the inclusion criteria. Forest plot of clinical characteristics was as follows: complications (RR = 1.132, 95% CI 0.942‒1.361, p = 0.186, I2 = 37.2%), mortality within 3 months (RR = 1.076, 95% CI 0.694‒1.669, p = 0.744, I2 = 0.00%), mRS ≤ 1 at 3 months (RR = 1.138, 95% CI 0.829‒1.563, p = 0.423, I2 = 26.0%), mRS ≤ 2 at 3 months (RR = 1.672, 95% CI 1.236‒2.263, p = 0.001, I2=49.6%) and mRS ≤ 3 at 3 months (RR = 1.518, 95% CI 1.128‒2.043, p = 0.006, I2 = 0.00%). The funnel plot suggested that there was no significant publication bias in the meta-analysis on complications, mortality within 3 months, mRS ≤ 1 at 3 months and mRS ≤ 2 at 3 months. CONCLUSION: In summary, the results showed that hypothermia treatment was correlated with mRS ≤ 2 at 3 months, but not linked with complications and mortality within 3 months.

Stroke with large vessel occlusion in the posterior circulation: IV thrombolysis plus thrombectomy versus IV thrombolysis alone.

Efficacy and safety of mechanical thrombectomy (MT) for stroke with posterior circulation large vessel occlusion (LVO) is still under debate. We aimed to compare the outcomes of stroke patients with posterior circulation LVO treated with intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) (< 4.5 h after symptom onset) plus MT < 6 h after symptom onset with those treated with IVT alone (< 4.5 h after symptom onset). Patients enrolled in the Italian Registry of Endovascular Treatment in Acute Stroke (IRETAS) and in the Italian centers included in the SITS-ISTR were analysed. We identified 409 IRETAS patients treated with IVT plus MT and 384 SITS-ISTR patients treated with IVT alone. IVT plus MT was significantly associated with higher rate of sICH (ECASS II) compared with IVT alone (3.1 vs 1.9%; OR 3.984, 95% CI 1.014-15.815), while the two treatments did not differ significantly in 3-month mRS score ≤ 3 (64.3 vs 74.1%; OR 0.829, 95% CI 0.524-1.311). In 389 patients with isolated basilar artery (BA) occlusion, IVT plus MT was significantly associated with higher rate of any ICH compared with IVT alone (9.4 vs 7.4%; OR 4.131, 95% CI 1.215-14.040), while two treatments did not differ significantly in 3-month mRS score ≤ 3 and sICH per ECASS II definition. IVT plus MT was significantly associated with higher rate mRS score ≤ 2 (69.1 vs 52.1%; OR 2.692, 95% CI 1.064-6.811) and lower rate of death (13.8 vs 27.1%; OR 0.299, 95% CI 0.095-0.942) in patients with distal-segment BA occlusion, while two treatments did not differ significantly in 3-month mRS score ≤ 3 and sICH per ECASS II definition. IVT plus MT was significantly associated with lower rate of mRS score ≤ 3 (37.1 vs 53.3%; OR 0.137, 0.009-0.987), mRS score ≤ 1 (22.9 vs 53.3%; OR 0.066, 95% CI 0.006-0.764), mRS score ≤ 2 (34.3 vs 53.3%; OR 0.102, 95% CI 0.011-0.935), and higher rate of death (51.4 vs 40%; OR 16.244, 1.395-89.209) in patients with proximal-segment BA occlusion. Compared with IVT alone, IVT plus MT was significantly associated with higher rate of sICH per ECASS II definition in patients with stroke and posterior circulation LVO, while two treatment groups did not differ significantly in 3-month mRS score ≤ 3. IVT plus MT was associated with lower rate of mRS score ≤ 3 compared with IVT alone in patients with proximal-segment BA occlusion, whereas no significant difference was found between the two treatments in primary endpoints in patients isolated BA occlusion and in the other subgroups based on site occlusion.

Safety and Efficacy of Baseline Antiplatelet Treatment in Patients Undergoing Mechanical Thrombectomy for Ischemic Stroke: Antiplatelets Before Mechanical Thrombectomy.

PURPOSE: To investigate the safety and efficacy of baseline antiplatelet treatment in patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS) undergoing mechanical thrombectomy (MT). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Baseline use of antiplatelet medication before MT for (AIS) may provide benefit on reperfusion and clinical outcome but could also carry an increased risk of intracranial hemorrhage (ICH). All consecutive patients with AIS and treated with MT with and without intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) between January 2012 and December 2019 in all centers performing MT nationwide were reviewed. Data were prospectively collected in national registries (eg, SITS-TBY and RES-Q). Primary outcome was functional independence (modified Rankin Scale 0-2) at 3 months; secondary outcome was ICH. RESULTS: Of the 4,351 patients who underwent MT, 1,750 (40%) and 666 (15%) were excluded owing to missing data from the functional independence and ICH outcome cohorts, respectively. In the functional independence cohort (n = 2,601), 771 (30%) patients received antiplatelets before MT. Favorable outcome did not differ in any antiplatelet, aspirin, and clopidogrel groups when compared with that in the no-antiplatelet group: odds ratio (OR), 1.00 (95% CI, 0.84-1.20); OR, 1.05 (95% CI, 0.86-1.27); and OR, 0.88 (95% CI, 0.55-1.41), respectively. In the ICH cohort (n = 3,685), 1095 (30%) patients received antiplatelets before MT. The rates of ICH did not increase in any treatment options (any antiplatelet, aspirin, clopidogrel, and dual antiplatelet groups) when compared with those in the no-antiplatelet group: OR, 1.03 (95% CI, 0.87-1.21); OR, 0.99 (95% CI, 0.83-1.18); OR, 1.10 (95% CI, 0.82-1.47); and OR, 1.43 (95% CI, 0.87-2.33), respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Antiplatelet monotherapy before MT did not improve functional independence or increase the risk of ICH.

Association Between Intravenous Thrombolysis and Clinical Outcomes Among Patients With Ischemic Stroke and Unsuccessful Mechanical Reperfusion.

Importance: Clinical evidence of the potential treatment benefit of intravenous thrombolysis preceding unsuccessful mechanical thrombectomy (MT) is scarce. Objective: To determine whether intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) prior to unsuccessful MT improves functional outcomes in patients with acute ischemic stroke. Design, Setting, and Participants: Patients were enrolled in this retrospective cohort study from the prospective, observational, multicenter German Stroke Registry-Endovascular Treatment between May 1, 2015, and December 31, 2021. This study compared IVT plus MT vs MT alone in patients with acute ischemic stroke due to anterior circulation large-vessel occlusion in whom mechanical reperfusion was unsuccessful. Unsuccessful mechanical reperfusion was defined as failed (final modified Thrombolysis in Cerebral Infarction grade of 0 or 1) or partial (grade 2a). Patients meeting the inclusion criteria were matched by treatment group using 1:1 propensity score matching. Interventions: Mechanical thrombectomy with or without IVT. Main Outcomes and Measures: Primary outcome was functional independence at 90 days, defined as a modified Rankin Scale score of 0 to 2. Safety outcomes were the occurrence of symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage and death. Results: After matching, 746 patients were compared by treatment arms (median age, 78 [IQR, 68-84] years; 438 women [58.7%]). The proportion of patients who were functionally independent at 90 days was 68 of 373 (18.2%) in the IVT plus MT and 42 of 373 (11.3%) in the MT alone group (adjusted odds ratio [AOR], 2.63 [95% CI, 1.41-5.11]; P = .003). There was a shift toward better functional outcomes on the modified Rankin Scale favoring IVT plus MT (adjusted common OR, 1.98 [95% CI, 1.35-2.92]; P < .001). The treatment benefit of IVT was greater in patients with partial reperfusion compared with failed reperfusion. There was no difference in symptomatic intracranial hemorrhages between treatment groups (AOR, 0.71 [95% CI, 0.29-1.81]; P = .45), while the death rate was lower after IVT plus MT (AOR, 0.54 [95% CI, 0.34-0.86]; P = .01). Conclusions and Relevance: These findings suggest that prior IVT was safe and improved functional outcomes at 90 days. Partial reperfusion was associated with a greater treatment benefit of IVT, indicating a positive interaction between IVT and MT. These results support current guidelines that all eligible patients with stroke should receive IVT before MT and add a new perspective to the debate on noninferiority of combined stroke treatment.

Intravenous thrombolysis and mechanical recanalization for acute ischemic stroke in deep brain stimulation patients: a case series.

BACKGROUND: Intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) and endovascular mechanical thrombectomy therapy (MT) are well established in the treatment of acute ischemic stroke. It is currently unclear whether these treatments can be applied in patients with previous deep brain stimulation (DBS) surgery and how long the interval to the DBS operation should be. METHODS: Four patients with ischemic stroke and IVT or MT were included in this retrospective case series. Data on demographics, genesis, severity and course of the stroke and the DBS indication were extracted and evaluated. Furthermore, a literature review was conducted. Outcomes and hemorrhagic complications after IVT, MT or intra-arterial thrombolysis in patients with prior deep brain stimulation surgery and intracranial surgery were analyzed. RESULTS: Four patients with acute ischaemic stroke and previous DBS surgery were treated with IVT (2 patients), MT (1) or a combined therapy of IVT and MT (1). The time interval to the previous DBS surgery was between 6 and 135 months. In these four patients, no bleeding complications occurred. The literature review revealed four publications with a total of 18 patients, who were treated with IVT, MT or intra-arterial thrombolysis. Of these 18 patients, only 1 had undergone deep brain stimulation surgery, the other 17 patients had received brain surgery for other reasons. Bleeding complications occurred in four of the 18 reported patients, but not in the DBS case. All four patients with bleeding complications were reported to have died as a result. In three of the four patients with fatal outcome, surgery was less than 90 days before the onset of stroke. CONCLUSION: IVT and MT were tolerated by four patients with ischemic stroke more than 6 months after DBS surgery without bleeding complications.

Effectiveness and safety of catheter-directed thrombolysis in conjunction with percutaneous mechanical thrombectomy for acute iliofemoral deep vein thrombosis: A meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Patients with severe acute low iliofemoral deep vein thrombosis (DVT), such as phlegmasia cerulea dolens, benefit from catheter-directed thrombolysis (CDT). This meta-analysis investigated the effectiveness and safety of adjuvant percutaneous mechanical thrombectomy (PMT) during CDT compared with CDT alone in the treatment of acute iliofemoral DVT. METHODS: A meta-analysis was performed in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines. Medline, Embase, the Cochrane Library, China National Knowledge Internet, and Wanfang data were searched for studies on the management of acute iliofemoral DVT by means of CDT or CDT with adjuvant PMT. Randomized, controlled trials and nonrandomized studies were included. The primary outcomes were venous patency rate, major bleeding complications, and post-thrombotic syndrome occurrence within 2 years of the procedure. The secondary outcomes were thrombolytic time and volume, as well as the rates of thigh detumescence and iliac vein stenting. RESULTS: The meta-analysis included 20 eligible studies with a total of 1686 patients. The rates of venous patency (mean difference, 10.11; 95% confidence interval [CI], 5.59-14.62) and thigh detumescence (mean difference, 3.64; 95% CI, 1.10-6.18) of the adjuvant PMT group were higher than those of the CDT alone group. Compared with CDT alone, the adjuvant PMT group experienced fewer incidences of major bleeding complications (odds ratio, 0.45; 95% CI, 0.26-0.77) and occurrences of post-thrombotic syndrome within 2 years of the procedure (odds ratio, 0.55; 95% CI, 0.33-0.92). Furthermore, the duration of thrombolytic therapy was shorter, and the total dose of administered thrombolytics was lower with adjuvant PMT. CONCLUSIONS: Adjuvant PMT during CDT is associated with improved clinical outcomes and a lower incidence of major bleeding complications. The studies investigated were, however, single-center cohort studies, and future randomized controlled trials are needed to substantiate these findings.

Effect of intravenous thrombolysis before endovascular therapy on outcomes in patients with large core infarct.

BACKGROUND: The safety and efficacy of bridging therapy with intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) and mechanical thrombectomy (MT) in patients with large core infarct has not been sufficiently studied. In this study, we compared the efficacy and safety outcomes between patients who received IVT+MT and those treated with MT alone. METHODS: This is a retrospective analysis of the Stroke Thrombectomy Aneurysm Registry (STAR). Patients with Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score (ASPECTS) ≤5 treated with MT were included in this study. Patients were divided into two groups based on pre-treatment IVT (IVT, no IVT). Propensity score matched analysis were used to compare outcomes between groups. RESULTS: A total of 398 patients were included; 113 pairs were generated using propensity score matching analyses. Baseline characteristics were well balanced in the matched cohort. The rate of any intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) was similar between groups in both the full cohort (41.4% vs 42.3%, P=0.85) and matched cohort (38.55% vs 42.1%, P=0.593). Similarly, the rate of significant ICH was similar between the groups (full cohort: 13.1% vs 16.9%, P=0.306; matched cohort: 15.6% vs 18.95, P=0.52). There was no difference in favorable outcome (90-day modified Rankin Scale 0-2) or successful reperfusion between groups. In an adjusted analysis, IVT was not associated with any of the outcomes. CONCLUSION: Pretreatment IVT was not associated with an increased risk of hemorrhage in patients with large core infarct treated with MT. Future studies are needed to assess the safety and efficacy of bridging therapy in patients with large core infarct.

Comparison of pharmaco-mechanical thrombolysis and catheter-directed thrombolysis for treating thrombotic or embolic arterial occlusion of the lower limb.

BACKGROUND: Whether pharmaco-mechanical thrombolysis (PMT) results in superior outcomes to catheter-directed thrombolysis (CDT) in treating thrombotic or embolic arterial occlusion of the lower limbs is unclear. METHODS: We enrolled 94 patients with Rutherford class I-IIb due to thrombotic or embolic arterial occlusion in the lower limbs and who received emergency endovascular treatment. Baseline demographics, laboratory data, angiography and clinical outcomes were collected through chart reviews and fluoroscopic imaging. The procedural characteristics (thrombolytic drug dosage, treatment duration, and additional procedures), immediate angiographic outcomes (patency of calf vessels, and complete lysis), complications (major bleeding, and fasciotomy), and primary composite end-points (30-day mortality, amputation, and reocclusion) were compared between patients who received CDT versus PMT. RESULTS: Compared with CDT, PMT was independently associated with lower total UK dosage (standardized coefficient ß=- 0.44; P<0.01) and higher prevalence of complete lysis (odds ratio =1.78, 95% confidence interval: 1.03-3.06; P=0.04) after adjustments of covariates. The PMT group had significantly shorter treatment duration (23.00 [7.25-39.13] vs. 41.00 [27.00-52.50]; P<0.01). No significant intergroup differences were observed for the primary composite end point (10.7% vs. 9.1%; P=0.81), or prevalence of the major bleeding (9.1% vs. 0.0%; P=0.10) despite the PMT group comprising patients with more advanced chronic kidney disease and more diffuse thrombosis. CONCLUSIONS: PMT with a Rotarex is a safe and effective strategy for treating thrombotic or embolic lower limb ischemia. It significantly reduced the thrombolytic drug dosage, and resulted in the complete lysis being more likely.

Ischemic stroke and reperfusion therapies in diabetic patients.

INTRODUCTION: The study aimed to identify the main prognostic factors in diabetic patients with ischemic stroke undergoing reperfusion therapies (RT). METHODS: This retrospective study included 170 diabetic patients: 62 treated with intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) alone and 108 with mechanical thrombectomy (MT). Among MT patients, 29 underwent IVT. We collected clinical, laboratory, and radiological data. The outcomes were 3-month functional impairment (measured by modified Rankin scale, mRs), discharge neurological severity (measured by National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score, NIHSS), 3-month mortality, intracranial hemorrhage (ICH), and symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (SICH). We performed a general analysis for all RT and sub-group analyses for IVT and MT. RESULTS: A lower mRs was associated with lower glycemia and admission NIHSS (aNIHSS) in all RT and MT; lower aNIHSS and younger age in IVT. Mortality increased with hyperglycemia, aNIHSS, and age in all RT; age and aNIHSS in IVT; hyperglycemia and systolic pressure in MT. A lower discharge NIHSS was related with lower aNIHSS, thrombolysis, and no thrombectomy in all RT; lower aNIHSS in IVT; lower aNIHSS and thrombolysis in MT. ICH was associated with elevated aNIHSS, older age, and lower platelets in all RT; lower platelets and older age in IVT; higher aNIHSS in MT. SICH depended on longer thrombectomy duration in all RT; no metformin use in IVT; higher weight in MT. CONCLUSION: The study shed light on diabetic patients and stroke RT highlighting the protective effect of metformin in IVT and the role of glycemia, weight, and combined treatment in MT.

Mechanical Thrombectomy vs Bridging Therapy for Anterior Circulation Large Vessel Occlusion Stroke: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Current guidelines recommend the use of mechanical thrombectomy (MT) plus IV thrombolysis (aka bridging therapy [BT]) for patients with anterior circulation large vessel occlusion (LVO) stroke. However, clinical equipoise exists in relation to the use of BT vs MT alone. Our objective is to compare the efficacy and safety of BT and MT for anterior circulation LVO. METHODS: A systematic search of biomedical literature databases was performed from inception to October 29, 2021, to identify prospective and retrospective studies comparing the rates for functional independence (modified Rankin Scale score 0-2) and mortality at 90 days, symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (sICH), and successful recanalization rates for MT and BT. Effect size was represented by odds ratio (OR), and analysis was done with random-effects meta-analysis. Heterogeneity was assessed by I 2 and Cochrane Q statistics. RESULTS: Overall, 41 studies with 14,885 patients were included. Mean ± SD age was 69 ± 11 years for BT and 70 ± 11 years for MT. All studies used alteplase as the thrombolytic agent. The BT group had 29% higher odds for functional independence (OR 1.29, 95% CI 1.16-1.44, I 2 = 42%), 25% higher odds of successful reperfusion (OR 1.25, 95% CI 1.08-1.44, I 2 = 42%), and 31% decrease in odds for mortality (OR 0.69, 95% CI 0.60-0.80, I 2 = 47%) compared with MT. sICH prevalence was similar between groups (OR 1.10, 95% CI 0.95-1.28, I 2 = 0%). Six of the studies were randomized controlled trials (RCTs) with intention-to-treat analysis done in patients presenting directly to MT-capable centers. When analysis was restricted to these 6 RCTs (n = 2,333), no differences were observed in functional independence (OR 1.08, 95% CI 0.91-1.27, I 2 = 0%), sICH (OR 1.37, 95% CI 0.95-1.97, I 2 = 0%), or mortality (OR 0.93, 95% CI 0.74-1.16, I 2 = 0%) between groups. However, successful reperfusion favored the BT group (OR 1.35, 95% CI 1.06-1.73, I 2 = 0%). DISCUSSION: The odds for functional independence, successful reperfusion, and mortality for the entire dataset favored the use of BT over MT (medium heterogeneity and low quality of evidence). When analysis was restricted to RCTs, both treatments had similar functional and safety outcomes (no heterogeneity), but recanalization rates favored the BT group (no heterogeneity). Because these findings may differ in patients who present to non-MT-capable centers or with the use of other thrombolytic agents, further RCTs are needed.

Outcomes of Mechanical Thrombectomy for Ischemic Stroke in Nonagenarians: A 10-Year Institutional Experience.

BACKGROUND: Nonagenarians have been underrepresented in stroke trials that established endovascular treatment as the standard for acute ischemic stroke (AIS). Evidence remains inconclusive regarding the efficacy of thrombectomy in this population. OBJECTIVES: To report our experience with thrombectomy in nonagenarians with stroke, and to identify predictors of mortality. We further investigated the effects of first-pass reperfusion and the addition of intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) on achieving better outcomes. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Data was collected for consecutively treated patients at three affiliated comprehensive stroke centers from 2010 to 2021. We included patients ≥90 years-old with AIS secondary to large vessel occlusion. Bivariate analyses were performed using the Mann-Whitney U test for continuous variables, and χ2 and Fisher's exact tests, respectively, for nominal and ordinal variables. RESULTS: Thirty-two nonagenarians underwent thrombectomy, of whom 25 (81%) had prestroke mRS ≤2. Thrombectomies were performed using stents (2, 6.7%), aspiration (8, 26.7%), or a combination of both (20, 66.7%). Successful recanalization was achieved in 97%. Procedural complications occurred in 2 (6.3%) and intracranial hemorrhage in 3 (9.4%). Sixteen patients (50%) were discharged home or to rehabilitation, 9 (28.2%) to nursing home or hospice, and 7 (21.9%) died during hospitalization. Only 2 (6%) patients had mRS ≤2 at discharge. No independent predictors of in-hospital mortality were identified, and neither first-pass reperfusion nor the addition of IVT correlated with improvement in clinical outcome. CONCLUSIONS: Although thrombectomy is safe for nonagenarian stroke and can achieve excellent recanalization, high mortality and poor functional status remain high given the advanced age and frailty of this population.

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

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Groundbreaking 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 METHODS: A 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. RESULTS: Among 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). CONCLUSIONS: Mechanical 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.

Platelet Distribution Width: A Significant Predictor of Poor Outcome After Mechanical Thrombectomy.

OBJECTIVES: Elevated platelet distribution width (PDW) is a recognized marker of platelet activity. Herein, we investigated the association between admission PDW values and clinical outcome at 3 months in acute ischemic stroke (AIS) patients undergoing mechanical thrombectomy (MT). MATERIALS AND METHODS: We retrospectively collected consecutive patients diagnosed with AIS following MT from two stroke centers. PDW was measured on admission. Subjects were divided into two groups according to the clinical outcome using the modified Rankin Scale at 3 months. Multiple regression analyses and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were performed to determine the associations between admission PDW values, clinical parameters, and functional outcome. RESULTS: A total of 162 subjects were enrolled. Patients in the poor outcome group had a significantly higher percentage of PDW >16.0 fL compared with the good outcome group (57.3% vs. 26.9%, P < 0.001). After adjusting for a range of confounding factors, multiple regression analysis showed that PDW >16.0 fL was an independent predictor of poor outcome at 3 months (odds ratio 4.572, 95% confidence interval 1.896-11.026, P = 0.001). ROC curve analysis revealed that PDW >16.0 fL predicted poor outcome with 57.3% sensitivity and 73.1% specificity (the area under the ROC curve 0.637, 95% confidence interval 0.558-0.711, P = 0.004). CONCLUSIONS: Elevated PDW is an independent predictor of poor functional outcome in patients with anterior circulation AIS undergoing MT at 3 months.

Novel Imaging Biomarker Prediction of Parenchymal Hemorrhage after Mechanical Thrombectomy in Patients with Large Ischemic Core.

BACKGROUND: Recently studies have shown that select acute ischemic stroke (AIS) patients with large ischemic core could be deemed as reasonable candidates to receive mechanical thrombectomy (MT) with low risk of developing parenchymal hemorrhage (PH) or symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage (sICH); however, the selection criterion remains lacking. Our study aims to investigate the relationship between a novel imaging biomarker of largest core mass volume (LCMV) and development of PH in stroke patients with large ischemic core who have undergone MT. METHODS: A total of 26 AIS patients with large ischemic core (defined as ischemic core volume ≧ 50 ml) were enrolled in the study. Volume of ischemic core and the LCMV measured with Mistar software were measured in all patients. Fourteen patients with AIS developed PH while 12 patients showed no signs of PH based on CT imaging obtained between 24 h and 3 day after MT. We compared the volume of ischemic core and LCMV between two groups. RESULTS: Volume of ischemic core showed no significant difference between the PH and no PH group [105.5 (62.4-131.5) vs 75.0 (56.3-102.2), p = 0.105], whereas LCMV was significantly higher in the PH (14.80 ± 5.23) vs. no PH group (8.40 ± 2.61, p = 0.001). ROC analysis revealed that LCMV was positively correlated with PH (area under the curve = 0.905). The optimal LCMV associated with PH was ≧ 9.67 ml. CONCLUSION: LCMV is an effective and easy-to-use imaging biomarker to predict PH after MT in AIS patients with large ischemic core.

Influence of prior intravenous thrombolysis on outcome after failed mechanical thrombectomy: ETIS registry analysis.

BACKGROUND: Despite constant improvements in recent years, sufficient reperfusion after mechanical thrombectomy (MT) is not reached in up to 15% of patients with large vessel occlusion stroke (LVOS). The outcome of patients with unsuccessful reperfusion after MT especially after intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) use is not known. We investigated the influence of initial IVT in this particular group of patients with failed intracranial recanalization. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective analysis of the Endovascular Treatment in Ischemic Stroke (ETIS) registry from January 2015 to December 2019. Patients presenting with LVOS of the anterior circulation and final modified Thrombolysis in Cerebral Infarction score (mTICI) of 0, 1 or 2a were included. Posterior circulation, isolated cervical carotid occlusions and successful reperfusions (mTICI 2b, 2c or 3) were excluded. The primary endpoint was favorable outcome (modified Rankin Scale score of 0-2) after 3 months. Secondary endpoints were safety outcomes including mortality, any intracranial hemorrhage (ICH), parenchymal hematoma (PH) and symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (sICH) rates. RESULTS: Among 5076 patients with LVOS treated with MT, 524 patients with insufficient recanalization met inclusion criteria, of which 242 received IVT and 282 did not. Functional outcome was improved in the MT+IVT group compared with the MT alone group, although the difference did not reach statistical significance (23.0% vs 12.9%; adjusted OR=1.82; 95% CI 0.98 to 3.38; p=0.058). However, 3 month mRS shift analysis showed a significant benefit of IVT (adjusted OR=1.68; 95% CI 1.56 to 6.54). ICH and sICH rates were similar in both groups, although PH rate was higher in the MT+IVT group (adjusted OR=3.20; 95% CI 1.56 to 6.54). CONCLUSIONS: Among patients with LVOS in the anterior circulation and unsuccessful MT, IVT was associated with improved functional outcome even after unsuccessful MT. Despite recent trials questioning the place of IVT in the LVOS reperfusion strategy, these findings emphasize a subgroup of patients still benefiting from IVT.

Mechanical thrombectomy with a novel device: initial clinical experience with the ANA thrombectomy device.

INTRODUCTION: The ANA™ (Anaconda Biomed) thrombectomy system is a novel stroke thrombectomy device comprising a self-expanding funnel designed to reduce clot fragmentation by locally restricting flow while becoming as wide as the lodging artery. Once deployed, ANA allows distal aspiration in combination with a stentretriever (SR) to mobilize the clot into the funnel where it remains copped during extraction. We investigate safety and efficacy of ANA™ in a first-in-man study. METHODS: Prospective data was collected on 35 consecutive patients treated as first line with ANA™ at a single centre. Outcome measures included per-pass reperfusion scores, symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage (sICH), NIHSS at day 5, and mRS at 90 days. RESULTS: Median NIHSS was 12(9-18). Sites of primary occlusion were: 5 ICA, 15 M1-MCA, 15 M2-MCA. Primary performance endpoint, mTICI 2b-3 within 3 passes without rescue therapy was achieved in 91.4% (n = 32) of patients; rate of complete recanalization (mTICI 2c-3) was 65.7%. First pass complete recanalization rate was 42.9%, and median number of ANA passes 1(IQR: 1-2). In 17.1% (n = 6) rescue treatment was used; median number of rescue passes was 2(1-7), leading to a final mTICI2b-3rate of 94.3% (n = 33). There were no device related serious adverse events, and rate of sICH was 5.7% (n = 2). At 5 days median NIHSS was 1 (IQR 1-6) and 90 days mRS 0-2 was achieved in 60% of patients. CONCLUSIONS: In this initial clinical experience, the ANA™ device achieved a high rate of complete recanalization with a good safety profile and favourable 90 days clinical outcomes.

Bridging thrombolysis in atrial fibrillation stroke is associated with increased hemorrhagic complications without improved outcomes.

BACKGROUND: Atrial fibrillation (AF) associated ischemic stroke is associated with worse functional outcomes, less effective recanalization, and increased rates of hemorrhagic complications after intravenous thrombolysis (IVT). Conversely, AF is not associated with hemorrhagic complications or functional outcomes in patients undergoing mechanical thrombectomy (MT). This differential effect of MT and IVT in AF associated stroke raises the question of whether bridging thrombolysis increases hemorrhagic complications in AF patients undergoing MT. METHODS: This international cohort study of 22 comprehensive stroke centers analyzed patients with large vessel occlusion (LVO) undergoing MT between June 1, 2015 and December 31, 2020. Patients were divided into four groups based on comorbid AF and IVT exposure. Baseline patient characteristics, complications, and outcomes were reported and compared. RESULTS: 6461 patients underwent MT for LVO. 2311 (35.8%) patients had comorbid AF. In non-AF patients, bridging therapy improved the odds of good 90 day functional outcomes (adjusted OR (aOR) 1.29, 95% CI 1.03 to 1.60, p=0.025) and did not increase hemorrhagic complications. In AF patients, bridging therapy led to significant increases in symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage and parenchymal hematoma type 2 (aOR 1.66, 1.07 to 2.57, p=0.024) without any benefit in 90 day functional outcomes. Similar findings were noted in a separate propensity score analysis. CONCLUSION: In this large thrombectomy registry, AF patients exposed to IVT before MT had increased hemorrhagic complications without improved functional outcomes, in contrast with non-AF patients. Prospective trials are warranted to assess whether AF patients represent a subgroup of LVO patients who may benefit from a direct to thrombectomy approach at thrombectomy capable centers.

Influence of Thrombocytopenia on the Outcome of Mechanical Thrombectomy in Patients with Acute Ischemic Stroke.

OBJECTIVES: Mechanical thrombectomy (MT) has become leading treatment option for acute ischemic stroke (AIS) due to large vessels occlusion (LVO). Platelet counts may affect outcome in patients with AIS or transient ischemic attack. The aim of our study was to determine the influence of thrombocytopenia on the safety and efficacy of MT in patients with AIS due to anterior circulation LVO. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study included 127 consecutive adult patients with AIS due to anterior circulation LVO who underwent MT. The patients were divided into 2 groups based on initial platelet count: with thrombocytopenia (<150 × 109/L) and without thrombocytopenia (≥150 × 109/L). Primary safety outcome was symptomatic intracerebral haemorrhage (SICH), while secondary safety outcome was stroke-related mortality. Efficacy outcome was functional independence, defined as modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score 0-2. Follow- up time was 90 days. RESULTS: Initial thrombocytopenia (<150 × 109/L) was detected in 19 (15%) patients. Multivariable analysis showed that initial thrombocytopenia did not increase the risk of SICH and did not affect the short-term functional outcome (p = 0.587). However, initial thrombocytopenia increased the risk for stroke-related mortality (aOR 3.639, 95% CI 1.079-12.641, p = 0.037). The main cause of mortality in the group with thrombocytopenia was malignant cerebral infarction (44.4%). CONCLUSIONS: Thrombocytopenia does not affect the efficacy and the risk of SICH in patients with AIS caused by anterior circulation LVO treated with MT. However, the risk of mortality is higher in patients with thrombocytopenia, mainly due to malignant cerebral infarction.

Acute Treatment of Isolated Posterior Cerebral Artery Occlusion: Single Center Experience.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Randomized trials for mechanical thrombectomy (MT) excluded patients with ischemic strokes due to isolated posterior cerebral artery occlusion (IPCAO), and there is no evidence for best acute treatment strategy in these patients. We aimed to assess the effectiveness and safety of MT in acute IPCAO. METHODS: We retrospectively analyzed consecutive patients with acute stroke due to IPCAO submitted to MT and/or intravenous thrombolysis (IVT), between 2015-2019. Effectiveness outcomes (recanalization rate, first-pass effect, NIHSS 24h improvement and 3-month Modified Ranking Scale - mRS) and safety outcomes (complications, symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (SICH) and 3-month mortality) were described and compared between groups. RESULTS: A total of 38 patients were included, 25 underwent MT and 13 had IVT alone. Successful and complete recanalization were achieved in 68% and 52% of MT patients, respectively. NIHSS improvement at 24h was found in 56% of MT patients versus 30.8% of patients submitted to IVT alone (OR [95% CI]=2.86 [0.69-11.82]) and excellent functional outcome at 3 months (mRS≤1) was achieved in 54.2% of MT patients versus 38.5% in the IVT group (OR [95% CI]=1.60 [0.41-6.32]). Complications occurred in 3 (12%) procedures and there were no SICH. Mortality at 3 months was 20% in the MT group and 15.4% in patients submitted to IVT alone. CONCLUSIONS: Our results reflect a real-world scenario in a single center and seem to support the recently growing literature showing that MT is a feasible and safe treatment in IPCAO, with favorable effectiveness.