[Cryptogenic stroke management : where are we ?] / Prise en charge de l'AVC cryptogénique : où en sommes-nous ?

Cryptogenic stroke is an old definition that designates an ischemic stroke with no identifiable cause. The term of the embolic stroke of undetermined source was then introduced to identify non-lacunar strokes in whom thromboembolism was the likely mechanism. This subgroup of cryptogenic strokes remains heterogeneous with many potential and possibly associated embolic causes. Covert atrial fibrillation is probably less often involved than initially expected, in contrast to intracranial and extracranial atherosclerosis. The cardiologist should be involved in the search of underlying causes of ischemic stroke by helping the neurologist to identify the most likely diagnosis. Further research is necessary to select populations that may benefit from more effective and individualized treatment.

[Safety indices for chronic total occlusion recanalisation by antegrade approach without scheduled contralateral injection: A consecutive series of 39 cases]. / Indices de sécurité d'une recanalisation antérograde d'occlusion coronaire chronique sans injection controlatérale en première intention. À propos d'une série consécutive de 39 cas.

INTRODUCTION: Current guidelines for chronic total occlusion (CTO) percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) recommend dual coronary angiography. AIM OF THE STUDY: Evaluate CTO-PCI with a single approach using safety indices through the microcatheter. POPULATION AND METHODS: Prospective observational study with a consecutive inclusion of 39 patients (mean age of 67 years) treated by antegrade approach without scheduled contralateral angiography. Following safety indices were collected: blood backflow, distal coronary pressure waveform, selective distal contrast injection. RESULTS: Technical success was obtained in 90% of the cases. Balloon dilation was used in 38% of the cases before placement of the microcatheter. Dual angiography was necessary in three cases (8%). A blood backflow and cyclic changes of the distal coronary pressure waveform were noticed in 87% and 84% of the cases, with a positive predictive value of 97% and 79% respectively, for a microcatheter location in the true lumen. Selective distal contrast injection was done in 36 cases with a visualization of the true lumen in 35 cases. One major complication was observed (3%). CONCLUSION: CTO-PCI with a single approach is feasible using safety indices to limit the risks of major complication. The principle of a systematic dual angiography as advocated in current guidelines may deserve to be revisited.