The Dilator-Dotter technique can successfully treat tandem lesions of posterior circulation.

Abstract

In this study, we applied the Dilator-Dotter technique, a catheter-based angioplasty, to cross through severely stenotic or occluded vertebral arteries during mechanical thrombectomy, and we explored its efficacy and safety in treating tandem lesions of posterior circulation. We performed a retrospective analysis of patients with acute stroke caused by tandem lesions of posterior circulation treated with the Dilator-Dotter technique and thrombectomy between July 2017 and December 2021. In addition to collecting clinical, radiographic, and procedural data from patient records, we also collected information about surgical complications and outcome. We enrolled 9 patients for this study. In all cases, the vertebral artery (VA) on the affected side was crossed through via the Dilator-Dotter technique, and mechanical thrombectomy was successfully performed. The average time from groin puncture to revascularization (TICI 2B-3) was 26 minutes (range 16-50 minutes). Eight patients (89%) achieved complete recanalization with TICI 3, and only 1 patient suffered from thrombus escape to the posterior cerebral artery. Eight patients underwent VA stenting, while the remaining patient was excluded from this procedure because a postoperative brain CT scan recorded obvious staining of the contrast medium within the infarcted area. Five patients had modified Rankin Scale scores ≤ 3 at the 3-month follow-up examination, and 2 patients died due to postoperative cerebral hemorrhage and severe ischemia. The Dilator-Dotter technique may represent a safe and effective treatment for tandem lesions of posterior circulation. Using this method, the lesions can be rapidly recanalized and treated.