Incidence Of TIA Research Articles

Rapid outpatient transient ischemic attack clinic and stroke service activity during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic: a multicenter time series analysis.

Rapid outpatient evaluation and treatment of TIA in structured clinics have been shown to reduce stroke recurrence. It is unclear whether short-term downtrends in TIA incidence and admissions have had enduring impact on TIA clinic activity. This study aims to measure the impact of the pandemic on hospitals with rapid TIA clinics. Relevant services were identified by literature search and contacted. Three years of monthly data were requested - a baseline pre-COVID period (April 2018 to March 2020) and an intra-COVID period (April 2020 to March 2021). TIA presentations, ischemic stroke presentations, and reperfusion trends inclusive of IV thrombolysis (IVT) and endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) were recorded. Pandemic impact was measured with interrupted time series analysis, a segmented regression approach to test an effect of an intervention on a time-dependent outcome using a defined impact model. Six centers provided data for a total of 6,231 TIA and 13,191 ischemic stroke presentations from Australia (52.1%), Canada (35.0%), Italy (7.6%), and England (5.4%). TIA clinic volumes remained constant during the pandemic (2.9, 95% CI -1.8 to 7.6, p = 0.24), as did ischemic stroke (2.9, 95% CI -7.8 to 1.9, p = 0.25), IVT (-14.3, 95% CI -36.7, 6.1, p < 0.01), and EVT (0, 95% CI -16.9 to 16.9, p = 0.98) counts. Proportion of ischemic strokes requiring IVT decreased from 13.2 to 11.4% (p < 0.05), but those requiring EVT did not change (16.0 to 16.7%, p = 0.33). This suggests that the pandemic has not had an enduring effect on TIA clinic or stroke service activity for these centers. Furthermore, the disproportionate decrease in IVT suggests that patients may be presenting outside the IVT window during the pandemic - delays in seeking treatment in this group could be the target for public health intervention.

Cardiovascular Disease Burden and Outcomes Among American Indian and Alaska Native Medicare Beneficiaries

American Indian and Alaska Native persons face significant health disparities; however, data regarding the burden of cardiovascular disease in the current era is limited. To determine the incidence and prevalence of cardiovascular disease, the burden of comorbid conditions, including cardiovascular disease risk factors, and associated mortality among American Indian and Alaska Native patients with Medicare insurance. This was a population-based cohort study conducted from January 2015 to December 2019 using Medicare administrative data. Participants included American Indian and Alaska Native Medicare beneficiaries 65 years and older enrolled in both Medicare part A and B fee-for-service Medicare. Statistical analyses were performed from November 2022 to April 2023. The annual incidence, prevalence, and mortality associated with coronary artery disease (CAD), heart failure (HF), atrial fibrillation/flutter (AF), and cerebrovascular disease (stroke or transient ischemic attack [TIA]). Among 220 598 American Indian and Alaska Native Medicare beneficiaries, the median (IQR) age was 72.5 (68.5-79.0) years, 127 402 were female (57.8%), 78 438 (38.8%) came from communities in the most economically distressed quintile in the Distressed Communities Index. In the cohort, 44.8% of patients (98 833) were diagnosed with diabetes, 61.3% (135 124) were diagnosed with hyperlipidemia, and 72.2% (159 365) were diagnosed with hypertension during the study period. The prevalence of CAD was 38.6% (61 125 patients) in 2015 and 36.7% (68 130 patients) in 2019 (P < .001). The incidence of acute myocardial infarction increased from 6.9 per 1000 person-years in 2015 to 7.7 per 1000 patient-years in 2019 (percentage change, 4.79%; P < .001). The prevalence of HF was 22.9% (36 288 patients) in 2015 and 21.4% (39 857 patients) in 2019 (P < .001). The incidence of HF increased from 26.1 per 1000 person-years in 2015 to 27.0 per 1000 person-years in 2019 (percentage change, 4.08%; P < .001). AF had a stable prevalence of 9% during the study period (2015: 9.4% [14 899 patients] vs 2019: 9.3% [25 175 patients]). The incidence of stroke or TIA decreased slightly throughout the study period (12.7 per 1000 person-years in 2015 and 12.1 per 1000 person-years in 2019; percentage change, 5.08; P = .004). Fifty percent of patients (110 244) had at least 1 severe cardiovascular condition (CAD, HF, AF, or cerebrovascular disease), and the overall mortality rate for the cohort was 19.8% (43 589 patients). In this large cohort study of American Indian and Alaska Native patients with Medicare insurance in the US, results suggest a significant burden of cardiovascular disease and cardiometabolic risk factors. These results highlight the critical need for future efforts to prioritize the cardiovascular health of this population.

Safety and efficacy of aspirin after combined cerebral revascularization for ischemic moyamoya disease: A prospective study.

To analyze the safety and efficacy of regular aspirin use after combined cerebral revascularization in patients with ischemic moyamoya disease. From December 2020 to October 2021, a total of 326 patients diagnosed with ischemic moyamoya disease by global cerebral angiography and undergoing first-time combined cerebral revascularization at the Moyamoya Disease Diagnosis and Treatment Research Center of our hospital were selected. Combined cerebral revascularization: superficial temporal artery-middle cerebral artery (STA-MCA) +encephalo-duro-myo-synangiosis (EDMS).Patients were screened by 2 senior physicians according to established inclusion/exclusion criteria. Patients were divided into aspirin and non-aspirin groups based on whether they received regular oral aspirin after surgery. A total of 133 patients were enrolled in the aspirin group. A total of 71 patients (204 cases) were enrolled in the non-aspirin group. Related data were collected before and 1 year after surgery and statistically analyzed to assess the prognosis of both groups. In the two groups, the mRS Score was significantly different after one year (P = 0.023). TIA occurred in 26 patients (19.5%) in the aspirin group and 27 patients (38.0%) in the non-aspirin group within one year after surgery, and the difference between the two groups was statistically significant (P = 0.004). There was no significant difference in cerebral perfusion stage, the improvement rate of cerebral perfusion, Matsushima grading, bypass patency, and other complications within one year after the operation (P > 0.05). In patients with ischemic moyamoya disease who underwent combined cerebral revascularization, postoperative administration of aspirin can reduce the incidence of TIA without increasing the risk of bleeding, but it can not significantly improve the cerebral perfusion of the operation side, Matsushima grading, and bypass patency.

Perioperative functional imaging after extracranial carotid endarterectomy for the detection of cerebral hyperperfusion syndrome

IntroductionSyngoDynaPBVNeuro® is a tool to perform cerebral blood volume (CBV) measurements intraoperatively by functional imaging producing CT-like images. Aim of this prospective study was to analyze the clinical relevance and benefit of CBV measurement with regard to neurological complications like cerebral hyperfusion syndrome (CHS).MethodsForty-five patients undergoing endarterectomy (CEA) of the internal carotid artery were included; functional imaging with CBV measurement was performed before and after CEA. To evaluate and analyze CBV, six regions of interest (ROI) were identified for all patients with an additional ROI in patients with symptomatic ICA stenosis and previous stroke. The primary endpoint of the study was a perioperative change in CBV measurements. Secondary outcomes were incidence of stroke, TIA, CHS, and perioperative morbidity and mortality.ResultsThirty-day stroke incidence and thirty-day mortality were 0%. Thirty-day morbidity was 6.7%. Two patients from the asymptomatic group suffered from transient neurological symptoms without signs of intracerebral infarction in CT or MR scan, meeting diagnostic criteria for CHS. In 83.3% of ROIs in these patients, an increase of blood volume was detected. Overall, 26.7% patients suffered from unilateral headache as expression of potential CHS. A total of 69.4% of ROIs in patients with postoperative unilateral headache showed an increase when comparing pre- and postoperative CBV measurements.ConclusionThe results show that increased CBV measured by functional imaging is a possible surrogate marker of neurological complications like CHS after CEA. By using intraoperative CBV measurement, the risk of CHS can be estimated early and appropriate therapeutic measures can be applied.

Predicting transient ischemic attack after carotid endarterectomy: The role of intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring

ObjectiveTransient ischemic attacks (TIA) after carotid endarterectomy (CEA) are not well-studied. We aimed to investigate the characteristics and the predictive role of intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring (IONM) in TIA post-CEA. MethodsPatients who underwent CEA utilizing IONM from 2009-2020 were included. Analyses included TIA incidence, sensitivity, specificity, and predictive values of IONM, risk factor regression analyses, and mortality Kaplan Meier plots. ResultsOut of 2232 patients, 46 experienced TIA, 14 of which were within 24 hours of CEA (p < 0.01). Nine of these patients displayed significant IONM changes during CEA. The odds of TIA increased with somatosensory evoked potential (SSEP) changes (Odds Ratio (OR): 2.48 95% Confidence Interval (CI): 1.14–5.4), electroencephalogram (EEG) changes (OR: 2.65 95% CI: 1.22–5.77), and combined SSEP/EEG changes (OR: 2.98 95% CI: 1.17–7.55). Patients with TIA were less likely to be alive after an average of 4.3 years (OR: 0.5 95% CI: 0.26–0.96). ConclusionsThe odds a patient will have TIA post-CEA are greater in patients with IONM changes. This risk is inversely related to the time post-CEA. SignificanceChanges in IONM during CEA predict postoperative TIA. Post-CEA TIA may increase long-term mortality, thus further research is needed to better elucidate clinical implications of postoperative TIA.

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Abstract 1122‐000138: De Novo Intracranial Stenosis after Mechanical Thrombectomy with Stent Retrievers

Introduction : Increased vascular damage with the use of stent‐retrievers (SR) has been shown on histopathological analysis of the vascular tissue immediately after mechanical thrombectomy (MT) in animal models. We hypothesized that intraoperative endovascular damage‐intimal injury could result in fibrosis and de novo vascular stenosis (dnVS). The purpose of the study is to identify de novo or worsening intracranial stenosis (wICS) of the treated vessel(s) on patients who underwent MT for the treatment of acute ischemic stroke with SR, on follow‐up vascular imaging (FVI). Methods : This was a retrospective chart review. Patients who underwent MT with SR at two centers from January 2015‐December 2020, who had FVI (CTA, MRA or cerebral angiogram) were included. Patient characteristics, procedural details, timing for FVI and clinical outcomes were collected. Two neuroradiologists reviewed baseline angiograms and FVI to assess for the presence of dnVS or wICS, and graded each stenosis and collateral scores (CS), when stenosis was present. CS were calculated using the multiphase CT angiography collateral score (mCTA). Fischer exact test and Mann‐Whitney U test were used to assess for differences in categorical and continuous variables, respectively. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 28.0 (IBM Corp.). Results : Forty‐six patients within this cohort had FVI with 9 patients developing dnVS or wICS in the follow‐up period (19.6%) with a median follow‐up of 113 days. Five of these patients demonstrated a complete occlusion of the target vessel on FVI. Of the remaining 4 patients, mean degree of stenosis was 55%. Only 2 of these patients had underlying stenosis on baseline post‐treatment angiogram: one with 44% stenosis which progressed to 95% in 2 months. Another with mild stenosis that progressed to complete occlusion in 50 days. Adequate revascularization, defined as TICI score &gt;2b was achieved in 88.8% of patients with dnVS or wICS, and in 89.2% of patients with stable FVI. No significant differences were observed in baseline demographics, NIHSS score at presentation or initial ASPECTS. Median number of passes was identical between patients who developed dnVS or wICS (median 1, IQR [1, 2], p = 0.683). Mean CS for dnVS or wICS was 3. No significant differences were observed in discharge or follow‐up NIHSS scores, mRS, mortality, or recurrent stroke or TIA between the two cohorts. Conclusions : MT with SR can be associated with dnVS or wICS in some patients. The number of passes with SR did not seem to have an impact on this. Patients with dnVS or wICS did not have a higher incidence of recurrent stroke or TIA. This could be due to the development of new collaterals in this population. Our study is limited by a small cohort, however, larger studies might be challenging as standardized radiological follow up of these patients has not been implemented.

Intracranial Angioplasty with Enterprise Stent for Intracranial Atherosclerotic Stenosis: A Single-Center Experience and a Systematic Review.

Background The high rate of periprocedural complications for the endovascular stent procedure in the Stenting Versus Aggressive Medical Management Therapy for Intracranial Arterial Stenosis (SAMMPRIS) trial resulted in it being less recommended than medical therapy to treat intracranial atherosclerotic stenosis (ICAS). Because Enterprise stent use might reduce the incidence of complications in ICAS treatment compared to other frequently used stents, this paper evaluated the safety and effectiveness of the Enterprise stent for the treatment of ICAS. Methods We performed a comprehensive literature search for reports on intracranial angioplasty using the Enterprise stent for ICAS treatment from the earliest date available from each database to May 2020 for PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, Cochrane, and Clinical Trials databases. We also reviewed the single-center experience of the First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University. We extracted information regarding periprocedural complications, procedure-related morbidity, mortality, immediate angiographic outcome, and long-term clinical and angiographic outcomes, among others. Event rates were pooled across studies using random-effects or fixed-effects models depending on the heterogeneity. Results Five hundred fifty-seven patients with 588 lesions from seven studies, including the institutional series, were included in the analysis. The incidence of stroke or death within 30 days was 7.4% (95% confidence interval (CI), 5.5%–10.1%). The incidence of ischemic stroke or TIA in the territory of the qualifying artery beyond 30 days and during follow-up was 3.2% (95% CI, 1.1%–9.5%). The incidence of in-stent restenosis was 10.1% (95% CI, 4.6%–22.2%), and the incidence of symptomatic restenosis was 4.1% (95% CI, 1.7%–9.9%). Conclusions Intracranial angioplasty utilizing the Enterprise stent for ICAS treatment was relatively safe and effective but required further verification using additional sources for evidence.

Endovascular Treatment of Symptomatic Intracranial Vertebrobasilar Stenosis: A 10-Year Single Centre Experience Using Balloon-Expandable Coronary Artery Stents

Symptomatic intracranial vertebro-basilar stenoses (SIVBS) are associated with high risk of recurrent ischemic stroke, even in patients receiving the best medical treatment. Although medical treatment is still the standard of care, non-responding patients may require endovascular treatment; balloon-mounted coronary stents (BMCS) could be successfully employed. This study aims to retrospectively analyze our high volume Interventional Neurovascular center ten-year experience in the off-label use of BMCS for the treatment of SIVBS, in order to assess its feasibility and safety. We retrospectively analyzed all consecutive patients with SIVBS treated with BMCS in the last ten years in our center. Data collected included patient demographics, stenosis location and characteristics, early (<30 days) and late (>30 days) stroke and death rates, pre-symptomatic and post-treatment modified Rankin Scale (mRS) scores. 42 patients (35 males, average age 65,7±10,7, range 37-85) with SIVBS were treated with BMCS. Thirty-four (80,9%) patients were symptomatic despite ongoing best medical therapy; eight (19,1%) patients were treated in emergency for large vessel occlusion, due to an underlying stenosis. BMCSs were successfully deployed in all cases. The incidence of stroke and death at one month was 7,1% (3/42). The incidence of TIA, stroke and death at long-term follow-up (average time of 3 years) was 14,3% (4,7 per 100 person-years). At long-term follow-up, mRS improved in 82% of patients who underwent elective treatment. In our experience, the off-label use of BMCS in the endovascular treatment of SIVBS resistant to medical treatment is feasible and safe.

Abstract WP6: Safety of Acute Carotid Stenting Treatment in Acute Symptomatic Patients

Carotid stenting (CAS) has been shown to be equivalent to carotid endarterectomy in symptomatic patients; however its optimal timing remains unclear. In this study, we aim to evaluate the safety of CAS when performed within the first 48 hours of symptom onset. We performed a retrospective analysis of a prospectively collected database of consecutive CAS patients admitted to our comprehensive stroke center with TIA/stroke and ipsilateral symptomatic carotid stenosis &gt;50% from 2014 to 2019. Medical records were retrospectively reviewed for demographic, clinical and procedural data and outcomes. Acute and delayed treatment were defined as ≤48 and &gt;48 hours from last known well (LKW) respectively. The primary endpoint was procedure-related major complications (stroke with NIHSS increase of ≥4, myocardial infarction, parenchymal hemorrhage type 2 or death) ≤30 days after CAS. Secondary endpoints were procedure-related minor neurological (stroke with NIHSS increase of &lt;4 and reperfusion injury) and non-neurological (groin puncture hematoma, acute anemia and arrhythmia) complications. Functional outcome was assessed by discharge and 90 days mRS, dichotomized as good (0-2) and bad (3-6). A total of 72 patients were included in the analysis, 36 in each group. There was no difference in age, NIHSS at presentation, gender, incidence of TIA as presentation or percentage of TPA received. The acute group differed significantly from the delayed group in number of thrombectomies (36.1% vs. 5.6%, p=0.001) and median time from LKW to CAS (15.9 hours vs. 88.0 hours, p&lt;0.001). There were significantly more carotid occlusions in the acute group when compared to the delayed group (37.8% vs. 2.2, p&lt;0.0001). Overall, the acute group did not show significant difference from the delayed group in major (2.8% vs. 5.6%, p=1.0), minor neurological (13.9% vs. 2.8%, p=0.09) and minor non-neurological complication rates (13.9% vs. 8.3%, p=0.7). Rates of good outcomes were not significantly different between the two groups at discharge (52.8% vs. 50%) or 90 days (75% vs. 63%). CAS can be performed safely in acute symptomatic carotid stenosis patients within the first 48 hours from symptom onset.

Recurrent ischemic stroke: Incidence, predictors, and impact on mortality.

Background and purposeRecurrent ischemic stroke (IS) or TIA is frequent with a considerable variation in incidence and mortality across populations. Current data on stroke recurrence and mortality are useful to examine trends, risk factors, and treatment effects. In this study, we calculated the incidence of recurrent IS or TIA in a hospital‐based stroke population in Western Norway, investigated recurrence factors, and estimated the effect of recurrence on all‐cause mortality.MethodsThis prospective cohort study registered recurrence and mortality among 1872 IS and TIA survivors admitted to the stroke unit at Haukeland University Hospital between July 2007 and December 2013. Recurrence and death until September 1, 2016, were identified by medical chart review. Cumulative incidences of recurrence were estimated with a competing risks Cox model. Multivariate Cox models were used to examine recurrence factors and mortality.ResultsDuring follow‐up, 220 patients had 277 recurrent IS or TIAs. The cumulative recurrence rate was 5.4% at 1 year, 11.3% at 5 years, and 14.2% at the end of follow‐up. Hypertension (HR = 1.65, 95% CI 1.21‐2.25), prior symptomatic stroke (HR = 1.63, 95% CI 1.18‐2.24), chronic infarcts on MRI (HR = 1.48, 95% CI 1.10‐1.99), and age (HR 1.02/year, 95% CI 1.00‐1.03) were independently associated with recurrence. A total of 668 (35.7%) patients died during follow‐up. Recurrence significantly increased the all‐cause mortality (HR = 2.55, 95% CI 2.04‐3.18).ConclusionsThe risk of recurrent IS stroke or TIA was modest in our population and was associated with previously established risk factors. Recurrence more than doubled the all‐cause mortality.

Transient ischemic attack: Incidence and early risk of stroke in northern Portugal from 1998-2000 to 2009-2011.

A decline in TIA incidence would be expected mirroring stroke trends, but patient's awareness of symptoms/signs, improved diagnostic procedures and changes in severity of vascular disease may raise TIA incidence. We aimed to estimate changes in TIA incidence and 30-day stroke risk in Portugal. Data from two prospective community-based registers of first-ever TIA in 104,700 (1998-2000) and 118,232 (2009-2011) persons were collected using comprehensive case ascertainment methods. Incidence and stroke risk from TIA onset were compared using different inception cohorts. ABCD2 was used to stratified stroke risk. Overall, 141 patients were included in 1998-2000 and 174 in 2009-2011. Crude annual incidence rate increased from 67 to 74/100,000 (IRR=1.12; 95% CI, 0.90-1.40), particularly in men under 65 years (IRR=1.79; 95% CI, 1.06-3.04). Male/female IRR increased from 1.20 (0.86-1.68) in 1998-2000 to 1.77 (1.31-2.39) in 2009-2011, after adjustment for age. Better control of vascular risk factors (VRFs) accounted for lower ABCD2 scores in 2009-2011. The 30-day stroke risk was similar in study periods (18.4% vs. 16.7%, p > 0.7), decreasing from 16.1% to 8.2% (p < 0.042) excluding patients reporting TIA after stroke occurrence and from 12.2% to 4.0% (p < 0.011) further excluding patients who had stroke in ambulance/hospital. ABCD2 discriminated stroke risk only in 1998-2000; stroke severity decreased while posterior circulation stroke was more common in 2009-2011. Despite a stable TIA incidence across periods, the risk increased in men compared to women. Better control of VRF accounted for lower ABCD2 scores and secondary prevention reduced stroke risk. Men under 65 years emerge as a preferential target for primary and secondary prevention.

Efficacy of remote ischemic conditioning on improving WMHs and cognition in very elderly patients with intracranial atherosclerotic stenosis.

Our previous study revealed that remote ischemic conditioning (RIC) reduced the incidence of stroke or TIA in octo- and nonagenarians with intracranial atherosclerotic stenosis (ICAS). Herein, we aimed to investigate whether RIC would influence the progression of white matter hyperintensities (WMHs) and cognitive impairment in the same group of patients. Fifty-eight patients with ICAS were randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to receive standard medical treatment with RIC (n=30) versus sham-RIC (n=28). The RIC protocol consisted of 5 cycles of alternating 5-min ischemia and 5-min reperfusion applied in the bilateral upper arms twice daily for 300 days. The efficacy outcomes included WMHs change on T2 FLAIR sequences, estimated by the Fazekas scale and Scheltens scale, cognitive change as assessed by the MMSE and MoCA, and some clinical symptoms within 300-day follow-up. Compared with the baseline, RIC treatment significantly reduced Fazekas and Scheltens scores at both 180-day (both p<0.05) and 300-day (both p<0.01) follow-ups, whereas no such reduction was observed in the control group. In the RIC group, Fazekas scores were significantly lower at 300-day follow-up (p<0.001) while Scheltens scores were significantly lower at both 180-day and 300-day follow-ups (both p<0.001), as compared with the control group. There were statistically significant between-group differences in the overall MMSE or MoCA scores, favoring RIC at 180-day and 300-day follow-ups (all p<0.05). RIC may serve as a promising adjunctive to standard medical therapy for preventing the progression of WMHs and ameliorating cognitive impairment in very elderly patients with ICAS.

A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials of uninterrupted periprocedural anticoagulation strategy in patients undergoing atrial fibrillation catheter ablation

BackgroundIn patients undergoing atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation, despite uninterrupted oral anticoagulants (OACs) have been recommended, no consensus has emerged regarding to whether uninterrupted novel oral anticoagulants (NOACs) are superior to uninterrupted vitamin K antagonists (VKAs) for the periprocedural antithrombotic management. This meta-analysis aimed to compare the efficacy and safety of uninterrupted NOACs and uninterrupted VKAs in patients undergoing AF ablation. MethodsDatabases were searched for articles published up to March 20, 2018. Only randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were selected. The data were analyzed with RevMan 5.3 using a fixed-effects method. Results6 RCTs and 1903 patients were included. There was no significant difference between NOACs group and VKAs group in incidence of stroke or TIA (OR = 1.00, 95% CI = 0.23–4.40, P = 1.00), silent cerebral thromboembolic events (OR = 1.09, 95% CI = 0.67–1.75, P = 0.74) or minor bleeding (OR = 1.01, 95% CI = 0.78–1.31, P = 0.93), which were consistent in subgroup analysis of individual NOAC vs. VKAs group. NOACs treatment was associated with reduced risk of major bleeding as compared with VKAs (OR = 0.45, 95% CI = 0.26–0.81, P < 0.01). In the subgroup analyses, only the dabigatran group showed significant lower incidence of major bleeding compared to VKAs group. ConclusionsIn patients undergoing AF ablation, uninterrupted NOACs is as effective as uninterrupted VKAs treatment, uninterrupted dabigatran (150 mg twice daily) may be superior to other uninterrupted OACs strategies.

Benefit-risk profile of cytoreductive drugs along with antiplatelet and antithrombotic therapy after transient ischemic attack or ischemic stroke in myeloproliferative neoplasms

We analyzed 597 patients with myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPN) who presented transient ischemic attacks (TIA, n = 270) or ischemic stroke (IS, n = 327). Treatment included aspirin, oral anticoagulants, and cytoreductive drugs. The composite incidence of recurrent TIA and IS, acute myocardial infarction (AMI), and cardiovascular (CV) death was 4.21 and 19.2%, respectively at one and five years after the index event, an estimate unexpectedly lower than reported in the general population. Patients tended to replicate the first clinical manifestation (hazard ratio, HR: 2.41 and 4.41 for recurrent TIA and IS, respectively); additional factors for recurrent TIA were previous TIA (HR: 3.40) and microvascular disturbances (HR: 2.30); for recurrent IS arterial hypertension (HR: 4.24) and IS occurrence after MPN diagnosis (HR: 4.47). CV mortality was predicted by age over 60 years (HR: 3.98), an index IS (HR: 3.61), and the occurrence of index events after MPN diagnosis (HR: 2.62). Cytoreductive therapy was a strong protective factor (HR: 0.24). The rate of major bleeding was similar to the general population (0.90 per 100 patient-years). In conclusion, the long-term clinical outcome after TIA and IS in MPN appears even more favorable than in the general population, suggesting an advantageous benefit-risk profile of antithrombotic and cytoreductive treatment.

Abstract WP131: Repeat Bypass Surgery for Moyamoya Disease Refractory to Previous Surgery

Background and Purpose: Surgical revascularization is known to reduce subsequent incidence of ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke with low morbidity in moyamoya disease. However, repeat bypass surgery is required for a certain subgroup of patients, although the information on indication, surgical technique, and outcome is limited. Therefore, this study was aimed to precisely analyze clinical features, surgical technique, and long-term outcome of repeat bypass surgery for refractory moyamoya disease. Methods: This study included totally 20 surgeries for18 patients who underwent repeat bypass surgery because previous surgery was inadequate in 10 surgeries (Group A) or because the posterior cerebral artery was further involved after surgery in 10 (Group B). There were 7 males and 11 females. Their age ranged from one to 69 years. Precise radiological examinations were performed before surgery, using MRI, cerebral angiography, and SPECT. In Group A, all patients who previously underwent inadequate surgery repeated headache attack, TIA, or hemorrhagic stroke, and underwent repeat bypass surgery targeted to the non-revascularized area, using STA-MCA anastomosis and/or indirect synangiosis as appropriate. On the other hands, occipital artery to posterior cerebral artery (OA-PCA) anastomosis and/or indirect bypass was required in Group B who developed disease progression in the PCA. Results: All 18 patients successfully underwent repeat bypass surgery. Postoperative course was uneventful. Postoperative examinations revealed good revascularization in the operated hemispheres and the improvement of cerebral hemodynamics. Headache attack and TIA disappeared within 6 months at the latest after surgery. During follow-up periods, one (5.6% per person) of 18 patients died of recurrent hemorrhagic stroke two years after repeat bypass surgery. Conclusion: Repeat bypass surgery is feasible and effective to reduce further incidence of headache attack, TIA, and ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke. Through precise radiological analysis, surgical procedures should be planned to yield maximal therapeutic effects.

Association of descending thoracic aortic plaque with brain atrophy and white matter hyperintensities: The Framingham Heart Study

Background and aimsAortic atherosclerosis is an aggregate marker of vascular risk factor exposure and has been associated with intracranial atherosclerosis and stroke. We hypothesized that atherosclerosis of the descending aorta (DAo) could be a risk marker for brain aging and injury. MethodsWe evaluated 1527 participants (mean age 59.9 years, 53.5% women) in the Framingham Offspring cohort who underwent both aortic and brain MRI. Participants were free of clinical stroke, dementia, or other neurological illness at the time of axial MRI of the thoracic and abdominal DAo and subsequent brain MRI. We related the prevalence and burden of aortic plaque to total cerebral brain volume (TCBV) and white matter hyperintensity volume (WMHV). An additional analysis compared incidence of stroke or TIA in participants with and without DAo plaques. ResultsPresence of thoracic DAo plaque (8%) was associated with decreased TCBV in sex-pooled analysis (−0.77, SE 0.25, p = 0.002, equivalent to 4.5 years of aging) and with increased WMHV only in men (0.26, SE 0.12, p = 0.032, equivalent to 6.5 years aging). We observed similar associations of DAo plaque burden with TCBV and WMHV. There were 43 strokes and 11 TIAs in prospective follow-up (median 7 years). Presence of DAo plaque was not associated with subsequent stroke or TIA. ConclusionsIn this cross-sectional community-based study, we found DAo plaque is associated with accelerated brain aging. These data underscore the potential implications of incidentally identified subclinical aortic atherosclerosis and question whether targeted intervention in these high risk individuals can modulate cognitive decline.

Transient Ischaemic Attack 999 Emergency Referral (TIER): a cluster randomised feasibility trial facilitated by data linkage

ABSTRACT&#x0D; Background Studies demonstrate TIA patients are at risk of further TIAs, stroke and death. TIA incidence is unknown, however estimated at 35 per 100,000 people annually in the UK, costing approximately £7 billion. Many TIA patients call 999, are assessed, stabilised and conveyed to Emergency Department (ED). Rapid assessment of TIA severity and risk and intervention is emerging as the new standard for TIA care leading to alternative pathways with direct referral to specialist services. However, uncertainties exist over this new model of care.&#x0D; We will develop and assess feasibility of paramedic assessment and referral of low-risk TIA patients directly to TIA clinic for early review, thus providing timely specialist review without: adverse consequences; inconvenience of ED attendance; unnecessary cost to the NHS.&#x0D; MethodsThis feasibility trial is designed to test the methods of a pragmatic cluster randomised trial, utilising data linkage for capturing outcome data, but with a qualitative component. To develop the treatment protocol, training and referral processes, working with clinicians/stakeholders, we will conduct:&#x0D; &#x0D; survey across UK ambulance services to find referral pathways for low-risk TIA patients&#x0D; systematic review of TIA prehospital care&#x0D; paramedic focus groups pre-implementation&#x0D; &#x0D; Then:&#x0D; &#x0D; randomise paramedics (intervention/control)&#x0D; recruit patients&#x0D; interview patients, key clinicians and service managers&#x0D; collect routine data via data linkage using the SAIL databank&#x0D; hold paramedic focus groups post-implementation&#x0D; &#x0D; We will:&#x0D; &#x0D; measure uptake and compliance with treatment protocols&#x0D; validate TIA assessment tool&#x0D; analyse qualitative data&#x0D; pilot recruitment processes&#x0D; test data collection methods&#x0D; estimate key outcomes effect size to inform full trial sample size calculation&#x0D; &#x0D; ResultsWill inform full trial development using criteria: intervention acceptability to practitioners and patients; trial design feasibility; outcome data completeness.&#x0D; Conclusions&#x0D; &#x0D; If indicated, full trial conducted&#x0D; If not, but positive results - advise intervention development for immediate implementation&#x0D; If not, but negative results – advise delivery of intervention should cease.&#x0D;

Abstract WP181: Incidence of Transient Ischemic Attack in Auckland, New Zealand, in 2011-2012

Introduction: There have been few recent population studies reporting the burden of TIA. We aimed to determine the incidence (first ever in a lifetime) of TIA in an ethnically diverse population. Hypothesis: The incidence of TIA may vary by different ethnic group. Methods: The fourth Auckland Regional Community Stroke study (ARCOS IV) used multiple overlapping ascertainment methods to identify all hospitalized and non-hospitalized cases of definite TIA in people ≥16 years of age usually resident in Auckland (population ≥16 years was 1.12 million), over 12 months from March 2011. TIA was defined as an acute loss of focal cerebral or ocular function with symptoms lasting &lt;24 hours, of presumed vascular cause. Patients with isolated vertigo, diplopia and non-focal symptoms were excluded. Results: There were 785 people with TIA [402 (51.2%) women, mean (SD) age 71.5 (13.8) years]. Of these, 614 (78%) were European, 32 (4.1%) Maori (indigenous people of New Zealand), 62 (8%) Pasifika (originating from the Pacific Islands) and 75 (10%) Asian/Others. Most (82%) TIA patients were seen in a hospital setting (emergency room, outpatient clinic or admitted). The annual age-standardized incidence of TIA was 40 (95% CI 36-43) per 100,000 people. The annual age-standardized incidence per 100,000 people of TIA was less in Maori (27; 95% CI 8-40) and Asian/Others (21; 95% CI 16-27) than in Europeans (45; 95% CI 41-50). Vascular risk factor profiles and treatment at presentation varied between the different ethnic groups. For example, non-Europeans were more likely to be diabetic (p&lt;0.01), and Maori and Pasifika were less likely to be taking lipid-lowering therapy (p&lt;0.01), than other groups. Conclusions: This study has demonstrated ethnic differences in the burden of TIA in an era of aggressive primary and secondary vascular risk factor management. We speculate that that the lower incidence of TIA seen in ethnic minorities may reflect a failure to seek medical attention as opposed to a true difference in incidence. If confirmed, programs targeting different ethnic groups, particularly those of lower socioeconomic status, and aimed at improving health literacy around vascular disease and reducing barriers to accessing health care, will be required.

Abstract 101: Repeat Bypass Surgery for Moyamoya Disease Refractory to Previous Surgery

Purpose: Surgical revascularization is known to reduce subsequent incidence of ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke with low morbidity in moyamoya disease. However, repeat bypass surgery is required for a certain subgroup of patients, although the information on indication, surgical technique, and outcome is limited. Therefore, this study was aimed to precisely analyze clinical features, surgical technique, and long-term outcome of repeat bypass surgery for refractory moyamoya disease. Methods: This study included 16 patients who underwent repeat bypass surgery because previous surgery was inadequate in 10 patients or because the posterior cerebral artery was further involved after surgery in 6. There were 7 males and 9 females. Their age ranged from one to 69 years. Precise radiological examinations were performed before surgery, using MRI, cerebral angiography, and SPECT. All 10 patients who previously underwent inadequate surgery repeated headache attack, TIA, or hemorrhagic stroke, and underwent repeat bypass surgery targeted to the non-revascularized area, using STA-MCA anastomosis and/or indirect synangiosis as appropriate. OA-PCA anastomosis and/or indirect bypass was required in 6 patients who developed disease progression in the PCA. Results: All 16 patients successfully underwent repeat bypass surgery. Postoperative course was uneventful. Postoperative examinations revealed good revascularization in the operated hemispheres and the improvement of cerebral hemodynamics. Headache attack and TIA disappeared within 6 months at the latest after surgery. During follow-up periods, one of 16 patients died of recurrent hemorrhagic stroke two years after repeat bypass surgery. Conclusion: Repeat bypass surgery is feasible and effective to reduce further incidence of headache attack, TIA, and ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke. Through precise radiological analysis, surgical procedures should be planned to yield maximal therapeutic effects.