Rate Of Intracranial Hemorrhage Research Articles

Association between time to treatment and clinical outcomes in endovascular thrombectomy beyond 6 hours without advanced imaging selection

BackgroundThe effectiveness and safety of endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) in the late window (6–24 hours) for acute ischemic stroke (AIS) patients selected without advanced imaging is undetermined. We aimed to assess...

Continuous intravenous tirofiban can improve the 90-day functional outcome and decrease 90-day mortality without increasing bleeding risk in acute ischemic stroke patients treated by endovascular therapy: A meta-analysis

BackgroundThe role of continuous intravenous administration of tirofiban in endovascular therapy is still unclear. This meta-analysis aims to evaluate the 90-day functional prognosis in acute ischemic stroke patients (AIS) treated by endovascular treatment and intravenous administration of tirofiban. MethodsWe searched PubMed, Embase, and CENTRAL databases with the subject terms “tirofiban”, “brain ischemia”, and some related free words. Inclusion criteria were: (1) cohort study or randomized control trials; (2) AIS patients who received endovascular therapy; (3) the intervention or exposure was intravenous tirofiban monotherapy or combined with intra-arterial tirofiban; (4) containing data on modified Rankin Scale at 90 days and including at least one of the following indicators: mortality, symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (sICH), intracranial hemorrhage (ICH), and recanalization. A summary odds ratio was calculated. ResultsTwelve eligible studies, consisting of 3268 AIS participants, were identified. There was a significant trend of favorable outcomes (measured by mRS at three months) in the tirofiban group (ORs = 1.36; 95% CI = 1.09–1.70). In addition, compared with the non-tirofiban group, intravenous tirofiban was significantly associated with decreased risk of 90-day mortality (ORs = 0.73; 95% CI:0.59–0.89) and increased recanalization rate (ORs = 1.50; 95% CI:1.08–2.09) but no significant difference in rates of sICH (ORs = 0.93; 95% CI = 0.70–1.24) or ICH (ORs = 0.84; 95% CI = 0.62–1.15). ConclusionsIntravenous tirofiban appears to be safe and effective when used following intra-arterial tirofiban or as monotherapy in AIS patients treated by endovascular therapy, which can improve the 90-day functional outcome, decrease the 90-day mortality and increase the possibility of early recanalization without increasing rates of sICH and ICH.

A comparison between acute large vessel occlusion in the posterior circulation and anterior circulation after endovascular treatment: the ANGEL-ACT registry experience

Background and purposeEndovascular treatment (EVT) has shown an overwhelming benefit for acute anterior circulation artery occlusion (ACO). Whether it can achieve the same outcomes in posterior circulation artery occlusion (PCO)...

Clinical outcomes following reperfusion therapy in acute ischemic stroke patients with infective endocarditis: a systematic review.

BackgroundAcute ischemic stroke (AIS) is a common and fatal complication of infective endocarditis (IE); however, there is a lack of understanding regarding treatment efficacy. This systematic review aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) and endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) in IE patients experiencing AIS.ObjectivesThe aim of this study was to perform a systematic review investigating the outcomes of AIS in IE patients receiving IVT and/or EVT as a treatment method and to evaluate the safety and efficacy of these methods of reperfusion therapy.DesignA systematic review in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines was conducted.Data Sources and MethodsThe EMBASE, Cochrane, and PubMed databases were searched for literature published between 2005 and 2021 investigating outcomes of reperfusion therapy post-AIS in IE and non-IE patients. Descriptive statistics were used to describe the overall frequency of clinical outcomes, and groupwise comparisons were performed using Fisher’s exact test to assess the significance of groupwise differences.ResultsThree studies were finally included in the systematic review. A total of 13.5% of IE patients compared to 37% of non-IE patients achieved a good functional outcome (modified Rankin Scale score≤ 2) (P < .001). Furthermore, a larger percentage of the IE cohort achieved good functional outcomes after EVT (22.0%) compared to IVT (10.4%) (P = .013). The IE cohort also had a higher 3-month postreperfusion mortality rate (48.8%) compared to the non-IE cohort (24.9%) (P < .001). The rate of intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) postreperfusion was also significantly higher in the IE cohort (23.5%) than in the non-IE cohort (6.5%) (P < .001).ConclusionAIS patients with IE, treated with IVT, EVT, or a combination of the two, experience worse clinical and safety outcomes than non-IE patients. EVT yielded better functional outcomes, albeit with higher postreperfusion ICH rates, than IVT.

Extra-axial haemorrhages in young children with skull fractures: abuse or accident?

ObjectiveInfant and toddler subdural haemorrhages (SDH) are often considered indicative of abuse or major trauma. However, accidental impact events, such as falls, cause contact extra-axial haemorrhages (EAHs). The current study...

Triglyceride-Glucose Index and Intravenous Thrombolysis Outcomes for Acute Ischemic Stroke: A Multicenter Prospective-Cohort Study.

BackgroundThe triglyceride-glucose (TyG) index has recently been proposed as a reliable marker of insulin resistance. There is insufficient evidence to verify that the TyG index is correlated with functional outcomes and hemorrhagic transformation and in patients with stroke treated with intravenous thrombolysis (IVT).MethodsWe designed a multicenter cohort study, which enrolled patients with acute ischemic stroke treated with IVT between December 2004 and December 2016. The TyG index was divided into tertiles and calculated on a continuous scale. Unfavorable functional outcomes were defined by the modified Rankin Scale of 3–6 at 90 days and the incident rates of symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (SICH) within 36 h of IVT onset were surveyed. Stroke severity was defined as mild (4–8), moderate (9–15), or high (≥16) based on the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) scores.ResultsAmong 914 enrolled patients, the tertiles of the TyG index were 8.48 for T1, 8.48–9.04 for T2, and 9.04 for T3. T3 showed an increased risk of unfavorable functional outcomes at 90 days [odds ratio (OR): 1.76; P = 0.0132]. The TyG index was significantly associated with unfavorable functional outcomes at 90 days (OR: 1.32; P = 0.0431 per unit increase). No association was found between the TyG index and SICH. These findings were applicable for T3 with stroke of moderate (OR, 2.35; P = 0.0465) and high severity (OR: 2.57, P = 0.0440) patients with stroke.ConclusionThis study supports the strong association between the increased TyG index and increased unfavorable functional outcomes at 90 days in patients with acute ischemic stroke treated with IVT. These findings were found to be robust in patients with moderate and high stroke severity.

Effect of Intra-arterial Alteplase vs Placebo Following Successful Thrombectomy on Functional Outcomes in Patients With Large Vessel Occlusion Acute Ischemic Stroke

<h3>Importance</h3> It is estimated that only 27% of patients with acute ischemic stroke and large vessel occlusion who undergo successful reperfusion after mechanical thrombectomy are disability free at 90 days. An incomplete microcirculatory reperfusion might contribute to these suboptimal clinical benefits. <h3>Objective</h3> To investigate whether treatment with adjunct intra-arterial alteplase after thrombectomy improves outcomes following reperfusion. <h3>Design, Setting, and Participants</h3> Phase 2b randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial performed from December 2018 through May 2021 in 7 stroke centers in Catalonia, Spain. The study included 121 patients with large vessel occlusion acute ischemic stroke treated with thrombectomy within 24 hours after stroke onset and with an expanded Treatment in Cerebral Ischemia angiographic score of 2b50 to 3. <h3>Interventions</h3> Participants were randomized to receive intra-arterial alteplase (0.225 mg/kg; maximum dose, 22.5 mg) infused over 15 to 30 minutes (n = 61) or placebo (n = 52). <h3>Main Outcomes and Measures</h3> The primary outcome was the difference in proportion of patients achieving a score of 0 or 1 on the 90-day modified Rankin Scale (range, 0 [no symptoms] to 6 [death]) in all patients treated as randomized. Safety outcomes included rate of symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage and death. <h3>Results</h3> The study was terminated early for inability to maintain placebo availability and enrollment rate because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Of 1825 patients with acute ischemic stroke treated with thrombectomy at the 7 study sites, 748 (41%) patients fulfilled the angiographic criteria, 121 (7%) patients were randomized (mean age, 70.6 [SD, 13.7] years; 57 women [47%]), and 113 (6%) were treated as randomized. The proportion of participants with a modified Rankin Scale score of 0 or 1 at 90 days was 59.0% (36/61) with alteplase and 40.4% (21/52) with placebo (adjusted risk difference, 18.4%; 95% CI, 0.3%-36.4%;<i>P</i> = .047). The proportion of patients with symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage within 24 hours was 0% with alteplase and 3.8% with placebo (risk difference, −3.8%; 95% CI, −13.2% to 2.5%). Ninety-day mortality was 8% with alteplase and 15% with placebo (risk difference, −7.2%; 95% CI, −19.2% to 4.8%). <h3>Conclusions and Relevance</h3> Among patients with large vessel occlusion acute ischemic stroke and successful reperfusion following thrombectomy, the use of adjunct intra-arterial alteplase compared with placebo resulted in a greater likelihood of excellent neurological outcome at 90 days. However, because of study limitations, these findings should be interpreted as preliminary and require replication. <h3>Trial Registration</h3> ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier:NCT03876119; EudraCT Number:2018-002195-40

Association of Recent Use of Non–Vitamin K Antagonist Oral Anticoagulants With Intracranial Hemorrhage Among Patients With Acute Ischemic Stroke Treated With Alteplase

Current guidelines recommend against use of intravenous alteplase in patients with acute ischemic stroke who are taking non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants (NOACs). To evaluate the safety and functional outcomes of intravenous alteplase among patients who were taking NOACs prior to stroke and compare outcomes with patients who were not taking long-term anticoagulants. A retrospective cohort study of 163 038 patients with acute ischemic stroke either taking NOACs or not taking anticoagulants prior to stroke and treated with intravenous alteplase within 4.5 hours of symptom onset at 1752 US hospitals participating in the Get With The Guidelines-Stroke program between April 2015 and March 2020, with complementary data from the Addressing Real-world Anticoagulant Management Issues in Stroke registry. Prestroke treatment with NOACs within 7 days prior to alteplase treatment. The primary outcome was symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage occurring within 36 hours after intravenous alteplase administration. There were 4 secondary safety outcomes, including inpatient mortality, and 7 secondary functional outcomes assessed at hospital discharge, including the proportion of patients discharged home. Of 163 038 patients treated with intravenous alteplase (median age, 70 [IQR, 59 to 81] years; 49.1% women), 2207 (1.4%) were taking NOACs and 160 831 (98.6%) were not taking anticoagulants prior to their stroke. Patients taking NOACs were older (median age, 75 [IQR, 64 to 82] years vs 70 [IQR, 58 to 81] years for those not taking anticoagulants), had a higher prevalence of cardiovascular comorbidities, and experienced more severe strokes (median National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score, 10 [IQR, 5 to 17] vs 7 [IQR, 4 to 14]) (all standardized differences >10). The unadjusted rate of symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage was 3.7% (95% CI, 2.9% to 4.5%) for patients taking NOACs vs 3.2% (95% CI, 3.1% to 3.3%) for patients not taking anticoagulants. After adjusting for baseline clinical factors, the risk of symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage was not significantly different between groups (adjusted odds ratio [OR], 0.88 [95% CI, 0.70 to 1.10]; adjusted risk difference [RD], -0.51% [95% CI, -1.36% to 0.34%]). There were no significant differences in the secondary safety outcomes, including inpatient mortality (6.3% for patients taking NOACs vs 4.9% for patients not taking anticoagulants; adjusted OR, 0.84 [95% CI, 0.69 to 1.01]; adjusted RD, -1.20% [95% CI, -2.39% to -0%]). Of the secondary functional outcomes, 4 of 7 showed significant differences in favor of the NOAC group after adjustment, including the proportion of patients discharged home (45.9% vs 53.6% for patients not taking anticoagulants; adjusted OR, 1.17 [95% CI, 1.06 to 1.29]; adjusted RD, 3.84% [95% CI, 1.46% to 6.22%]). Among patients with acute ischemic stroke treated with intravenous alteplase, use of NOACs within the preceding 7 days, compared with no use of anticoagulants, was not associated with a significantly increased risk of intracranial hemorrhage.

Endovascular Therapy Versus Medical Therapy Alone for Basilar Artery Stroke: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis Through Nested Knowledge

BackgroundEndovascular thrombectomy (EVT) is an effective treatment for acute ischemic stroke attributable to the anterior circulation large‐vessel occlusion. Randomized trials of patients with posterior circulation large‐vessel occlusion (PC‐LVO) have failed to show a benefit of EVT over medical therapy (MEDT). We performed a systematic review and meta‐analysis to understand better whether EVT is beneficial for PC‐LVO.MethodsUsing the Nested Knowledge AutoLit living review platform, we identified randomized control trials and prospective studies that reported functional outcomes in patients with PC‐LVO treated with EVT versus MEDT. The primary outcome variable was 90‐day modified Rankin scale score of 0 to 3, and secondary outcome variables included 90‐day modified Rankin scale score of 0 to 2, 90‐day mortality, and rate of symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage. A separate random effects model was fit for each outcome measure to calculate pooled odds ratios.ResultsThree studies with 1248 patients, 860 in the EVT arm and 388 in the MEDT arm, were included in the meta‐analysis. The favorable outcome rate (modified Rankin scale score of 0–3) in patients undergoing EVT was 39.9% (95% CI, 30.6%–50.1%) versus 24.5% in patients undergoing MEDT (95% CI, 9.6%–49.8%). Patients undergoing EVT had higher modified Rankin scale score of 0 to 2 rates (31.8% [95% CI, 25.7%–38.5%] versus 19.7% [95% CI, 7.4%–42.7%]) and lower mortality (42.1% [95% CI, 35.9%–48.6%] versus 52.8% [95% CI, 33.3%–71.5%]) compared with patients undergoing MEDT, but neither result was statistically significant. Patients undergoing EVT were more likely to develop symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (odds ratio, 10.36; 95% CI, 3.92–27.40).ConclusionsEVT treatment of PC‐LVO trended toward superior functional outcomes and reduced mortality compared with MEDT despite a trend toward increased symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage in patients undergoing EVT. Existing randomized and prospective studies are insufficiently powered to demonstrate a benefit of EVT over MEDT in patients with PC‐LVO.

Abstract WP9: Iv Tpa For Acute Ischemic Stroke In The Setting Of Intracranial Tumor: A Systematic Review

Objective: Intracranial tumor is considered a contraindication to IV tPA for presumed acute ischemic stroke (AIS), though evidence differentiating rate of intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) in benign versus malignant neoplasm is lacking. A systematic review of published cases of standard-dose IV tPA for AIS within 4.5 hours of symptom onset and intracranial tumor was performed. Methods: PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane were used to identify articles for inclusion. Case reports, letters to the editor, conference proceedings, cohort studies, case series, literature reviews, and case-control studies that included patients given standard dose IV tPA for presumed AIS within 4.5 hours of symptom onset, who were found to have an intracranial tumor, were included. The primary outcome measure was the rate of ICH. Results: Twenty-three studies met inclusion criteria, involving 495 patient cases. One of the included case-control studies presented data only in the form of an odds ratio (OR), with OR 0.72 (p=0.16) for risk of ICH out of 297 benign brain tumors as compared to controls. They found an OR for ICH of 2.33 (p value &lt;0.001) in 119 malignant brain tumors as compared to controls. The remaining 22 sources included a total of 79 cases, 49 of which were classified as benign, 16 malignant, and 14 “not otherwise specified.” Of these 79 cases, ICH occurred in 4, one of which was an asymptomatic parenchymal hematoma (5.1% total ICH, 3.8% symptomatic ICH). ICH only occurred in cases of malignant or metastatic intracranial tumors. There were no reports of ICH following IV tPA in patients with a benign intracranial tumor. Meta-analysis could not be performed due to substantial heterogeneity in study design and reported patient data in included sources. Conclusion: There were no reports of ICH in the setting of benign intracranial tumor, and the reported rate of ICH with standard-dose IV tPA in the setting of any brain tumor appears similar to the general AIS population. There is significant heterogeneity of sources and risk of selection bias with the included studies, such that these findings are not confirmatory. Further research is needed to assess the rate of ICH with IV tPA for AIS in the setting of brain tumor.

Abstract 151: Effects Of Tenecteplase On Acute Stroke Treatment Processes And Outcomes In A Large Community Cohort

Background: Published data suggests tenecteplase (TNKase) is non-inferior to alteplase for acute ischemic stroke treatment. TNKase has certain advantages over alteplase including single-bolus administration. We evaluated TNKase performance in all acute stroke patients in a large integrated healthcare system. Methods: In 2016, we launched a standardized telestroke program for 21 certified stroke centers to include immediate video evaluation by a teleneurologist. In November 2020, we transitioned all centers to use TNKase for qualifying stroke patients presenting within 4.5 hours of last time known well. Selection criteria were the same as those for alteplase. Our study cohort included all potential acute stroke patients evaluated by telestroke. We compared the TNKase cohort treated during 12/1/20 - 3/31/21 to the alteplase cohort during 5/1/20 - 8/31/20. Assessment included demographics, mode of arrival, initial NIHSS, neuroimaging results, large vessel occlusion, rate of intracranial hemorrhage (ICH), discharge outcomes, percent with mRS (0-2) and mortality at 90 days with 95% CI. Results: Study cohort had 301 patients treated with TNKase and 248 patients with alteplase. Average age was about 70 years. Compared to alteplase, TNKase was associated significantly with faster door-to-needle (DTN) and door-in-door-out (DIDO) times [Table]. TNKase cohort had a larger percentage of stroke mimics. There was a trend of less symptomatic hemorrhage seen with TNKase. Multivariate model revealed that TNKase treatment was less likely to have 90-day mortality (OR=0.56, 95% CI 0.33-0.96, p=0.04). Percent 90-day favorable mRS score (0-2) was no different between the cohorts. Conclusions: We have successfully and safely transitioned to using TNKase for acute stroke treatment in our community setting. Compared to alteplase, TNKase cohort achieved faster DTN and DIDO times and less 90-day mortality. Further evaluation is needed to examine 90-day mRS in larger cohorts.

Abstract WP162: Endovascular Thrombectomy In Hispanic Stroke Patients Along The Texas-Mexico Border: Direct Comparison With The HERMES Trial

Background and Purpose: Current evidence has shown that race and ethnicity impact the outcomes in acute ischemic stroke (AIS) patients secondary to large vessel occlusion. However, there is limited evidence concerning the utility of endovascular thrombectomy and AIS outcomes in Hispanic Americans. This study aims to compare the characteristics and outcomes between a majority Hispanic population and patients from the HERMES trial. Methods: We conducted a retrospective analysis from January 2013 to August 2020 to retrieve data related to Hispanic individuals in an understudied area along the Texas-Mexico border. Then, the characteristics and outcomes were compared between this cohort (n=637) and the HERMES trial (n=634). Categorical variables were compared using the chi-squared test. Results: The median [IQR] age for our cohort was 72 [±20] years and 68 [±20] years for the HERMES cohort. Similar rates of females were observed in both groups. Our cohort had lower rates of smoking, but higher rates of hypertension and diabetes mellitus (p&lt;0.05). The median [IQR] admission NIHSS was 17.0 [11.0] vs. 17 [6.0], respectively. We observed significantly lower rates of intravenous tissue-type plasminogen activator (IV tPA) in this cohort as compared to the HERMES trial. The modified Rankin Scale score after 90 days was similar between the two groups. However, this cohort had significantly higher rates of mortality (19.7% vs. 15.3%, p=0.042) and symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (sICH) (10.3% vs. 4.4%, p&lt;0.001). Conclusion: There are significantly higher rates of mortality and sICH in Hispanic AIS patients which can most likely be explained by the higher rates of hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and the lower rates of IV tPA utilization.

Abstract TP147: Endovascular Therapy Versus Medical Therapy Alone For Basilar Artery Stroke: A Systematic Review And Meta-analysis Through Nested Knowledge

Background and Purpose: Endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) is an effective treatment for acute ischemic stroke (AIS) due to large vessel occlusion of the anterior circulation (AC-LVO). Randomized trials of posterior circulation large vessel occlusion (PC-LVO) patients have failed to show a benefit of EVT over medical therapy (MEDT). We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to understand better whether EVT is beneficial for PC-LVO. Methods: Using the Nested Knowledge AutoLit living review platform, we identified randomized control trials and prospective studies that reported functional outcomes in patients with PC-LVO treated with EVT versus MEDT. The primary outcome variable was 90-day modified Rankin Scale (mRS) 0-3, and secondary outcome variables included 90-day mRS 0-2, 90-day mortality, and rate of symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (sICH). A separate random effects model was fit for each outcome measure to calculate pooled odds ratios. Results: Three studies with 1,248 patients, 860 in the EVT arm and 388 in the MEDT arm, were included in the meta-analysis. The favorable outcome rate (mRS 0-3) in EVT patients was 39.9% (95% CI: 30.6-50.1%) versus 24.5% in MEDT patients (95% CI: 9.6-49.8%). EVT patients had higher mRS 0-2 rates (31.8% [95% CI: 25.7-38.5%] versus 19.7% [95% CI: 7.4-42.7%]) and lower mortality (42.1% [95% CI: 35.9-48.6%] versus 52.8% [95% CI: 33.3-71.5%]) compared to MEDT patients, but neither result was statistically significant. EVT patients were more likely to develop sICH (OR=10.36; 95% CI: 3.92-27.40). Conclusions: EVT treatment of PC-LVO trended toward superior functional outcomes and reduced mortality compared to MEDT despite a trend toward increased sICH in EVT patients. Existing randomized and prospective studies are insufficiently powered to demonstrate a benefit of EVT over MEDT in PC-LVO patients.

Effect of intravenous thrombolysis in acute ischemic stroke patients with cerebral microbleeds and analysis of risk factors for hemorrhagic transformation.

To investigate the safety and efficacy of intravenous thrombolysis with recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (rt-PA) in patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS) and cerebral microbleeds (CMBs) and analyze the risk factors for hemorrhagic transformation (HT). The clinical data of 220 patients with CMB within the first 4.5 h after the onset of acute ischemic stroke treated in our hospital from September 2018 to December 2019 were retrospectively analyzed. Then, these patients were evenly assigned into two groups based on whether the intravenous thrombolysis with rt-PA was adopted or not. Next, the neurological deficit was scored using the National Institute of Health stroke scale (NIHSS) before and after treatment, the modified Rankin scale (mRs) score of patients was recorded at 90 d after treatment, and the incidence rate and death rate of intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) after treatment were recorded and evaluated. Additionally, the univariate and logistic regression analyses were employed for the risk factors for HT in patients after thrombolysis. The NIHSS score declined to (7.08±3.75) points and (7.83±4.22) points at 24 h after treatment and (3.67±3.63) points and (4.92±3.87) points at 7 d after treatment, respectively, in Thrombolysis group and Control group, which were significantly lower than those before treatment (p<0.05). The NIHSS score displayed no statistically significant difference between the two groups at 24 h after treatment (p=0.165), whereas it was markedly lower in Thrombolysis group than that in Control group at 7 d after treatment (p=0.015). At 90 d after treatment, there were 98 (89.1%) and 79 (71.8%) cases of good prognosis in Thrombolysis group and Control group, respectively, and the difference was statistically significant between the two groups (p=0.002). Besides, the number of patients with SICH and aSICH was 3 and 2 (2.7% vs. 1.8%, p=0.651) and 9 and 4 (8.2% vs. 3.6%, p=0.152) in Thrombolysis group and Control group, respectively, and the number of deaths was 7 and 5 (6.4% vs. 4.5%, p=0.553) in the two groups, showing no statistically significant difference. The results of univariate and multivariate analyses revealed that the time from stroke onset to thrombolysis, baseline NIHSS score, and history of atrial fibrillation were independent risk factors affecting the HT of patients undergoing intravenous thrombolysis [odds ratio (OR) =1.330, 95% confidence interval (95% CI) =1.079-1.851, p=0.019; OR=1.592, 95% CI=1.025-2.767, p=0.010; OR=2.428, 95% CI=1.814-3.643, p=0.016]. Compared with those undergoing no intravenous thrombolysis with rt-PA, patients with acute ischemic stroke and CMB who received intravenous thrombolysis with rt-PA exhibit significantly improved short-term neurological function recovery and long-term prognosis, but the incidence and mortality rates of ICH have no statistically significant differences. Moreover, the time from stroke onset to thrombolysis, baseline NIHSS score, and history of atrial fibrillation are independent risk factors affecting the HT of patients treated with intravenous thrombolysis.

Sustainability of Intravenous Alteplase Administration via Telephone-Based Consult: Data from a US Health System

ObjectivesTelephone-based consults using remote imaging review and standardization of evaluation but without visualizing the patient are an alternative to video-telestroke consults but are less well-studied. We aim to demonstrate the safety and efficacy of telephone-based acute consults in which IV tPA was administered over nearly a decade within one health system. Materials and MethodsClinical characteristics and outcomes were compared between a community hospital (spoke; uses telephone-based consults) and the academic comprehensive stroke center (hub; uses oversight of on-site neurology trainees) from 2008-2017. In both institutions acute therapy decisions are made by the same stroke neurologists. Results2518 acute ischemic stroke consults were evaluated at hub and 2049 at spoke. Of these, 191 patients received IV tPA at hub and 184 at spoke. Patients at hub were younger (median (IQR): 61 (51-74) vs 69 (56-81) years, p = 0.0021) but admission National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) was similar. There were no differences between door-to-needle times (69 (56-101) vs 69 (51-92) minutes, p = 0.13), last known well-to-tPA times (157 (113-202) vs 144 (110-175) minutes, p = 0.053), and rates of overall intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) after tPA (n = 23 (13.5%) vs 31 (17.0%), p = 0.35). In multivariable analyses, hospital was not an independent predictor of ICH after tPA. ConclusionsIn a large dataset over nearly a decade, assessment for IV tPA administration using telephone assessment along with imaging review and emergency department standardization resulted in similar safety and outcomes as in the presence of on-site stroke/neurology expertise. Future studies are needed to confirm these findings

A Quality Improvement Bundle to Improve Outcomes in Extremely Preterm Infants in the First Week.

Our objective with this quality improvement initiative was to reduce rates of severe intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) or death in the first week after birth among extremely preterm infants. The quality improvement initiative was conducted from April 2014 to September 2020 at the University of Alabama at Birmingham's NICU. All actively treated inborn extremely preterm infants without congenital anomalies from 22 + 0/7 to 27 + 6/7 weeks' gestation with a birth weight ≥400 g were included. The primary outcome was severe ICH or death in the first 7 days after birth. Balancing measures included rates of acute kidney injury and spontaneous intestinal perforation. Outcome and process measure data were analyzed by using p-charts. We studied 820 infants with a mean gestational age of 25 + 3/7 weeks and median birth weight of 744 g. The rate of severe ICH or death in the first week after birth decreased from the baseline rate of 27.4% to 15.0%. The rate of severe ICH decreased from a baseline rate of 16.4% to 10.0%. Special cause variation in the rate of severe ICH or death in the first week after birth was observed corresponding with improvement in carbon dioxide and pH targeting, compliance with delayed cord clamping, and expanded use of indomethacin prophylaxis. Implementation of a bundle of evidence-based potentially better practices by using specific electronic order sets was associated with a lower rate of severe ICH or death in the first week among extremely preterm infants.

Endovascular thrombectomy with and without preceding intravenous thrombolysis for treatment of large vessel anterior circulation stroke: A cross-sectional analysis of 50,000 patients

IntroductionThe safety and efficacy of intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) before endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) for large vessel occlusion stroke remains a highly contested and unanswered clinical question. We aim to characterize the clinical profile, complications, and discharge disposition of EVT patients treated with and without preceding IVT using a large, nationally-representative sample. MethodsThe National Inpatient Sample was queried from 2015 to 2018 to identify adult patients with anterior circulation stroke treated with EVT with and without preceding IVT. Multivariable logistic regression analysis and propensity-score matching were employed to assess adjusted associations with clinical endpoints and to address confounding by indication for IVT, respectively. ResultsAmong 48,525 patients identified, 40.7% (n = 19,735) received IVT prior to EVT. On unadjusted analysis, patients treated with IVT bridging therapy experienced higher rates of intracranial hemorrhage (26% vs. 24%, p = 0.003) and routine discharge to home with or without services (33% vs. 27%, p < 0.001), a lower frequency of thromboembolic complications (3% vs. 5%, p < 0.001), and lower rates of extended hospital stays (eLOS) (20% vs. 24%, p < 0.001). Multivariable logistic regression analysis adjusting for demographic and baseline clinical characteristics demonstrated independent associations of IVT bridging therapy with intracranial hemorrhage (aOR 1.28, 95% CI 1.15, 1.43; p < 0.001), thromboembolic complications (aOR 0.66, 95% CI 0.53, 0.83; p < 0.001), routine discharge (aOR 1.27, 95% CI 1.15, 1.40; p < 0.001), and eLOS (aOR 0.76, 95% CI 0.68, 0.85; p < 0.001). Sensitivity testing confirmed these findings. ConclusionPreceding IVT was associated with favorable functional outcomes following endovascular therapy. Prospective randomized clinical trials are warranted for further evaluation.

Comparison of Different Dosages of Alteplase in Atrial Fibrillation-Related Acute Ischemic Stroke After Intravenous Thrombolysis: A Nationwide, Multicenter, Prospective Cohort Study in Taiwan.

BackgroundInsufficient evidence is available for patients with acute ischemic stroke with atrial fibrillation (AF) to determine the efficacy and safety of different dosages of intravenous thrombolysis treatment. This study examined clinical outcomes in Chinese patients with stroke with and without AF after intravenous thrombolysis treatment with different intravenous thrombolysis doses.Methods and ResultsThis multicenter, prospective cohort study recruited 2351 patients with acute ischemic stroke (1371 with AF and 980 without AF) treated with intravenous thrombolysis using alteplase. The Totaled Health Risks in Vascular Events score is a validated risk‐scoring tool used for assessing patients with acute ischemic stroke with and without AF. We evaluated favorable functional outcome at day 90 and symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage within 24 to 36 hours and outcomes of the patients receiving different doses of alteplase. Compared with the non‐AF group, the AF group exhibited a 2‐ to 3‐fold increased risk of symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage according to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke standard (relative risk [RR], 2.10 [95% CI, 1.35–3.26]). Favorable functional outcome at 90 days and symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage rates according to the European Cooperative Acute Stroke Study II and the Safe Implementation of Thrombolysis in Stroke‐Monitoring Study standards did not significantly differ between the AF and non‐AF groups. In addition, the low‐dose alteplase subgroup exhibited an increased risk of symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage according to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke standard (RR, 2.84 [95% CI, 1.63–4.96]). A validation study confirmed these findings after adjustment for scores determined using different stroke risk‐scoring tools.ConclusionsDifferent alteplase dosages did not affect functional status at 90 days in the AF and non‐AF groups. Thus, the adoption of low‐dose alteplase simply because of AF is not recommended.

Comparing data from thrombectomy in m2 occlusion and proximal middle cerebral artery.

Mechanical thrombectomy for large vessel occlusion in the anterior circulation has been shown to be beneficial. The question of whether this technique is safe and effective in the distal vasculature remains unanswered. We wanted to compare outcome data from mechanical thrombectomy of M2 branches of the middle cerebral artery (MCA) with those of the M1 segment, and better understand the clinical predictors of these M2 occlusions. A retrospective analysis was performed of data prospectively collected between January 2017 and July 2021 from patients with acute ischemic stroke undergoing mechanical thrombectomy of isolated M1 or M2 branches of the MCA. 350 patients were identified, 287 with M1 and 63 with M2 occlusions. Mean age was 70.71 ± 12.55 and 75.21 ± 10.21 years, respectively (p = 0.0083). Baseline Alberta Stroke Program Computed Tomography (ASPECT) score was worse in the M1 cohort (7.68 ± 1.73 vs. 8.32 ± 1.54; p = 0.0079), while there was no significant difference in National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) scores. No statistical disparity existed in mean procedure duration for each cohort; fewer thrombectomy attempts were required in the M2 cohort (2.01 vs. 1.63; p = 0.0478). There was no statistical difference in total time to recanalization (559.19 vs. 629.97, p = 0.2506). Similar rates of successful reperfusion were observed (Thrombolysis in Ischaemic Stroke score [TICI] ≥ 2b 80.84% vs. 71.43% p = 0.1221). Good outcome (modified Rankin scale ≤ 2) was 56.10 in M1 occlusions and 63.49% on M2 groups. Intracranial haemorrhage rates were similar. M2 thrombectomy is safe and a significant proportion of patients achieve a good clinical outcome. Advanced age, atrial fibrillation and previous treatment with anticoagulants were predictors for poor outcome. Good outcome was achieved when effective recanalization was obtained.

The safety and efficacy of a low dose of tirofiban for early complications during and after stent-assisted coiling of ruptured intracranial aneurysms: A propensity matching study

PurposeDuring stent-assisted coiling of ruptured intracranial aneurysms (RIA), appropriate antiplatelet administration is an important element of management. We aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of intravenous tirofiban administration versus dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) for stent-assisted coiling of RIAs within 24 h after procedure. MethodsFrom January 2015 to March 2019, two groups of patients with RIAs treated with stent-coiling were compared: the DAPT group (a loading dose of 300 mg clopidogrel and 300 mg aspirin) and the tirofiban group (intravenous administration of tirofiban 5 µg/kg over 1 min, followed by a maintenance dose of 0.1 µg/kg/min). The main outcome measures were rates of ischemic events and intracranial hemorrhage. Propensity score-matching (PSM) analysis was performed to correct imbalances in patient characteristics between the two groups. ResultsA total of 200 patients with RIAs were identified, with 36 patients in DAPT group and 164 in tirofiban group. After PSM, 36 patients in DAPT group and 72 patients in tirofiban group were matched. Ischemic events were noted for 8.33% (3/36) of patients in DAPT group, and 4.17% (3/72) in tirofiban group within 24 h after procedure(P = 0.398). Intracranial hemorrhage was noted for 0.00% (0/36) of patients in DAPT group, and 1.39% (1/72) in tirofiban group (P = 1.000) within 24 h. And no significant difference in the rate of ischemic or hemorrhagic events after 24 h was detected. ConclusionsIntravenous administration of a low dose of tirofiban may represent a safe and effective alternative to DAPT during stent-assisted coiling of RIAs.