Outcomes Of Endovascular Therapy Research Articles

Associations of diabetes status and glucose measures with outcomes after endovascular therapy in patients with acute ischemic stroke: an analysis of the nationwide TREAT-AIS registry.

Hyperglycemia affects the outcomes of endovascular therapy (EVT) for acute ischemic stroke (AIS). This study compares the predictive ability of diabetes status and glucose measures on EVT outcomes using nationwide registry data. The study included 1,097 AIS patients who underwent EVT from the Taiwan Registry of Endovascular Thrombectomy for Acute Ischemic Stroke. The variables analyzed included diabetes status, admission glucose, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), admission glucose-to-HbA1c ratio (GAR), and outcomes such as 90-day poor functional outcome (modified Rankin Scale score ≥ 2) and symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (SICH). Multivariable analyses investigated the independent effects of diabetes status and glucose measures on outcomes. A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was performed to compare their predictive abilities. The multivariable analysis showed that individuals with known diabetes had a higher likelihood of poor functional outcomes (odds ratios [ORs] 2.10 to 2.58) and SICH (ORs 3.28 to 4.30) compared to those without diabetes. Higher quartiles of admission glucose and GAR were associated with poor functional outcomes and SICH. Higher quartiles of HbA1c were significantly associated with poor functional outcomes. However, patients in the second HbA1c quartile (5.6-5.8%) showed a non-significant tendency toward good functional outcomes compared to those in the lowest quartile (<5.6%). The ROC analysis indicated that diabetes status and admission glucose had higher predictive abilities for poor functional outcomes, while admission glucose and GAR were better predictors for SICH. In AIS patients undergoing EVT, diabetes status, admission glucose, and GAR were associated with 90-day poor functional outcomes and SICH. Admission glucose was likely the most suitable glucose measure for predicting outcomes after EVT.

Endovascular Therapy in Large Core Ischemic Strokes: Real-World Indian Experience.

Large core acute ischemic strokes have predominantly been excluded from endovascular therapy (EVT) studies due to perceived higher risks of hemorrhage and poorer functional outcomes. However, recent randomized controlled trials (RCTs) indicate that EVT for large vessel occlusion (LVO) strokes improves functional outcomes compared to medical management alone, despite higher hemorrhagic transformation rates, with no corresponding increase in symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage (sICH) rates. The real-world outcomes of this intervention in Indian patients remain underexplored. To evaluate the real-world outcomes of EVT for large core acute ischemic strokes with LVO in an Indian population. We conducted a single-center, retrospective observational study using a 7 years prospective database of EVT in anterior circulation stroke patients. Patients with Alberta Stroke Program Early Computed Tomography Score (ASPECTS) of 3-5 were included. Clinical and radiologic data were analyzed, with the primary endpoint being 90-day modified Rankin scale (mRS) scores. Safety outcomes included rates of sICH and mortality. Descriptive statistical analysis was done using Microsoft Excel. The study included 25 patients who met the inclusion criteria. Mean age of patients was 52.9 ± 14.3 years, and there were 13 (52%) males. Median ASPECTS was 5 (interquartile range 4-5). Successful recanalization, classified by modified Thrombolysis in Cerebral Infarction score, was 92%. Good functional recovery, that is, 90-day mRS 0-3, was achieved in nine (36%) patients. Safety outcomes: sICH was seen in four (16%) and mortality was reported in nine (36%) patients. Our results reaffirm findings from RCTs, provide updated real-world evidence, and suggest that EVT is a viable option to be considered in selected patients with large core ischemic infarcts.

Endovascular thrombectomy for DAWN- and DEFUSE-3 ineligible acute ischemic stroke patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Endovascular therapy (EVT) has been proven beneficial for treating acute ischemic strokes (AIS) with large vessel occlusion (LVO). Recent trials of DAWN and DEFUSE-3 have extended the treatment window to 6-24 h, sparking investigations into EVT outcomes for patients not eligible for DAWN/DEFUSE-3 criteria. To assess the outcomes of endovascular therapy (EVT) for late-window anterior circulation large vessel occlusion (LVO) in acute ischemic stroke patients, comparing DAWN/DEFUSE-3 eligible (DD) and ineligible (NDND) groups. This systematic review and meta-analysis examined EVT outcomes for patients with late-window anterior circulation LVO beyond 6 h. We categorized patients as DAWN/DEFUSE-3 eligible (DD) and ineligible (NDND). Our search covered PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Scopus. A total of 464 records were initially identified. After duplicate removal, 298 studies were screened. Nine studies were included and analyzed. Our analysis focused on study characteristics, baseline comparisons, risk of bias, and outcomes. Baseline characteristics showed comparable age, gender, most comorbidities, NIHSS score, and ASPECTS between DAWN/DEFUSE-3 eligible (DD) and ineligible (NDND) patients. NDND patients' history showed a higher rate of atrial fibrillation and larger infarct volumes on baseline imaging. Successful reperfusion rates (TICI 2b-3) were similar between DD and NDND with 354 out of 469 in the DD group and 364 out of 459 in the NDND group (OR = 0.86; 95% CI 0.40, 1.84; p = 0.689), though with significant heterogeneity (I2 = 73%; P = 0.002). The proportion of patients with distal occlusions was significantly higher in the NDND group as compared to the DD group (137 (39.4%) of 347 patients versus 47 (11%) of 428 patients, respectively), with significant heterogeneity across studies (I2 = 85%, p = 0.023). Functional independence at 90 days (mRS 0-2) showed no significant difference between groups with 259 out of 802 in the DD group and 197 out of 668 in the NDND group (OR = 1.12; 95% CI 0.77, 1.63; p = 0.552) but also exhibited notable heterogeneity (I2 = 46%, p = 0.063). Symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (sICH) rates were lower in DD with 14 out of 309 in the DD group and 47 out of 400 in NDND group (OR = 0.49; 95% CI 0.25, 0.93; p = 0.029) as compared to the NDND patients, showing no heterogeneity (I2 = 0%, p = 0.552). 90-day mortality was lower in DD with 43 out of 304 in the DD group and 107 out of 399 in the NDND group (OR = 0.55; 95% CI 0.37, 0.82; p = 0.004) as compared to NDND patients, with no significant heterogeneity (I2 = 0%, p = 0.536). This meta-analysis demonstrates equivalent rates of functional independence between DD and NDND patients. However, the high proportion of distal occlusions and higher rates of sICH and mortality in NDND patients suggest caution in offering mechanical thrombectomy to DAWN/DEFUSE-3 ineligible patients. A more flexible approach to EVT eligibility criteria could benefit select patients in real-world practice. Nonetheless, further research is needed to identify which patients would benefit from expanded EVT eligibility criteria.

Abstract 152: Endovascular Therapy versus Medical Management for Acute Ischemic Stroke With Large Infarct: A Time-Benefit Relationship Analysis

Objective: Recent randomized trials demonstrated the benefit of endovascular thrombectomy for acute ischemic stroke with large infarct. We aimed to characterize the effect of time to treatment on the benefit of endovascular therapy compared to medical management among patients with acute large ischemic stroke. Methods: Analysis the Endovascular Therapy in Acute Anterior Circulation Large Vessel Occlusive Patients with a Large Infarct Core trial (ANGEL-ASPECT), which was a multicenter, randomized trial at 46 comprehensive stroke centers in China from August 2020 to October 2022. Onset to arterial puncture time (OPT) associated with outcomes of endovascular therapy were analyzed as a category and continuous variable. The primary outcome was favorable outcome (modified Rankin scale 0-3) at 90 days. Secondary outcomes included degree of disability (modified Rankin scale range), symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage, any intracranial hemorrhage, and mortality. Results: Among 455 eligible patients, the median age was 68 years, and median Alberta Stroke Program Early Computed Tomography Score was 3 (interquartile range 3-4). Compared with medical management alone, endovascular therapy plus medical management was associated with higher rates of favorable outcome with OPT within 6 hours (44.4% vs 29.9%, adjusted odds ratio[aOR] 2.78 [95% confidence interval [CI] 1.22-6.32]), 6-12 hours (45.7% vs 29.6%, aOR 2.39 [95% CI 1.21-4.71]), but not in OPT beyond 12 hours (51.6% vs 41.4%, aOR 2.05 [95% CI, 0.88-4.77]). The benefit in favorable outcome became nonsignificant after OPT of 13 hours and 22 minutes. In three OPT intervals, the odds of better disability outcome with endovascular therapy plus medical management than medical management alone were observed; the rates of symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage and mortality were similar, though the rates of any intracranial hemorrhage increased. Conclusion: In patients with large cerebral infarction, endovascular therapy plus medical management was efficacious in improving functional outcomes with acceptable safety in a broad time window of 0 to 24 hours, but greater benefit was observed with earlier treatment. A pooled analysis with larger sample size is needed.

Provider Care Segregation and Hospital-Region Racial Disparities in the United States for Acute Ischemic Stroke and Endovascular Therapy Outcomes.

Reasons for racial disparities in the use and outcomes of endovascular treatment (ET) are not known. We examined patterns in care segregation for acute ischemic stroke (AIS) in the United States, and outcomes of segregation of care after ET. We used deidentified Medicare data sets to identify AIS admissions between January 1, 2016 and December 31, 2019, using validated International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision (ICD-10) codes. For AIS, we calculated (1) the proportion of White patients at the hospital, (2) the proportional difference in the proportion of White patients between hospital patients and the county, and (3) provider care segregation by the dissimilarity index for ET cases. Using unadjusted and adjusted multilevel logistic models, we examined associations between measures of segregation and outcomes of discharge home, inpatient mortality, and 30-day mortality. The mean proportional difference in the proportion of White patients comparing hospitalized patients with AIS to the county race distribution was 0.015 (SD, 0.219) at the hospital level. For ET, the mean proportional difference in the proportion of White patients comparing patients receiving ET to the county race distribution was much higher, at 0.146 (SD, 0.374). The dissimilarity index for ET providers was high, with a mean of 0.48 (SD, 0.29) across all hospitals. Black patients with AIS (compared with White patients) had reduced odds of discharge home, inpatient mortality, and 30-day mortality. In this national study with contemporary data in the endovascular era of AIS treatment, we found substantial evidence for segregation of care in the United States, not for only AIS in general but also especially for ET.

Impact of atherosclerotic etiology on technical and clinical outcomes of mechanical thrombectomy with a stent retriever: subanalysis of the Japan Trevo Registry

BackgroundThe safety and effectiveness of stent retriever use for patients with acute large vessel occlusion (LVO) due to intracranial atherosclerotic disease (ICAD) is not well established. We investigated the differences...

Alberta Stroke Program Early Computed Tomography Score, Infarct Core Volume, and Endovascular Therapy Outcomes in Patients With Large Infarct

Endovascular therapy (EVT) demonstrated better outcomes compared with medical management in recent randomized clinical trials (RCTs) of patients with large infarct. To compare outcomes of EVT vs medical management across different strata of the Alberta Stroke Program Early Computed Tomography Score (ASPECTS) and infarct core volume in patients with large infarct. This prespecified secondary analysis of subgroups of the Endovascular Therapy in Acute Anterior Circulation Large Vessel Occlusive Patients With a Large Infarct Core (ANGEL-ASPECT) RCT included patients from 46 stroke centers across China between October 2, 2020, and May 18, 2022. Participants were enrolled within 24 hours of symptom onset and had ASPECTS of 3 to 5 or 0 to 2 and infarct core volume of 70 to 100 mL. Patients were divided into 3 groups: ASPECTS of 3 to 5 with infarct core volume less than 70 mL, ASPECTS of 3 to 5 with infarct core volume of 70 mL or greater, and ASPECTS of 0 to 2. Endovascular therapy or medical management. The primary outcome was the ordinal 90-day modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score. There were 455 patients in the trial; median age was 68 years (IQR, 60-73 years), and 279 (61.3%) were male. The treatment effect did not vary significantly across the 3 baseline imaging subgroups (P = .95 for interaction). The generalized odds ratio for the shift in the 90-day mRS distribution toward better outcomes with EVT vs medical management was 1.40 (95% CI, 1.06-1.85; P = .01) in patients with ASPECTS of 3 to 5 and infarct core volume less than 70 mL, 1.22 (95% CI, 0.81-1.83; P = .23) in patients with ASPECTS of 3 to 5 and infarct core volume of 70 mL or greater, and 1.59 (95% CI, 0.89-2.86; P = .09) in patients with ASPECTS of 0 to 2. In this study, no significant interaction was found between baseline imaging status and the benefit of EVT compared with medical management in patients with large infarct core volume. However, estimates within subgroups were underpowered. A pooled analysis of large core trials stratified by ASPECTS and infarct core volume strata is warranted. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04551664.

Abstract 16822: Short Term Outcomes of Endovascular and Surgical Therapies for Critical Limb Ischemia: A Nationwide Analysis

Background: Endovascular therapy (EVT) and peripheral arterial bypass surgery (PABS) are established revascularization modalities in patients with critical limb ischemia (CLI). However, there is limited data regarding the short term outcomes of both procedures. Research question: Is there a difference between the in-hospital outcomes of EVT and PABS for patients with CLI? Methods: Patients with a diagnosis of CLI in the National Inpatient Sample database were reviewed from 2018 to 2020, and stratified into EVT and PABS groups. The primary outcome was in-hospital mortality and secondary outcomes included in-hospital complications. Multivariate logistic regression was used to adjust for confounders. Results: A total of 14,015 adult patients with CLI were identified (EVT:11,970; PABS: 2045). There was no significant difference in the in-hospital mortality between the two groups (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 0.43, 95%CI 0.10-1.89 p=0.264). Furthermore, there was no significant difference in the rates of in-hospital complications: septic shock (aOR 0.67, 95%CI 0.18-2.36, p=0.529), acute stroke (aOR 0.54, 95%CI 0.12-2.36, p=0.413), cardiogenic shock (aOR 0.89, 95%CI 0.14-7.84, p=0.973), vascular complications, (aOR 1.66, 95%CI 0.67-4.11, p=0.278), compartment syndrome (aOR 0.24, 95%CI 0.03-1.90, p=0.177), and acute kidney injury (aOR 1.30, 95%CI 0.88-1.90, p=0.184) between the two groups fig 1 . In addition, the mean length of stay was comparable between the groups 5.95 vs 6.14 days (adjusted mean difference[aMD] 0.23, 95%CI -0.31-0.78, p=0.298. However, the mean hospital costs were significantly lower for the PABS group compared to the EVT group ($24,463 vs $29,400, aMD 0.87 $-3,684, 95%CI $-5,813-$-1,554, p=0.001). Conclusion: Endovascular therapy and bypass surgery for CLI had comparable in-hospital mortality and in-hospital complications, although, the hospital cost was significantly higher with endovascular therapy.

Abstract 107: Endovascular Therapy for Tandem Vertebral and Basilar Artery Occlusion in a Patient with Low NIHSS

Introduction Basilar artery occlusion (BAO) is a devastating minority stroke subtype with variable clinical presentations and high mortality.1,2 The National Institute of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) cutoff for poor outcomes is lower in BAO compared to anterior circulation large vessel occlusions (LVO) due to the scale’s weighted scoring towards cortical signs.3,4 To bridge this gap, Alemseged et.al created the underutilized posterior circulation (PC) NIHSS as an improved stroke assessment tool in PC LVO to better identify endovascular therapy (EVT) candidates. 5 Current randomized trials point to mixed evidence regarding EVT for BAO; although recent studies such as Endovascular Treatment for Acute Basilar Artery Occlusion (ATTENTION)6 and Basilar Artery Occlusion Chinese Endovascular Trial (BAOCHE)7 suggest positive results of EVT within 24hrs. Smaller retrospective subgroup analyses demonstrated EVT for BAO with low NIHSS has good clinical outcome of modified Rankin Scale (mRS) 0‐2 at 3 months in 60‐70% of patients4,8. We present a case of tandem vertebrobasilar artery occlusion in a patient with subacute symptoms and low NIHSS treated with mechanical thrombectomy. Methods '‐ Results 41‐year‐old male with past medical history of hypertension, insulin dependent diabetes and active smoking presented with worsening vertigo, nausea and vomiting for 3 weeks with progression to right sided headache and syncope. EMS noted right facial weakness prompting transport to nearest primary stroke center where CT head non‐contrast showed right cerebellar infarct and CT angiogram (CTA) head and neck showed right vertebral artery occlusion with basilar extension. Intravenous thrombolytic (IVT) was deferred due to unclear last known well. He was treated with aspirin 324mg and transferred to our tertiary stroke center. Arrival NIHSS was 1 for right upper extremity ataxia. Premorbid mRS was 0. Repeat CTA redemonstrated right vertebrobasilar artery tandem occlusion. CT perfusion was without mismatch. Patient underwent emergent mechanical thrombectomy with ADAPT to TICI3 revascularization with future plan for possible angioplasty and stenting of R vertebral stenosis. Subsequently admitted to neurocritical care unit and treated with dual antiplatelet therapy. Initially maintained on aspirin and Cangrelor infusion, then transitioned to aspirin and Plavix without hemorrhagic conversion. Diffusion weighted MRI brain showed right cerebellar and right pontine infarcts. Hospital course was complicated by severe intractable hiccups due to area postrema syndrome; ultimately resolved with baclofen and gabapentin after extensive unsuccessful medication trails. NIHSS remained 1 for ataxia throughout admission, although exam also revealed mild unsteady gait requiring home physical therapy and a walker on discharge. Post‐stroke mRS was 1 on discharge; 3‐month mRS is pending. Conclusion Evidence regarding EVT for low NIHSS BAO remains varied with some studies showing superior benefit with IVT alone9 while others suggest improved outcomes with EVT in mild to moderate deficits.4,8 One prospective study particularly revealed better outcomes in EVT for BAO due to tandem occlusions similar to this case.10 Given the potential devastating sequalae of BAO and limited overall treatment options, EVT should remain a strong contender for treatment of PC LVO, especially in patients with milder neurologic deficits or tandem occlusions. Additionally, heightened use of PC‐NIHSS may better prognosticate candidates for EVT.

Noncontrast versus perfusion CT to select endovascular therapy in an extended time window: Systematic review/meta-analysis.

The effect of noncontrast CT (NCCT) on the eligibility for endovascular therapy (EVT) in an extended time window remains to be elucidated. We sought to assess the efficacy and safety of NCCT in comparison with CT perfusion (CTP) in selecting patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS) for EVT 6-24hours after onset. PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane libraries were searched from inception to August 31, 2022, to identify all studies reporting 90-day outcomes of EVT in patients with AIS in an extended time window. A meta-analysis was performed for the pooled risk ratio (RR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) using a random-effects model. The primary outcome used to assess efficacy was good functional independence, defined as a modified Rankin Scale score of 0-2 at 90days. Secondary outcomes included successful reperfusion, symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (sICH), and mortality at 90 days. We included four nonrandomized studies with a total of 2685 patients. The outcomes of good functional independence at 90days (RR=0.98; 95% CI: 0.88-1.07; I2 =0%; p=.62), successful reperfusion (RR=0.98; 95% CI: 0.93-1.03; I2 =50.5%; p=.11), sICH (RR=1.11; 95% CI: 0.55-2.21; I2 =49.4%; p=.12), or mortality at 90days (RR=1.18; 95% CI: 0.99-1.40; I2 =0%; p=.42) did not differ significantly between the two groups. These findings suggest that NCCT is as effective as CTP in selecting patients for EVT in an extended time window.

Abstract WP153: Tirofiban Increase Symptomatic Intracranial Hemorrhage After Endovascular Therapy In Cardio-embolized Stroke Patients: Insight From Rescue Bt Trial

Introduction: Efficacy and safety of tirofiban in endovascular therapy among cardio-embolized ischemic stroke patients remains controversial. We aimed to assess effects of tirofiban before endovascular therapy in cardio-embolized stroke patients. Methods: This is a post hoc analysis of Endovascular Treatment With vs Without Tirofiban for Patients with Large Vessel Occlusion Stroke (RESCUE BT) trial. Before endovascular therapy, participants were randomized to tirofiban or placebo group in ratio of 1:1. Tirofiban was administrated as a bolus dose of 10 ug/kg, followed by continuous infusion of 0.15 ug/kg /min for up to 24-hour. We collected cardio-embolized stroke patients according to Trial of Org 10172 in Acute Stroke Treatment classification. The efficacy outcome was global disability at 90-day assed by modified Rankin Scale (mRS). The primary safety outcome was symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (sICH) assessed by Heidelberg bleeding classification within 48-hour. Secondary safety outcome was any radiologic intracranial hemorrhage and death at 90-day. Results: 406 cardio-embolized stroke patients were collected. Tirofiban did not correlated to favorable shift to lower 90-day mRS (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 0.91; 95% CI, 0.64-1.3; P = 0.617). However, tirofiban subgroup had a significantly higher risk of sICH within 48-hour (aOR, 3.26; 95% CI, 1.4-7.57; P = 0.006) compared with placebo group. The aOR was 1.44 (95% CI, 0.94-2.19; P = 0.094) for any intracranial hemorrhage and 1.48 (95% CI, 0.88-2.52; P = 0.143) for death at 90-day. Conclusions: Tirofiban increased symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage after endovascular therapy in cardio-embolized stroke patients. Figure 1 . Outcomes of endovascular therapy in cardio-embolic stroke participants in tirofiban vs placebo group.

Abstract WP151: DISPARI-TICI: Determining If Stroke Patients Assessed For Revascularization Show Ethnic Disparities In TICI Scores Or Complications

Introduction: There is limited data on ethnic disparities in endovascular therapy (EVT) Thrombolysis In Cerebral Infarction (TICI) revascularization scores and EVT complications. The goal of this study was to compare disparities in TICI scores and complications in Hispanic versus Non-Hispanic ethnicities. Methods: We retrospectively examined prospectively collected data from an IRB-approved stroke registry at two academic Comprehensive Stroke Centers (CSC). We included acute ischemic stroke (AIS) patients with large vessel occlusion within 24 hours of last known well that underwent EVT between 1/1/2013-6/30/2022. Favorable outcome was defined as TICI 2b-3. Complications of symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (sICH), life-threatening or serious systemic hemorrhage, or other serious complication were collected within 36 hours of EVT and compared between Hispanic or Non-Hispanic subjects. Data was analyzed using Chi-squared and was adjusted for baseline NIHSS, blood glucose, and age. A p-value of &lt;0.05 was significant. Results: A total of 411 patients who met study criteria were identified. In Hispanics versus Non-Hispanics, the mean age was 69 vs 70 years, 44.6% vs 48.3% patients were female, and median initial NIHSS was 17 vs 16. The rate of Hispanics in this sample was 29.4% (n=121). There were no differences in baseline characteristics or in patients receiving IV rt-PA prior to EVT between Hispanic and Non-Hispanics (72.6% vs 65.5%; p=0.17). The overall rate of favorable TICI outcome was 93.7% (n=385/411). There was no difference in favorable TICI scores in Hispanic versus Non-Hispanics (96.7% vs 92.4%; p=0.12). Complication rates were also not significantly different in Hispanics versus Non-Hispanics for: sICH (5.8% vs 2.4%; p=0.09), other serious complications (1.7% vs 2.1%; p=0.78), and life-threatening systemic hemorrhage (0.8% vs 0.7%; p=0.88). Conclusion: There were no differences in TICI outcome or complication rates in Hispanic versus Non-Hispanic patients in these 2 academic CSCs. The use of consistent protocols and pathways at a CSC likely contribute to consistent EVT treatment between ethnicities. Further studies must examine EVT outcomes within various ethnicities and races in multiple stroke centers around the country.

Endovascular therapy for acute ischemic stroke in patients with active malignancy: a meta-analysis with trial sequential analysis

BackgroundActive malignancy has a poorer prognosis and more deaths in patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS). The outcomes of endovascular therapy (EVT) remain controversial in patients with AIS and active...

Association of Statin Therapy With Major Adverse Cardiovascular and Limb Outcomes in Patients With End-stage Kidney Disease and Peripheral Artery Disease Receiving Maintenance Dialysis

Controversy exists regarding whether statin therapy has benefits for patients with kidney failure, and the consequences of statin therapy for patients with kidney failure and concomitant peripheral artery disease (PAD) are particularly uncertain. To evaluate the association of statin therapy with cardiovascular (CV) and limb outcomes among patients with kidney failure and concomitant PAD and dyslipidemia who are receiving long-term maintenance dialysis. This retrospective cohort study used data from the Taiwan National Health Insurance Research Database. A total of 20 731 patients with kidney failure receiving long-term maintenance dialysis who were diagnosed with PAD and dyslipidemia between January 1, 2001, and December 31, 2013, were identified, and 10 767 patients met study criteria. Data were analyzed from June 8, 2021, to June 2, 2022. Primary outcomes were all-cause death and the composite of endovascular therapy (EVT) and amputation. Other outcomes of interest included CV events (CV death, acute myocardial infarction, ischemic stroke, and hospitalization for heart failure), major adverse limb events (new-onset claudication, new-onset critical limb ischemia, EVT, and nontraumatic amputation), and all-cause readmission. All outcomes were examined at 1 year and 3 years of follow-up. To minimize selection bias, propensity score matching on a 1:1 ratio was performed among patients receiving statin therapy (statin group) and patients not receiving statin therapy (nonstatin group). A defined daily dose (DDD) approach was used to evaluate whether the association of statin therapy with the risk of primary outcomes was dose dependent. Among 20 731 patients with kidney failure and concomitant PAD and dyslipidemia receiving long-term maintenance dialysis, 10 767 patients (5593 women [51.9%]; mean [SD] age, 68.5 [11.5] years; all of Taiwanese ethnicity) met the predetermined study criteria; of those, 3597 patients were receiving statin therapy, and 7170 were not. A total of 6470 patients (mean [SD] age, 66.4 [11.3] years; 3359 women [51.9%]) were included in the 1:1 propensity score-matched cohort, with 3235 patients in each group (statin and nonstatin). The incidence and risk of CV and all-cause death were significantly lower in the statin group vs the nonstatin group at 3 years of follow-up (CV death: 611 patients [18.9%] vs 685 patients [21.2%]; hazard ratio [HR], 0.86 [95% CI, 0.77-0.96]; P = .008; all-cause death: 1078 patients [33.3%] vs 1138 patients [35.2%]; HR, 0.92 [95% CI, 0.84-0.996]; P = .04). Statin use was also associated with a significantly lower incidence and risk of the composite adverse limb outcome of EVT and amputation at 3 years of follow-up (314 patients [9.7%] vs 361 patients [11.2%]; subdistribution HR, 0.85 [95% CI, 0.73-0.99]; P = .04). Results of subgroup analyses were consistent with those of the primary analysis across all subgroup variables. In the adjusted dose-response analysis, the risk reduction associated with statin use increased in a dose-dependent manner for both all-cause death (HR: 0.95 for DDD <0.50, 0.92 for DDD 0.50-0.99, 0.85 for DDD 1.00-1.49, and 0.79 for DDD ≥1.50; P = .002 for trend) and the composite outcome of EVT and amputation (subdistribution HR: 0.79 for DDD <0.50, 0.78 for DDD 0.50-0.99, 0.82 for DDD 1.00-1.49, and 0.58 for DDD ≥1.50; P = .002 for trend) compared with no statin therapy; however, not all findings in the DDD analysis were statistically significant. In this cohort study, statin therapy was associated with reductions in the risk of all-cause death, CV death, and the composite adverse limb outcome of EVT and amputation. These findings suggest that statin therapy may have protective CV and limb benefits for patients with kidney failure and concomitant PAD who are receiving long-term maintenance dialysis.

Midterm Outcomes of Endovascular Therapy for TASC II D Femoropopliteal Lesions with Critical Limb Ischemia: A Retrospective Analysis

This study evaluated the midterm results of endovascular therapy (EVT) for Trans-Atlantic Inter-Society (TASC) II D femoropopliteal lesions in patients with critical limb ischemia (CLI). Fifty seven limbs of 54 patients with CLI due to TASC II D femoropopliteal lesions who underwent EVT at the First Hospital of Hebei Medical University were retrospectively analysed in a single-centre, observational study. The patient characteristics, endovascular procedural details, freedom from target lesion revascularization (TLR), patency rates, ulcer healing rate, and limb salvage rate were accessed. The patients' mean age was 68.2±8.2years. All patients were treated by EVT. The final technical success rate was 98.2% (56/57). There were 23 cases of pain at rest, 18 cases of ulcer, and 15 cases of gangrene. The median length of the treated segment was 286±42mm (56/56) and the mean number of stents placed per patient was 2.0±0.8 (49/56). The postoperative ankle-brachial index was significantly higher than that of the preoperative ankle-brachial index (P<0.05). The perioperative complication rate was 10.7% (6/56). The restenosis or occlusion rate was 44.6% (25/56). The estimated rates of freedom from TLR at 1year, 2years, and 3years were 86.8%, 67.0%, and 62.5%, respectively. A univariate analysis showed that predictors of freedom from TLR were the number of runoff vessels, length of the lesion, and complexity of the lesion, while predictors for restenosis or occlusion were the length and the complexity of the lesion. The ulcer healing rate was 93.8%. The limb salvage rates were 76.4%, 74.4%, and 70.9% at 1, 2, and 3years after treatment, respectively. The midterm outcomes of EVT for TASC II D femoropopliteal lesions in patients with CLI indicated that this treatment approach is safe and effective and is clinically applicable.

Correction to: Outcomes of Endovascular Therapy in Young Patients with Acute Basilar Artery Occlusion: A Substudy of BASILAR Registry Study

Correction to: Outcomes of Endovascular Therapy in Young Patients with Acute Basilar Artery Occlusion: A Substudy of BASILAR Registry Study

Impact of the RNF213 p.R4810K Variant on Endovascular Therapy for Large‐Vessel Occlusion Stroke

Background We investigated the impact of the ring finger protein 213 p.R4810K variant, a founder variant for moyamoya disease in East Asians, on endovascular therapy outcomes in patients with acute anterior‐circulation large‐vessel occlusion stroke in comparison with noncarriers. Methods Of the consecutive patients with ischemic stroke admitted to our institute from 2011 to 2021, patients who underwent endovascular therapy for acute occlusion of the intracranial internal carotid artery or M1 segment of the middle cerebral artery were included. Outcomes were instant reocclusion, final modified Thrombolysis in Cerebral Infarction reperfusion ≥2b, and early reocclusion. Instant reocclusion was defined as the occurrence of reocclusion during the procedure, and early reocclusion was defined as reocclusion detected on magnetic resonance angiography within 2 weeks after the confirmation of successful reperfusion. Results Of the 277 patients analyzed (128 women; median age, 76 years), 10 patients (3.6%) carried the ring finger protein 213 p.R4810K variant. Variant carriers were younger ( P =0.01) and more frequently had intracranial atherosclerotic disease‐related large‐vessel occlusion as a cause of acute large‐vessel occlusion ( P &lt;0.001) compared with noncarriers. Variant carriers showed a higher rate of instant reocclusion (70.0% versus 5.6%; P &lt;0.001), but there were no significant intergroup differences in the final modified Thrombolysis in Cerebral Infarction ≥2b reperfusion rate between carriers and noncarriers (100.0% versus 81.6%, respectively; P =0.22). Early reocclusion was more frequent in variant carriers compared with noncarriers (60.0% versus 0.4%; P &lt;0.001). Conclusions Instant and early reocclusions were more frequent in variant carriers who underwent endovascular therapy for acute anterior‐circulation large‐vessel occlusion compared with noncarriers.

Prehospital stroke notification and endovascular therapy for large vessel occlusion: a retrospective cohort study

The impact of prehospital notification by emergency medical services (EMS) on outcomes of endovascular therapy (EVT) for large vessel occlusion (LVO) remains unclear. We therefore explored the association between prehospital notification and clinical outcomes after EVT. In this single-center retrospective study from 2016 through 2020, we identified all LVO patients who received EVT. Based on the EMS’s usage of a prehospital stroke notification system, we categorized patients into two groups, Hotline and Non-hotline. The primary outcome was good neurological outcome at 90 days; other time metrics were also evaluated. Of all 312 LVO patients, the proportion of good neurological outcomes was 94/218 (43.1%) in the Hotline group and 8/34 (23.5%) in the Non-hotline group (adjusted odds ratio 2.86; 95% confidence interval 1.12 to 7.33). Time from hospital arrival to both tissue plasminogen activator and to groin puncture were shorter in the Hotline group (30 (24 to 38) min vs 48(37 to 65) min, p < 0.001; 40 (32 to 54) min vs 76 (50 to 97) min, p < 0.001), respectively. In conclusion, prehospital notification was associated with a reduction in time from hospital arrival to intervention and improved clinical outcomes in LVO patients treated with EVT.

Outcomes of Endovascular Therapy in Young Patients with Acute Basilar Artery Occlusion: A Substudy of BASILAR Registry Study.

This study aimed to investigate clinical outcomes in young patients with basilar artery occlusion (BAO) receiving endovascular therapy (EVT). Consecutive patients with BAO within 24h who underwent EVT from the BASILAR Registry study were enrolled. We compared clinical outcomes of young patients (aged 18-55years) with older patients (aged > 55years) with stroke due to BAO at 90days and 1year after EVT. The primary and secondary outcomes were improvement in modified Rankin scale scores (mRS) at 90days and either favorable (mRS 0-3) or mortality at 90days, respectively. A total of 646 patients were included, of which 152 (23.53%) were aged 18-55years. Dyslipidemia (42.11% vs. 30.36%, p = 0.007) and good collateral circulation (60.52% vs. 46.35%, p = 0.002) were more frequent in young patients than older. Stroke etiologies in young patients included large artery atherosclerosis (67.11%), cardioembolism (15.13%), and vessel dissection (5.26%). Young patients were associated with better prognosis (mRS: adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 1.73; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.21-2.48; mRS 0-3: aOR 1.60; 95%CI 1.01-2.54; mortality: aOR 0.60; 95%CI 0.38-0.93) at 90days. Baseline National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score, posterior circulation Alberta Stroke Program Early Computed Tomography Score (pc-ASPECTS), and sex were independent predictors of clinical outcomes of young patients at 90days after EVT. Young patients with BAO had better clinical outcomes after EVT than old patients. Predictors of clinical outcomes in young patients undergoing EVT included baseline NIHSS score, pc-ASPECTS, and sex. Clinical Trial Registration-URL: ChiCTR180001475 ( www.chictr.org.cn ).

Reader Response: Prestroke Disability and Outcome After Thrombectomy for Emergent Anterior Circulation Large Vessel Occlusion Stroke.

We read with interest the article by de Havenon et al.1 In this study, the authors performed a post hoc analysis in patients with thrombectomy to examine the relationship between premorbid disability and outcome of endovascular therapy by using the modified Rankin Scale (mRS). They found that patients without premorbid disability were more likely to accumulate further disability than those patients with premorbid disability, but patients with premorbid disability had a higher mortality. The modified Rankin Scale is used to evaluate the neurologic recovery of patients with stroke2 and is also widely used in clinical practice including cerebral infarction,2 cerebral hemorrhage,3 and cardiac arrest.4 However, the reasons for patients' prestroke disability and death after 90-day follow-up were unclear. Epidemiologic studies show that primary causes of disability vary across different age populations. Ischemic heart diseases and stroke are the primary causes of disability in 50–74-year-olds and those who are aged 75 years and over, respectively.5 In this study, it was unclear whether ischemic heart diseases or other noncerebrovascular causes were the main cause of prestroke disability and death. Additional investigations are needed to identify the indications and contraindications for endovascular therapy in patients with anterior circulation occlusion, which will benefit treatment of patients with stroke.