Rate Of Symptomatic Intracranial Hemorrhage Research Articles

Safety and outcomes of mechanical thrombectomy for acute stroke related to infective endocarditis: A case-control study.

Successful reperfusion can be achieved in more than two-thirds of patients with usual large-vessel occlusion stroke causes treated with mechanical thrombectomy. However, the safety and outcomes after mechanical thrombectomy in the setting of large-vessel occlusion related to infective endocarditis is not known. In this study, we investigated the impact of mechanical thrombectomy in infective endocarditis patients on angiographic and clinical outcomes. This was a multicenter study from five comprehensive stroke centers. We compared the outcomes of mechanical thrombectomy treated stroke patients due to infective endocarditis with patients presenting atrial fibrillation. Clinical outcomes included 90-day modified Rankin Scale, symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage, and mortality. Between June 2013 and March 2019, 28 patients presenting large-vessel occlusion stroke due to IE were included. These cases were matched with 84 large-vessel occlusion stroke related to atrial fibrillation. Successful reperfusion (modified Thrombolysis in Cerebral Infarction 2b/3) was obtained in 85.7%. Symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage, favorable outcome and mortality rates were respectively 8.0%, 25.9%, and 25.9%. In the case-control analysis, we demonstrated no difference in terms of successful reperfusion, procedural complication, symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage, and mortality rates. Three-month favorable outcome was less often achieved in the infective endocarditis group. Mechanical thrombectomy of infective endocarditis patients presents similar safety and angiographic results compared to patients suffering from atrial fibrillation.

Endovascular clot retrieval for M2 segment middle cerebral artery occlusion: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Endovascular clot retrieval (ECR) is the standard of care for acute ischaemic stroke due to large vessel occlusion. However, isolated occlusion of the M2 segment of the middle cerebral artery (MCA) was underrepresented in the landmark trials. Given the potential treatment benefit associated with M2 MCA occlusions, we aimed to evaluate the outcome of patients undergoing ECR for M2 occlusion. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of the available literature that included patients with M2 MCA occlusions who underwent ECR. Successful reperfusion was defined as a treatment in cerebral ischaemia score of 2b-3. Good outcome was defined as a modified Rankin Scale score ≤ 2. We also analysed complications such as post-procedure symptomatic intracranial haemorrhage and mortality at 3 months. Fifteen studies including 1105 patients with isolated M2 occlusions were analysed. Successful reperfusion occurred in 75.4% (95% confidence interval (CI) 67.7-84.1%) of patients; good outcome was observed in 58.3% (95% CI 51.7-63.8% of patients. The rate of symptomatic intracranial haemorrhage was 5.1% (95% CI 4.2-8.3%), and 3-month mortality rate was 12.2% (95% CI 10.4-16.3%). The outcomes of ECR treatment of M2 occlusions are favourable, with good safety profile. Comparison to medical management from large registries or randomised controlled trials is warranted.

The relationship of leukoaraiosis, haemorrhagic transformation and prognosis at 3\xa0months after intravenous thrombolysis in elderly patients aged \u2265\u200960\xa0years with acute cerebral infarction

BackgroudAs the elderly stroke population continues to increase, we will have to confront greater challenges regarding how to choose suitable patients to reduce thrombolysis-related bleeding events and accurately judge their prognosis. Therefore, we evaluated the relationship among leukoaraiosis (LA), haemorrhagic transformation (HT) and the prognosis at 3 months after intravenous (IV) thrombolysis in elderly patients aged ≥ 60 years with acute cerebral infarction (ACI).MethodsWe prospectively and consecutively chose 125 elderly patients aged ≥ 60 years with ACI who could accept and be suitable for IV recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (rtPA) after excluding 6 cases. Brain computed tomography(CT) was used to assess LA by using the modified Van Swieten scale (mVSS) before treatment and the modified Rankin scale (mRS) to appraise prognosis at 3 months after IV rtPA. Binary logistic regression was used to analyse the predictors of HT and the prognosis of ACI.ResultsOur data indicated that by brain CT, 26.4% of all patients showed severe LA, and the rate of HT and symptomatic intracranial haemorrhage (sICH) were 12.0% and 9.6%, respectively. Severe LA was evidently associated with HT (odds ratio [OR] 3.272, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.010–10.598, P = 0.048) rather sICH (P > 0.05). Moreover, we also found that severe LA was associated with poor functional prognosis (OR 5.266, 95% CI 1.592–17.419, P = 0.006).ConclusionOur results showed that LA was associated with HT and adverse clinical prognosis rather sICH after IV rtPA in elderly patients aged ≥60 years with ACI. Although LA may increase the risk of bleeding but not fatal haemorrhage after IV thrombolysis, therefore, we should actively select an appropriate elderly population for thrombolytic treatment and have reasonable judgments on the outcomes.

Impact of early division of the middle cerebral artery on outcome following mechanical thrombectomy.

Mechanical thrombectomy has become the standard care for acute ischemic stroke caused by large vessel occlusion. However, complete reperfusion cannot be achieved in all cases, and several factors influencing the results of mechanical thrombectomy have been investigated. Among others, a tortuous anatomy is associated with lower rates of complete reperfusion. We aimed to investigate whether an early division of the middle cerebral artery has an impact on reperfusion results in mechanical thrombectomy. Retrospective review of consecutive patients with M1 occlusion treated endovascularly between January 2016 and December 2019 at three tertiary care centers. The study group was dichotomized based on the length of the M1 segment. Early division of the middle cerebral artery was defined as a maximum length of 10mm of the M1 segment. Primary endpoints were first-pass mTICI scores of 3, ≥2c, and ≥2b. Secondary endpoints contained final reperfusion, number of device-passes, time interval from groin puncture to reperfusion, rate of postinterventional symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage, and frequency of emboli of new territory. Among 284 included patients, 70 presented with an early division of the M1 segment (25%). Reperfusion results did not differ significantly between early and late division of M1. A higher rate of symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage was found in the group with an early M1 division treated with aspiration only (14.3% vs. 0%; p = 0.013). Patients with late M1 division had a significantly higher rate of large artery sclerosis (19.2% vs. 8.6%, p = 0.039). The anatomic variant of an early division of the middle cerebral artery was not a predictor for incomplete reperfusion.

Endovascular Thrombectomy for Low ASPECTS Large Vessel Occlusion Ischemic Stroke: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

The current American Heart Association guidelines for acute ischemic stroke reserve Grade 1A recommendation for the use of endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) for patients with an Alberta Stroke Program Early Computed Tomography Score (ASPECTS) of ≥6. We aim to determine the safety and efficacy of EVT for large vessel occlusion ischemic stroke patients with low ASPECTS (5 or less). Medline, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and ClinicalTrials.gov were searched for studies appraising the outcomes of EVT for low ASPECTS ischemic stroke. A meta-analysis of proportions compared the clinical outcomes of patients undergoing EVT and those receiving best medical therapy only. Nine studies (1,196 patients) were included. There was a trend (p = 0.11) toward a higher rate of symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (sICH) in the EVT group (9.2%; 95% CI 6.1-13.6; I2 53.37%) compared to the medical group (5.5%; 95% CI 3.7-8.1; I2 0%). There was no difference (p = 0.41) in the pooled 90-day mortality of EVT patients (30.7%; 95% CI 21.7-41.5; I2 84.23%) and medical patients (36.6%; 95% CI 26.4-48.1; I2 76.2%). EVT patients had better (p = 0.001) 90-day outcomes, with 27.7% (95% CI 21.8-34.5; I2 62.08%) of patients attaining a modified Rankin Scale of 0-2 compared to only 3.7% (95% CI 2.3-5.9; I2 87.21%) in the medical group. This meta-analysis demonstrates a trend in higher sICH among low ASPECTS patients undergoing EVT. Despite this, a significant proportion of this subset of patients still achieved good functional outcomes at 90 days. Randomized trials are necessary to substantiate this result as significant bias is inherent in the observational studies included in this review.

Endovascular thrombectomy for tandem acute ischemic stroke associated with cervical artery dissection: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Strokes associated with cervical artery dissection have been managed primarily with antithrombotics with poor outcomes. The additive role of endovascular thrombectomy remains unclear. The objective was to perform systematic review and meta-analysis to compare endovascular thrombectomy and medical therapy for acute ischemic stroke associated with cervical artery dissection. Studies from six electronic databases included outcomes of patient cohorts with acute ischemic stroke secondary to cervical artery dissection who underwent treatment with endovascular thrombectomy. A meta-analysis of proportions was conducted with a random effects model. Modified Rankin score at 90days (mRS 0-2) was the primary outcome. Other outcomes included proportion of patients with thrombolysis in cerebral infarction (TICI) 2b-3 flow, 90-day mortality rate, and 90-day symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage (sICH) rate. Six studies were included, comprising 193 cases that underwent thrombectomy compared with 59 cases that were managed medically. Successful recanalization with a pooled proportion of thrombolysis in cerebral infarction (TICI) 2b-3 flow in the thrombectomy group was 74%. Favorable outcome (mRS 0-2) was superior in the pooled thrombectomy group (62.9%, 95% CI 55.8-69.5%) compared with medical management (41.5%, 95% CI 29.0-55.1%, P = 0.006). The pooled rate of 90-day mortality was similar for endovascular vs medical (8.6% vs 6.3%). The pooled rate of symptomatic intracranial haemorrhage (sICH) did not significantly differ (5.9% vs 4.2%, P = 0.60). Current data suggest that endovascular thrombectomy may be an option in patients with acute ischemic stroke due to cervical artery dissection. This requires further confirmation in higher quality prospective studies.

Abstract TMP9: Use of Immediate Dual Antiplatelet Therapy in Carotid Stenting for Tandem Occlusion Stroke is Associated With Acceptable Symptomatic Intracranial Haemorrhage Rates

Introduction: Observational studies have shown conflicting data on safety and efficacy of carotid stenting in the setting of acute ischemic stroke. We evaluated our stent patency, functional outcomes and symptomatic intracranial haemorrhage rates in acute strokes with tandem occlusions treated with endovascular thrombectomy and concurrent carotid stenting. Methods: Prospectively maintained EVT databases at two comprehensive stroke centres were interrogated for patients with anterior circulation tandem occlusion stroke who were treated with EVT and extracranial carotid artery stenting. Intracranial haemorrhage on post-operative CT & MRI brain was assessed on European Cooperative Acute Stroke Study II criteria. Stent patency was assessed on CTA 12-24 hours post-operatively. Clinical and neuroimaging endpoints were modified treatment in cerebral ischaemia (mTICI) score, stent patency, any intracranial haemorrhage, symptomatic intracranial haemorrhage (sICH), and 90-day modified Rankin Scale (mRS). Results: Between 2016 and 2019, 105 patients were identified (mean age 70 years, 78% male, median NIHSS 15). Median time to reperfusion was 9.26 hours, with 97.1% achieving mTICI 2b/3. Immediate dual antiplatelet therapy was used in 102 (97.1%) patients. Good functional outcomes (mRS 0-2) were achieved in 53 (51%) patients. Acute stent thrombosis occurred in 12 (11.4%) patients with 7 (58.3%) still achieving good functional outcomes. Any intracranial haemorrhage occurred in 46 (44%) of all patients. Symptomatic intracranial haemorrhage occurred in 8 (7.6%). All sICH patients had 90-day mRS of 3-6. Conclusion: Acute tandem occlusion stroke patients present complex management challenges. Despite immediate dual antiplatelet therapy, acute stent occlusions may still occur. Symptomatic intracranial haemorrhage rates are acceptable in these complex patients, however, all patients with sICH had poorer outcomes.

Abstract 168: Outcomes of Intra-Arterial Tissue Plasminogen Activator Rescue Therapy During Stroke Thrombectomy-Insights From the STAR Collaboration

Introduction: Intra-arterial tissue plasminogen activator (IA-tPA) can be used as rescue therapy during mechanical thrombectomy for stroke patients, mostly in the setting of distal occlusion. The outcomes of IA-tPA has not been assessed in large-scale multi-center studies yet. Methods: We used data from the Stroke Thrombectomy and Aneurysm Registry (STAR), which included prospectively maintained databases of 11 thrombectomy-capable stroke centers in the US, Europe, and Asia. We compared the baseline characteristics, procedural metrics, rate of symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (sICH), and long-term functional outcomes between thrombectomy patients who received rescue IA-tPA and a control group of thrombectomy patients with matched age, National Institute of Health stroke scale (NIHSS) on presentation, location of occlusion and IV-tPA receipt. Results: A total of 2827 thrombectomy patients were included in the STAR registry. Out of those, 205 patients received IA-tPA. We matched 191 patients from the IA-tPA group with a control group of 191 patients (table 1). No difference was seen in age, sex, race, vascular risk factors, or Alberta Stroke Program Early CT (ASPECT) score between both groups. In addition, procedural metrics, including onset to groin time, the procedure duration, and rate of successful recanalization (modified Thrombolysis in Cerebral Infarction score≥2b) were similar. Finally, similar outcomes were noted in both groups, including the rate of sICH and good 90-day functional outcome (modified Rankin scale≤2). Conclusion: The use of IA-tPA as an adjunctive treatment to mechanical thrombectomy was safe but did not result in a higher rate of successful recanalization or good long-term functional outcomes.

Abstract WP12: Endovascular Thrombectomy for Acute Ischemic Stroke Associated With Cervical Artery Dissection: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Objectives: Strokes associated with cervical artery dissection have been managed primarily with antithrombotics with poor outcomes. The additive role of endovascular thrombectomy remains unclear. The objective was to perform systematic review and meta-analysis to compare endovascular thrombectomy and medical therapy for acute ischemic stroke associated with cervical artery dissection. Methods: Studies from six electronic databases included outcomes of patient cohorts with acute ischemic stroke secondary to cervical artery dissection who underwent treatment with endovascular thrombectomy. A meta-analysis of proportions was conducted with a random-effects model. Modified Rankin score at 90 days (mRS 0-2) was the primary outcome. Other outcomes included proportion of patients with thrombolysis in cerebral infarction (TICI) 2b-3 flow, 90-day mortality rate, and 90-day symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage (sICH) rate. Results: Six studies were included, comprising 193 cases that underwent thrombectomy compared with 59 cases that were managed medically. Successful recanalization with a pooled proportion of thrombolysis in cerebral infarction (TICI) 2b-3 flow in the thrombectomy group was 74%. Favorable outcome (mRS 0-2) was superior in the pooled thrombectomy group (62.9%, 95% CI 55.8-69.5%) compared medical management (41.5%, 95% CI 29.0-55.1%, P=0.006). The pooled rate of 90-day mortality was similar for endovascular vs medical (8.6% vs 6.3%). The pooled rate of symptomatic intracranial haemorrhage (sICH) did not significantly differ (5.9% vs 4.2%, P=0.60). Conclusions: Current data suggest that endovascular thrombectomy may be an option in patients with acute ischemic stroke due to cervical artery dissection. This requires further confirmation in higher quality prospective studies.

Abstract 183: Time to Alteplase and Symptomatic Intracranial Hemorrhage Complication Rates

Background/Objective: The American Heart Association’s Target Stroke initiative focuses on reducing door-to-needle time for faster treatment with Alteplase and improved patient outcomes. The concern for reducing door-to-needle time is that there will be an increase in complication rates, specifically the rate of symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (ICH). This study sought to review whether reduced door-to-needle times were associated with increased rates of complications in Midwest hospitals. Methods: A retrospective review of acute ischemic stroke patients treated with Alteplase was conducted from 2010-2018 in 13 Midwestern states (IN, IL, KS, KY, MI, MN, NO, ND, OH, SD, and WI) using the American Stroke Association’s Get With The Guidelines (GWTG) Stroke database. Percentage of eligible patients treated with Alteplase, treatment times, and complication rates were reviewed. Results: From 2010-2018 the rate of ischemic stroke patients treated with Alteplase in the approved 3-hour window increased from 68.9% to 88.5%. The number of patients treated with Alteplase in 60 minutes increased from 24.1% in 2010 to 74.9% in 2018. The median time to treatment for Alteplase was reduced from 80 minutes in 2010 to 46 minutes in 2018. The rate of complications associated with thrombolytics was 6.5% in 2010 and dropped to 4.5% in 2018. This is statistically significant at a p-value of .05. Conclusions: In the Midwest Region, a reduction in door-to-needle times was not associated with increased complication rates. Interestingly, a reduction in door-to-needle times was associated with a reduction in complication rates. This supports the American Heart Association’s new Target Stroke Phase III initiative which seeks to further reduce door-to-needle times.

Carotid Artery Stenting and Intracranial Thrombectomy for Tandem Cervical and Intracranial Artery Occlusions.

It remains controversial whether carotid artery stenting (CAS) is needed in cases of tandem cervical internal carotid artery occlusion (cICAO) and intracranial large vessel occlusion (LVO). To investigate the efficacy and safety of CAS in combination with endovascular thrombectomy (CAS-EVT) in cICAO-LVO patients and to compare its outcomes with those of EVT without CAS (EVT-alone). We identified all patients who underwent EVT for tandem cICAO-LVO from the prospectively maintained registries of 17 stroke centers. Patients were classified into 2 groups: CAS-EVT and EVT-alone. Clinical characteristics and procedural and clinical outcomes were compared between 2 groups. We tested whether CAS-EVT strategy was independently associated with recanalization success. Of the 955 patients who underwent EVT, 75 patients (7.9%) had cICAO-LVO. Fifty-six patients underwent CAS-EVT (74.6%), and the remaining 19 patients underwent EVT-alone (25.4%). The recanalization (94.6% vs 63.2%, P=.002) and good outcome rates (64.3% vs 26.3%, P=.007) were significantly higher in the CAS-EVT than in the EVT-alone. Mortality was significantly lower in the CAS-EVT (7.1% vs 21.6%, P=.014). There was no significant difference in the rate of symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage between 2 groups (10.7 vs 15.8%; P=.684) and according to the use of glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitor (10.0% vs 12.3%; P=.999) or antiplatelet medications (10.2% vs 18.8%; P=.392). CAS-EVT strategy remained independently associated with recanalization success (odds ratio: 24.844; 95% confidence interval: 1.445-427.187). CAS-EVT strategy seemed to be effective and safe in cases of tandem cICAO-LVO. CAS-EVT strategy was associated with recanalization success, resulting in better clinical outcome.

Abstract TP10: Intra-Arterial Thrombolysis After Failed Mechanical Thrombectomy: A STRATIS Registry Subgroup Analysis

Background: Limited prospective data exists on the use of intra-arterial (IA) thrombolytics as rescue therapy(RT) after failed mechanical thrombectomy(MT) in acute ischemic stroke(AIS) patients with large vessel occlusions LVO). The aim of this study is to investigate the use of IA recombinant tissue plasminogen activator(IA-rtPA) as RT in the prospective STRATIS Registry. Methods: Data from the STRATIS Registry, a multicenter study of AIS patients treated with the Solitaire stent-retriever as the first choice therapy within 8 hours from symptoms onset, were analyzed. Clinical and angiographic outcomes were compared between patients treated with and without IA-rtPA. Both anterior and posterior circulation occlusions were included in this substudy. Results: Of the 938 STRATIS patients with IA-tPA use reported, 809 and 129 were in the no IA-rtPA(83.2%) and IA-rtPA(13.8%)groups, respectively. No difference was seen in baseline demographics. Site of occlusion was similar between the groups, with the majority occurring in the MCA(72.4% versus 73.6%, p=0.74). IV-rtPA was administered in 63.0% and 70.5% of no IA-rtPA and IA-rtPA patients(p=0.11). Median IA-rtPA dose was 4mg(IQR 2-12). Mean onset to arterial puncture time was shorter in the IA-rtPA group(200.2±104.6 versus 228.2±98.5 minutes, p=0.003); however, mean puncture to procedure end time was longer in the IA-rtPA group(78.7±43.1 versus 63.1±35.9 minutes). Mean number of passes (2.2±1.4 versus 1.8±1.2,p=0.001) and rate of distal embolization(67.8% versus 54.5%, p=0.007) was significantly higher in the IA-rtPA group. Core lab adjudicated substantial reperfusion (mTICI≥2b) was achieved in 88.4% and 84.7% of no IA-rtPA and IA-rtPA patients(p=0.16). No difference was observed in rates of symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage(sICH) (1.4% versus 1.6%,p=0.70), good functional outcome (mRS≥2, 57.3% versus 59.2%, p=0.86), or mortality (15.5% versus 13.3%,p=0.80) at 90-days. Conclusion: Use of IA-rtPA after failed thrombectomy was not associated with an increased risk of sICH or mortality in the STRATIS Registry. These results suggest that IA thrombolysis may be a safe option as rescue therapy in select patients.

Abstract TMP13: Tenecteplase versus Alteplase Before Endovascular Therapy in Basilar Artery Occlusion

Background: Tenecteplase (TNK) is a genetically modified variant of alteplase with greater fibrin specificity and longer half-life than alteplase. The recent Tenecteplase versus Alteplase before Endovascular Therapy for Ischemic Stroke (EXTEND-IA TNK) trial demonstrated that increased reperfusion with TNK compared to alteplase prior to endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) in large vessel occlusion ischaemic strokes. However, only 6 patients with basilar artery occlusion (BAO) were included. We aimed to investigate the efficacy of TNK versus alteplase before EVT in patients with basilar artery occlusion (BAO). Methods: Clinical and procedural data of consecutive BAO diagnosed on CT Angiography or MR Angiography from the multisite international Basilar Artery Treatment and MANagement (BATMAN) collaboration were retrospectively analysed. The primary outcome was reperfusion of greater than 50% of the involved ischemic territory or absence of retrievable thrombus at the time of the initial angiographic assessment. Results: We included 119 BAO patients treated with intravenous thrombolysis prior to EVT; mean age 68 (SD 14), median NIHSS 16 (IQR 7-32). Eleven patients were treated with TNK (0.25mg/kg or 0.4mg/kg) and 108 with alteplase (0.9mg/kg). Overall, 113 patients had catheter angiography or early repeat imaging after thrombolysis. Reperfusion of greater than 50% of the ischemic territory or absence of retrievable thrombus occurred in 4/11 (36%) of patients treated with TNK vs 8/102 (8%) treated with alteplase (p=0.02). Onset-to-needle time did not differ between the two groups (p=0.4). Needle-to-groin-puncture time was 61 (IQR 33-100) mins in patients reperfused with TNK vs 111 (IQR 86-198) mins in patients reperfused with alteplase (p=0.048). Overall, the rate of symptomatic haemorrhage was 3/119 (2.5%). No differences were found in the rate of symptomatic intracranial haemorrhage (p=0.3) between the two thrombolytic agents. Conclusions: Despite shorter needle-to-groin-puncture times, tenecteplase was associated with an increased rate of reperfusion in comparison with alteplase before EVT in BAO. Randomized controlled trials to compare tenecteplase with alteplase in BAO patients before endovascular thrombectomy are warranted.

Abstract WMP1: Implementation of a Telestroke Program Based on a Smartphone Application

Background: The increasing demand and shortage of experts to evaluate and treat acute stroke patients has led to the development of remote communication tools to aid stroke management. We aimed to describe the experience of the Brazilian Stroke Network in the implementation of a telemedicine stroke program using a low-cost smartphone application system (JOIN App, Allm, Japan) for rapid sharing of clinical and neuroimaging patient data. Methods: We evaluated the initial experience of the telestroke program using a smartphone app measuring its feasibility, safety and speed in the acute stroke decision-making process, with a particular focus on intravenous thrombolysis. The App was implemented in hospitals without neurologists available for acute stroke evaluation and was connected with a stroke team to support the decision for thrombolysis. We analyzed the times of acute treatment and safety through the rate of symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (sICH) in 24hours. The program was implemented as part of the partnership with the Angels Initiative in Brazil supported by Boehringer Ingelheim to improve stroke care across the globe. Results: The telestroke program started in May 2019 and since then 7 hospitals, in 5 Brazilian states, were included. Only 2 of these hospitals had previous experience with stroke thrombolysis. In all hospitals, the patients were assisted by emergency physicians with eventual support of local neurologists. The telestroke program was activated for 58 patients. The median age was 68yo (IQR58-72), 47% were female and the baseline NIHSS was 11 (IQR8-16). In 69% of the activation the diagnosis was ischemic stroke (IS), 7% hemorrhagic, 5% TIA and 28% other diagnosis. Thrombolysis was suggested in 48% of all evaluations (70% of IS patients). A total of 53% of IS were actually treated with thrombolys. The response-time of the stroke experts was 2.6 minutes (2-6), door-to-CT scan 20min (15-31) and door-needle time 59min (27-81). None of the patients had sICH. Conclusion: In a telestroke program using a smartphone App, thrombolysis performed by emergency physicians was feasible and safe. This mobile low cost technology can increase the possibility of patients with stroke to receive treatment in regions without neurologists across the globe.

Abstract WP3: Predictors and Outcomes of Successful First Pass in Neurothrombectomy- Insights From the STAR Collaboration

Introduction: Shorter procedure time during neurothrombectomy is a strong predictor for good outcomes in stroke patients with large vessel occlusion. We sought to assess the predictors and outcomes of successful first pass (SFP) using multi-center investigator-initiated database. Methods: Prospectively collected neurothrombectomy data from 11 thrombectomy-capable stroke centers was combined in the Stroke Thrombectomy and Aneurysm Registry (STAR). SFP was defined by achieving modified Thrombolysis in Cerebral Infarction (mTICI) score≥2b with a single thrombectomy device pass. We compared the baseline characteristics, procedural metrics, rate of symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (sICH), and long-term functional outcomes between SFP and non-SFP patients. A multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to assess the predictors of SFP and evaluate whether SFP was an independent predictor for good long-term functional outcomes (90-day mRS≤2). Results: A total of 733 SFP patients and 1134 non-SFP patients were included in this analysis. SFP patients were older (73 vs. 70, P=0.001), had higher Alberta Stroke Program Early CT (ASPECT) score on presentation (9 vs. 8, P=0.002). The use of Solumbra technique was an independent predictor of SFP (OR 1.2, 95% CI 1.1-1.4, P=0.004) after controlling for age, sex, location of occlusion, National Institute of Health stroke scale (NIHSS) on presentation, intravenous alteplase (IV-tPA), and onset to groin (OTG) time. SFP was an independent predictor for good long-term functional outcomes (OR1.6, 95% CI 1.1-2.3, P=0.008) after controlling for age, sex, location of occlusion, NIHSS on presentation, OTG time, IV-tPA, procedure technique, and procedure duration. Conclusion: SFP lead to higher rates of functional independence in stroke patients with large vessel occlusion. These records reiterate the importance of SFP as a benchmark measure for stroke thrombectomy devices.

Abstract WP55: Good Collateral Status Predicts Better Outcomes in Endovascular Treatment of Acute Ischemic Stroke: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Introduction: Endovascular therapy (EVT) for the treatment of acute ischemic stroke in cervical and/or cerebral arterial occlusions is superior to standard medical therapy alone. This however requires careful patient selection and the current criteria utilising time windows and the Alberta Stroke Program Early Computed Tomography Score (ASPECTS) is imperfect, limiting its efficacy. We explore the impact of pretreatment collateral status (CS) in predicting EVT outcomes. Methods: A systematic literature search was conducted on PubMed and EMBASE for randomized controlled trials and prospective and retrospective cohort studies without language restriction from January 01, 2000 to June 25, 2019. We included studies reporting efficacy and safety outcomes dichotomised by collateral status in patients with acute anterior circulation ischemic stroke that were treated with mechanical thrombectomy and/or intra-arterial thrombolysis. Odds ratios were pooled for good versus poor collaterals for outcomes based on a random-effects model. Results: The search strategy yielded fifty-four (54) studies (n=7,599) (mean age 67.6 years; females 47.4%) for quantitative analysis, of which there were 2 pairs of studies with overlapping populations but had reported different outcomes. Thus, there were at least 7,441 unique individuals included in this analysis recruited between May 1992 and September 2018. Analysis showed that good CS was strongly associated with favourable functional outcomes (modified Rankin Scale 0-2) at discharge, as well as at 3 months or follow-up (Table 1). Good CS was also associated with higher revascularization rates, lower rates of mortality and lower rates of symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage. Conclusions: Good pretreatment CS strongly predicts good functional outcome and lower complication rates. Pretreatment CS should be considered in the design of future clinical trials and as a selection criteria for EVT.

Abstract WP53: Safety and Efficacy of Mechanical Thrombectomy in Acute Stroke Patients on New Oral Anticoagulants

Background: Limited data exists on the benefits of mechanical thrombectomy (MT) in acute ischemic stroke patients on new oral anticoagulants (NOAC). The aim of our study is to examine the safety and efficacy of MT in NOAC patients at our center. Methods: A retrospective review of our prospective MT database was performed for this study. Baseline characteristics, National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score, revascularization rate, symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage rate (sICH), and 90-day mortality and favorable outcomes were compared in MT patients on NOAC (MT-NOAC) versus those who were not on NOAC (MT). Results: From July 2012 to December 2018, 553 AIS patients underwent treatment with MT, with 36 patients on NOAC (6.5%). Median age was similar (73 versus 74), with 52.8% and 52.0% (p=0.8) female in the MT-NOAC and MT groups, respectively. Median baseline NIHSS score (17 IQR10-21 versus 17 IQR 12-21, p=0.75) and ASPECTS (9 IQR 8-9, p=0.80) were similar between the groups. Atrial fibrillation was more prevalent in the MT-NOAC group (80.6% versus 37.7%, p=<0.0001). No difference was seen in occlusion site between the group, with M1 occlusions the most common site (44.4% versus 43.3%, p=0.9). Median onset to revascularization times did not differ between the cohorts (146 minutes versus 206, p=0.61). Successful revascularization (mTICI≥2b) was 87.5% and 81.8% in the MT NOAC and MT groups, respectively. Rates of symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage per ECASS III criteria were similar between the two groups (5.5% versus 4.6%, p=0.68). No difference was seen in 90-day favorable outcomes (mRS 0-2) (48.3% versus 41.1%, p=0.44) or mortality (27.6% versus 27.1%, 0.95). Conclusion: MT in patients on NOAC appears to be safe and efficacious. As our study is limited by sample size, larger prospective studies are needed to understand the safety and efficacy of MT in AIS patients on NOAC.

Rescue stenting versus medical care alone in refractory large vessel occlusions: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Mechanical thrombectomy (MT) failure is associated with very poor prognosis. Permanent intracranial stenting (PIS) may be useful in such refractory occlusions. However, this strategy requires an aggressive antithrombotic regimen that may be harmful in extended strokes. The aim of this study was to compare clinical outcomes between patients with refractory acute large vessel occlusions (LVOs) treated by PIS versus patients for whom the procedure was stopped without recanalization. We conducted a systematic review by searching for articles in PubMed, the Cochrane Library, and ClinicalTrials.gov from January 2015 to September 2019. Two reviewers independently selected studies comparing PIS after failed MT in addition to usual care versus usual care only. A comparative meta-analysis was performed using random-effects models to estimate odds ratios of favorable clinical outcome at 90days, defined as a modified Rankin scale 0-2, mortality and symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (SICH). Four comparative studies were included for a total of 352 patients: 149 in the PIS group versus 203 in the control group. PIS was associated with significantly higher rates of 90-day favorable clinical outcome (odds ratio [OR], 2.87 [95% confidence interval (95% CI), 1.77-4.66]; p < 0.001; I2, 0%) and lower mortality (OR, 0.39 [0.16-0.93]; p = 0.03; I2, 43%), whereas SICH rates did not significantly differ (OR, 0.68 [0.37-1.27]; p = 0.23; I2, 0%). From observational study results, attempting PIS after failed MT seems to improve clinical outcomes without increasing the risk of intracranial bleeding. Randomized trials are needed to confirm these results.

Thrombolysis in Cerebral Infarction Grade 2C or 3 Represents a Better Outcome than 2B for Endovascular Thrombectomy in Acute Ischemic Stroke: A Network Meta-Analysis

Although Thrombolysis in Cerebral Infarction (TICI) grade 2B or 3 is considered successful after endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) for acute ischemic stroke, TICI 2B was found to be associated with poorer outcomes than was 3. Furthermore, the newly proposed TICI 2C grade seems to be clinically equivalent to TICI 3 rather than to 2B. This network meta-analysis aimed to assess the differences in clinical outcomes between TICI grades and redefine successful reperfusion. PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Central Register were queried. A random-effect model with frequentist framework was applied to evaluate outcomes using odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Using surface under the cumulative ranking curve (SUCRA), the hierarchy of TICI grades was indicated. Analysis of 12 studies, with 2084 patients, indicated that TICI 2C (OR, 2.28; 95% CI, 1.65-3.13) and 3 (OR, 2.40; 95% CI, 1.74-3.30) were significantly more associated with favorable 90-day clinical outcomes than were 2B; there was no significant difference between TICI 2C and 3 (OR, 1.05; 95% CI, 0.76-1.46). Based on the SUCRA, TICI 2C and 3 were considered as more effective reperfusion end points than was 2B (TICI 3, 80.8%; 2C, 69.2%; 2B, 0.0%) and showed significant association with lower rates of mortality and symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage. Patients with TICI 2C grade would be distinguished from those with 2B, because 2C is clinically equivalent to 3 and has a better outcome than 2B. Therefore, achieving 2C or 3 is likely to be closer to the successful aim of endovascular thrombectomy in acute ischemic stroke than achieving 2B.

Dual energy CT in the management of antiplatelet therapy in patients with acute ischemic stroke for carotid obstruction.

Acute tandem occlusions often require carotid stenting. Combination of mechanical and pharmacologic therapies in addition to antiplatelet drugs administered to prevent acute stent thrombosis might increase the risk of intracerebral hemorrhage. We present a protocol of antiplatelet regimen based on early post-procedural dual-energy CT (DE-CT). Fifty consecutive stroke patients with tandem occlusions treated with acute carotid stenting after intracranial thrombectomy and TICI 2b/3 were reviewed. All patients received intravenous lysine acetylsalicylate during the procedure. Dual (aspirin+clopidogrel with or without clopidogrel load, groups A and B, respectively) or mono (aspirin) antiplatelet regimen (group C) was administered 12-24 h later according to brain DE-CT findings. Carotid ultrasonography was performed at 24 h and before discharge. We evaluated the rate of subsequent symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (SICH) and acute stent thrombosis in each group. Between June 2014 and December 2016, 50 patients were included (mean age 66 years, 76% men, baseline NIHSS 16, median time from symptom onset to recanalization 266 min). According to DE-CT, 24 patients were assigned to group A, 19 to group B and 7 to group C (4 of them had SICH at that time). One patient suffered a subsequent SICH (belonging to group B). There was only one stent thrombosis without clinical repercussions in group B. DE-CT may contribute to select antiplatelet regimen after acute carotid stenting in tandem occlusions.