Recanalization Time Research Articles

In silico study of combination thrombolytic therapy with alteplase and mutant pro-urokinase for fibrinolysis in ischemic stroke

The synergistic advantage of combining tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) with pro-urokinase (proUK) for thrombolysis has been demonstrated in several in vitro experiments, and a single site proUK mutant (m-proUK) has been developed for better stability in plasma. Based on these studies, combination thrombolytic therapy with intravenous tPA and m-proUK has been suggested as a promising treatment for patients with ischemic stroke. This paper evaluates the efficacy and safety of the dual therapy by computational simulations of pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics coupled with a local fibrinolysis model. Seven dose regimens are simulated and compared with the standard intravenous tPA monotherapy. Our simulation results provide more insights into the complementary reaction mechanisms of tPA and m-proUK during clot lysis and demonstrate that the dual therapy can achieve a similar recanalization time (about 50 min) to tPA monotherapy, while keeping the circulating fibrinogen level within a normal range. Specifically, our results show that for all dual therapies with a 5 mg tPA bolus, the plasma concentration of fibrinogen remains stable at around 7.5 μM after a slow depletion over 50 min, whereas a rapid depletion of circulating fibrinogen (to 5 μM) is observed with the standard tPA therapy, indicating the potential advantage of dual therapy in reducing the risk of intracranial hemorrhage. Through simulations of varying dose combinations, it has been found that increasing tPA bolus can significantly affect fibrinogen level but only moderately improves recanalization time. Conversely, m-proUK doses and infusion duration exhibit a mild impact on fibrinogen level but significantly affect recanalization time. Therefore, future optimization of dose regimen should focus on limiting the tPA bolus while adjusting m-proUK dosage and infusion rate. Such adjustments could potentially maximize the therapeutic advantages of this combination therapy for ischemic stroke treatment.

Abstract TP209: Prevalence of Spontaneous Recanalization of Internal Carotid Occlusion: A Systematic Scoping Review

Introduction: Spontaneous recanalization of occluded internal carotid arteries (ICAs) is thought to be an uncommon etiology of recurrent ischemic stroke. However, there is a growing number of reports describing this phenomenon, suggesting that follow-up investigations and/or intervention may be warranted. Our objective was to perform a scoping review of the literature to estimate the prevalence of spontaneous ICA recanalization and the timing of recanalization, and to describe imaging modalities used in follow-up as well as any post-recanalization interventions. Methods: MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials and Web of Science were searched from inception to June 2022 for studies that included adults with spontaneous recanalization or transient occlusion of the internal carotid artery. Two investigators independently screened the studies and extracted data around recanalization prevalence, timepoints, imaging, and treatment. These results were described qualitatively, and descriptive statistics were calculated where appropriate. Results: Among the 2384 studies retrieved, 51 met inclusion criteria, of which 34 were case studies and 17 were cohort studies, with a total of 816 patients. Prevalence of recanalization was reported in 20 studies (3 case studies, 17 cohort studies) at a median of 40.0% (IQR 22.5 - 40.0%) in case studies, and 21.2% (IQR 9.2 - 37.5%) in cohort studies. Forty-one studies reported a time frame for when recanalization was identified, with 53.7% individual cases in case studies and 33.3% amongst cohort studies identified within the first 3 months after occlusion. When reported, antiplatelet treatment was the most common medical treatment pre- and post-recanalization with 189 and 36 individuals, respectively. Finally, doppler imaging was used in 70.6% of studies to identify recanalization, with angiography as the next most common modality at 54.9%. Twenty studies reported an endovascular intervention. Conclusions: Spontaneous recanalization occurs more commonly than previously thought. Currently there is no consensus on what intervention is needed (if any), or when this intervention would occur. More data is needed to confirm this data and determine the best time frame to re-image.

Abstract WP182: Effect of Prior Anticoagulation With Non-Vitamin K Oral Anticoagulants in Patients With Atrial Fibrillation on Functional and Procedural Outcomes in Patients Undergoing Thrombectomy

Background: Atrial fibrillation (AF) has been shown to be associated with better procedural outcomes in patients with anterior circulation large vessel occlusion (aLVO) undergoing endovascular therapy (EVT). However, data surrounding the impact of pre-treatment with NOACs on procedural outcomes among patients with AF undergoing EVT for aLVO remains limited. Methods: We conducted a retrospective analysis of a prospectively maintained institutional database of EVT cases on all patients with a diagnosis of AF between Jan 2021 and Mar 2023, grouped by anticoagulation (AC) status (AC vs no AC). In the anticoagulated group, only patients on NOACs were included. Outcomes compared between groups were 90-day mRS, successful reperfusion (Thrombolysis In Cerebral Infarction (TICI) 2b-3), first-pass effect (FPE), time from skin puncture to recanalization, symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage (sICH), and 90-day mortality. Results: Of 197 AF patients included, 97 (49.2%) had a history of being on NOAC at the time of stroke. Forty-four percent of the no AC group received intravenous thrombolysis (IVT). In the NOAC group, 59.5% of patients achieved 90-day mRS of 0-2 vs 49.3% in the no AC group (aOR=1.32, p=0.57). The rate of successful reperfusion in the NOAC group was 98.7% vs 93% in no AC group, (aOR 0.48, p=0.24). No difference was observed with regards to FPE and skin puncture to recanalization time. There was a non-significant trend of higher mortality in the no AC group (23.9% versus 12.2% in NOAC group), despite similar sICH rates (5.0% in no AC and 6.2% in NOAC group, aOR 1.08, p=0.91). Subgroup analysis of patients with a single, non-tandem occlusion of ICA or M1 analyzed by NOAC status yielded similar findings. All outcomes were adjusted for age, gender, baseline NIHSS, and IVT status. Conclusion: Among patients with AF undergoing EVT for LVO, our study did not find an association of prior anticoagulation with NOACs on procedural outcomes, although there was a trend towards better functional outcomes and numerically higher successful reperfusion rate among patients pretreated with NOACs. Further research is needed to study the impact of NOACs on procedural outcomes among patients undergoing EVT.

Abstract WP125: The Presence of a Ghost Infarct Core is Associated With Fast Core Growth in Acute Ischemic Stroke

Introduction: The overestimation of ischemic core volume by computed tomography perfusion (CTP) is a critical concern in the selection of candidates for reperfusion therapy. This phenomenon is termed a ghost infarct core (GIC). Core growth rate has emerged as an indicator of ischemic severity. The aim of the present study was to elucidate the association between the presence of a GIC and the core growth rate. Methods: Consecutive patients with acute ischemic stroke due to large vessel occlusion who underwent mechanical thrombectomy in our institute from March 2017 to July 2022 were enrolled. The initial ischemic core was measured by pretreatment CTP, and the final infarct volume (FIV) was measured by diffusion-weighted imaging. A GIC was defined by initial ischemic core volume minus FIV >10 mL. The core growth rate was calculated by dividing the initial ischemic core volume by time from stroke onset to CTP acquisition. Univariable analysis and a multivariable logistic regression model were used to evaluate the association between GIC-positive and the core growth rate; complete recanalization, onset to imaging time, and imaging to recanalization time were included as covariates. Results: Ninety-one patients were included in the study. Of these, 21 patients (23.1%) were GIC-positive. The GIC-positive group had higher core growth rate (14.2 [2.6-46.7] vs 4.8 [1.6-17.1] mL/h, p=0.021) and complete recanalization (n=15 (71.4%) vs 29 (41.4%), p=0.016) compared to the GIC-negative group. On receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, the optimal cutoff point of the core growth rate to predict GIC-positive was 22 mL/h (sensitivity, 0.48; specificity, 0.85; area under the curve, 0.67). Multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that core growth rate ≥22 mL/h (OR 6.44, 95% CI [1.59-26.10], p=0.006) and complete recanalization (OR 3.72, 95% CI [1.14-12.08], p=0.022) were independent predictors of GIC-positive. Conclusions: A GIC was associated with fast core growth in acute ischemic stroke. Overestimation of the initial ischemic core may be determined by core growth speed, not a clock time.

A nomogram predicting the relationship between recanalization time and successful endovascular recanalization of non-acute internal carotid artery occlusion in a Chinese population.

Different recanalization times for endovascular interventions may affect the success of non-acute internal carotid artery occlusion procedures. Nomograms can provide personalized and more accurate risk estimates based on predictive values. Therefore, we developed a nomogram to predict the probability of success of endovascular recanalization procedures for non-acute internal carotid artery occlusion. We performed a single-center retrospective analysis of data collected from patients who underwent endovascular treatment for non-acute internal carotid artery occlusion between January 2015 and December 2022. Multifactorial logistic regression analyses were performed to identify independent predictors affecting the success rate of non-acute internal carotid artery occlusion procedures and to create nomograms. The model was differentiated and calibrated using the area under the ROC curve (AUC-ROC) and calibration plots. Internal validation of the model was performed by using resampling (1000 replications). In total, 46 patients were identified and a total of 39 patients met the study criteria. Predictors in the nomogram included vascular occlusion proximal morphology, reversed flow of the ophthalmic artery, and recanalization time. The model showed good resolution with an ROC area of 0.917 (95% CI: 0.814-0.967). The nomogram can be used to personalize, visualize, and accurately predict the surgical success of endovascular treatment of non-acute internal carotid artery occlusion.

Effects of tirofiban on large vessel occlusion stroke are modified by etiology and renal function.

Renal function can modify the outcomes of large vessel occlusion (LVO) stroke across stroke etiologies in disparate degrees. The presence of renal function deficit can also impair the pharmacokinetics of tirofiban. Hence, this study aimed to investigate the roles of renal function in determining efficacy and safety of intravenous tirofiban before endovascular treatment (EVT) for acute ischemic stroke patients with large vessel occlusion (LVO). This study was a post hoc exploratory analysis of the RESCUE-BT trial. The primary outcome was the proportion of patients achieving functional independence (modified Rankin scale 0-2) at 90 days, and the primary safety outcome was the rate of symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (sICH). Among 908 individuals with available serum creatinine, decreased estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) status was noted more commonly in patients with cardioembolic stroke (CE), while large artery atherosclerosis (LAA) was predominant in patients with normal renal function. In LAA with normal renal function, tirofiban was associated with higher rates of functional independence at 90 days (41.67% vs 59.80%, p = 0.003). However, for LVO patients with renal dysfunction, tirofiban did not improve functional outcomes for any of the etiologies (LAA, p = 0.876; CE, p = 0.662; others, p = 0.894) and significantly increased the risk of sICH among non-LAA patients (p = 0.020). Mediation analysis showed tirofiban reduced thrombectomy passes (12.27%) and drug/placebo to recanalization time (14.25%) mediated its effects on functional independence. This present study demonstrated the importance of evaluating renal function before administering intravenous tirofiban among patients with LVO who are planned to undergo EVT.

Shorter Reperfusion Time in Stroke is Associated with Better Cognition.

Cognitive changes that result from cerebrovascular disease contribute to a poor functional outcome with reduced quality of life. Among patients undergoing endovascular therapy (EVT), we aim to assess cognitive function and evaluate the impact of reperfusion time in cognitive performance. Patients with acute right anterior circulation strokes that underwent EVT between January 2018 and August 2020 at Centro Hospitalar de Vila Nova de Gaia/Espinho, participated in the study. Modified treatment in cerebral infarction (mTICI) assessed the level of recanalization. Cognitive evaluation was assessed with Addenbrooke's Cognitive Examination revised (ACE-R). Multiple linear regression analyses were used to determine the association between time for recanalization and ACE-R. The level of significance adopted was 0.05. The mean age of participants was 71.5 (interquartile range [IQR] 62.0-78.2) years, and 50% (22) were women. The median time after stroke was 28.6 months (IQR 18.94-31.55). All patients in our sample had a successful level of recanalization with EVT (mTICI ≥ 2b). Time for recanalization showed an inverse association with the ACE-R (b = -0.0207, P = 0.0203). Also the mRS at 3 months had an inverse association with cognition (b = -5.2803, p = 0.0095). Level of education had a strong and direct relationship with ACE-R results (b = 3.0869, p < 0.0001). Longer time between stroke symptoms and recanalization with EVT in patients with right hemisphere ischemic stroke lead to lower ACE-R scores. Measures to improve door-to-recanalization time are also important for cognitive performance after ischemic stroke.

Endovascular treatment of acute ischemic stroke patients with tandem lesions: antegrade versus retrograde approach.

The optimal technique for treating tandem lesions (TLs) with endovascular therapy is debatable. The authors evaluated the functional, safety, and procedural outcomes of different approaches in a multicenter study. Anterior circulation TL patients treated from January 2015 to December 2020 were divided on the basis of antegrade versus retrograde approach and included. The evaluated outcomes were favorable modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score (mRS score 0-2) at 3 months, ordinal shift in mRS score, successful recanalization, excellent recanalization, first-pass effect (FPE), time from groin puncture to successful recanalization, symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (sICH), and 90-day mortality. Among 691 patients treated at 16 centers, 286 patients (174 antegrade and 112 retrograde approach patients) with acute stenting were included in the final analysis. There were no significant differences in mRS score 0-2 at 90 days (52.2% vs 50.0%, adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 0.83, 95% CI 0.42-1.56, p = 0.54), favorable shift in 90-day mRS score (aOR 1.03, 95% CI 0.66-1.29, p = 0.11), sICH (4.0% vs 4.5%, aOR 0.64, 95% CI 0.24-1.51, p = 0.45), successful recanalization (89.4% vs 93%, aOR 0.49, 95% CI 0.19-1.28, p = 0.19), excellent recanalization (51.4% vs 58.9%, aOR 0.59, 95% CI 0.40-1.07, p = 0.09), FPE (58.3% vs 69.7%, aOR 0.62, 95% CI 0.44-1.15, p = 0.21), and mortality at 90 days (16.6% vs 14.0%, aOR 0.94, 95% CI 0.35-2.44, p = 0.81) between the groups. The median (interquartile range) groin puncture to recanalization time was significantly longer in the antegrade group (59 [43-90] minutes vs 49 [35-73] minutes, p = 0.036). The retrograde approach was associated with faster recanalization times with a similar functional and safety profile when compared with the antegrade approach in patients with acute ischemic stroke with TL.

Clinical outcome after thrombectomy in patients with MeVO stroke: importance of clinical and technical factors

Background and aimsWhereas high-level evidence has been proven for safety and efficacy of endovascular treatment (EVT) in large vessel occlusion (LVO) stroke, the evidence for EVT in medium vessel occlusion (MeVO) in both sexes and different age groupremains to be answered. The aim of this study was to evaluate the importance of clinical and technical parameters, focusing on sex, age and EVT procedural factors, on functional outcome in primary MeVO (pMeVO) strokes.Methods144 patients with pMeVO in the MCA territory from the Oslo Acute Reperfusion Stroke Study (OSCAR) were included. Clinical and radiological data were collected including 90-day mRS follow-up.ResultsSuccessful reperfusion with modified thrombolysis in cerebral infarction (mTICI) ≥ 2b was achieved in 123 patients (84%). Good functional outcome (mRS ≤ 2) at 90-day follow-up was achieved in 84 patients (61.8%). Two or more passes with stent retriever was associated with increased risk of SAH, poor mTICI and poor functional outcome. In average, women had 62 min longer ictus to recanalization time compared to men. Age over 80 years was significantly associated with poor outcome and death.ConclusionIn pMeVO patients, TICI score and number of passes with stent retriever were the main technical factors predicting mRS ≤ 2. Good clinical outcome occurred almost twice as often in patients under 80 years of age compared to patients over 80 years. Women with MeVO strokes had significant longer time from ictus to recanalization; however, this did not affect the clinical outcome.

A systemized strategy to reduce door‐to‐puncture time using the ELVO screen: “Code AIS”

AbstractBackgroundA shorter onset‐to recanalization (O2R) time in mechanical thrombectomy for acute ischemic stroke (AIS) results in better outcomes. Thus, we should reduce the door‐to‐puncture (D2P) time.AimTo evaluate the effectiveness of a triage system named “Code AIS.” We adopted the emergency large vessel occlusion (ELVO) screen as a screening test.MethodsUsing the ELVO screening test, Code AIS was invoked when ≥1 positive results were obtained without witnessed seizures. The Code AIS system requires the assembly of neurologists, neurosurgeons, and an endovascular team in the emergency department before a patient arrives at the hospital. In total, 104 consecutive patients who underwent thrombectomy after emergency transport from January 2015 to December 2022 were included. The Code AIS system was initiated on February 17, 2022, and patients were divided into the pre‐Code AIS and Code AIS era groups. D2P time, outcome, and other parameters were compared between the groups.ResultsEighty‐eight and 16 cases were in the pre‐Code AIS and Code AIS era groups, respectively. Background factors, including age, sex, and etiology, did not differ between the groups. The median (interquartile range) time of D2P in the Code AIS era was 60 (41–102) min and significantly shortened compared to 135 (109–161) min in the pre‐Code AIS era (p &lt; 0.001). The proportion of patients with favorable outcomes (modified Rankin Scale score, 0–2) improved significantly from 33% (pre‐Code AIS era) to 63% (Code AIS era) (p = 0.047).ConclusionUsing Code AIS, we succeeded in shortening D2P time and improving patient outcomes.

The impact of off-hour mechanical thrombectomy therapy on outcomes for acute ischemic stroke: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BackgroundThe impact of off-hours and on-hours mechanical thrombectomy (MT) treatment for acute ischemic stroke (AIS) is not well understood. We conducted a systematic review and met-analysis comparing outcomes between patients undergoing off-hours MT versus on-hours MT. MethodsThis study is reported according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses recommendations. A systematic literature review of the English language literature was conducted using Web of Science, Embase, Scopus, and PubMed databases. We included all original studies comparing off-hour and on-hour outcomes or time metrics in AIS undergoing MT. R software version 4.3.1 and the ‘meta’ statistical package were used to analyze all the data presented in this study. ResultsWe included 26 studies with 82,850 patients. Patients undergoing MT during off-hours achieved lower rates of 90-day functional independence (OR 0.92, 95% CI 0.86–0.99; p = 0.04) and successful recanalization (OR 0.89, 95% CI 0.81–0.98; p = 0.014). Patients undergoing off-hours MT experienced similar rates of 90-day mortality (OR 1.07, 95% CI 0.96–1.19; p = 0.21) and sICH (OR 1.04, 95% CI 0.85–1.28; p = 0.674). Patients in the off-hour group experienced longer onset to door time (MD = 12.23 min; 95% CI 4.53–19.93; p = 0.002), imaging to puncture time (MD = 10.59 min; 95% CI 4.00–17.19; p = 0.002), and door to recanalization time (MD = 13.31 min; 95% CI 4.60–22.03; p = 0.003). ConclusionsPatients undergoing MT for AIS during off-hours experienced lower rates of functional independence. This may be attributed to treatment delays during off-hours. Future studies should work to optimize hospital workflows and identify factors which may contribute to treatment delays.

Computational modeling of blood clot lysis considering the effect of vessel wall and pulsatile blood flow.

Stroke is one of the major causes of global death, which can occur due to blockage in a blood vessel by a clot. The immediate dissolving of the clot is essential to restore the blood flow and prevent tissue necrosis. Clot dissolution can be achieved via thrombolytic therapy using plasminogen activators. In this study, a clot dissolution model is developed for a three-dimensional patient-specific carotid artery that investigates the effect of different vessel wall models on clot dissolution. The lysis pattern of the clot and hemodynamics of blood flow are evaluated using three different models of the vessel wall, namely, rigid, linear elastic, and Mooney-Rivlin hyperelastic. The effect of flow condition is considered by solving the Navier-Stokes equationsfor the free flow domain and the Brinkman equationfor the clot domain with the same pressure and velocity fields. This will result in continuous pressure and velocity over the interfaces of the free flow and clot domains. The blood inflow is assumed to be pulsatile. In addition, the species transport driven by diffusion and convection is considered to be different in the porous medium and plasma. The obtained results show that in all models, the starting time of clot volume decrease is almost the same and the clot starts dissolving from the inner curvature of the artery. However, in the hyperelastic model, dissolving the clot takes longer compared to the other two models. By monitoring the vessel wall deformation, the exact time of vessel recanalization is determined.

Aspiration thrombectomy of M2 segment in acute ischemic stroke: The clinical reality in a neurovascular reference center

ObjectiveOur study aimed to evaluate safety, efficacy and clinical outcomes in patients with acute ischemic stroke with occlusion of M2 segment treated with thromboaspiration. Materials and methodsA retrospective study was conducted in patients with ischemic stroke of M2 segment undergoing endovascular thromboaspiration. The time period analyzed was from October 2015 until February 2021. Thromboaspiration was performed with AXS Catalyst 5 (Stryker) or AXS Catalyst 6 (Stryker) catheters. The following parameters were assessed: risk factors for ischemic stroke, National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (entry and discharge), pre-procedural fibrinolysis, pre-procedural and 24-h Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score, recanalization time, number of passages for recanalization, Thrombolysis in cerebral infarction scale score, periprocedural complications, Modified Rankin Scale score at 90 days from procedure and mortality. Results90 patients were included in the study. The mean age was 75 ± 11.1 with National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale at entry 13 ± 5 and 8 ± 4 at discharge. Pre-procedural fibrinolysis were performed in 40 patients. Pre-procedural Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score were 8.8 ± 1.3 and 6.9 ± 2.4 after 24 h from the procedure. Time of recanalization from onset of symptoms was 300 ± 82 min. Number of passages for recanalization were 1.8 ± 1.1. Thrombolysis in cerebral infarction scale score ≥ 2b were obtained in 90 % of procedures. After 90 days 33 % of patient obtained an Modified Rankin Scale between 0 and 1 (between 0 and 2 was 40 %). We didn't detect any complication in 64 % of cases (subarachnoid haemorrhage in 2 %, HI1 and HI 2 in 15 %, PH1 in 9 % of patients, PH2 in 6 % of patients). ConclusionsThis paper confirms the usefulness and safety of thrombospiration in patients with ischemic stroke in the M2 segment with low intra-operative risks, high technical success and positive impact on the outcome of the patients.

Analysis of factors associated with futile recanalization after endovascular treatment for acute ischemic stroke with large vessels occlusion in anterior intracranial circulation

Objective: To analyze the related factors of futile recanalization (FR) after emergency endovascular treatment of large artery occlusion in anterior circulation. Methods: Three studies on endovascular treatment of acute anterior circulation large vessels occlusion stroke were selected, and their data were merged for retrospective analysis. Patients were divided into the FR group and favorable prognosis group according to the functional prognosis. Risk factor analysis was conducted using multivariate logistic regression. Results: A total of 1 581 patients were finally included, with 858 (48.9%) patients in favorable prognosis group and 926 (51.91%) patients in FR group. Among them, there were 939 males and 642 females, with a mean age of (65±12) years. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that National Institute of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score (OR=1.089,95%CI:1.066-1.113), puncture to recanalization time (OR=0.756, 95%CI:0.586-0.971), age (OR=1.04,95%CI:1.029-1.051), serum glucose (OR=1.101,95%CI:1.062-1.143), systolic blood pressure (OR=1.005,95%CI:1.001-1.010), passes≥3(OR=1.941,95%CI:1.294-2.941)Alberta stroke program early CT (ASPECT) score (OR=0.919,95%CI:0.847-0.996), occlusion site (M1 segment of middle cerebral artery, OR=0.744,95%CI:0.565-0.980) and collateral circulation [(2 points, OR=0.757, 95%CI:0.581-0.985); (3-4 points, adjusted OR=0.640, 95%CI: 0.472-0.866)] were independent factors of FR. Conclusion: The incidence of FR in patients with large artery occlusion in anterior circulation who achieve satisfied reperfusion after endovascular treatment is high. Higher NIHSS score, longer puncture to recanalization time, older age, higher serum glucose and systolic blood pressure are risk factors, while lower ASPECTS, occlusion in cerebral middle M1 segment, better collateral circulation are protective factors.

Catheter-directed thrombolysis versus systemic anticoagulation in the treatment of symptomatic splanchnic venous thrombosis secondary to acute pancreatitis: a retrospective cohort study

BackgroundCatheter-directed thrombolysis (CDT) has been an important therapy and seems effective in patients with splanchnic venous thrombosis (SVT) secondary to some diseases, but this intervention hasn’t been formally evaluated in the setting of acute pancreatitis (AP).MethodsThis was a retrospective study enrolled patients between January 2013 and December 2018. AP patients who developed SVT-induced symptoms, including intractable ascites and/or enteral nutrition intolerance, were included. Demographics, SVT associated parameters, clinical features and outcomes, long-term quality of life evaluated by using SF-36 questionnaire were compared between CDT group and systemic anticoagulation (SAC) group.Results6 patients underwent CDT and 17 received SAC. Patients in CDT group had a higher recanalization rate (100% versus 35.3%; p = 0.014) and shorter time to symptoms resolution (median 8 days versus. 31.5 days, p = 0.004). Mortality and length of hospital stay were comparable between two groups. The association analysis indicated that CDT use exerted a significantly beneficial effect on recanalization rate (risk ratio, 2.833; 95% CI, 1.489 to 5.393; p = 0.002) and time to symptoms resolution (mean difference, -33.333; 95% CI, -64.612 to -2.055; p = 0.038). No SVT-related symptoms recurrence was recorded in survivors at six-month follow-up. There was no statistical difference in either item of SF-36 questionnaire between two groups.ConclusionsCompared with SAC, CDT may facilitate vascular recanalization and shorten symptom resolution for symptomatic SVT.

Impact of age on mechanical thrombectomy and clinical outcome in patients with acute ischemic stroke

Background and purposeMechanical thrombectomy is less effective in patients aged 80 years or older. Our goal was to better understand the impact of age in general on recanalization rates and clinical outcome. MethodsWe performed a retrospective analysis of our prospective database of adult patients with acute ischemic stroke due to large vessel occlusions, who had undergone mechanical thrombectomy between 2019 and mid-2021. The cohort was categorized into five age groups: 18 – 49, 50 – 59, 60 – 69, 70 – 79 and ≥ 80 years. Our primary outcome measure was clinical outcome at three months after mechanical thrombectomy, measured by the mRS score. Secondary outcomes were procedure times and rates of successful recanalization, defined by mTICI ≥ 2b. ResultsData of 264 patients were analyzed. There were no significant differences in procedure times (p = 0.46) or in rates of successful recanalization (p = 0.49) between age groups. There was a significant association of age and mRS score at three months (p < 0.0001): From youngest to oldest group, odds of functional independence (mRS ≤ 2) decreased (80.0% vs. 21.3%) and odds of death (mRS 6) increased (13.3% vs. 57.3%). Increasing age was significantly associated with lower rates of functional independence (OR 0.93; [95% CI 0.90 – 0.95]), higher rates of care dependency (OR 1.04; [95% CI 1.01 – 1.07]) and higher mortality rates (OR 1.06; [95% CI 1.04 – 1.09]). ConclusionHigher age had no significant impact on recanalization times or recanalization rates but was strongly associated with worse clinical outcome after mechanical thrombectomy.

Timing and Predictors of Recanalization After Anticoagulation in Cerebral Venous Thrombosis.

Vessel recanalization after cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT) is associated with favorable outcomes and lower mortality. Several studies examined the timing and predictors of recanalization after CVT with mixed results. We aimed to investigate predictors and timing of recanalization after CVT. We used data from the multicenter, international AntiCoagulaTION in the Treatment of Cerebral Venous Thrombosis (ACTION-CVT) study of consecutive patients with CVT from January 2015 to December 2020. Our analysis included patients that had undergone repeat venous neuroimaging more than 30 days after initiation of anticoagulation treatment. Prespecified variables were included in univariate and multivariable analyses to identify independent predictors of failure to recanalize. Among the 551 patients (mean age, 44.4±16.2 years, 66.2% women) that met inclusion criteria, 486 (88.2%) had complete or partial, and 65 (11.8%) had no recanalization. The median time to first follow-up imaging study was 110 days (interquartile range, 60-187). In multivariable analysis, older age (odds ratio [OR], 1.05; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.03-1.07), male sex (OR, 0.44; 95% CI, 0.24-0.80), and lack of parenchymal changes on baseline imaging (OR, 0.53; 95% CI, 0.29-0.96) were associated with no recanalization. The majority of improvement in recanalization (71.1%) occurred before 3 months from initial diagnosis. A high percentage of complete recanalization (59.0%) took place within the first 3 months after CVT diagnosis. Older age, male sex, and lack of parenchymal changes were associated with no recanalization after CVT. The majority recanalization occurred early in the disease course suggesting limited further recanalization with anticoagulation beyond 3 months. Large prospective studies are needed to confirm our findings.

The evaluation and treatment of acute anterior circulation occlusion stroke with high clot burden: Progressive stratified aspiration thrombectomy vs. stent retriever thrombectomy

ObjectiveTo evaluate the safety and effectiveness of the progressive stratified aspiration thrombectomy (PSAT) in treatment of patients with acute ischemic stroke and large vessel occlusion (AIS-LVO). Methods117 AIS-LVO patients with high clot burden who underwent emergency endovascular treatment were included. All patients were divided into two groups according to surgical technique: PSAT group, stent retriever thrombectomy (SRT) group. The primary outcome was the 90-day mRS, the secondary outcomes included recanalization rate, the 24-h and 7-day NIHSS, the 7-day symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (SICH) rate and 90-days mortality. Results65 patients underwent PSAT, and 52 patients underwent SRT. The PSAT group performed better than SRT group regarding the successful recanalization rate (86.3 % vs. 71.2 %, P < 0.05) and time from puncture to recanalization (70 min [IQR, 58–87 min] vs. 87 min [IQR, 68–103 min], P < 0.05). The 7-day NIHSS score of the PSAT group was lower than that of the SRT group (12 [10–18] vs. 12 [8–25], P < 0.05). It was worth noting that at the 90-day follow-up, the favorable functional outcome (mRS 0–2) rate of PSAT group was higher (P < 0.05). There was no significant difference in terms of the 24-h NIHSS score after surgery (15 [10–18] vs. 15 [10–22], P > 0.05), SICH (23.1 % vs. 26.9 %, P > 0.05) and mortality rate between the two groups (13.4 % vs. 19.2 %, P > 0.05). ConclusionsIt is safe and effective to treat high clot burden AIS-LVO patients with PSAT, which has a better reperfusion rate and prognostic outcome than SRT.

Thrombectomy in ischemic stroke patients with alberta stroke program early computed tomography score 4-5 and 0-3: Factors associated with favorable outcome

ObjectivesRecently published results of the ANGEL-ASPECT and SELECT2 trials suggest that stroke patients presenting with low Alberta Stroke Program Early Computed Tomography Score (ASPECTS) benefit from mechanical thrombectomy. Purpose of this retrospective study was to identify factors that are associated with a favorable outcome in patients with low ASPECTS of 4-5 and 0-3 undergoing mechanical thrombectomy. Material and methodsAll patients reported in the quality registry of the German Society for Neuroradiology that were treated between 2018 and 2020 were analyzed. Favorable outcome was defined as a National Institute of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score of less than 9 at dismissal. Successful recanalization was defined as Thrombolysis in Cerebral Infarction (mTICI) ≥ 2b. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to assess the association of baseline and treatment variables with favorable outcome. Results621 patients were included in the analysis, thereof 495 with ASPECTS 4-5 and 126 with ASPECTS 0-3. In patients with ASPECTS 4-5patients with favorable outcome had less severe neurological symptoms at admission with median NIHSS of 15 vs. 18 (p<0.001), had less often wake-up strokes (44% vs. 81%, p<0.001), received more often iv-lysis (37% vs. 30%, p<0.001), had more often conscious sedation (29% vs. 16%, p<0.001), had a higher rate of successful recanalization (94% vs. 66% and lower times from groin puncture to recanalization. In multivariate regression analysis lower NIHSS at admission (aOR 0.87, CI 0.89-0.91) and successful recanalization (aOR 3.96, CI 2-8.56) were associated with favorable outcome. For ASPECTS 0-3, patients with favorable outcome had lower median NIHSS at admission (16 vs. 18 (p<0.001), lower number of passes (1 vs. 3, p=0.003) and a higher rate of successful recanalization (94% vs. 66%, p<0.001) and lower times from groin puncture to recanalization. In multivariate regression analysis lower NIHSS at admission (aOR 0.87, CI 0.81-0.94) and successful recanalization, (aOR 11.19, CI 3.19-55.53), were associated with favorable outcome. ConclusionFull recanalization with low groin punction to recanalization times and low number of passes were associated with favorable outcome in patients with low ASPECTS.

Transradial balloon guide catheter placement for acute ischemic stroke thrombectomy: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) is a treatment option for acute ischemic stroke due to large vessel occlusion. The use of a balloon-guided catheter (BGC) for EVT via transradial access (TRA) has emerged as a treatment approach, but its efficacy and safety compared to existing practices are uncertain. A systematic literature review was performed using Embase, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science databases, and manual search. Studies reporting safety and efficacy metrics for TRA BGC EVT were included. Data regarding recanalization time, thrombolysis in cerebral infarction (TICI), modified Rankin scale (mRS), symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (sICH), first pass effect (FPE), and additional complications was pooled using a random-effects model to calculate event rates and 95% confidence intervals (CI). The search yielded five studies (n = 117). The mean time from puncture to final recanalization was 34.5 (95% CI = 30.5 to 39.14, I2 = 0%, P-value = 0.37) min. Successful recanalization (TICI 2b-3) and complete recanalization (TICI 3) occurred in 96.6% (95% CI = 91.24 to 98.71, I2 = 0%, P-value = 0.99) and 55.2% (95% CI = 42.14 to 67.54, I2 = 0%, P-value = 0.39) of cases, respectively. FPE occurred in 67.5% (95% CI = 51.73 to 80.10, I2 = 0%, P-value = 0.56) of patients. mRS 0-2 was achieved in 41.2% (95% CI = 27.34 to 56.65, I2 = 70%, P-value = 0.07) of patients. sICH occurred in 5.0% (95% CI = 1.25 to 17.91, I2 = 0%, P-value = 1.00) of patients. Local complications of radial hematoma and radial vasospasm occurred in 5.0% (95% CI = 0.49 to 12.36, I2 = 29%, P-value = 0.24) and 2.1% (95% CI = 1.25 to 17.91, I2 = 71%, P-value = 0.03) of cases, respectively. Switch to femoral access was necessary in 3.7% (95% CI = 0.00 to 14.07, I2 = 68%, P-value = 0.02) of procedures. The average number of passes per procedure was 1.6 (95% CI = 1.15 to 2.11, I2 = 88%, P-value < 0.001). TRA BGC EVT has potential as a safe and efficacious treatment option compared to existing methods. However, additional, prospective studies are necessary to inform clinical decision making.