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The World Health Organization defines a stroke as ‘rapidly developing clinical signs of focal (or global) disturbance of cerebral function, with symptoms lasting 24 hours or longer or leading to death, with no apparent cause other than vascular origin’. If the symptoms last less than 24 hours, typically less than 2 hours, then this is classified as a transient ischaemic attack. ‘Brain attack’ is a term that is increasingly used, as the rapid nature of treatment means the differentiating criterion of symptoms lasting at least 24 hours, is often not met before initiation of treatment.

Background The optimal timing of anticoagulation following acute ischaemic stroke or TIA in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) is a frequent challenge. Early initiation of anticoagulation can reduce the risk for recurrent ischaemic events, but may lead to an increased risk for intracerebral haemorrhage. Aim The Prospective Record of the Use of Dabigatran in Patients with Acute Stroke or TIA (PRODAST) study was initiated to investigate outcome events under antithrombotic therapy after ischaemic stroke or TIA in patients with AF. The main objective is to compare the three-month rates of major haemorrhagic events between early (≤ 7 days) versus late (> 7 days) administration of dabigatran or treatment with vitamin-K antagonists started at any time. Occurrences of ischaemic and major haemorrhagic events will be evaluated to determine the optimal time point for initiation or resumption of anticoagulation. Design and Methods PRODAST is a prospective, multicenter, observational, non-interventional post-authorization safety study. 10,000 patients with recent (≤ 1 week from index event) ischaemic stroke or TIA and non-valvular AF were recruited at 86 German sites starting in July 2015. The observational plan includes a baseline visit, documentation of data during hospitalization and a telephone-based, central follow-up at three months after the index event. The primary endpoint is the major bleeding rate within three months. Secondary endpoints include rates of recurrent ischaemic or haemorrhagic stroke, TIA, systemic embolism, myocardial infarction and death. Summary PRODAST will provide important real-world data on safety and efficacy of antithrombotic therapy after acute stroke and TIA in patients with AF.

Objective: The purpose of this study is to understand the nature and source of disruptions in an ambulance during the telemedicine-based caregiving process for stroke patients to enhance the ambulance design for supporting telemedicine-based care. Background: Telemedicine is emerging as an efficient approach to provide timely remote assessment of patients experiencing acute stroke in an ambulance. These consults are facilitated by connecting the patient and paramedic with a remotely located neurologist and nurse using cameras, audio systems, and computers. However, ambulances are typically retrofitted to support telemedicine-enabled care, and the placement of these systems inside the ambulance might lead to spatial challenges and disruptions during patient evaluation. Method: Video recordings of 13 simulated telemedicine-based stroke consults were coded and analyzed using an existing systems-based flow disruption (FD) taxonomy. For each observed disruption—the type, severity or impact, location in the ambulance, and equipment involved in the disruption were recorded. Results: Seat size, arrangement of assessment equipment, location of telemedicine equipment (computer workstation), and design of telemedicine camera were among the factors that impacted telemedicine-related disruptions. The left ambulance seat zone and head of the patient bed were more involved in environmental hazard–related disruptions, while the right zone of the ambulance was more prone to interruptions and communication-related disruptions. Conclusion: Adequate evaluation space for the paramedic, proper placement of evaluation equipment, and telemedicine computer location could facilitate the stroke care evaluation process and reduce FDs in the ambulance.

Introduction Infection after stroke is associated with unfavorable outcome. Randomized controlled studies did not show benefit of preventive antibiotics in stroke but lacked power for subgroup analyses. Aim of this study is to assess whether preventive antibiotic therapy after stroke improves functional outcome for specific patient groups in an individual patient data meta-analysis. Patients and methods We searched MEDLINE (1946–7 May 2021), Embase (1947–7 May 2021), CENTRAL (17th September 2021), trial registries, cross-checked references and contacted researchers for randomized controlled trials of preventive antibiotic therapy versus placebo or standard care in ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke patients. Meta-analysis was performed by a one-step and two-step approach. Primary outcome was functional outcome adjusted for age and stroke severity. Secondary outcomes were infections and mortality. Results 4197 patients from nine trials were included. Preventive antibiotic therapy was not associated with a shift in functional outcome (mRS) at 3 months (OR1.13, 95%CI 0.98–1.31) or unfavorable functional outcome (mRS 3–6) (OR0.85, 95%CI 0.60–1.19). Preventive antibiotics did not improve functional outcome in pre-defined subgroups (age, stroke severity, timing and type of antibiotic therapy, pneumonia prediction scores, dysphagia, type of stroke, and type of trial). Preventive antibiotics reduced infections (276/2066 (13.4%) in the preventive antibiotic group vs. 417/2059 (20.3%) in the control group, OR 0.60, 95% CI 0.51–0.71, p < 0.001), but not pneumonia (191/2066 (9.2%) in the preventive antibiotic group vs. 205/2061 (9.9%) in the control group (OR 0.92 (0.75–1.14), p = 0.450). Discussion and conclusion Preventive antibiotic therapy did not benefit any subgroup of patients with acute stroke and currently cannot be recommended.

Acute stroke is a widespread, debilitating disease. Fortunately, it also has one of the most effective therapeutic options available in medicine, endovascular treatment. Imaging plays a major role in the diagnosis of stroke and aids in appropriate therapy selection. Given the rapid accumulation of evidence for patient subgroups and concurrent broadening of therapeutic options and indications, it is important to recognize the benefits of certain imaging technologies for specific situations. An effective imaging protocol should: 1) be fast, 2) easily implementable, 3) produce reliable results, 4) have few contraindications, and 5) be safe, all with the goal of providing the patient the best chance of achieving a favorable outcome. In the following, we provide a review of the currently available imaging technologies, their advantages and disadvantages, as well as an overview of the future of stroke imaging. Finally, we offer a perspective.

A 52-year-old lady with hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy, atrial flutter, and old right hemispheric stroke in the background underwent implantable cardioverter-defibrillator implantation for complete heart block. She was yet to start her regular anticoagulant and presented to hospital emergency with acute right middle cerebral artery (MCA) territory stroke (NIH Stroke Scale/Score of 14). After ruling out absolute contraindications, she was given intravenous thrombolysis (did not have a blood vessel target for endovascular therapy). Post thrombolysis, she had clot mobilization from the internal carotid artery to the MCA and systemic embolization to kidneys and lower limbs. The patient underwent an urgent embolectomy and lower limbs were saved from amputation. Our case highlights the importance of checking peripheral pulses in acute stroke patients post thrombolysis. Though the patient had initial deterioration after thrombolysis, she gradually improved and later achieved satisfactory modified Rankin scale underscoring the ultimate potential benefits of thrombolysis in acute stroke. There is a high chance of thrombus formation in patients with atrial flutter who undergo recent cardiac procedure especially if they are off anticoagulation for even a short period. Hence, unnecessary apprehension of anticoagulant use in proper situations may create life-threatening complications.

Background and aims Nicardipine has strong, rapidly acting antihypertensive activity. The effects of acute systolic blood pressure levels achieved with intravenous nicardipine after onset of intracerebral hemorrhage on clinical outcomes were determined. Methods A systematic review and individual participant data analysis of articles before 1 October 2020 identified on PubMed were performed (PROSPERO: CRD42020213857). Prospective studies involving hyperacute intracerebral hemorrhage adults treated with intravenous nicardipine whose outcome was assessed using the modified Rankin Scale were eligible. Outcomes included death or disability at 90 days, defined as the modified Rankin Scale score of 4–6, and hematoma expansion, defined as an increase ≥6 mL from baseline to 24-h computed tomography. Summary of review Three studies met the eligibility criteria. For 1265 patients enrolled (age 62.6 ± 13.0 years, 484 women), death or disability occurred in 38.2% and hematoma expansion occurred in 17.4%. Mean hourly systolic blood pressure during the initial 24 h was positively associated with death or disability (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 1.12, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.00–1.26 per 10 mmHg) and hematoma expansion (1.16, 1.02–1.32). Mean hourly systolic blood pressure from 1 h to any timepoint during the initial 24 h was positively associated with death or disability. Later achievement of systolic blood pressure to ≤140 mmHg increased the risk of death or disability (aOR 1.02, 95% CI 1.00–1.05 per hour). Conclusions Rapid lowering of systolic blood pressure by continuous administration of intravenous nicardipine during the initial 24 h in hyperacute intracerebral hemorrhage was associated with lower risks of hematoma expansion and 90-day death or disability without increasing serious adverse events.

Jamestown canyon virus (JCV) is an arbovirus and is an under-recognized cause of mosquito-borne viral encephalitis. In this report we present a patient who presented with focal neurological deficits. Patient was initially evaluated for stroke. However, leptomeningeal enhancement on MRI and CSF studies were concerning for viral encephalitis. Brain biopsy and CSF sample from surgical site was positive for JCV IgM antibodies. Patients presenting with concern for viral encephalitis in endemic areas should undergo antibody testing for JCV to guide appropriate treatment.

Objective: In stroke patients, extensive interventions for incidental thyroid nodules can be burdensome and costly. It appears that the risk of malignancy has not been reported in angiographically detected nodules and outcomes have not yet been described in patients, receiving acute stroke work-up. Materials and Methods: Incidental thyroid nodules were found on neck computerized tomography angiography or magnetic resonance angiography performed during inpatient stroke workup (January 2017 to September 2019). These patient cases were reviewed based on sonography reports, diagnosis, and follow-up care. Results: Of the 13 563 patients, 192 had incidental thyroid nodules (prevalence 1.4%). Twenty-six died from comorbidities and 22 received thyroid sonography. Twelve nodules from 10 patients had sonographic characteristics for biopsy: 10 benign, 1 indeterminate, and 1 papillary thyroid cancer (risk of malignancy: 8%). The cancer patient underwent hemithyroidectomy and is disease-free. Follow-up of the remaining patients showed no worsening or suspicious nodules. The American College of Radiology (ACR) guidelines would have prevented 8 unnecessary sonograms and 1 biopsy without missing malignancy. Conclusion: Although a small risk of malignancy was noted, 95% of patients undergoing additional diagnostic thyroid testing had clinically insignificant results. The ACR guidelines can prevent unnecessary interventions. Given the 14% mortality rate in the study cohort, it is proposed that a clinical evaluation of patients is important before undergoing further diagnostics, as comorbidities may be worse than a thyroid cancer.

Background Tremendous progress in acute stroke therapy has improved short-term outcome but part of this achievement may be lost in the long run. Concepts for a better long-term management of stroke survivors are needed to address their unmet needs and to reduce the burden of post-stroke complications, residual deficits, and recurrent vascular events. Aims This review summarizes current knowledge on post-hospital care and the scientific evidence supporting individual programs. Summary of review A systematic search of electronic databases according to PRISMA guidelines identified 10,374 articles, 77 of which met the inclusion criteria. One large randomised controlled trial on a multifaceted care program delivered by the multidisciplinary stroke team reduced recurrent vascular events and improved quality of life and functional outcome one year after the event, while a number of studies offer solutions for individual components of post-hospital disease management like patient education, counselling, and self-management or the management of post-stroke complications and residual deficits. A majority of studies, however, was small in size and limited by a short follow-up. Most initiatives with a narrow focus on risk factor control failed to lower the risk of recurrent events. The caregivers’ central role in post-stroke patient management is broadly neglected in research. Conclusions Over the past years, first knowledge on how to best organize post-hospital care of stroke patients has emerged. Comprehensive and pragmatic programs operated by the multidisciplinary stroke team hold promise to reduce the long-term health burden of stroke. There is a clear need for further high-quality studies with both clinical endpoints and patient-reported outcomes to establish sustainable solutions in different settings and regions to improve life after stroke, a key priority of the Stroke Action Plan for Europe 2018–2030.

Background and Purpose: Rates of emergency medical services (EMS) utilization for acute stroke remain low nationwide, despite the time-sensitive nature of the disease. Prior research suggests several demographic and social factors are associated with EMS use. We sought to evaluate which demographic or socioeconomic factors are associated with EMS utilization in our region, thereby informing future education efforts. Methods: We performed a retrospective analysis of patients for whom the stroke code system was activated at 2 hospitals in our region. Univariate and logistic regression analysis was performed to identify factors associated with use of EMS versus private vehicle. Results: EMS use was lower in patients who were younger, had higher income, were married, more educated and in those who identified as Hispanic. Those arriving by EMS had significantly faster arrival to code, arrival to imaging, and arrival to thrombolytic treatment times. Conclusion: Analysis of regional data can identify specific populations underutilizing EMS services for acute stroke symptoms. Factors effecting EMS utilization varies by region and this information may be useful for targeted education programs promoting EMS use for acute stroke symptoms. EMS use results in more rapid evaluation and treatment of stroke patients.

Background: Reduced respiratory muscle strength leads to reduced pulmonary function, chest wall movements in the affected side, and increased chest infections, which thereby reduces oxygenation and ventilation. Respiratory muscle training can be used in acute stroke subjects to increase their pulmonary function. Purpose: To compare the short-term effects of diaphragmatic breathing exercise, flow, and volume-oriented incentive spirometry on respiratory function following stroke. Methods: A non-randomized hospital-based study was conducted at Kasturba Medical College Hospitals, Mangalore, India. Forty-two sub-acute subjects of either gender, with the first episode of stroke within six months, were assigned to three groups by the consultant, i.e., diaphragmatic breathing group (DBE), Flow oriented-incentive spirometry group (FIS), and volume oriented-incentive spirometry group (VIS; N = 14) each. All subjects received intervention thrice daily, along with conventional stroke rehabilitation protocols throughout the study period. Pre- and post-intervention values were taken on alternate days until day 5 for all the three groups. Results: The pulmonary function and maximal respiratory pressures were found to be significantly increased by the end of intervention in all three groups, but FIS and DBE groups had better results than VIS (FVC = FIS group, 13.71%; VIS group, 14.89%; DBE group, 21.27%, FEV1 = FIS group, 25.97%; VIS group, 22.52%; DBE group, 19.38%, PEFR = FIS group, 38.76%; VIS group,9.75%; DBE group, 33.16%, MIP = FIS group, 28.23%; VIS group, 19.36%; DBE group, 52.14%, MEP = FIS group, 43.00%; VIS group, 22.80%; DBE group, 28.68%). Conclusion: Even though all interventions had positive outcomes in all variables, flow incentive spirometry had better results across all outcomes (pulmonary function and maximal respiratory pressures) when compared to the other two interventions making it a valuable tool for stroke rehabilitation.

Background and Purpose: Stroke mimics constitute a good number of patients referred as acute strokes within the window period for acute therapies. Proper triaging can avoid unnecessary imaging and even thrombolytic therapies in these patients. This study looked at the etiological spectrum of acute stroke mimics presenting within the 4.5 hours therapeutic window. We also evaluated the FAST, BE FAST, and the ROSIER tools in picking true strokes. Methods: Prospective study conducted over a 2-year period. Results: Acute stroke mimics constituted 328/1635 (20%) of referrals for acute stroke after screening by the neurology stroke team. Focal and generalized seizures with transient weakness and peripheral vertigo were the commonest acute stroke mimics; followed by metabolic causes and psychiatric disorders. Females were more in the stroke mimic group ( P = .02). Ischemic heart disease and atherosclerotic risk factors (except diabetes mellitus) were significantly higher among true strokes. In total, 4 (1.2%) of the stroke mimics were treated with IV thrombolysis. Diagnostic accuracy for different stroke differentiating tools are as follows: FAST (sensitivity 85.9%, specificity 52.8%, odds 6.8), BE FAST (sensitivity 97.0%, specificity 31.4%, odds 14.9), and ROSIER scale (sensitivity 85.7%, specificity 59.4%, odds 8.7%). Conclusions: Acute stroke mimics can constitute up to 20% of cases evaluated as acute strokes by neurology stroke teams. None of the triaging tools appear to have enough accuracy. A proper history and clinical examination should be given priority over fixed protocols whenever acute stroke mimic are suspected especially before administering acute costly interventions. Auditing stroke mimics is important to improve acute stroke pathways.

Background and Aims: The use of visual stimuli to facilitate a desired response in the affected limb in mirror therapy (MT) makes it an effective treatment modality even in instances of a complete plegic upper extremity poststroke. This article analyzes the effects of MT on impairments, activity limitation, and participation restriction in the acute and chronic phases poststroke. Methods: In total, 16 out of 3871 studies were included in the meta-analysis, using PRISMA guidelines. Data were categorized based on application in stroke rehabilitation (acute/chronic, motor/sensory/neglect/activity of daily living, upper limb/lower limb), modes and dosage of intervention delivery, types of control, and outcome assessment. RevMan 5.0 software was used for analysis. Results: Studies were equally distributed between chronic and acute phases. Therapy durations lasted between 1 and 8 weeks. Most studies intervened for upper limb motor impairments showing improvement in Brunnstrom motor recovery stages of arm ( P value: .04, 95% CI, 0.05-1.54, I2 = 59%) and hand ( P value: 2 = 0%) during acute phase (0-4 weeks). “Activity/function” measured by functional independence measure showed improvement only in self-care subsection ( P value: 2 = 0%). No long-term effects were analyzed in any of the included studies. Conclusion: A significant finding of this study is the role of MT in improving arm and hand impairments in acute phase poststroke. Rehabilitation protocols can be improved based on this finding. As MT is effective, affordable, and feasible, we have made suggestions toward its incorporation in physiotherapy protocols for low- and middle-income countries.

Background Detection of left atrial appendage thrombus (LAAt) in acute stroke patients can be improved by cardiac computed tomography using prospective electrocardiogram-gated volume acquisition, which was added to the acute stroke computed tomography protocol in our institution in 2018. Aims To evaluate the factors and clinical management associated with LAAt in patients with acute ischemic stroke. Methods We retrospectively included 324 consecutive patients with ischemic stroke from November 2018 to October 2019. Clinical data and post-stroke management were compared in LAAt and no-LAAt patients. Results Thirty-five patients (10.8%; 95%CI 7.4–14.2) had LAAt and 289 had no-LAAt. LAAt patients were significantly older (82 ± 12 vs. 74 ± 14 yo for no-LAAt, p = 0.002), predominantly female (71% vs. 45%, p = 0.004), and were more likely to have previous atrial fibrillation (63% vs. 15%, p 86 ml (odds ratio 5.33; 95%CI 1.70–16.69, p = 0.004) were independently associated with LAAt. More than a third of LAAt patients (37%) received acute heparin therapy compared to 13% of no-LAAt patients (p Conclusions Cardiac computed tomography for left atrial appendage thrombus evaluation in routine acute stroke imaging protocol could be beneficial for decision-making with regard to the initiation of early anticoagulation.

BackgroundWe quantify the impact of implementing a stroke system of care requiring transport of individuals believed to have stroke to a primary stroke center, in rural and urban settings, based on time from symptom recognition to treatment, probability of receiving treatment within 3 hours of stroke onset, and probability of overcrowding. We use Indiana as an example.MethodsWe used discrete-event simulation to estimate outcomes for 2 scenarios: stroke system of care with enabling technology (mobile stroke unit, stroke team expansion) and stroke system of care with no enabling technology, as compared with the status quo. We considered patient flow from symptom recognition to treatment. Patient locations and stroke events were generated for the 92 Indiana counties in Indiana, subdivided into 1009 locations. We considered time from emergency medical service (EMS) arrival at onset to treatment, probability of tissue plasminogen activator administered within 3 h of onset, and percentage of patients admitted beyond the occupancy level at the comprehensive stroke center.ResultsResults varied by urbanicity. Under no enabling technology, having a stroke system of care improved outcomes for individuals in urban and suburban settings. However, in rural settings, the implementation of stroke system of care guidelines decreased the average rate of treatment within 3 h of stroke onset and increased the EMS arrival to treatment times compared with sending the individual to the closest provider. Enabling technologies improved outcomes regardless of setting.DiscussionGeographic disparities tend to increase the number of transfers, decrease the rate of treatment within 3 h of onset, and increase transit time. This could be overcome through federal and state initiatives to reduce quality gaps in stroke care in rural settings and promote care with dedicated stroke wards.

Delirium is associated with increased mortality, morbidity, and length of hospital stay. In the acute stroke setting, delirium identification is challenging due to the complexity of cognitive screening in this patient group. The aim of this study was to explore how members of interprofessional stroke-unit teams identified and responded to a potential delirium in a patient. Online focus groups and interviews utilizing case vignettes were conducted with 15 participants: nurses, occupational therapists, speech and language therapists, and physiotherapists working in acute stroke services. Participants’ understandings of delirium varied, most participants did not identify the symptoms of a possible hypoactive delirium, and nearly all participants discussed delirium symptoms in tentative terms. Aspects of interprofessional working were discussed through the expression of distinct roles around delirium identification. Although participants demonstrated an ethos of person-focused care, there are ongoing challenges involved in early identification and management of delirium in stroke survivors.

Introduction This study aimed to clarify factors associated with post-stroke depression in patients with acute stroke within 2 weeks of onset. Method Eighty-eight patients with stroke were divided into post-stroke depression ( n = 49) and non-post-stroke depression ( n = 39) groups based on their Hamilton Depression Rating Scale scores. We evaluated stroke severity, upper limb function, activities of daily living, frontal lobe/cognitive function, and level of apathy. Activity levels were measured using an ActiGraph GT9X Link system. Mann–Whitney U-tests were used to determine differences between the two groups. Spearman’s rank correlation and logistic regression analyses were also performed. Results The post-stroke depression and non-post-stroke depression groups exhibited significant differences in National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale scores at admission and discharge; Functional Independence Measure exercise items, cognitive items, and total items at admission; Fugl-Meyer Assessment scores; and Apathy Rating Scale scores. Logistic regression indicated that Fugl-Meyer Assessment scores were associated with post-stroke depression. Conclusion Stroke severity, paralysis, and physical function/activities of daily living ability are associated with post-stroke depression in the acute phase. Our findings suggest that increases in physical impairment severity are associated with increased post-stroke depression risks. Rehabilitation professionals should focus on identifying post-stroke depression in early post-stroke stages.

Introduction The aim of this study in patients with acute posterior ischaemic stroke (PS) and atrial fibrillation (AF) was to evaluate (1) the risks of recurrent ischaemic event and severe bleeding and (2) these risks in relation with oral anticoagulant therapy (OAT) and its timing. Materials and Methods Patients with PS were prospectively included; the outcome events of these patients were compared with those of patients with anterior stroke (AS) which were taken from previous registries. The primary outcome was the composite of stroke recurrence, transient ischaemic attack, symptomatic systemic embolism, symptomatic cerebral bleeding and major extracranial bleeding occurring within 90 days from acute stroke. Results A total of 2470 patients were available for the analysis: 473 (19.1%) with PS and 1997 (80.9%) with AS. Over 90 days, 213 (8.6%) primary outcome events were recorded: 175 (8.7%) in patients with AS and 38 (8.0%) in those with PS. In patients who initiated OAT within 2 days, the primary outcome occurred in 5 out of 95 patients (5.3%) with PS compared to 21 out of 373 patients (4.3%) with AS (OR 1.07; 95% CI 0.39–2.94). In patients who initiated OAT between days 3 and 7, the primary outcome occurred in 3 out of 103 patients (2.9%) with PS compared to 26 out of 490 patients (5.3%) with AS (OR 0.54; 95% CI 0.16–1.80). Discussion our findings suggest that, when deciding the time to initiate oral anticoagulation, the location of stroke, either anterior or posterior, does not predict the risk of outcome events. Conclusions Patients with PS or AS and AF appear to have similar risks of ischaemic or haemorrhagic events at 90 days with no difference concerning the timing of initiation of OAT.

Background and purpose To examine sex differences in disease profiles and short-term outcomes after acute ischemic stroke treated with recombinant tissue plasminogen activator. Methods Eight national and regional stroke registries contributed individual participant data from mainland China, Japan, Philippines, Singapore, South Korea and Taiwan in 2005–2018. The primary outcome was ordinal-modified Rankin scale at 90 days. Key safety outcome was symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage (sICH). Results Of 4453 patients included in the analyses, 1692 (36.3%) were women who were older, more likely to have a more severe neurological deficit, history of hypertension and atrial fibrillation, and a cardioembolic stroke compared to men. Women were more likely than men to have unfavorable shift of modified Rankin scale (fully adjusted odds ratio) (women vs. men) 1.14, 95% confidence interval 1.02–1.28). There was no significant sex difference for death 1.05 (0.84–1.31) or sICH (1.17, 0.89–1.54). Women were more likely to have unfavorable functional outcome with increasing age (P = 0.022 for interaction). In the age groups 70–80 and ≥80 years, women had a worse functional outcome compared to men (1.22, 1.02–1.47 and 1.43, and 1.06–1.92, respectively). Conclusion In this pooled data from Asian acute stroke registries, women had poorer prognosis than men after receiving recombinant tissue plasminogen activator for acute ischemic stroke, which worsened with age. Women older than 70 appear to have a worse outcome than men which could be explained by greater stroke severity, more AF, and cardioembolic stroke.

Background The NeVa™ thrombectomy device (Vesalio LLC, Nashville, USA) has been reported to succeed in large vessel occlusion thrombectomy in animal, in-vitro, and clinical studies. Designed with Drop Zone technology, a closed distal tip, and strong expansive radial force, the device demonstrated particular efficiency in resistant “white” thrombi in preclinical research. Our goal is to determine the safety and performance of this novel stent retriever on first-pass rates and overall recanalization. Methods The Interventional Neurology Database is a prospectively maintained database of anterior and posterior circulation stroke thrombectomy cases. We retrospectively analyzed cases where the NeVa™ thrombectomy device was used as the first-line treatment strategy. Data collection occurred between January 2019 and January 2020. First-pass recanalization, final recanalization, 90-day functional outcome, complication, and bleeding rates are reported. Results One hundred eighteen patients were treated with the NeVa™ thrombectomy device. The mean patient age was 69 ± 14 years, the median baseline National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale was 14, and the median initial Alberta Stroke Program Early Computed Tomography score was 8. The median time from groin puncture to successful recanalization was 29 min (interquartile range (IQR): 20–40). First-pass recanalization rates were 56.8% (modified treatment in cerebral infarction (mTICI) 2b/3) and 44.9% (mTICI 2c/3). Final successful recanalization rate was 95.8% (thrombolysis in cerebral infarction 2b/3). Favorable functional outcome (modified Rankin Scale 0–2) was 53% in the “first-pass” subgroup and 42.4% in the total patient population. The median number of passes to achieve the final recanalization score was 1 (IQR 1–2). The rate of embolization into new territory was 1.7%. Four patients (3.3%) had symptomatic hemorrhage. Conclusions In our experience, the NeVa™ device demonstrated high first-pass and overall recanalization rates along with a good safety profile.

Introduction We evaluated the impact of teleneurologists on the time to initiating acute stroke care versus traditional bedside neurologists at an advanced stroke center. Methods This observational study evaluated time to treatment for acute stroke patients at a single hospital, certified as an advanced primary stroke centre, with thrombectomy capabilities. Consecutive stroke alert patients between 1 March, 2016 and 31 March, 2018 were divided into two groups based on their neurology consultation service (bedside neurology: 1 March, 2016–28 February, 2017; teleneurology: 1 April, 2017–31 March, 2018). Door-to-tPA time and door-to-IR time for mechanical thrombectomy were compared between the two groups. Results Nine hundred and fifty-nine stroke patients met the inclusion criteria (436 bedside neurology, 523 teleneurology patients). There were no significant differences in sex, age, or stroke final diagnosis between groups ( p > 0.05). 85 bedside neurology patients received tPA and 35 had mechanical thrombectomy, 84 and 44 for the teleneurology group respectively. Door-to-tPA time (median (IQR)) was significantly higher among teleneurology (64 min (51.5–83.5)) than bedside neurology patients (45 min (34–69); p Discussion At this facility, our teleneurology services vendor was associated with a statistically significant delay in tPA administration compared with bedside neurologists. There was no difference in door-to-IR times. Delays in tPA administration make it harder to meet acute stroke care guidelines and could worsen patient outcomes.

Background and aim Bi-directional feedback mechanisms exist between the heart and brain, which have been implicated in heart failure. We postulate that aortic stenosis may alter cerebral haemodynamics and influence functional outcomes after endovascular thrombectomy for acute ischaemic stroke. We compared clinical characteristics, echocardiographic profile and outcomes in patients with or without aortic stenosis that underwent endovascular thrombectomy for large vessel occlusion acute ischaemic stroke. Methods Consecutive acute ischaemic stroke patients with anterior and posterior circulation large vessel occlusion (internal carotid artery, middle cerebral artery and basilar artery) who underwent endovascular thrombectomy were studied. Patients were divided into those with significant aortic stenosis (aortic valve area 2) and without. Univariate and multivariate analyses were employed to compare and determine predictors of functional outcomes measured by modified Rankin scale at three months. Results We identified 26 (8.5%) patients with significant aortic stenosis. These patients were older (median age 76 (interquartile range 68–84) vs. 67 (interquartile range 56–75) years, p = 0.001), but similar in terms of medical comorbidities and echocardiographic profile. Rates of successful recanalisation (73.1% vs. 78.0%), symptomatic intracranial haemorrhage (7.7% and 7.9%) and mortality (11.5% vs. 12.6%) were similar. Significant aortic stenosis was independently associated with poorer functional outcome (modified Rankin scale >2) at three months (adjusted odds ratio 2.7, 95% confidence interval 1.1–7.5, p = 0.048), after adjusting for age, door-to-puncture times, stroke severity and rates of successful recanalisation. Conclusion In acute ischaemic stroke patients managed with endovascular thrombectomy, significant aortic stenosis is associated with poor functional outcome despite comparable recanalisation rates. Larger cohort studies are needed to explore this relationship further.

Background Since 2015, endovascular therapy has been established as a standard of care for acute stroke. This has caused major challenges regarding the organization of systems of care, which have to meet the increasing demand for thrombectomies. This study aims to evaluate how endovascular therapy decisions made by European and North American physicians under their current local resources differ from those made under assumed ideal conditions. Methods In an international, multidisciplinary survey, physicians involved in acute stroke care were asked to give their treatment decisions to 10 out of 22 randomly assigned stroke case-scenarios. Participants stated (a) their treatment approach under assumed ideal conditions (without any external limitations) and (b) the treatment they would pursue under their current local resources. Resources gaps (ideal minus current endovascular therapy rates) were calculated for different countries/states/provinces and correlated to economic and healthcare key metrics (gross domestic product-per-capita, public or private health insurance coverage, etc.). Results A total of 607 physicians, among them 218 from North America and 136 from 25 European countries, responded to the survey. Resources gaps in the majority of North American states/provinces and European countries were small (Discussion and conclusion In the majority of North American states/provinces and European countries covered in this study, the discrepancy between endovascular therapy decisions under current local resources and assumed ideal conditions seems to be small, even in countries with a limited economic status and healthcare infrastructure.

Background Determining the cost of hospitalization for acute stroke is important in the appropriate allocation of resources for public health facilities and in the cost effectiveness analysis of interventions. Despite being the second leading cause of mortality in the Philippines, there are no published data on the cost of stroke in the country. Aim The study aims to determine the in-hospitalization cost for stroke (IHCS) in a tertiary public hospital in the Philippines and identify the factors influencing IHCS. Methods The study was a retrospective review of the medical and billing records of the hospital. Adult patients admitted for acute stroke between 1 June 2017 and 31 May 2018 were included in the analysis. After the mean cost of stroke was determined, multivariate logistic regression analysis was done to determine demographic and clinical characteristics that were predictive of stroke cost. Results A total of 863 patient records were analyzed. The median in-hospitalization cost for stroke was PHP 17,141.50 or US$329.52. Independent determinants of higher cost include male sex (p = 0.021), stroke type (hemorrhagic stroke, p = 0.001; subarachnoid hemorrhage, p Conclusion The study provided current data on the in-hospitalization cost of acute stroke in a public tertiary hospital in the Philippines. Male sex, stroke type, lower GCS on admission, surgical intervention, intravenous thrombolysis, infection, length of hospital stay, and mechanical ventilation were independent predictors of cost.

Background Intraventricular hemorrhage occurs due to intracerebral hemorrhage with intraventricular extension or without apparent parenchymal involvement, known as primary intraventricular hemorrhage. Aims We evaluated the prognosis of primary intraventricular hemorrhage patients in the CLEAR III trial (Clot Lysis: Evaluating Accelerated Resolution of Intraventricular Hemorrhage). Methods In patients with primary intraventricular hemorrhage versus those with secondary intraventricular hemorrhage, we compared intraventricular alteplase response and outcomes including modified Rankin Scale, Barthel Index, National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS), and extended Glasgow Outcome Scale (eGOS) at 30, 180, and 365 days. Outcomes were also compared in primary intraventricular hemorrhage patients who received intraventricular alteplase versus placebo (normal saline) and in matched primary and secondary intraventricular hemorrhage patients using inverse-probability-weighted regression adjustment. Results Of 500 patients enrolled in CLEAR III, 46 (9.2%) had primary intraventricular hemorrhage. Combining both treatment groups, primary intraventricular hemorrhage patients had larger intraventricular hemorrhage volumes (median: 34.2 mL vs. 20.8 mL, p Conclusions In CLEAR III, primary intraventricular hemorrhage patients who survived achieved better long-term outcomes than surviving secondary intraventricular hemorrhage patients with similar mortality. Outcomes and safety were similar between primary intraventricular hemorrhage patients receiving alteplase and those receiving saline.

Introduction Missing outcome data may undermine interpretation of randomised clinical trials by weakening power and limiting apparent effect size. We assessed bias and inefficiency of two imputation methods commonly used in stroke trials evaluating the efficacy of iv thrombolysis. Patients and methods We searched the virtual international stroke trials archive (VISTA)-acute for ischaemic stroke patients with 90-day modified Rankin scale as an outcome, and known thrombolysis status. We excluded any with missing 30-day modified Rankin scale. We planned two analyses; first, we calculated odds ratios for outcome in thrombolysed versus not thrombolysed from imputed-only data, (a) among patients with missing modified Rankin scale 90 and (b) among matched patients with intact data (using propensity score methods and relevant covariates). Imputation approaches were last observation carried forward (LOCF) or multiple imputation. Outcome comparisons used dichotomisation and shift analysis. Thereafter, we calculated whole-population odds ratios using LOCF and multiple imputation (also through dichotomisation and shift analysis); first with the original 1.5% missing outcome data, and then artificially increasing the burden (5%; 10%; 20%; 30%). Results We considered 9657 patients from eight of the studies included in VISTA, 3034 (31%) thrombolysed. Missing data replacement by LOCF with analysis by dichotomisation gave the highest estimate of thrombolysis influence. Imputing while increasing the burden of missing data progressively raised the odds ratios estimates, though thresholds for overestimation were 10% for LOCF; 20% for multiple imputation. Discussion: Replacing missing outcome data tended to overestimate differences of thrombolysed versus non-thrombolysed patients, but had minimal impact below a 10% burden of missing data. Conclusion: In the specific context of acute stroke trials testing iv thrombolytics, replacing missing data by carrying forward the last observation tended to overestimate treatment odds ratios more than multiple imputation.

Several recent randomised control trials have shown adjunctive endovascular mechanical thrombectomy to be an effective and safe treatment for acute stroke superior to medical therapy alone. Despite this, questions remain over certain groups of patients that have been excluded from these studies, such as pregnant women. We believe this is a topic of increasing clinical significance with minimal data in the literature. In this article we discuss stroke in pregnancy and highlight the important technical considerations of endovascular mechanical thrombectomy, including minimising radiation exposure to the mother and fetus.

Background Repeated mechanical thrombectomy for acute stroke treatment in individual patients has been proven feasible. However, less is known about the etiology of recurrent vessel occlusions after prior thrombectomy. We aimed to understand if the etiology of such recurrent events differs from the first stroke. Methods Retrospectively, we identified all patients at our center who received a repeated mechanical thrombectomy between 2007 and 2019. Clinical data were retrieved from medical records. Etiology of stroke was evaluated retrospectively, and angiographic studies were revisited. Results Twenty-three patients (1.5%) were identified. Median age was 68 years (IQR 56–77). Median NIHSS at first admission was 11 points (IQR 5–15). In nine cases (39.1%), the recurrent vessel occlusion was located exactly at the same position as the prior occlusion. Overall, five (21.7%) patients had a remarkable extracranial pathology as likely cause of stroke recurrence. In 16 patients (69.6%), the etiology of the first stroke and its recurrence was considered as likely being the same, mostly of cardioembolic or unknown origin. In the seven remaining patients (30.4%), the cause of stroke possibly differed from the first event, with five patients (21.7%) having a postinterventional intracranial intimal lesion as possible cause of stroke. Conclusion Incidence of repeated thrombectomy was low. However, the high number of patients with known origin of stroke etiology raises the question how their monitoring may be optimized. The number of patients with remarkable extracranial pathologies or intracranial endothelial lesions supports current clinical practice to pay attention to final angiographic series.

Background Stroke patients are often inactive outside of structured therapy sessions – an enduring international challenge despite large scale organizational changes, national guidelines and performance targets. We examined whether experienced-based co-design (EBCD) – an improvement methodology – could address inactivity in stroke units. Aims To evaluate the feasibility and impact of patients, carers, and staff co-designing and implementing improvements to increase supervised and independent therapeutic patient activity in stroke units and to compare use of full and accelerated EBCD cycles. Methods Mixed-methods case comparison in four stroke units in England. Results Interviews were held with 156 patients, staff, and carers in total; ethnographic observations for 364 hours, behavioral mapping of 68 patients, and self-report surveys from 179 patients, pre- and post-implementation of EBCD improvement cycles. Three priority areas emerged: (1) ‘Space’ (environment); (2) ‘Activity opportunities’ and (3) ‘Communication’. More than 40 improvements were co-designed and implemented to address these priorities across participating units. Post-implementation interview and ethnographic observational data confirmed use of new social spaces and increased activity opportunities. However, staff interactions remained largely task-driven with limited focus on enabling patient activity. Behavioral mapping indicated some increases in social, cognitive, and physical activity post-implementation, but was variable across sites. Survey responses rates were low at 12–38% and inconclusive. Conclusion It was feasible to implement EBCD in stroke units. This resulted in multiple improvements in stroke unit environments and increased activity opportunities but minimal change in recorded activity levels. There was no discernible difference in experience or outcome between full and accelerated EBCD; this methodology could be used across hospital stroke units to assist staff and other stakeholders to co-design and implement improvement plans.