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Background and Purpose— Mechanical thrombectomy (MT) devices have led to improved reperfusion and clinical outcomes in acute ischemic stroke patients with emergent large vessel occlusions; however, less than one-third of patients achieve complete reperfusion. Use of intraarterial thrombolysis in the context of MT may provide an opportunity to enhance these results. Here, we evaluate the use of intraarterial rtPA (recombinant tissue-type plasminogen activator) as rescue therapy (RT) after failed MT in the North American Solitaire Stent-Retriever Acute Stroke registry. Methods— The North American Solitaire Stent-Retriever Acute Stroke registry recruited sites within North America to submit data on acute ischemic stroke patients treated with the Solitaire device. After restricting the population of 354 patients to use of RT and anterior emergent large vessel occlusions, we compared patients who were treated with and without intraarterial rtPA after failed MT. Results— A total of 37 and 44 patients was in the intraarterial rtPA RT and the no intraarterial rtPA RT groups, respectively. Revascularization success (modified Thrombolysis in Cerebral Infarction ≥2b) was achieved in more intraarterial rtPA RT patients (61.2% versus 46.6%; P =0.13) with faster times to recanalization (100±85 versus 164±235 minutes; P =0.36) but was not statistically significant. The rate of symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (13.9% versus 6.8%; P =0.29) and mortality (42.9% versus 44.7%; P =0.87) were similar between the groups. Good functional outcome (modified Rankin Scale score of ≤2) was numerically higher in intraarterial rtPA patients (22.9% versus 18.4%; P =0.64). Further restriction of the RT population to M1 occlusions only and time of onset to groin puncture ≤8 hours, resulted in significantly higher successful revascularization rates in the intraarterial rtPA RT cohort (77.8% versus 38.9%; P =0.02). Conclusions— Intraarterial rtPA as RT demonstrated a similar safety and clinical outcome profile, with higher reperfusion rates achieved in patients with M1 occlusions. Prospective studies are needed to delineate the role of intraarterial thrombolysis in MT.

Introduction: Penumbra SMART COIL® (SMART) System is a novel generation embolic coil with varying stiffness. The study purpose was to report real-world usage of the SMART System in patients with intracranial aneurysms (ICA) and non-aneurysm vascular lesions.Materials and Methods: The SMART Registry is a post-market, prospective, multicenter registry requiring ≥75% Penumbra Coils, including SMART, PC400, and/or POD coils. The primary efficacy endpoint was retreatment rate at 1-year and the primary safety endpoint was the procedural device-related serious adverse event rate.Results: Between June 2016 and August 2018, 995 patients (mean age 59.6 years, 72.1% female) were enrolled at 68 sites in the U.S. and Canada. Target lesions were intracranial aneurysms in 91.0% of patients; 63.5% were wide-neck and 31.8% were ruptured. Adjunctive devices were used in 55.2% of patients. Mean packing density was 32.3%. Procedural device-related serious adverse events occurred in 2.6% of patients. The rate of immediate post-procedure adequate occlusion was 97.1% in aneurysms and the rate of complete occlusion was 85.2% in non-aneurysms. At 1-year, the retreatment rate was 6.8%, Raymond Roy Occlusion Classification (RROC) I or II was 90.0% for aneurysms, and Modified Rankin Scale (mRS) 0-2 was achieved in 83.1% of all patients. Predictors of 1-year for RROC III or retreatment (incomplete occlusion) were rupture status (P < 0.0001), balloon-assisted coiling (P = 0.0354), aneurysm size (P = 0.0071), and RROC III immediate post-procedure (P = 0.0086) in a model that also included bifurcation aneurysm (P = 0.7788). Predictors of aneurysm retreatment at 1-year was rupture status (P < 0.0001).Conclusions: Lesions treated with SMART System coils achieved low long-term retreatment rates.Clinical Trial Registration:https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/, identifier NCT02729740.

Introduction: Despite advanced imaging and rapid recanalization, the majority of patients with large vessel occlusion (LVO) acute ischemic stroke (AIS) do not achieve functional independence at 90 days. Here, we explore the hypothesis that prolonged ischemia worsens clinical outcome beyond changes reflected in final infarct size, particularly in elderly patients. Methods: From the prospective, multicenter COMPLETE (Penumbra, Inc) registry, patients were included if they underwent endovascular therapy (EVT) for anterior circulation LVO, achieved TICI 2b/3 reperfusion, and EVT began within 90 minutes of imaging. Final infarct volumes (FIV) were measured on 24-48h post-EVT scans using ASPECTS. Multivariable logistic regression was used to determine the effect of stroke onset to hospital arrival time (OTA) on likelihood of functional independence (mRS 0-2) at 90 days, adjusting for age, NIHSS, occlusion location, pre-morbid mRS and final infarct. The effect of OTA on outcome was evaluated in older vs. younger patients using propensity score matching. Data are presented as median [IQR] or OR [95% CI]. Results: Among 302 patients, median age was 71 [61-79], NIHSS was 15 [10-20], 56% were female, median OTA was 154 [75-320]. Median FIV ASPECTS was 7 [6-8]. In multivariable analysis adjusting for FIV, longer OTA was associated with decreased likelihood of functional independence (OR 0.74 [0.57-0.96]). FIV-independent worsening with prolonged OTA was more pronounced with advanced age (Figure). Using propensity score matching, elderly patients (age > 70) matched by age, NIHSS, occlusion location and FIV were less likely to have functional independence with prolonged OTA (Coef -0.2, p Conclusions: In patients with LVO AIS who achieve successful reperfusion, delays in EVT reduce the likelihood of good clinical outcomes independent of FIV. This effect is more pronounced with advanced age.

Background and Purpose— In acute ischemic stroke, fast and complete recanalization of the occluded vessel is associated with improved outcomes. We describe a novel measure for newer generation devices: the first pass effect (FPE). FPE is defined as achieving a complete recanalization with a single thrombectomy device pass. Methods— The North American Solitaire Acute Stroke Registry database was used to identify a FPE subgroup. Their baseline features and clinical outcomes were compared with non-FPE patients. Clinical outcome measures included 90-days modified Rankin Scale score, National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score, mortality, and symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage. Multivariate analyses were performed to determine whether FPE independently resulted in improved outcomes and to identify predictors of FPE. Results— A total of 354 acute ischemic stroke patients underwent thrombectomy in the North American Solitaire Acute Stroke registry. FPE was achieved in 89 out of 354 (25.1%). More middle cerebral artery occlusions (64% versus 52.5%) and fewer internal carotid artery occlusions (10.1% versus 27.7%) were present in the FPE group. Balloon guide catheters were used more frequently with FPE (64.0% versus 34.7%). Median time to revascularization was significantly faster in the FPE group (median 34 versus 60 minutes; P =0.0003). FPE was an independent predictor of good clinical outcome (modified Rankin Scale score ≤2 was seen in 61.3% in FPE versus 35.3% in non-FPE cohort; P =0.013; odds ratio, 1.7; 95% confidence interval, 1.1–2.7). The independent predictors of achieving FPE were use of balloon guide catheters and non-internal carotid artery terminus occlusion. Conclusions— The achievement of complete revascularization from a single Solitaire thrombectomy device pass (FPE) is associated with significantly higher rates of good clinical outcome. The FPE is more frequently associated with the use of balloon guide catheters and less likely to be achieved with internal carotid artery terminus occlusion.

Background: Various techniques are used to enhance the results of mechanical thrombectomy with stent-retrievers, including proximal arrest with balloon guide catheter (BGC), conventional large bore proximal catheter (CGC), or in combination with local aspiration through a large-bore catheter positioned at the clot interface (Aspiration-Retriever Technique for Stroke [ARTS]). We evaluated the impact of ARTS in the North American Solitaire Acute Stroke (NASA) registry. Summary: Data on the use of the aspiration technique were available for 285 anterior circulation patients, of which 29 underwent ARTS technique, 131 CGC, and 125 BGC. Baseline demographics were comparable, except that ARTS patients are less likely to have hypertension or atrial fibrillation. The ARTS group had more ICA occlusions (41.4 vs. 22% in the BGC, p = 0.04 and 26% in CGC, p = 0.1) and less MCA/M1 occlusions (44.8 vs. 68% in BGC and 62% in CGC). Time from arterial puncture to reperfusion or end of procedure with ARTS was shorter than with CGC (54 vs. 91 min, p = 0.001) and was comparable to the BGC time (54 vs. 67, p = 0.11). Final degree of reperfusion was comparable among the groups (TICI [modified Thrombolysis in Cerebral Infarction] score 2b or higher was 72 vs. 70% for CGC vs. 78% for BGC). Procedural complications, mortality, and good clinical outcome at 90 days were similar between the groups. Key Messages: The ARTS mechanical thrombectomy in acute ischemic stroke patients appears to yield better results as compared to the use of CGCs with no significant difference when compared to BGC. This early ARTS technique NASA registry data are limited by the earlier generation distal large bore catheters and small sample size. Future studies should focus on the comparison of ARTS and BGC techniques.

Background and Purpose— Failure to recanalize predicts mortality in acute ischemic stroke. In the North American Solitaire Acute Stroke registry, we investigated parameters associated with mortality in successfully recanalized patients. Methods— Logistic regression was used to evaluate baseline characteristics and recanalization parameters for association with 90-day mortality. A multivariable model was developed based on backward selection with retention criteria of P P ≤0.10), then refit to minimize the number of excluded cases (missing data). Results— Successfully recanalized patients had lower mortality (25.2% [59/234] versus 46.9% [38/81] P P =0.205). However, mortality was significantly higher in patients with symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (72% [23/32] versus 26% [73/281]; P P P c index=0.72), proximal occlusion, initial National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale≥18, and use of rescue therapy remained significant independent predictors of 90-day mortality. Conclusions— Failure to recanalize and presence of symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage resulted in increased mortality. Despite successful recanalization, proximal occlusion, high National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale, and need for rescue therapy were predictors of mortality.

Background and Purpose— The Solitaire With the Intention for Thrombectomy (SWIFT) and thrombectomy revascularization of large vessel occlusions in acute ischemic stroke (TREVO 2) trial results demonstrated improved recanalization rates with mechanical thrombectomy; however, outcomes in the elderly population remain poorly understood. Here, we report the effect of age on clinical and angiographic outcome within the North American Solitaire-FR Stent-Retriever Acute Stroke (NASA) Registry. Methods— The NASA Registry recruited sites to submit data on consecutive patients treated with Solitaire-FR. Influence of age on clinical and angiographic outcomes was assessed by dichotomizing the cohort into ≤80 and >80 years of age. Results— Three hundred fifty-four patients underwent treatment in 24 centers; 276 patients were ≤80 years and 78 were >80 years of age. Mean age in the ≤80 and >80 cohorts was 62.2±13.2 and 85.2±3.8 years, respectively. Of patients >80 years, 27.3% had a 90-day modified Rankin Score ≤2 versus 45.4% ≤80 years ( P =0.02). Mortality was 43.9% and 27.3% in the >80 and ≤80 years cohorts, respectively ( P =0.01). There was no significant difference in time to revascularization, revascularization success, or symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage between the groups. Multivariate analysis showed age >80 years as an independent predictor of poor clinical outcome and mortality. Within the >80 cohort, National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS), revascularization rate, rescue therapy use, and symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage were independent predictors of mortality. Conclusion— Greater than 80 years of age is predictive of poor clinical outcome and increased mortality compared with younger patients in the NASA registry. However, intravenous tissue-type plasminogen activator use, lower NIHSS, and shorter revascularization time are associated with better outcomes. Further studies are needed to understand the endovascular therapy role in this cohort compared with medical therapy.

Background: Patients with minor acute ischemic stroke or transient ischemic attack are at high risk for subsequent stroke, and more potent antiplatelet therapy in the acute setting is needed. However, the potential benefit of more intense antiplatelet therapy must be assessed in relation to the risk for major bleeding. The SOCRATES trial (Acute Stroke or Transient Ischemic Attack Treated With Aspirin or Ticagrelor and Patient Outcomes) was the first trial with ticagrelor in patients with acute ischemic stroke or transient ischemic attack in which the efficacy and safety of ticagrelor were compared with those of aspirin. The main safety objective was assessment of PLATO (Platelet Inhibition and Patient Outcomes)–defined major bleeds on treatment, with special focus on intracranial hemorrhage (ICrH). Methods: An independent adjudication committee blinded to study treatment classified bleeds according to the PLATO, TIMI (Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction), and GUSTO (Global Use of Strategies to Open Occluded Coronary Arteries) definitions. The definitions of ICrH and major bleeding excluded cerebral microbleeds and asymptomatic hemorrhagic transformations of cerebral infarctions so that the definitions better discriminated important events in the acute stroke population. Results: A total of 13 130 of 13 199 randomized patients received at least 1 dose of study drug and were included in the safety analysis set. PLATO major bleeds occurred in 31 patients (0.5%) on ticagrelor and 38 patients (0.6%) on aspirin (hazard ratio, 0.83; 95% confidence interval, 0.52–1.34). The most common locations of major bleeds were intracranial and gastrointestinal. ICrH was reported in 12 patients (0.2%) on ticagrelor and 18 patients (0.3%) on aspirin. Thirteen of all 30 ICrHs (4 on ticagrelor and 9 on aspirin) were hemorrhagic strokes, and 4 (2 in each group) were symptomatic hemorrhagic transformations of brain infarctions. The ICrHs were spontaneous in 6 and 13, traumatic in 3 and 3, and procedural in 3 and 2 patients on ticagrelor and aspirin, respectively. In total, 9 fatal bleeds occurred on ticagrelor and 4 on aspirin. The composite of ICrH or fatal bleeding included 15 patients on ticagrelor and 18 on aspirin. Independently of bleeding classification, PLATO, TIMI, or GUSTO, the relative difference between treatments for major/severe bleeds was similar. Nonmajor bleeds were more common on ticagrelor. Conclusions: Antiplatelet therapy with ticagrelor in patients with acute ischemic stroke or transient ischemic attack showed a bleeding profile similar to that of aspirin for major bleeds. There were few ICrHs. Clinical Trial Registration: URL: http://www.clinicaltrials.gov . Unique identifier: NCT01994720.

Affordance perception comprises the evaluation of whether our given bodily capabilities and properties of the environment allow particular actions. Typical impairments after left brain damage in motor cognition as well as after right brain damage in visuo-spatial abilities may affect the evaluation of whether interactions with objects are possible. Further it is unclear whether deficient motor function is accounted for when deciding upon action opportunities. For these purposes we developed a paradigm with two tasks that differ in their type of demands on affordance perception and tested it in healthy young adults ( Randerath and Frey, 2016 ). Here, we applied one of these two tasks in stroke patients and age matched healthy participants. A sample of 34 stroke patients with either left (LBD) or right brain damage (RBD) and 29 healthy controls made decisions about whether their hands would fit through a defined horizontal aperture presented in various sizes, while they remained still. Data was analyzed using a detection theory approach and included criterion, perceptual sensitivity and diagnostic accuracy as dependent variables. In addition we applied modern voxel based lesion analyses to explore neural correlates. Compared to controls, both patient groups demonstrated lower perceptual sensitivity. As predicted, increased motor cognitive deficiencies after left brain damage and visuo-spatial deficits after right brain damage were associated with worse performance. Preliminary lesion analyses demonstrated that next to lesions in ventro-dorsal regions, damage in the cortex-claustrum-cingulate pathway may affect perceptual sensitivity. Results were similar for left and right brain damage suggesting a bilateral network. Accordingly, we propose that perceptual sensitivity for affordance based judgments is a capability depending on motor-cognitive and visuo-spatial processing, which frequently is deficient after left or right brain damage, respectively. Further research on diagnostics and training in affordance perception after brain damage is needed.

Background and Purpose— Previous work that predated the availability of the safer stent-retriever devices has suggested that general anesthesia (GA) may have a negative impact on outcomes in patients with acute ischemic stroke undergoing endovascular therapy. Methods— We reviewed demographic, clinical, procedural (GA versus local anesthesia [LA], etc), and site-adjudicated angiographic and clinical outcomes data from consecutive patients treated with the Solitaire FR device in the investigator-initiated North American SOLITAIRE Stent-Retriever Acute Stroke (NASA) Registry. The primary outcomes were 90-day modified Rankin Scale, mortality, and symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage. Results— A total of 281 patients from 18 centers were enrolled. GA was used in 69.8% (196/281) of patients. Baseline demographic and procedural factors were comparable between the LA and GA groups, except the former demonstrated longer time-to-groin puncture (395.4±254 versus 337.4±208 min; P =0.04), lower National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS; 16.2±5.8 versus 18.8±6.9; P =0.002), lower balloon-guide catheter usage (22.4% versus 49.2%; P =0.0001), and longer fluoroscopy times (39.5±33 versus 28±22.8 min; P =0.008). Recanalization (thrombolysis in cerebral infarction ≥2b; 72.94% versus 73.6%; P =0.9) and rate of symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (7.1% versus 11.2%; P =0.4) were similar but modified Rankin Scale ≤2 was achieved in more LA patients, 52.6% versus 35.6% (odds ratio, 1.4 [1.1–1.8]; P =0.01). In multivariate analysis, hypertension, NIHSS, unsuccessful revascularization, and GA use (odds ratio, 3.3 [1.6–7.1]; P =0.001) were associated with death. When only anterior circulation and elective GA patients were included, there was a persistent difference in good outcomes in favor of LA patients (50.7% versus 35.5%; odds ratio, 1.3 [1.01–1.6]; P =0.04). Conclusions— The NASA Registry has demonstrated that clinical outcomes and survival are significantly better in patients treated with LA, without increased symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage risk. Future trials should prospectively evaluate the effect of GA on outcomes.

Background and purposeEndovascular techniques are frequently employed to treat large artery occlusion in acute ischemic stroke (AIS). We sought to determine the predictors and clinical impact of intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) after endovascular therapy.MethodsRetrospective analysis of consecutive patients presenting to 13 high volume stroke centers with AIS due to proximal occlusion in the anterior circulation who underwent endovascular treatment within 8 h from symptom onset. Logistic regression was performed to determine the variables associated with ICH, hemorrhagic infarction (HI), and parenchymal hematomas (PHs), as well as 90 day poor outcome (modified Rankin Scale score ≥3) and mortality.ResultsThere were a total of 363 ICHs (overall rate 32.3%; HI=267, 24%; PH=96, 8.5%) among the 1122 study patients (mean age 67±15 years; median National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score 17 (IQR 13-20)). Independent predictors for HI included diabetes mellitus (OR 2.27, 95% CI (1.58 to 3.26), p

Objective This case report is designed to illustrate an uncommon presentation of osteoradionecrosis (ORN) of the temporal bone and a treatment method for bloody otorrhea from a pseudoaneurysm of the internal carotid artery (ICA). Design This is a single patient case report Setting University of Missouri-Columbia Hospital and Clinics. Participants The report describes a patient with a history of hypopharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (SCCA) who was previously treated with chemoradiation therapy and salvage bilateral neck dissections and then presented in a delayed fashion with profuse, episodic bloody otorrhea. Computed tomography (CT) was consistent with ORN of the temporal bone. The patient underwent emergent cerebral angiography. A pseudoaneurysm of the cervicopetrous ICA was confirmed to be the source of the patient's bloody otorrhea. The lesion was treated by endovascular sacrifice of the ICA using the two-catheter coiling technique. Results The patient had no neurologic sequelae or further bleeding after treatment. Conclusions Bloody otorrhea is an uncommon presentation of ORN. Sacrifice of the internal carotid can be considered as a treatment when the source is pseudoaneurysmal.

Background: The Interventional Management of Stroke III (IMS-III) trial demonstrated no benefit for intravenous recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (IV rt-PA) followed by endovascular therapy versus IV rt-PA alone. However, IMS-III mostly included earlier generation devices. The recent thrombectomy trials have incorporated the stent-retriever technology, but their generalizability remains unknown. Methods: The North American Solitaire Acute Stroke (NASA) registry recruited patients treated with the Solitaire FR™ device between March 2012 and February 2013. The NASA-IMS-III-Like Group (NILG baseline NIHSS score ≥10 who received IV rt-PA) was compared to the IV rt-PA and IV + intra-arterial (IA)-IMS-III groups and the MR CLEAN, ESCAPE, SWIFT Prime, and REVASCAT trial controls to assess the stent-retriever treatment in the ‘real-world' setting. The NILG was also compared to non-IV rt-PA NASA patients to evaluate the impact of IV rt-PA on thrombectomy. Results: A total of 136 of the 354 NASA patients fulfilled criteria for the NILG. Baseline characteristics were well balanced across groups. Time from onset to puncture was higher in NILG than IV+IA-IMS-III patients (274 ± 112 vs. 208 ± 47 min, p < 0.0001). Occlusions involving the intracranial ICA, MCA-M1, or basilar arteries were more common in NILG than IV+IA-IMS-III patients (91.2 vs. 47.2%, p < 0.00001). Modified thrombolysis in cerebral infarction ≥2b reperfusion was higher in NILG than IV+IA-IMS-III patients (74.3 vs. 39.6%, p < 0.00001). A 90-day modified Rankin Scale score ≤2 was more frequent in the NILG than IV+IA-IMS-III patients (51.9 vs. 40.8%, p = 0.03) and MR CLEAN (51.9 vs. 19.1%, p < 0.00001), ESCAPE (51.9 vs. 29.3%, p = 0.0002), SWIFT Prime (51.9 vs. 35.5%, p = 0.02), and REVASCAT (51.9 vs. 28.2%, p = 0.0003) controls. Symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage definitions varied across the different studies with rates ranging from 2.7% (ESCAPE) to 11.9% (NILG). The NILG 90-day mortality (24.4%) was higher than in SWIFT Prime but comparable to all other groups. IV rt-PA was an independent predictor of good outcome in NASA (OR = 2.3, 95% CI 1.2-4.7). Conclusion: Our results support the ‘real-world' applicability of the recent thrombectomy trials.

BackgroundTime to reperfusion following endovascular treatment (ET) predicts outcomes after acute ischemic stroke (AIS).ObjectiveTo assess the time–outcome relationship within reperfusion grades in the North American Solitaire Acute Stroke registry.MethodsWe identified patients given ET for anterior circulation ischemic stroke within 8 h from onset and in whom reperfusion was achieved. Together with clinical and outcome data, site-adjudicated modified Thrombolysis in Cerebral Ischemia (TICI) was recorded. We assessed the impact of time to reperfusion (onset to procedure completion time) on good outcome (modified Rankin Scale 0–2 at 3 months) in patients who achieved TICI 2 or higher reperfusion in multivariable models. We further assessed this relationship within strata of reperfusion grades. A pResultsIndependent predictors of good outcome at 3 months among those achieving TICI ≥2a reperfusion (n=188) were initial National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score (adjusted OR=0.90, 95% CI 0.85 to 0.95), symptomatic hemorrhage (adj. OR=0.16, 95% CI 0.05 to 0.60), TICI grade (TICI 3: adj. OR=11.52, 95% CI 3.34 to 39.77; TICI 2b: adj. OR=5.14, 95% CI 1.61 to 16.39), and time to reperfusion per 30 min interval (adj. OR=0.91, 95% CI 0.82 to 0.99). There was an interaction between final TICI grade and 30 min time to reperfusion intervals (p=0.001) such that the effect of time was strongest in TICI 2a patients.ConclusionsTime to reperfusion was a strong predictor of outcome following ET for AIS. However, the effect varied by TICI grade such that its greatest effect was in those achieving TICI 2a reperfusion.

BACKGROUND: Reperfusion therapy for acute ischemic stroke (AIS) is rapidly evolving, with the development of multiple endovascular modalities that can be used alone or in combination. OBJECTIVE: To determine which pharmacologic or mechanical modality may be associated with increased rates of recanalization. METHODS: A cohort of 1122 patients with AIS involving the anterior circulation treated at 13 stroke centers underwent intra-arterial (IA) therapy within 8 hours of symptom onset. Demographic information, admission National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS), mechanical and pharmacologic treatments used, recanalization grade, and hemorrhagic complications were recorded. RESULTS: The mean age was 6 7 ± 16 years and the median NIHSS was 1 7. The sites of arterial occlusion before treatment were M1 middle cerebral artery (MCA) in 561 (50%) patients, carotid terminus in 214 (19%) patients, M2 MCA in 171 (15%) patients, tandem occlusions in 141 (13%) patients, and isolated extracranial internal carotid artery occlusion in 35 (3%) patients. Therapeutic interventions included multimodal therapy in 584 (52%) patients, pharmacologic therapy only in 264 (24%) patients, and mechanical therapy only in 274 (24%) patients. Patients treated with multimodal therapy had a significantly higher Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction 2 or 3 recanalization rate (435 patients [74%]) compared with pharmacologic therapy only (160 patients, [61%]) or mechanical only therapy (173 patients [63%]), P < .001. In binary logistic regression modeling, independent predictors of Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction 2 or 3 recanalization were use of IA thrombolytic OR 1.58 (1.21-2.08), P < .001 and stent deployment 1.91 (1.23-2.96), P < .001. CONCLUSION: Multimodal therapy has significantly higher recanalization rates compared with pharmacologic or mechanical therapy. Among the individual treatment modalities, stent deployment or IA thrombolytics increase the chance of recanalization.

Object The authors evaluated the prognostic significance of blood glucose level at admission (BGA) and change in blood glucose at 48 hours from the baseline value (CG48) in nondiabetic and diabetic patients before and after endovascular therapy for acute ischemic stroke (AIS). Methods The BGA and CG48 data were analyzed in 614 patients with AIS who received endovascular therapy at 7 US centers between 2006 and 2009. Data reviewed included demographics, stroke risk factors, diabetic status, National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score at presentation, recanalization grade, intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) rate, and 90-day outcomes (mortality rate and modified Rankin Scale score of 3–6 [defined as poor outcome]). Variables with p values < 0.2 in univariate analysis were included in a binary logistic regression model for independent predictors of 90-day outcomes. Results The mean patient age was 67.3 years, the median NIHSS score was 16, and 27% of patients had diabetes. In nondiabetic patients, BGA ≥ 116 mg/dl (≥ 6.4 mmol/L) and failure of glucose level to drop > 30 mg/dl (> 1.7 mmol/L) from the admission value were both significant predictors of 90-day poor outcome and death (p < 0.001). In patients with diabetes, BGA ≥ 116 mg/dl (≥ 6.4 mmol/L) was an independent predictor of poor outcome (p = 0.001). The CG48 was not a predictor of outcome in diabetic patients. A simplified 6-point scale including BGA, Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction (TIMI) Grade 2–3 Reperfusion, Age, presentation NIHSS score, CG48, and symptomatic ICH (BRANCH) corresponded with poor outcomes at 90 days; the area under the curve value was > 0.79. Conclusions Failure of blood glucose values to decrease in the first 48 hours after AIS intervention correlated with poor 90-day outcomes in nondiabetic patients. The BRANCH scale shows promise as a simple prognostication tool after endovascular therapy for AIS, and it merits prospective validation.

Background and Purpose— Patients undergoing intra-arterial therapy (IAT) for acute ischemic stroke receive either general anesthesia (GA) or conscious sedation. GA may delay time to treatment, whereas conscious sedation may result in patient movement and compromise the safety of the procedure. We sought to determine whether there were differences in safety and outcomes in GA patients before initiation of IAT. Methods— A cohort of 980 patients at 12 stroke centers underwent IAT for acute stroke between 2005 and 2009. Only patients with anterior circulation strokes due to large-vessel occlusion were included in the study. A binary logistic-regression model was used to determine independent predictors of good outcome and death. Results— The mean age was 66±15 years and median National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score was 17 (interquartile range, 13–20). The overall recanalization rate was 68% and the symptomatic hemorrhage rate was 9.2%. GA was used in 44% of patients with no differences in intracranial hemorrhage rates when compared with the conscious sedation group. The use of GA was associated with poorer neurologic outcome at 90 days (odds ratio=2.33; 95% CI, 1.63–3.44; P P Conclusions— Patients placed under GA during IAT for anterior circulation stroke appear to have a higher chance of poor neurologic outcome and mortality. There do not appear to be differences in hemorrhagic complications between the 2 groups. Future clinical trials with IAT can help elucidate the etiology of the differences in outcomes.

Despite approaching a 90 % rate of recanalization, good clinical outcomes are only seen in about 50 % of the patients who undergo stroke intervention. This discrepancy indicates that the recanalization of the artery does not always result in good clinical outcome. Also a subset of patients will not have any significant clinical improvement despite achieving early or late recanalization (Broderick et al., N Engl J Med 368:893–903, 2013; Kidwellet al., N Engl J Med 368:914–923, 2013). Therefore, there is a need to more accurately identify patients who will benefit from early or late recanalization using interventional therapy. Clinical assessment scales like National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) and Houston Intra-arterial Therapy (HIAT) score can help identify patients with moderate to severe strokes, who may benefit from interventional therapies. The evolution of CT and MR imaging in conjunction with clinical assessment may allow us to further refine our ability to identify subgroups of patients who benefit from stroke intervention. These clinical and imaging criteria for patient selection are the focus of discussion in this chapter.

BackgroundMechanical thrombectomy with stent-retrievers results in higher recanalization rates compared with previous devices. Despite successful recanalization rates (Thrombolysis in Cerebral Infarction (TICI) score ≥2b) of 70–83%, good outcomes by 90-day modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score ≤2 are achieved in only 40–55% of patients. We evaluated predictors of poor outcomes (mRS >2) despite successful recanalization (TICI ≥2b) in the North American Solitaire Stent Retriever Acute Stroke (NASA) registry.MethodsLogistic regression was used to evaluate baseline characteristics and recanalization outcomes for association with 90-day mRS score of 0–2 (good outcome) vs 3–6 (poor outcome). Univariate tests were carried out for all factors. A multivariable model was developed based on backwards selection from the factors with at least marginal significance (p≤0.10) on univariate analysis with the retention criterion set at p≤0.05. The model was refit to minimize the number of cases excluded because of missing covariate values; the c-statistic was a measure of predictive power.ResultsOf 354 patients, 256 (72.3%) were recanalized successfully. Based on 234 recanalized patients evaluated for 90-day mRS score, 116 (49.6%) had poor outcomes. Univariate analysis identified an increased risk of poor outcome for age ≥80 years, occlusion site of internal carotid artery (ICA)/basilar artery, National Institute of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score ≥18, history of diabetes mellitus, TICI 2b, use of rescue therapy, not using a balloon-guided catheter or intravenous tissue plasminogen activator (IV t-PA), and >30 min to recanalization (p≤0.05). In multivariable analysis, age ≥80 years, occlusion site ICA/basilar, initial NIHSS score ≥18, diabetes, absence of IV t-PA, ≥3 passes, and use of rescue therapy were significant independent predictors of poor 90-day outcome in a model with good predictive power (c-index=0.80).ConclusionsAge, occlusion site, high NIHSS, diabetes, no IV t-PA, ≥3 passes, and use of rescue therapy are associated with poor 90-day outcome despite successful recanalization.

Background and Purpose— Efficient and timely recanalization is an important goal in acute stroke endovascular therapy. Several studies demonstrated improved recanalization and clinical outcomes with the stent retriever devices compared with the Merci device. The goal of this study was to evaluate the role of the balloon guide catheter (BGC) and recanalization success in a substudy of the North American Solitaire Acute Stroke (NASA) registry. Methods— The investigator-initiated NASA registry recruited 24 clinical sites within North America to submit demographic, clinical, site-adjudicated angiographic, and clinical outcome data on consecutive patients treated with the Solitaire Flow Restoration device. BGC use was at the discretion of the treating physicians. Results— There were 354 patients included in the NASA registry. BGC data were reported in 338 of 354 patients in this subanalysis, of which 149 (44%) had placement of a BGC. Mean age was 67.3±15.2 years, and median National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score was 18. Patients with BGC had more hypertension (82.4% versus 72.5%; P =0.05), atrial fibrillation (50.3% versus 32.8%; P =0.001), and were more commonly administered tissue plasminogen activator (51.6% versus 38.8%; P =0.02) compared with patients without BGC. Time from symptom onset to groin puncture and number of passes were similar between the 2 groups. Procedure time was shorter in patients with BGC (120±28.5 versus 161±35.6 minutes; P =0.02), and less adjunctive therapy was used in patients with BGC (20% versus 28.6%; P =0.05). Thrombolysis in cerebral infarction 3 reperfusion scores were higher in patients with BGC (53.7% versus 32.5%; P P =0.002) and good clinical outcome at 3 months were superior in patients with BGC compared with patients without (51.6% versus 35.8%; P =0.02). Multivariate analysis demonstrated that the use of BGC was an independent predictor of good clinical outcome (odds ratio, 2.5; 95% confidence interval, 1.2–4.9). Conclusions— Use of a BGC with the Solitaire Flow Restoration device resulted in superior revascularization results, faster procedure times, decreased need for adjunctive therapy, and improved clinical outcome.

BackgroundLimited post-marketing data exist on the use of the Solitaire FR device in clinical practice. The North American Solitaire Stent Retriever Acute Stroke (NASA) registry aimed to assess the real world performance of the Solitaire FR device in contrast with the results from the SWIFT (Solitaire with the Intention for Thrombectomy) and TREVO 2 (Trevo versus Merci retrievers for thrombectomy revascularization of large vessel occlusions in acute ischemic stroke) trials.MethodsThe investigator initiated NASA registry recruited North American sites to submit retrospective angiographic and clinical outcome data on consecutive acute ischemic stroke (AIS) patients treated with the Solitaire FR between March 2012 and February 2013. The primary outcome was a Thrombolysis in Myocardial Ischemia (TIMI) score of ≥2 or a Treatment in Cerebral Infarction (TICI) score of ≥2a. Secondary outcomes were 90 day modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score, mortality, and symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage.Results354 patients underwent treatment for AIS using the Solitaire FR device in 24 centers. Mean time from onset to groin puncture was 363.4±239 min, mean fluoroscopy time was 32.9±25.7 min, and mean procedure time was 100.9±57.8 min. Recanalization outcome: TIMI ≥2 rate of 83.3% (315/354) and TICI ≥2a rate of 87.5% (310/354) compared with the operator reported TIMI ≥2 rate of 83% in SWIFT and TICI ≥2a rate of 85% in TREVO 2. Clinical outcome: 42% (132/315) of NASA patients demonstrated a 90 day mRS ≤2 compared with 37% (SWIFT) and 40% (TREVO 2). 90 day mortality was 30.2% (95/315) versus 17.2% (SWIFT) and 29% (TREVO 2).ConclusionsThe NASA registry demonstrated that the Solitaire FR device performance in clinical practice is comparable with the SWIFT and TREVO 2 trial results.

Purpose. Arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) in the basal ganglia and thalamus have a more aggressive natural history with a higher morbidity and mortality than AVMs in other locations. Optimal treatment—complete obliteration without new neurological deficits—is often challenging. We present a patient with a large bilateral basal ganglia and thalamic AVM successfully treated with hypofractionated stereotactic radiosurgery (HFSRS) with intensity modulated radiotherapy (IMRT).Methods. The patient was treated with hypofractionated stereotactic radiosurgery to 30 Gy at margin in 5 fractions of 9 static fields with a minimultileaf collimator and intensity modulated radiotherapy.Results. At 10 months following treatment, digital subtraction angiography showed complete obliteration of the AVM.Conclusions. Large bilateral thalamic and basal ganglia AVMs can be successfully treated with complete obliteration by HFSRS with IMRT with relatively limited toxicity. Appropriate caution is recommended.

Cerebral air embolism is a dreaded complication of invasive medical procedures. The mainstay of therapy for patients with cerebral air embolism has been hyperbaric oxygen therapy, high flow oxygen therapy, and anticonvulsants. We present a novel therapeutic approach for treatment of cerebral air embolism causing large vessel occlusion, using endovascular aspiration. Our patient developed a cerebral air embolism following sclerotherapy for varicose veins. This caused near total occlusion of the superior division of the M2 segment of the right middle cerebral artery. Symptoms included unilateral paralysis, unintelligible speech, and hemianopia; National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) on presentation was 16. The air embolism was treated using a distal aspiration technique. Angiography following aspiration showed Thrombolysis in Cerebral Infarction 2B reperfusion. Following aspiration, the patient was re-examined; NIHSS at that time was 4. At 1 month follow-up, the modified Rankin Scale score was 1 and NIHSS was 1. Treatment of cerebral air embolism is discussed.

Background and purpose We report the incidence and risk factors for contrast-induced nephropathy after the use of iodinated contrast for endovascular treatment of acute ischemic stroke. Methods A retrospective chart review was performed in 194 consecutive patients who underwent endovascular treatment for acute ischemic stroke between January 2006 and January 2011. No patients were excluded from treatment for elevated creatinine (Cr). Each patient received approximately 150 ml intra-arterial non-ionic low-osmolar contrast agent (Optiray 320) during the endovascular procedure. Contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) was defined according to the Acute Kidney Injury Network criteria as a relative increase of serum Cr 50% above the baseline or an absolute increase of 0.3 mg/dl at 48 h following the endovascular procedure. Results Of 194 patients (mean age 65±14 years), 52% were women (n=100) and 25% (n=48) were diabetic. Baseline Cr levels for 191 patients ranged between 0.4 and 2.7 mg/dl. Three patients on chronic hemodialysis had baseline Cr levels ranging between 5.3 and 6.1 mg/dl. Cr was ≤1.5 mg/dl in 163 patients (84%) and ≥ 1.5 mg/dl in 31 (16%). Three of the 191 patients (1.5%) developed CIN as noted from Cr measurements between baseline and within 48 h. One patient who developed an elevated Cr level had a known history of chronic renal insufficiency (Cr > 1.5 mg/dl) and two had baseline Cr levels within the normal range. An additional CT angiogram was obtained in 44 patients, none of which developed CIN. Female gender and diabetes were not associated with a higher risk of developing CIN. Conclusions The risk of developing CIN is low among patients with acute stroke who undergo emergency endovascular treatment. Treatment of acute stroke should be performed irrespective of Cr levels.

Background: Despite recent advances in acute stroke therapy, only a small proportion of patients with acute ischemic stroke receive IV and endovascular revascularization therapies. This article provides an overview of factors influencing access to stroke therapy. Methods: The key factors influencing access to stroke care highlighted during the Society of Vascular and Interventional Neurology (SVIN) roundtable meeting are summarized. Pertinent selected references on prehospital, hospital, and legislative and economic factors influencing access to stroke care, from the Medline database (between 1995 to 2011), are included. A brief summary of these key factors in improving access to stroke therapy is provided. Results: Prehospital factors include the community; education of hospital administrators and health care personnel; dispatchers; the medical transport system; and preparedness and stroke education of emergency medical services (EMS). Stroke-ready hospitals and networking with other regional tertiary stroke hospitals play important roles in increasing access to stroke care. In addition, legislation at the state and federal levels is a key factor in providing high-quality, timely access to stroke care for the population in general. Strategies to facilitate access to stroke therapy are critical to improving mortality and functional outcome and increasing the proportion of patients treated by systemic thrombolysis and endovascular approaches. Conclusion: This is a brief overview and summary of selected factors influencing access to stroke care. These factors are divided into prehospital, hospital, legislative, and economic categories. Multilevel education of the population, public health care personnel, hospital preparedness, and legislative and economic factors are important in improving access to stroke care.

Background Advances in acute ischemic stroke mechanical thrombectomy devices have led to increased expectations of their safety and efficacy results. Objective To describe a new measure for the newer generation stroke thrombectomy devices, the First Pass Effect (FPE), defined as achieving thrombolysis in cerebral ischemia (TICI) score of 3 from the first pass, without the use of rescue therapy. In addition, a second objective was to assess if achieving TICI2b only with FP (FPE-TICI2b only) yielded similar results as FPE-TICI3 or non-FPE-TICI3 or non-FPE-TICI2b. The influence of FPE on clinical outcome, and its frequency and predictors was evaluated in the North American Solitaire Acute stroke (NASA) registry. Methods The FPE group was identified from the NASA multicenter registry database. Baseline features and clinical outcomeswere compared between the FPE group and the rest of the cohort. Subsequently, two multivariate analyzes were performed to identify if FPE is an independent predictor of clinical outcome and to identify the predictors of FPE. Furthermore, we assessed the difference between FPE and achieving other revascularization grades such as non-FPE-TICI3, FPE-TICI2b, and non-FPE-TICI2b scores. Clinical outcomes were mRS0–2 at 90 days, NIH stroke severity scale, mortality, and symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (sICH). Results A total of 354 patients from 24 US centers were included in the NASA registry. The FPE was achieved in 89/354 (25.1%). Baseline demographics were comparable between FPE and the rest of the cohort, except that the FPE population had less octogenarians (34.6% vs. 65.4%), more woman (60.7% vs. 47.2%), and more Caucasians (83% vs. 71.2%). Baseline NIHSS and time from onset to groin puncture did not differ among the two groups. Angiographic features demonstrated more MCA occlusion (64% vs. 52.7%) and less ICA occlusion (10.1% vs. 27.7%) in the FPE group. Technical factors associated with FPE were limited to BGC use (64.8% vs. 36.8%), with no difference with use of IV-tPA, IA-tPA, or General Anesthesia. Multivariate analysis demonstrated use of BGC, no ICA occlusion, MCA occlusion, female gender, and white race as independent predictors of FPE. Clinical outcome measured with mRS 0–2 at 90 days was seen in 61.3%, 52.4%, 44.7%, and 39.1% with FPE-TICI3, FPE-TICI 2b, non-FPE-TICI3, and non-FPE-TICI2b, respectively. sICH was seen less frequently in FPE (5.6%,11.6%, 9.6%, and 12.9% in FPE-TICI3, FPE-TICI2b, non-FPE-TICI3,and non-FPE-TICI2b, respectively). Ninety days mortality was 16.3%, 31.0%, 27.7%, and 29.7% with FPE-TICI3, FPE-TICI2b, non-FPE-TICI3, and non-FPE-TICI2b, respectively. Conclusions The First Pass Effect was seen in 25.1% of NASA post-marketing registry patients and is the most powerful predictor of clinical outcome with best safety results. FPE is more commonly seen in white patients, MCA occlusion, and balloon guide catheter use; however, ICA terminus occlusion seems to be resistant to FPE. The FPE may also be related to gender, race, and age. Further research is needed to better understand the FPE and to guide future technical advances. Disclosures O. Zaidat: 1; C; Covidien, Stryker. 2; C; Covidien, Stryker. A. Castonguay: None. R. Gupta: None. C. Sun: None. C. Martin: None. W. Holloway: None. N. Mueller-Kronast: None. J. English: None. I. Linfante: None. G. Dabus: None. T. Malisch: None. F. Marden: None. H. Bozorgchami: None. A. Xavier: None. A. Rai: None. M. Froehler: None. A. Badruddin: None. T. Nguyen: None. M. Taqi: None. M. Abraham: None. V. Janardhan: None. H. Shaltoni: None. R. Novakovic: None. A. Yoo: None. A. Abou-Chebl: None. P. Chen: None. G. Britz: None. R. Kaushal: None. A. Nanda: None. R. Nogueira: None.

Purpose To demonstrate the safety and efficacy of stent assisted, coil embolization for a large fusiform aneurysm that developed in a previously placed saphenous venous graft in the distal CCA and proximal ICA. Clinical Presentation A 44-year-old male presented with sudden onset of left hemiplegia, dysarthria and left hemianopia. An MRI brain revealed a large acute ischemic stroke the right temporo-parietal cortex and basal ganglia. A subsequent diagnostic angiogram revealed a large fusiform vein graft aneurysm measuring 3 cm by 2.5 cm engulfing the distal CCA and the origin of the ICA. A decision was made to perform covered stent assisted coiling of the aneurysm after vascular surgery deemed the procedure to carry too high a risk for intraoperative stroke. Treatment was delayed by 4 weeks due to the increased risk of hemorrhagic conversion of the large ischemic stroke. Technique Procedure was performed under conscious sedation. Two Precise stents were deployed across the aneurysm neck after jailing a Prowler 14 microcatheter inside the aneurysm sac to prevent coil herniation into the parent vessel. After filling the sac with coils, a covered Viabahn stent was successfully deployed across the aneurysm neck thereby achieving complete occlusion of the aneurysm while maintaining patency of the vessel lumen. Conclusion Covered stent assisted coiling for treatment of carotid artery vein graft aneurysms is a safe and effective treatment for a difficult vascular lesion. The patient was discharged home with complete resolution of the presenting symptoms and a NIH stroke scale of 0. This is the first reported case of successful endovascular treatment of an aneurysm developing in a vein graft in the carotid artery.

Objective To assess the safety and efficacy of different endovascular treatment modalities in young adults with acute ischemic stroke (AIS). Background Stroke in young adults is less common compared to the elderly but forms a significant burden in terms of morbidity and mortality. Endovascular therapies for AIS are relatively new modalities showing great promise. Data regarding their efficacy in this population is scant. Design/Methods Retrospective chart review was performed in 188 consecutive patients who underwent endovascular treatments for acute ischemic stroke at our center between 2005 and 2009, and the patients between the ages of 18–45 were selected for further review (n=11). Their demographics were studied and the outcomes measured were post intervention rates of recanalization, asymptomatic and symptomatic hemorrhages and mortality. Results Of the 11 patients age 18–45 (mean age 38.63±8.26), 54%(n=6) were female, 27.2% (n=3) were hypertensive and 9% (n=1) patients were diabetic. The mean NIHSS on admission was 15 and that on discharge was 6.5. The majority of the patients (n=9) had lesions in the anterior circulation, 5 of which were in the internal carotids, 2 were proximal MCA and 3 were distal MCA (M2/M3) branches. Vertebral and basilar artery occlusions were found in one patient each. All of these patients received a combination of intravenous and intra-arterial tPA. In addition, three patients received mechanical thrombectomy with MERCI (n=2) or Penumbra (n=1) retrieval devices. Complete recanalization (TIMI 3) was achieved in 27.2% (n=3) patients; partial recanalization (TIMI 2) was achieved in 54.5% (n=6) patients and no recanalization in 18.1% (n=2) patients. 18.1% (n=2) patients had asymptomatic and none(n=0) of the patients had symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhages detected on follow-up CT scans at 24 h post procedure.There were no mortalities. Conclusions Combined intravenous and endovascular therapies proved to be a relatively safe and efficacious treatment modality for young patients with acute ischemic stroke, and these patients tended to have better outcomes than those reported for the general population.

Background and purpose The use of endovascular techniques to treat large artery occlusion in acute ischemic stroke has become more frequently employed as a treatment option. We sought to determine the predictors of intracranial hemorrhage after these procedures were performed. Methods This is a retrospective review of data from 13 high volume stroke centers that perform endovascular treatments for acute ischemic stroke. Patients with anterior circulation strokes treated under 8 h from symptom onset with endovascular therapy were included. Hemorrhages were classified as parenchymal hematoma (PH) types 1 and 2 and hemorrhagic infarction (HI) types 1 and 2. Patients with PH bleeds were considered symptomatic and HI bleeds were asymptomatic. Binary logistic regression modeling was performed to determine the variables associated with symptomatic and asymptomatic hemorrhages after correcting for multiple comparisons. Results A total of 1122 patients met the inclusion criterion for this study. Mean age for the cohort was 67±15 years with a median National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) of 17 (IQR 13–20). The distribution for thrombus location at the initiation of endovascular therapy was as follows: M1 segment of the middle cerebral artery (MCA) 561 (50%), carotid terminus 214 (19%), M2 MCA 171 (15%), tandem occlusions 141 (13%) and isolated extracranial internal carotid artery occlusion 35 (3%). Parenchymal hematomas occurred in 96 (8.5%) patients and HI in 265 (24%) patients. There were no variables associated with symptomatic hemorrhages while the following variables were predictors of asymptomatic hemorrhage: diabetes mellitus (OR 2.02; 95% CI 1.46 to 2.79; p Conclusions Diabetic patients and those who have been treated with intravenous tPA prior to the procedure or intraprocedural use of thrombolytics or the Merci device appear to be at a higher risk for asymptomatic hemorrhage. Moreover, patients with asymptomatic hemorrhage appear to be at a higher risk for a worse clinical outcome at the 90 day follow-up.

Objective We report on the use of combined mechanical and pharmacological intra-arterial interventions in patients with atrial fibrillation in acute stroke settings. Background Cardioembolic source is a major cause of ischemic stroke. However, there is limited experience regarding the use of combined mechanical and chemical intra-arterial therapy in acute stroke patients with atrial fibrillation. Design and methods Retrospective chart review was performed on 45 patients with atrial fibrillation who underwent interventional acute stroke treatment from January 2006 to October 2009. The study included 29 men and 16 women, with a mean age of 72 years. The mean National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale was 17 at presentation. The primary outcome measures included for analysis following the intervention were intracranial hemorrhage (ICH), mortality and recanalization rates as well as modified Ranking Score (mRS). Results The mean time from onset of symptoms to beginning of the angiographic procedure was within 3–6 h. 20 patients received 0.9 mg/kg intravenous tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) for 40 min as a bridging therapy prior to any endovascular management. Large vessel occlusions were noted in more than 73% of the patients (n=33) Thirty patients received intra-arterial tPA and a mechanical device was used in 16 patients during endovascular intervention. Mechanical thrombectomy devices utilized were MERCI and Penumbra in 12 and four patients, respectively. Rate of postprocedure symptomatic ICH was 15% (n=7). Nine patients died during the hospital stay (20%). Partial to complete recanalization (TIMI 2 or 3) was achieved in 25 patients (55%). mRS ≤3 was achieved in 23 patients (51%) at the time of discharge. Conclusions Combined mechanical and pharmacological therapies during acute stroke interventions can be safe and effective in achieving revascularization in patients with atrial fibrillation.

Purpose Mechanical thrombectomy is a promising new modality of interventional stroke treatment. The use of these devices has been steadily increasing over the past 2–3 years. In recent years, multiple trials have been published establishing the efficacy of mechanical thrombectomy devices in achieving successful vascular recanalization and improved outcomes. We reviewed single institution data analyzing increasing use of mechanical thrombectomy devices and related outcomes in recent years. Methods Retrospective chart review was performed on 146 consecutive patients who underwent interventional acute stroke treatment from January 2006 to October 2009. Data were analyzed to compare use of mechanical thrombectomy devices (MERCI and Penumbra) and outcomes for each individual year. The primary outcome measures compared were mortality, recanalization rate and modified Ranking Score (mRS). Results For all patients included, data were analyzed for each year separately. In 2006, all patients (n=11) were treated with IA (intra-arterial) tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) (100%) and none received mechanical thrombectomy, with recanalization rates (TIMI=2/3), mortality and mRS ≤2 of 54%, 18% and 45%, respectively. Total patients treated were 49, 47 and 39 in 2007, 2008 and 2009, respectively. In 2007, 44 were treated with IA tPA (89%) and nine (18%) underwent mechanical thrombectomy with recanalization rates (TIMI=2/3), mortality and mRS ≤2 of 65%, 18% and 53%, respectively. In 2008, 34 were treated with IA tPA (72%) and 21 (44%) underwent mechanical thrombectomy with recanalization rates (TIMI=2/3), mortality and mRS ≤2 of 59%, 25% and 48%, respectively. In 2009, 30 were treated with IA tPA (76%) and 28 (71%) underwent mechanical thrombectomy with recanalization rates (TIMI=2/3), mortality and mRS ≤2 of 71%, 23% and 41%, respectively Conclusion There is an increasing trend towards using mechanical thrombectomy devices over recent years resulting in better recanalization rates. However, no trend towards improved outcomes or reduced mortality was observed in our single institution series. This could be due to inclusion of patients with older age, higher National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale scores and expanded treatment time windows for interventional stroke therapy in recent years.