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Reperfusion therapy is highly beneficial for ischemic stroke. Reduction in both infarct growth and edema are plausible mediators of clinical benefit with reperfusion. We aimed to quantify these mediators and their interrelationship.In a pooled, patient-level analysis of EXTEND-IA trials and SELECT study, we employed a mediation analysis framework to quantify infarct growth and cerebral edema(midline shift) mediation effect on successful reperfusion(mTICI≥2b) association with functional outcome(mRS distribution). Further, we evaluated an additional pathway to the original hypothesis, where infarct growth mediated successful reperfusion effect on midline shift.542/665(81.5%) eligible patients achieved successful reperfusion. Baseline clinical and imaging characteristics were largely similar between those achieving successful vs unsuccessful reperfusion. Median(IQR) infarct growth was 12.3(1.8-48.4)ml and median(IQR) midline shift was 0(0,2.2)mm. Of 249(37%) demonstrating a midline shift of ≥1mm, median(IQR) shift was 2.75(1.89, 4.21)mm). Successful reperfusion was associated with reductions in both predefined mediators; infarct growth (β, -1.19; 95%CI, -1.51to-0.88;p0.001) and midline shift (aOR:0.36,95%CI:0.23-0.57,p0.001). Successful reperfusion association with improved functional outcome (acOR:2.68; 95%CI:1.86-3.88,p0.001), became insignificant (acOR:1.39, 95%CI:0.95-2.04,p=0.094) when infarct growth and midline shift were added to the regression model. Infarct growth and midline shift explained 45% and 34% of successful reperfusion effect. Analysis considering alternative hypothesis demonstrated consistent results.In this mediation analysis from a pooled, patient-level cohort, a significant proportion(~80%) of successful reperfusion effect on functional outcome was mediated through reduction in infarct growth and cerebral edema. Further studies are required to confirm our findings, detect additional mediators to explain successful reperfusion residual effect and identify novel therapeutic targets to further enhance reperfusion benefits. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

OBJECTIVE Middle meningeal artery (MMA) embolization and the Subdural Evacuation Port System (SEPS) are minimally invasive treatment paradigms for chronic subdural hematoma (cSDH). Although SEPS offers acute decompression of local mass effect from a cSDH, MMA embolization has been shown to reduce the rate of cSDH recurrence. In combination, these procedures present a potentially safer strategy to a challenging pathology. The authors present a multi-institutional retrospective case series that assessed the safety, efficacy, and complications of SEPS and MMA embolization for cSDH. METHODS A retrospective review was performed of patients who underwent SEPS placement and MMA embolization for cSDH between 2018 and 2021 at three institutions. RESULTS One hundred patients with 136 cSDHs and a median age of 73 years underwent both SEPS placement and MMA embolization. Initial Glasgow Coma Scale scores were between 14 and 15 in 81% of patients and between 9 and 13 in 14%. The median initial midline shift (MLS) was 7 mm, with subdural hematoma (SDH) in the left hemisphere (lh) in 30% of patients, right hemisphere (rh) in 34%, and bilateral hemispheres in 36%. Follow-up was available for 86 patients: 93.4% demonstrated decreased MLS, and all patients with lhSDH and rhSDH demonstrated progressive decrease in SDH size. The overall complication rate was 4%, including 1 case of facial palsy and 3 cases of iatrogenic acute SDH. Two subjects (2%) required craniotomy for hematoma evacuation. The rate of good functional outcomes, with modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score < 2, was 89% on final follow-up and the overall mortality rate was 2%. A good mRS score on admission was associated with increased odds of functional improvement at follow-up (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS SEPS placement with MMA embolization for cSDH can be done safely and effectively reduces cSDH size with minimal perioperative morbidity.

Introduction Distal vessel occlusions (DiVO) represent the next frontier of interventional stroke care. Although many experts agree the current generation of stentrievers appear to be ill‐suited to address challenges presented by DiVO, some practitioners advocate utilizing smaller devices.We sought to examine whether smaller diameter devices (3,4 or 5 mm) had any edge over standard sized 6 mm device. Methods A prospectively maintained neuro‐endovascular database was queried for patients between January 2013 to August 2022. Patients included in the analysis had undergone mechanical thrombectomy of distal circulation defined as M2, M3, P2, P3, A2 and A3 segments of the MCA, PCA, and ACA respectively.Primary outcomes measured were TICI post procedure, mRS at discharge and mRS at 90 days. Results A total of 33 patients with DiVO were identified out of a database containing 826 mechanical thrombectomies. There were no other differences in baseline characteristics such as presentation NIHSS (p = 0.58) or comorbid medical conditions. We found no differences in post procedure recanalization TICI between large device and small devices cohorts (p = 1.00), symptomatic ICH (p = 0.52), mRS at discharge (p = 0.154) and mRS at 90 days (p = 0.22). Conclusions There do not appear to be any clinical or radiographic difference in utilizing smaller diameter stentrievers in setting of DiVO.

Introduction Stent fracture after carotid angioplasty and stenting is rare. Risk factors include presence of angulation, calcification, and restenosis increasing the risk of stent fracture. Although literature indicates that not all carotid stent fractures are associated with adverse outcomes, there is limited details on successful endovascular management of this entity. We describe a unique case of carotid stent fracture with symptomatic restenosis treated with an overlapping open cell stent with no residual stenosis and resolution of symptomology. Methods Case Report. Results A 79‐year‐old man with medical history of right sided symptomatic carotid artery stenosis which had been previously treated with endarterectomy and subsequently carotid stenting after a follow up carotid ultrasound demonstrated recurrence of severe right internal carotid artery (RICA) stenosis. Approximately 2 years after this index procedure, the patient returned with acute onset of left‐hand numbness. Cerebral angiography was performed that demonstrated 85% stenosis with a fractured carotid stent at segment of stenosis (Figure 1A, B). Furthermore, the lesion was found to be heavily calcified. This was determined to be the primary contributing factor in resultant artery wall stress, which over time led to carotid stent fracture. Angioplasty with placement of a new open cell stent and distal embolic protective device was performed successfully. The open cell stent was chosen for this approach as closed cell stents have been associated with an increased odds of in‐hospital stroke/death for carotid lesions, attributable to the lower degree of conformability with closed cell stents. After our stent placement, there was no significant residual stenosis visualized (Figure 1C, D). The patient’s symptoms resolved without any subsequent complaints on follow‐up visit. Conclusions While carotid stent fractures are a rare occurrence, we report a case of symptomatic carotid artery restenosis with a fractured stent due to significant lesion calcification and wall stress. This case was successfully treated with angioplasty and new open cell stent placement due to its potential advantages over closed cell stents in carotid artery lesions. Current literature indicates that carotid stent fractures have a low prevalence. However, there is a paucity of studies on the mechanism of stent fracture as well as optimal management of these fractured stents, suggesting a need for further study and characterization.

Introduction Distal vessel occlusions (DiVO) represent the next frontier of interventional stroke care. Some practitioners advocate for intubatingDiVOpatients to facilitate roadmapping techniques and vessel selection to assure procedural success. However, prior work studying thrombectomy in large vessel occlusion (LVO) suggests intubation is associated with worse outcomes. We sought to examine whether this relation also exists inDiVOpatients. Methods A prospectively maintained neuro‐endovascular database was queried for patients between January 2013 to August 2022. Patients included in the analysis had undergone mechanical thrombectomy of distal circulation defined as M2, M3, P2, P3, A2 and A3 segments of the MCA, PCA, and ACA respectively.Primary outcomes measured were NIHSS at 24 hours and at discharge. Secondary outcomes measured was the occurrence of symptomatic ICH post procedure. Results A total of 33 patients fit inclusion criteria among our database containing 826 mechanical thrombectomies. While there were more males in the endotracheal intubation group (p = 0.03), there were no other differences in baseline characteristics such as hypertension, diabetes, or prior antiplatelet medication use. Amongst the intubated cohort, we found increased rate of symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) (p = 0.03), worse NIHSS at 24 hours (p = 0.01), and worse NIHSS at hospital discharge (p = 0.002). Conclusions Endotracheal intubation for mechanical thrombectomy inDiVOpatients also appears to be associated with increased rates of symptomatic ICH which drives worse outcomes at 24 hours and discharge.

Background and PurposeWe aimed to describe the safety and efficacy of mechanical thrombectomy (MT) with or without intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) for patients with tandem lesions (TLs) and whether using intraprocedural antiplatelet therapy (APT) influences MT’s safety with IVT treatment.MethodsThis is a sub-analysis of a pooled, international multicenter cohort of patients with acute anterior circulation TLs treated with MT. Primary outcomes included symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (sICH) and parenchymal hematoma type 2 (PH2). Additional outcomes included hemorrhagic transformation (HT), successful reperfusion (modified Thrombolysis in Cerebral Infarction [mTICI] 2b-3), complete reperfusion (mTICI 3), favorable functional outcome (90-day modified Rankin score [mRS] 0-2), excellent functional outcome (90-day mRS 0-1), in-hospital mortality, and 90-days mortality.ResultsOf 691 patients, 599 were included (255 underwent IVT+MT and 344 MT alone). There was no difference in the risk of sICH (aOR=1.43; 95%CI:0.72–2.87;p=0.308), PH2 (aOR=1.14; 95%CI:0.57– 2.28;p=0.705), and HT (aOR=0.92; 95%CI:0.54–1.57;p=0.751) between the IVT+MT and MT alone groups after adjusting for confounders. There was an IVT-by-intraprocedural APT interaction for sICH (pinteraction=0.031). Administration of IVT was associated with an increased risk of sICH in patients who received IV-APT (aOR=3.58; 95%CI:1.17–10.89;p=0.025). The IVT+MT group had higher odds of 90-days mRS 0-2 (aOR=1.76; 95%CI:1.05–2.94;p=0.030). The odds of successful reperfusion, complete reperfusion, 90-days mRS 0-1, in-hospital mortality, or 90-days mortality did not differ between the IVT+MT vs. MT alone groups.ConclusionOur study showed that the combination of IVT with MT for TL did not increase the overall risk of sICH, PH2, or overall HT independently of the cervical revascularization technique used. However, intraprocedural IV-ATP during acute stent implantation might be associated with an increased risk of sICH in patients who received IVT prior to MT. Importantly, IVT+MT treatment was associated with a higher rate of favorable functional outcome at 90 days.

Background: Prior studies have shown rescue intracranial angioplasty and/or stenting (PTAS) is safe and efficacious in acute large vessel occlusion (LVO) of the anterior circulation with underlying intracranial atherosclerotic disease (ICAD). We investigated the safety and efficacy of acute intracranial angioplasty and/or stenting in patients with posterior circulation intracranial atherosclerosis-related occlusion (ICAS-O). Methods: Through the utilization of a prospectively collected endovascular database at a comprehensive stroke center between January 2016- May 2022, variables such as demographics, co-morbid conditions, symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH), the mortality rate at discharge, and recanalization rate and favorable clinical outcome, modified thrombolysis in cerebral infarction score (mTICI) and favorable clinical outcome (modified Rankin Scale (mRS), were examined. The outcomes between acute PTAS + MT in the anterior and posterior circulation were compared. Results: There were a total of 75 acute ischemic stroke (AIS) patients who underwent rescue PTAS, of which 15 (20.0 %) were posterior circulation ICAS-O group. Baseline characteristics were similar between the groups except for gender (6.7 % vs 45.0) and atrial fibrillation (21.7% vs 0.0%). There was no statistical difference in discharge NIH Stroke Scale (mean, 18 vs 23%, P = 0.860) or favorable outcome (modified Rankin Scale ≤ 2) at 90 days (46.7% vs 38.7 %, P = 0.477) between the posterior and anterior ICAS-O groups respectively. Symptomatic ICH rate tended to be higher in the anterior group (11.7 vs 6.7%, P = 0.495). Conclusions: Rescue angioplasty and/or stenting seem safe treatment options for posterior circulation ICAS-related LVO. Further larger multicenter prospective studies are required to corroborate the results of our study.

Objective To investigate whether significant differences exist in recanalization rates and primary outcomes between patients who undergo mechanical thrombectomy alone versus those who undergo mechanical thrombectomy with acute intracranial stenting. Methods Through the utilization of a prospectively collected endovascular database at a comprehensive stroke center between 2012 and 2020, variables such as demographics, co-morbid conditions, symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage, mortality rate at discharge, and good/poor outcomes in regard to modified thrombolysis in cerebral infarction score and modified Rankin Scale were examined. The outcomes between patients receiving acute intracranial stenting + mechanical thrombectomy and patients that underwent mechanical thrombectomy alone were compared. Results There were a total of 420 acute ischemic stroke patients who met criteria for the study (average age 70.6 ± 13.01 years; 46.9% were women). Analysis of 46 patients from the acute stenting + mechanical thrombectomy group (average age 70.34 ± 13.75 years; 37.0% were women), and 374 patients from the mechanical thrombectomy alone group (average age 70.64 ± 12.92 years; 48.1% were women). Four patients (8.7%) in the acute stenting + mechanical thrombectomy group experienced intracerebral hemorrhage versus 45 patients (12.0%) in the mechanical thrombectomy alone group ( p = 0.506); no significant increases were noted in the median length of stay (7 vs 8 days; p = 0.208), rates of modified thrombolysis in cerebral infarction 2B-3 recanalization ( p = 0.758), or good modified Rankin Scale scores ( p = 0.806). Conclusion Acute intracranial stenting in addition to mechanical thrombectomy was not associated with an increase in overall length of stay, intracerebral hemorrhage rates, or any change in discharge modified Rankin Scale. Further research is required to determine whether mechanical thrombectomy and acute intracranial stenting in acute ischemic stroke patients is unsafe.

Background and purpose First pass effect (FPE) is defined as achieving modified treatment in cerebral infarction (mTICI) grade 2c/3 reperfusion from the first pass and is associated with more favorable outcomes. We aimed to compare FPE and non-FPE using a large database and further compare first-pass mTICI 2b with multiple passes mTICI 3. Methods A retrospective cohort study of acute ischemic stroke patients who received mechanical thrombectomy at a high-volume center was performed. Baseline characteristics and outcomes including rates of discharge and 90-day functional independence (modified Rankin Scale ≤2), mortality, symptomatic, and asymptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage were compared. Results Of the 637 patients included, 294 achieved FPE; 161 patients had multiple passes mTICI 3 and 36 had first pass mTICI 2b. Propensity-score matching resulted in 211 matched pairs for FPE vs non-FPE, and 30 matched pairs for multiple passes mTICI 3 vs first pass mTICI 2b. The FPE group had significantly more instances of discharge (33.6% vs 19.4%, p = 0.001) and 90-day functional independence (51.7% vs 40.8%, p = 0.032), and lower rates of mortality (18.0% vs 27.5%, p = 0.027) compared to non-FPE. There was no significant difference between first pass mTICI 2b and multiple passes mTICI 3 concerning any studied outcomes. Conclusions First pass mTICI 2c/3 is safer and is associated with higher rates of functional independence. We did not observe a significant difference between first pass mTICI 2b and multiple passes mTICI 3. The limitations of this study prevent us from drawing conclusions related to the difference between them and calls for future large-scale studies to explore that further.

BackgroundRandomized clinical trials have failed to prove that the safety and efficacy of endovascular treatment for symptomatic intracranial atherosclerotic disease (ICAD) is better than that of medical management. A recent study using a self-expandable stent showed acceptable lower rates of periprocedural complications.ObjectiveTo study the safety and efficacy of a balloon-mounted stent (BMS) in the treatment of symptomatic ICAD.MethodsProspectively maintained databases from 15 neuroendovascular centers between 2010 and 2020 were reviewed. Patients were included if they had severe symptomatic intracranial stenosis in the target artery, medical management had failed, and they underwent intracranial stenting with BMS after 24 hours of the qualifying event. The primary outcome was the occurrence of stroke and mortality within 72 hours after the procedure. Secondary outcomes were the occurrence of stroke, transient ischemic attacks (TIAs), and mortality on long-term follow-up.ResultsA total of 232 patients were eligible for the analysis (mean age 62.8 years, 34.1% female). The intracranial stenotic lesions were located in the anterior circulation in 135 (58.2%) cases. Recurrent stroke was the qualifying event in 165 (71.1%) while recurrent TIA was identified in 67 (28.9%) cases. The median (IQR) time from the qualifying event to stenting was 5 (2–20.75) days. Strokes were reported in 13 (5.6%) patients within 72 hours of the procedure; 9 (3.9%) ischemic and 4 (1.7%) hemorrhagic, and mortality in 2 (0.9%) cases. Among 189 patients with median follow-up time 6 (3–14.5) months, 12 (6.3%) had TIA and 7 (3.7%) had strokes. Three patients (1.6%) died from causes not related to stroke.ConclusionOur study has shown that BMS may be a safe and effective treatment for medically refractory symptomatic ICAD. Additional prospective randomized clinical trials are warranted.

Background Remote tele-proctoring has been conducted in neuro-endovascular surgery, however, evidence to support its use in the fellowship training is limited. We demonstrate a novel augmented reality tele-proctoring platform to enable a remote attending to guide a fellow. Methods A consecutive series of neuro-endovascular cases were performed by a neuro-endovascular fellow with remote guidance from an attending surgeon. The fellow and attending were connected using a commercially available cloud-based platform designed to capture and stream up to four live video feeds from a clinical environment to a remote user. In this setting, two video streams were obtained directly from the anteroposterior and lateral cameras on the biplane. Additional video of the operator from a telescopic camera was streamed live to the remote attending surgeon. The attending could provide immediate vocal feedback and also deploy the platform's augmented reality tools to communicate with the fellow in the angiography suite. Results A total of 10 cases were performed on eight patients utilizing the cloud-based tele-proctoring platform to facilitate instruction. The series included diagnostic angiograms and interventions such as intracranial balloon angioplasty, carotid stenting, and intracranial stenting. All cases were a technical success. No complications or deaths occurred. When compared to similar cohort of 10 cases prior to these which utilized a traditional instruction paradigm; we saw no differences in contrast use ( p = 0.38), fluoroscopy time ( p = 0.85), or technical success. Conclusions This study demonstrates successful use of an augmented reality tele-proctoring platform to guide a neuro-endovascular fellow through complex neuro-interventional procedures from a remote setting.

Introduction Viz LVO artificial intelligence (AI) software utilizes AI-powered large vessel occlusion (LVO) detection technology which automatically identifies suspected LVO through CT angiogram (CTA) imaging and alerts on-call stroke teams. This analysis was performed to determine whether AI software can reduce the door-in-door-out (DIDO) time interval within the primary care center (PSC) prior to transfer to the comprehensive care center (CSC). Methods We compared the DIDO time interval for all LVO transfer patients from a single-spoke PSC to our CSC prior to (February 2017 to November 2018) and after (November 2018 to June 2020) incorporating AI. Using a stroke database at a CSC, demographics, DIDO time at PSC, modified Rankin Scale (mRS) at 90-days, mortality rate at discharge, length of stay (LOS), and intracranial hemorrhage rates were examined. Results There were a total of 63 patients during the study period (average age 69.99 ± 13.72, 55.56% female). We analyzed 28 patients pre-AI (average age 71.64 ± 12.28, 46.4% female), and 35 patients post-AI (average age 68.67 ± 14.88, 62.9% female). After implementing the AI software, the mean DIDO time interval within the PSC significantly improved by 102.3 min (226.7 versus 124.4 min; p = 0.0374). Conclusion The incorporation of the AI software was associated with a significant improvement in DIDO times within the PSC as well as CTA to door-out time in the PSC. More extensive studies are warranted to expand on the ability of AI technology to improve transfer times and outcomes for LVO patients.

Background and Purpose: The degree to which the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has affected systems of care, in particular, those for time-sensitive conditions such as stroke, remains poorly quantified. We sought to evaluate the impact of COVID-19 in the overall screening for acute stroke utilizing a commercial clinical artificial intelligence platform. Methods: Data were derived from the Viz Platform, an artificial intelligence application designed to optimize the workflow of patients with acute stroke. Neuroimaging data on suspected patients with stroke across 97 hospitals in 20 US states were collected in real time and retrospectively analyzed with the number of patients undergoing imaging screening serving as a surrogate for the amount of stroke care. The main outcome measures were the number of computed tomography (CT) angiography, CT perfusion, large vessel occlusions (defined according to the automated software detection), and severe strokes on CT perfusion (defined as those with hypoperfusion volumes >70 mL) normalized as number of patients per day per hospital. Data from the prepandemic (November 4, 2019 to February 29, 2020) and pandemic (March 1 to May 10, 2020) periods were compared at national and state levels. Correlations were made between the inter-period changes in imaging screening, stroke hospitalizations, and thrombectomy procedures using state-specific sampling. Results: A total of 23 223 patients were included. The incidence of large vessel occlusion on CT angiography and severe strokes on CT perfusion were 11.2% (n=2602) and 14.7% (n=1229/8328), respectively. There were significant declines in the overall number of CT angiographies (−22.8%; 1.39–1.07 patients/day per hospital, P P P P P =0.9) and comprehensive stroke center hospitalizations (18.8% versus 11.0%, P =0.4). Conclusions: A significant decline in stroke imaging screening has occurred during the COVID-19 pandemic. This analysis underscores the broader application of artificial intelligence neuroimaging platforms for the real-time monitoring of stroke systems of care.

ObjectiveTo evaluate the comparative safety and efficacy of direct endovascular thrombectomy (dEVT) compared to bridging therapy (BT; IV tissue plasminogen activator + EVT) and to assess whether BT potential benefit relates to stroke severity, size, and initial presentation to EVT vs non-EVT center.MethodsIn a prospective multicenter cohort study of imaging selection for endovascular thrombectomy (Optimizing Patient Selection for Endovascular Treatment in Acute Ischemic Stroke [SELECT]), patients with anterior circulation large vessel occlusion (LVO) presenting to EVT-capable centers within 4.5 hours from last known well were stratified into BT vs dEVT. The primary outcome was 90-day functional independence (modified Rankin Scale [mRS] score 0–2). Secondary outcomes included a shift across 90-day mRS grades, mortality, and symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage. We also performed subgroup analyses according to initial presentation to EVT-capable center (direct vs transfer), stroke severity, and baseline infarct core volume.ResultsWe identified 226 LVOs (54% men, mean age 65.6 ± 14.6 years, median NIH Stroke Scale [NIHSS] score 17, 28% received dEVT). Median time from arrival to groin puncture did not differ in patients with BT when presenting directly (dEVT 1.43 [interquartile range (IQR) 1.13–1.90] hours vs BT 1.58 [IQR 1.27–2.02] hours, p = 0.40) or transferred to EVT-capable centers (dEVT 1.17 [IQR 0.90–1.48] hours vs BT 1.27 [IQR 0.97–1.87] hours, p = 0.24). BT was associated with higher odds of 90-day functional independence (57% vs 44%, adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 2.02, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.01–4.03, p = 0.046) and functional improvement (adjusted common OR 2.06, 95% CI 1.18–3.60, p = 0.011) and lower likelihood of 90-day mortality (11% vs 23%, aOR 0.20, 95% CI 0.07–0.58, p = 0.003). No differences in any other outcomes were detected. In subgroup analyses, patients with BT with baseline NIHSS scores p = 0.006); this association was not evident for patients with NIHSS scores ≥15 (aOR 1.05, 95% CI 0.40–2.74, p = 0.92). Similarly, functional outcomes improvements with BT were detected in patients with core volume strata (ischemic core 3: aOR 2.10, 95% CI 1.02–4.33, p = 0.044 vs ischemic core ≥50 cm3: aOR 0.41, 95% CI 0.01–16.02, p = 0.64) and transfer status (transferred: aOR 2.21, 95% CI 0.93–9.65, p = 0.29 vs direct to EVT center: aOR 1.84, 95% CI 0.80–4.23, p = 0.15).ConclusionsBT appears to be associated with better clinical outcomes, especially with milder NIHSS scores, smaller presentation core volumes, and those who were “dripped and shipped.” We did not observe any potential benefit of BT in patients with more severe strokes.Trial Registration InformationClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02446587.Classification of EvidenceThis study provides Class III evidence that for patients with ischemic stroke from anterior circulation LVO within 4.5 hours from last known well, BT compared to dEVT leads to better 90-day functional outcomes.

Background and Purpose Angioplasty and stenting is a treatment option for patients with medically refractory symptomatic intracranial atherosclerotic disease (sICAD). Currently the Wingspan Stent System (WSS) is the only FDA approved device for this indication. We find the Resolute (R) Onyx Stent, a drug-eluting balloon mounted stent (DES), a better alternative to the WSS for treatment of sICAD. Herein, we present our findings comparing the two stents based on our single center experience. Methods A prospectively maintained neuro-endovascular databased was queried for patients between January 2013 to June 2021. Inclusion criteria for patients included sICAD with failed medical management, and intracranial stenting with either R-Onyx DES or WSS, including patients treated within 7 days of their last stroke. Primary outcomes were assessed via the occurrence of ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke or death within 72 h of the procedure. Secondary outcomes consisted of recurrent stroke or significant in-stent restenosis evaluated by a clinical or angiographic follow-up at 6 months. Results A total of 184 patients, average age 61.26 (SD = 12.53) (44% women), were eligible for analysis with 58 having R-onyx DES and 126 having WSS. Within 72 h, the primary outcome was observed in 1.7% (n = 1) of patients in the R-onyx DES group and 6.3% (n = 8) of patients in the WSS group (p = 0.089). Among 41 angiographic and clinical follow-ups in the R-onyx DES group, none had a recurrent stroke, while among 101 patients who had follow-up in the WSS group, 8.9% (n = 9) had a stroke (p = 0.024). At a 6-month angiographic follow-up, there was a significantly lower rate of symptomatic in-stent restenosis among the R-onyx DES group with 1.7% (n = 1) compared with 21.4% (n = 27) in the WSS group (p = 0.0003). Conclusion R-onyx DES is more effective than WSS in treating sICAD with low rates of periprocedural complications and long-term strokes and symptomatic in-stent restenosis. Future prospective randomized multicenter trials are needed.

Intracranial atherosclerotic disease (ICAD) is a common cause of acute ischemic stroke. ICAD has a high rate of recurrent ischemic stroke despite recommended adequate medical treatment. Endovascular treatment of ICAD has been controversial due to high periprocedural complication in historic randomized clinical trials (RCTs). Recently, a multicenter prospective study of stent placement in patients with high grade intracranial stenosis that evaluated safety and efficacy of Balloon-mounted stents (BMS) in symptomatic ICAD showed low rates of periprocedural stroke (5.6%) than the SAMMPRIS (14.7%) and VISSIT (21.4%) trials. This review highlights the recent evolution of endovascular therapy for symptomatic ICAD.

Background Mechanical thrombectomy (MT) is a widely proven method to treat acute ischemic stroke (AIS) during mechanical thrombectomy and acute stenting and angioplasty is a topic discussed till this day regarding safety and efficacy. However, intravenous glycoprotein IIb/IIIa agents such as Tirofiban have become a more common thing. We report the analysis of all AIS patients treated with Tirofiban + MT vs. MT alone. Methods Using a prospectively collected endovascular database at a CSC between 2013 and 2019, workflow, and outcomes were recorded. Patients are given Tirofiban undergoing mechanical thrombectomy and patients undergoing mechanical thrombectomy alone were analyzed to obtain baseline demographics, modified Ranking Scale (mRS) at discharge, and 90 days follow up, pre and post thrombolysis in cerebral infarction (TICI), mortality rate, and hemorrhage rates. Results There was a total of 169 patients during the study period (average age 68.18 ± 14, 41.42% female). Analysis of 36 patients from the Tirofiban + MT group (average age 69.25 ± 14.18, 27.77% female), and 133 patients from the MT alone was performed (average age 67.89 ± 13.99, 45.11%), see Table 3 for baseline characteristics and outcomes. Four patients (11.11%) in the Tirofiban + MT group had symptomatic hemorrhage versus fourteen patients (10.53%) in the MT alone group (p = .919). There was no significant difference in mortality between the two groups (p = .622). Conclusions Tirofiban in addition to MT does not increase the risk of symptomatic hemorrhage or mortality. More extensive studies are warranted to prove the safety and efficacy of tirofiban and MT in AIS with tandem lesions.

Background The use of compliant dual lumen balloon microcatheters (CDLB) for the endovascular treatment of vascular malformations, wide neck aneurysms, and intracranial angioplasty (for vasospasm) is well documented. Navigation of 4 mm or larger CDLB within tortuous and small distal intracranial vessels can be challenging. Recently, the lower profile Scepter Mini balloon microcatheter (SMB) has been approved for use, with potential for improved intracranial navigation. Objective Discuss operative experience of Scepter Mini (Microvention, Aliso Viejo, CA). Methods We describe our initial experience with the SMB in a series of nine patients. Results The balloon microcatheter was used for delivery of liquid embolic in six patients (Case 1, 2, 6–9), adjunct support for delivery or positioning of the Woven Endobridge (WEB) device in two (Case 3,4), and gentle post-deployment repositioning of a WEB device in the last one (Case 5). We were able to successfully navigate the SMB over a 0.008 “micro wire to the target lesion in all the patients. We experienced initial difficulty with injecting liquid embolic in Case 2. We postulate that the SMB was in a tortuous segment of a dural vessel in this patient, and that it kinked on inflation with occlusion of the liquid embolic delivery lumen; this was overcome with slightly proximal repositioning and reinflation of the SMB. Conclusion Our initial experience shows that the SMB has potential to be useful in endovascular neurosurgical procedures requiring balloon assistance within smaller diameter blood vessels.

Flow diverters (FD) have poor radiopacity, challenging visualization of deployment and vessel wall apposition with conventional neuroimaging modalities. We evaluated a novel cone beam computed tomography (CT) imaging technique that allows virtual dilution (VD) of contrast media to facilitate workflow and ensure accurate assessment of FD wall apposition. We retrospectively evaluated all patients treated for intracranial aneurysms with FD at our institution between November 2018 and November 2019. Undiluted injected dual cone beam CT acquisitions performed post-stenting were displayed with VD software (GE Healthcare). The resulting images were compared with conventional two-dimensional (2D) digital subtraction angiography (DSA) images. Two neurointerventionalists (Reader 1 and Reader 2, (R1, R2)) independently assessed FD deployment and wall apposition. Confidence in the diagnosis, inter-reader agreement, and X-ray exposure were assessed. A total of 27 cases were reviewed. FD deployment and wall apposition scores were 4.2 ± 1.0 (R1) and 4.0 ± 1.1 (R2) for DSA and 3.7 ± 1.2 (R1) and 4.1 ± 1.0 (R2) for VD. Confidence in the diagnosis was improved with VD, with scores of 3.7 ± 0.7 (R1) and 4.0 ± 0.7 (R2) using DSA and 4.9 ± 0.2 (R1) and 4.9 ± 0.2 (R2) using VD (P

Background and Purpose— Because of unique attributes of mechanical thrombectomy performed between 6 and 24 hours after symptom onset in acute ischemic stroke patients, it is not known if predictors of angiographic recanalization and favorable outcome in patients treated with thrombectomy in the late (6–24 hour) time window are similar to those treated in the early time window. Methods— We analyzed data from the DAWN trial (DWI or CTP Assessment With Clinical Mismatch in the Triage of Wake-Up and Late Presenting Strokes Undergoing Neurointervention With Trevo) which enrolled patients with symptom onset 6 to 24hours after last known well and occlusion of the intracranial internal carotid artery or proximal middle cerebral artery with a mismatch between severity of clinical deficit and infarct core volume as identified by computed tomography–perfusion or diffusion magnetic resonance imaging. We evaluated the effect of tandem occlusions, periprocedural heparin use, procedural speed (from puncture to procedure completion), general anesthesia, balloon-guide catheters, thrombectomy device size, and number of passes on substantial reperfusion (modified Thrombolysis in Cerebral Infarction 2b/3) and on likelihood of obtaining a modified Rankin Scale at 3 months indicating functional independence. Results— Of 107 patients who underwent MT in the interventional arm of DAWN, substantial reperfusion and modified Rankin Scale score 0 to 2 at 3 months was seen in 90 (84%) and 52 (49%), respectively. In univariate analysis, general anesthesia (odds ratio [OR] 0.27; P =0.042) and ≥3 passes with stent retriever (OR, 0.17; P =0.002) were inversely associated with substantial reperfusion. In multivariate analyses, only ≥3 passes were associated with lack of revascularization (OR, 0.17; P =0.002). in univariate analysis ≥3 passes (OR, 0.24; P =0.003) and baseline National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score >17 (OR, 0.19; P P =0.003) and National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score >17 (OR, 0.19; P Conclusions— Patients requiring ≥3 thrombectomy passes had reduced substantial reperfusion and favorable outcome at 3 months in DAWN. Whether or not additional thrombectomy techniques beyond ≥3 thrombectomy passes with the Trevo stent retriever are beneficial for patient outcomes in this patient population remains to be clarified by future studies. Clinical Trial Registration— URL: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov . Unique identifier: NCT02142283.

Introduction: Intracranial atherosclerotic disease (ICAD) is a common cause of refractory stroke. Randomized clinical trials failed to prove the safety and efficacy of the endovascular treatment options of symptomatic ICAD (sICAD). However, there are many concerns regarding inclusion criteria in these trials which made them less effective than standard medical management. Herein, we aim to study the safety and efficacy of drug-eluting balloon mounted stents (DES) in the treatment of sICAD. Methods: A retrospective review of endovascular database from 10 comprehensive stroke centers inside and outside the USA from January 2017 to January 2020 was reviewed. Patients were included if they had symptomatic intracranial stenosis ≥70% in the target vessel, failed best medical management, and underwent intracranial stenting with DES. The primary outcome was the occurrence of ischemic stroke, hemorrhage, or mortality within 72 hours of the procedure. Secondary outcomes included rates of symptomatic and angiographic recurrence within 6 months of the procedure. Results: There was a total of 129 patients, the median age was 65 [58-72] years, 40 (31%) were females. The intracranial stenotic lesions were located in anterior circulation in 74 (57.4%) of cases [24 (18.6%) supraclinoid ICA, 5 (3.9%) cavernous ICA, 17 (13.2%) petrous ICA, 5 (19.4%) MCA-M1, and 3 (2.3%) M2] and in posterior circulation in 55 (42.6%) of cases [36 (27.9) vertebral artery V4 segment, 18 (14%) basilar and 1 (0.7%) PCA]. Recurrent stroke was the qualifying event in 101 (78.3%) while transient ischemic attacks (TIA) were identified in 28 (21.7%) of cases. The median time from the qualifying event to stenting was 6 [2-24] days. Strokes were reported within 72 hours of the procedure; 2 (1.6%) ischemic, 2 (1.6%) hemorrhagic strokes and 2 (1.6%) patients suffered inpatient mortality. The median follow-up time was 6 [3-6.75] months. Among 99 patients who had clinical follow up 2 (2%) had TIA and 6 (6.1%) had strokes. Fifty-one patients had follow-up imaging of whom symptomatic ISR was reported in 8 (15.7%). Conclusion: Our study has shown that in appropriately selected patients with sICAD, endovascular treatment using DES is safe and effective. Prospective randomized clinical trials are warranted.

Introduction: Mechanical thrombectomy (MT) results in a marked improvement in outcomes of acute ischemic stroke (AIS) patients. First pass effect (FPE), which is defined as the achievement of complete recanalization (mTICI 3) from a single pass, appears to be associated with higher rates of good outcome. We seek to determine if dimensions of stentreivers such as length and diameter have influence on FPE, and other safety outcomes including hemorrhagic transformation, symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage (sICH), masseffect, and mortality. Methodology: Patients who underwent MT between 2012 and 2020 were identified from a prospectively maintained database at a comprehensive stroke center. Then, these patients were stratified based on dimensions of stentrievers into: "4x20", "4x40", "6x30", and “6x40". Stentrievers used during the study period included Trevo and Solitare. Results: This study included 320 AIS patients. The mean (SD) age of the included patients was 70.7 (13.5), and 54.1% of them were males. 79 (24.7%) of the stentrievers were 4x20, 47 (14.7%) were 4x40, 66 (20.6%) were 6x30, while 128 (40%) were 6x40. There was no difference among the four stentreivers in FPE rates (64.6% vs 68.1%, 66.7%, 67.2%, p=0.98), hemorrhagic transformation (10.1% vs 14.9%, 12.1%, 14.8%, p=0.88), mass effect (3.8% vs 6.4%, 9.1%, 11.7%, p=0.134), and mortality rates (17.7% vs 23.7%, 19.7%, 20.3%, p=0.86). Noteworthy, sICH was significantly different among the groups with the lowest rates reported for 4x40 (4.3%) and 6x40 (5.5%), followed by 4x20 (10.1%), and 6x30 (16.7%), respectively (p=0.04). Conclusions: Stentriever dimensions do not appear to significantly influence FPE rates. We found that 4x40 and 6x40 stentrievers were significantly associated with lower rates of sICH.

Background and objective: Elderly patients were underrepresented in RCTs that proved the efficacy and safety of mechanical thrombectomy (MT) in acute ischemic strokes (AIS) due to large vessel occlusion (LVO). Additionally, the impact of race and socio-economics in AIS outcomes is well-reported. We sought to assess MT clinical outcomes in Hispanic Octogenarians and Nonagenarians that reside in underserved border communities. Methods: A retrospective cohort study from a prospectively collected comprehensive stroke center database was conducted. The primary outcome was discharge (mRS 0-2). Secondary outcomes were NIHSS improvement ≥4 points at discharge, sICH, mortality and length of stay (LOS). A two-tailed t-test assessed statistical significance between the two groups. Results: Of 202 included patients, 172 (85%) were octogenarians and 30 nonagenarians (17%). Nonagenarians had higher rates of females (80% vs 59%; p Conclusions: Both groups had lower favorable good outcome rates than MT outcomes reported in RCTs. Nonagenarians had numerically lower favorable outcomes but mortality and sICH were similar. Further studies are warranted to further assess the impact of age and socioeconomics on MT outcomes.

Background: Mechanical thrombectomy (MT) has significantly improved outcomes of acute ischemic stroke (AIS) patients due to large vessel occlusion (LVO). The first-pass effect (FPE), defined as achieving complete reperfusion (mTICI3/2c) with a single pass, was reported to be associated with higher functional independence rates following EVT and has been emphasized as an important procedural target. We compared MT outcomes in patients who achieved FPE to those who did not in a real world large database. Method: A retrospective analysis of LVO pts who underwent MT from a single center prospectively collected database. Patients were stratified into those who achieved FPE and non-FPE. The primary outcome (discharge and 90 day mRS 0-2) and safety (sICH, mortality and neuro-worsening) were compared between the two groups. Results: Of 580 pts, 261 (45%) achieved FPE and 319 (55%) were non-FPE. Mean age was (70 vs 71, p=0.051) and mean initial NIHSS (16 vs 17, p=0.23) and IV tPA rates (37% bs 36%, p=0.9) were similar between the two groups. Other baseline characteristics were similar. Non-FPE pts required more stenting (15% vs 25%, p=0.003), and angioplasty (19% vs 29%, p=0.01). The FPE group had significantly more instances of discharge (33% vs 17%, p Conclusion: Patients with first pass complete or near complete reperfusion with MT had higher functional independence rates, reduced mortality, symptomatic hemorrhage and neurological worsening. Improvement in MT devices and techniques is vital to increase first pass effect and improve clinical outcomes.

Introduction: Viz.ai artificial intelligence (AI) software utilizes AI powered large vessel occlusion (LVO) detection technology which automatically identifies suspected LVO through CT angiogram (CTA) imaging and alerts on-call stroke teams. We performed this analysis to determine if utilization of this AI software can reduce the door-in to groin puncture time interval within the comprehensive care center (CSC) for patients arriving at the CSC for endovascular treatment. Methods: We compared the time interval between door-in to groin puncture for all LVO transfer patients who arrived at our comprehensive care center for approximately two years prior to and after the implementation of the AI software in November of 2018. Using a prospectively collected database at a CSC, demographics, door-in to groin time, modified Rankin Scale at discharge (mRS dc), mortality rate at discharge, length of stay (LOS) in hospital, mass effect, and hemorrhage rates were examined. Results: There were a total of 188 patients during the study period (average age 69.26 ± 14.55, 42.0% women). We analyzed 86 patients from the pre-AI (average age 68.53 ± 13.13, 40.7% women) and 102 patients from the post-AI (average age 69.87 ± 15.75, 43.1% women); see Table 1 for comparison of baseline characteristics and outcomes. Following the implementation of the AI software, the mean door-in to groin puncture time interval within the CSC significantly improved by 86.7 minutes (206.6 vs 119.9 minutes; p < 0.0001); significant improvements were also noted in the rate of good recanalization (mTICI 2B-3) for patients in the post-AI population (p=0.0364). Conclusion: The incorporation of the AI software was associated with a significant improvement in treatment time within the CSC as well as significantly higher rates of good recanalization for patients treated. More extensive studies are warranted to expand on the ability of AI technology to improve transfer times and outcomes for LVO patients.

Background: Acute ischemic strokes outcomes may be less favorable in elderly patients. Whether transferring octogenarians with large vessel occlusion (LVO) for endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) results in similar outcomes to younger patients is uncertain. Methods: A pooled cohort from 6 centers (Europe, US) from 1/2014 to 5/2020 of pts with (ICA, M1, M2) LVO transferred for EVT ≤ 24 hrs from LKW. Patients were stratified into < 80 vs ≥ 80 years old. We compared 90 day functional independence and safety outcomes and assessed for predictors of good outcome (mRS 0-2) and profound disability (mRS 5-6). Results: Of 1176 pts received EVT as transfers, 216 (18%) were octogenarians. Baseline NIHSS was higher in octogenarians [19 (14, 22) vs 17 (12, 21), p Milder strokes (aOR 0.88, 95%CI 0.86-0.91, p Conclusion: EVT may be associated with lower independence rates in transferred octogenarians with LVO. Milder stroke severity, earlier presentation and IV thrombolysis increased the odds of good outcomes in octogenarians. Severe strokes and later treatment were associated with profound disability. Optimized selection and workflow is warranted in transferring elderly patients for EVT.

Background and Objective: Prompt and complete reperfusion with mechanical thrombectomy (MT) is essential to improve outcome in acute ischemic strokes (AIS) with large vessel occlusion (LVO). Recently, first-pass effect (FPE), defined as achieving complete reperfusion with a single pass, has been emphasized as a potentially important MT target. We aimed to compare outcomes between patients who achieve mTICI 2b with first pass to those with multiple devise passes (MDP) mTICI 3. Methods: From a single comprehensive stroke center database, we retrospectively grouped LVO pts treated with MT into those who achieved mTICI 2b after a single pass and mTICI 3 after MDP. Clinical outcome (discharge and 90-day mRS), discharge NIHSS and safety (sICH, neurological worsening, mortality) were compared between the two groups. Results: Of 186 pts included, 153 (82%) achieved mTICI 3 with MDP, and 33 (18%) had mTICI 2b after a single pass. Mean age (71 vs 69), NIHSS (17 vs 16, p=0.2) were similar between the two groups. Patients with a single pass mTICI 2b had numerically higher IV tPA administration (33% vs 46%, p=.16). There was no difference in other baseline characteristics. There was no significant difference in discharge (21% vs 24.2%, p=0.65) and 90-day mRS 0-2 (24% vs 24%, p=0.5), MDP mTICI 3 and single pass mTICI 2b, respectively. Also, there was no difference in discharge NIHSS score (13.6 vs 16.7, p=0.26), mortality (16.3% vs 18.2%, p=0.8) and sICH rates (7.8% vs 18.2%, p=0.095) or neurological worsening (76.5% vs 69.7%, p=1). Conclusion: Our results did not show a significant difference between mTICI 3 with multiple passes and mTICI 2b after a single pass. Future large studies are warranted to explore the possibility of extending the first pass effect to patients who achieve mTICI 2b with a single pass.

Introduction: Viz.ai artificial intelligence (AI) software utilizes AI powered large vessel occlusion (LVO) detection technology which automatically identifies suspected LVO through CT angiogram (CTA) imaging and alerts on-call stroke teams. We performed this analysis to determine if utilization of AI software can reduce the door-in door-out (DIDO) time interval within the primary care center (PSC) prior to transfer to the comprehensive care center (CSC). Methods: We compared the time interval between door-in and door-out for all LVO transfer patients from a single spoke PSC to our CSC prior to (Feb. 2017 to Nov. 2018) and after (Nov. 2018 to June 2020) incorporating Viz.ai. Using a prospectively collected stroke database at a CSC, demographics, DIDO time at PSC, modified Rankin Scale at discharge (mRS dc), mortality rate at discharge, length of stay (LOS) in hospital and neurological ICU, and intracranial hemorrhage rates were examined. Results: There were a total of 63 patients during the study period (average age 69.99 ± 13.72, 55.56% women). We analyzed 28 patients from the pre-AI (average age 71.64 ± 12.28, 46.4%), and 35 patients from the post-AI (average age 68.67 ± 14.88, 62.9% women); see Table 1 for comparison of baseline characteristics and outcomes. Following the implementation of the AI software, the mean DIDO time interval within the PSC significantly improved by 102.3 minutes (226.7 versus 124.4 minutes; p=0.0374); significant reductions were not noted in mRS at discharge, rates of hemorrhage, or mortality. Conclusion: The incorporation of the AI software was associated with a significant improvement in DIDO times within the PSC and may lead to significant improvements in functional outcome and mortality in transfer patients. More extensive studies are warranted to expand on the ability of AI technology to improve transfer times and outcomes for LVO patients.

Introduction: Endovascular treatment (EVT) is a widely proven method to treat patients diagnosed with intracranial large vessel occlusion. In order to ensure patients safety prior to and during EVT, preprocedural intubation has been adopted in many centers as a means for airway protection and immobilization. However, the correlation between site of vessel occlusion, need for intubation, and outcomes, has not yet been established. Methods: Through the utilization of a prospectively collected database at a comprehensive stroke center between 2012-2020, demographics, co-morbid conditions, intracerebral hemorrhage, mortality rate, and functional independence outcomes were examined. The outcomes and sites of occlusion between patients receiving mechanical thrombectomy (MT) treated while intubated versus those treated under conscious sedation (CS) were compared. Results: Out of 625 patients treated with MT, a total of 218 (34.9%) were treated while intubated (average age 70.3 ± 13.7, 37.2% women), and 407 (65.1%) were treated while under CS (average age 70.3 ± 13.7, 47.7% women); see Table 1 for baseline characteristics and outcomes. A higher number of patients requiring intubation had an occlusion in the basilar versus those only requiring CS. No differences were noted in regard to the proportion of patients receiving intubation or CS when treated for RMCA, LMCA, or internal carotid artery occlusions. Conclusion: Intubation + MT was associated with significantly worsened outcomes in regard to recanalization rates, functional outcome, and mortality. In anterior circulation strokes, intubation in RMCA patients were found to have poorer clinical outcome. Higher rates of intubation were also found to be needed in patients with basilar occlusions. Further research is required to determine whether site of occlusion dictates the need for intubation, and whether intubation allows for favorable outcome between R and LMCA occlusions.

Introduction: Successful and fast reperfusion with endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) improves outcomes in acute ischemic strokes due to large vessel occlusion (LVO). While complete reperfusion (mTICI 3) is the ideal target, multiple passes could prolong EVT and increase complications likelihood without improving clinical outcomes. We hypothesized that pts with a single pass mTICI2b would have similar good outcomes to those with multiple passes mTICI3 with a better safety profile. Methods: From the prospective multicenter cohort study of imaging selection (SELECT), EVT pts who achieved mTICI2b and mTICI3 were stratified into those with single pass vs multiple passes. Functional independence rates at 90 day mRS and safety (sICH, neuro-worsening and mortality) were compared between pts with single pass mTICI 2b and multiple passes mTICI 3. Results: Of 361 pts enrolled, 285 received EVT, of those 70 (25%) achieved mTICI 2b and 159 (56%) mTICI 3. 89 (31%) achieved mTICI 3 with single pass, 70 (25%) with multiple passes, 33 (12%) had mTICI 2b with a single pass and 37 (13%) with multiple passes. Baseline characteristics were similar between the two groups except for larger perfusion deficit (Tmax >6s) volume in pts with multiple passes mTICI3 55 (25, 99) cc vs first pass mTICI 2b 43 (4, 79), p=0.047). Functional independence rates were higher with single pass mTICI 2b as compared to multiple passes mTICI 3 (70% vs 56%, aOR=1.51, 95% CI=0.48-4.76, p=0.78), fig 1 but did not reach statistical significance. Multiple passes mTICI 3 was associated with numerically higher mortality (13% vs 3%, p=0.16) and Neuro-worsening (13% vs 3%, p=0.16) with similar sICH: 4% vs 3%, p=1.00 rates. Conclusion: Complete reperfusion with multiple passes did not confer better outcome rates than single pass mTICI 2b and was associated with worse safety profiles. These results suggest that in the absence of complete reperfusion on first attempt, a single pass mTICI 2b may be sufficient for a successful thrombectomy.

Background: Direct To Angio (DTA) for transferred large vessel occlusions (LVO) lowers time to endovascular thrombectomy (EVT), reperfusion and potentially improves outcomes. Safety and efficacy of DTA in late time window and on-call hours is unknown. Methods: Pooled cohort from 6 centers (EU, US) from 1/14-5/20 (ICA, M1, M2) LVO pts transferred for EVT≤24 hrs from LKW. Pts stratified into with repeat imaging (RI) (CT+/- CTA/CTP) and without RI (DTA). We compared time metrics, good outcome (90 day mRS 0-2), safety (sICH, mortality) and assessed the impact of arrival for EVT; regular (M-F, 8am-5pm) vs on-call hrs. Propensity matched analysis was done. Results: Of 1178 EVT transfers, 334 (28%) were DTA. DTA pts had more tPA (61% vs 51%, p=0.002), trended to lower NIHSS 17 (12, 20) vs 17 (13, 21), p=0.07 and lower LKW to arrival 268 (190, 430) min vs 280 (190, 518), p=0.097. Groin puncture (GP) was faster with DTA (p6-24, p=0.88 for interaction). In propensity matched 75 pairs, DTA had shorter time to EVT (19 min vs 52, p Conclusion: In pooled, non-randomized data DTA may result in faster treatment, safe and better functional outcomes, during all hours and treatment windows. Repeat imaging may be reasonable with prolonged transfer times. Optimal EVT workflow in transfers may result in faster, safe reperfusion with higher good outcomes.

Background: Endovascular treatment (EVT) is a widely proven method to treat patients diagnosed with intracranial large vessel occlusion (LVO). Through this method of treatment, it has been hypothesized that a lower number of thrombectomy passes is an indicator of higher rates of modified Thrombolysis in Cerebral Infarction 2b-3 (mTICI) and favorable outcomes defined as modified Rankin Scale 0-2 (mRS). Methods: Through the utilization of a prospectively collected endovascular database between 2012-2020, variables such as demographics, co-morbid conditions, intracerebral hemorrhage, mass effect, mortality rate, and good/poor outcomes in regard to mTICI score and mRS assessment at discharge were examined. The outcomes between patients receiving EVT who were treated with < 3 thrombectomy passes or ≥ 3 passes were compared. Results: Out of 454 patients treated with mechanical thrombectomy of qualifying intracranial internal carotid artery or middle cerebral artery occlusion, site of occlusion (internal carotid artery, M1 and M2), a total of 372 (81.9%) were treated with < 3 thrombectomy passes (average age 70.34 ± 13.75 years, 46.0% women), and 82 (18.1%) were treated with ≥ 3 thrombectomy passes (average age 70.30 ± 13.72 years, 48.8% women). Significantly higher rates of mass effect (p=0.043), mRS score 3-6 (p=0.029), and mortality (p=0.025) were noted in patients treated with ≥ 3 thrombectomy passes. Further analysis revealed that patients presenting 6-24 hours from symptom onset had significantly lessened chance of effective recanalization (TICI 2B-3; p=0.021). Conclusion: A higher number of thrombectomy passes, characterized as ≥ 3 passes in this study, was associated with significantly worsened patient outcome in regard to functional outcome, and mortality. Further research is required to determine whether the number of thrombectomy passes is an accurate indicator of treatment outcome and whether delayed presentation time increases risk of poor outcome.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE The effect of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic on performance of neuroendovascular procedures has not been quantified. METHODS We performed an audit of performance of neuroendovascular procedures at 18 institutions (seven countries) for two periods; January‐April 2019 and 2020, to identify changes in various core procedures. We divided the region where the hospital was located based on the median value of total number of COVID‐19 cases per 100,00 population‐into high and low prevalent regions. RESULTS Between 2019 and 2020, there was a reduction in number of cerebral angiograms (30.9% reduction), mechanical thrombectomy (8% reduction), carotid artery stent placement for symptomatic (22.7% reduction) and asymptomatic (43.4% reduction) stenoses, intracranial angioplasty and/or stent placement (45% reduction), and endovascular treatment of unruptured intracranial aneurysms (44.6% reduction) and ruptured (22.9% reduction) and unruptured brain arteriovenous malformations (66.4% reduction). There was an increase in the treatment of ruptured intracranial aneurysms (10% increase) and other neuroendovascular procedures (34.9% increase). There was no relationship between procedural volume change and intuitional location in high or low COVID‐19 prevalent regions. The procedural volume reduction was mainly observed in March‐April 2020. CONCLUSIONS We provided an international multicenter view of changes in neuroendovascular practices to better understand the gaps in provision of care and identify individual procedures, which are susceptible to change.

Background Recently approved artificial intelligence (AI) software utilizes AI powered large vessel occlusion (LVO) detection technology which automatically identifies suspected LVO through CT angiogram (CTA) imaging and alerts on-call stroke teams. We performed this analysis to determine if utilization of AI software and workflow platform can reduce the transfer time (time interval between CTA at a primary stroke center (PSC) to door-in at a comprehensive stroke center (CSC)). Methods We compared the transfer time for all LVO transfer patients from a single spoke PSC to our CSC prior to and after incorporating AI Software (Viz.ai LVO). Using a prospectively collected stroke database at a CSC, demographics, mRS at discharge, mortality rate at discharge, length of stay (LOS) in hospital and neurological-ICU were examined. Results There were a total of 43 patients during the study period (median age 72.0 ± 12.54 yrs., 51.16% women). Analysis of 28 patients from the pre-AI software (median age 73.5 ± 12.28 yrs., 46.4% women), and 15 patients from the post-AI software (median age 70.0 ± 13.29 yrs., 60.00% women). Following implementation of AI software, median CTA time at PSC to door-in at CSC was significantly reduced by an average of 22.5 min. (132.5 min versus 110 min; p = 0.0470). Conclusions The incorporation of AI software was associated with an improvement in transfer times for LVO patients as well as a reduction in the overall hospital LOS and LOS in the neurological-ICU. More extensive studies are warranted to expand on the ability of AI technology to improve transfer times and outcomes for LVO patients.

Purpose of the ReviewThis article reviews the current concepts in intracranial atherosclerotic disease (ICAD) as a common etiology of ischemic stroke; pathophysiologic mechanisms of ischemic stroke; diagnostic evaluation; and therapeutic modalities, including maximal medical therapy (MMT), percutaneous transluminal angioplasty and stenting (PTAS), and bypass surgery.Recent FindingsData from recent studies demonstrate that proper patient selection and timing of procedure and standardized PTAS techniques by experienced operators resulted in acceptably low periprocedural adverse events for patients who failed MMT.SummaryICAD is a common cause of ischemic stroke. Complex pathology and high rates of recurrent and disabling ischemic strokes despite currently available treatments make ICAD the most challenging to treat of all ischemic stroke etiologies. Randomized trials previously showed that MMT, which involves the use of combinations of antiplatelet medications, targeted control of hypertension and serum low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and adequate management of body weight through lifestyle modification, was superior to PTAS in decreasing rates of recurrent ischemic strokes from symptomatic ICAD. MMT performed better than expected, while periprocedural complications were significantly higher than expected in PTAS. Meanwhile, high rates of recurrent ischemic stroke despite MMT remain a great challenge. New clinical evidence continues to emerge on a safer application of PTAS, which is currently offered to a subset of patients who present with recurrent ischemic strokes despite MMT.

BackgroundEndovascular treatment (EVT) is a widely proved method to treat patients diagnosed with intracranial large vessel occlusions (LVOs); however, there has been controversy about the safety and efficacy of incorporating intravenous tissue plasminogen activator (IV tPA) as pretreatment for EVT.ObjectiveTo compare the outcomes of all patients with LVO treated with IV tPA +EVT versus EVT alone within 4.5 hours of stroke onset.MethodsA prospectively collected endovascular database at a comprehensive stroke center between 2012 and 2019 was used to examine variables such as demographics, comorbid conditions, symptomatic/asymptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH), mortality rate, and good/poor outcomes as shown by the modified Thrombolysis in Cerebral Infarction score and modified Rankin Scale (mRS) assessment at discharge. The outcomes between patients receiving IV tPA+EVT on admission and patients who underwent EVT alone were compared.ResultsOf 588 patients with acute ischemic stroke treated with EVT, a total of 189 met the criteria for the study (average age 70.44±12.90 years, 42.9% women). Analysis of 109 patients from the group receiving EVT+IV tPA (average age 68.17±14.28 years, 41.3% women), and 80 patients from the EVT alone group was performed (average age 73.54±9.84 years, 45.0% women). Four patients (5.0%) in the EVT alone group experienced symptomatic ICH versus 15 patients (13.8%) in the IV tPA+EVT group (p=0.0478); significant increases were also noted in the length of stay for patients treated with IV tPA (8.2 days vs 11.0 days; p=0.0056).ConclusionIV tPA in addition to EVT was associated with an increase in the rate of ICH in patients with LVO treated within 4.5 hours and in patients’ length of stay. Further research is required to determine whether EVT treatment alone in patients with LVO treated within 4.5 hours is a more effective option.

Background: Endovascular treatment (EVT) is a widely proven method to treat patients diagnosed with intracranial large vessel occlusions (LVO); however, there has been controversy regarding the safety and efficacy of incorporating intravenous tissue plasminogen activator (IV tPA) as pretreatment for EVT. We compared the outcomes of all LVO patients treated with IV tPA + EVT versus EVT alone within 4.5 hours of stroke onset. Methods: Through the utilization of a prospectively collected endovascular database at a comprehensive stroke center between 2012-2019, variables such as demographics, co-morbid conditions, symptomatic/asymptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage (S-ICH/A-ICH), mortality rate, and good/poor outcomes in regard to modified thrombolysis in cerebral infarction score (TICI) and modified Rankin Scale assessment at discharge (mRS dc) were examined. The outcomes between patients receiving IV tPA + EVT upon admission and patients that underwent EVT alone were compared. Results: Out of 588 acute ischemic stroke patients treated with EVT, a total of 189 met the criteria for the study (average age 70.44 ± 12.90 years, 42.86% women). Analysis of 109 patients from the EVT + IV tPA (average age 68.17 ± 14.28 years, 41.28% women), and 80 patients from the EVT alone was performed (average age 73.54 ± 9.84 years, 45.00% women); see Table 1 for baseline characteristics and outcomes. Four patients (5.0%) in the EVT alone group experienced S-ICH versus 15 patients (13.8%) in the IV tPA + EVT group (p=.0478); significant increases were also noted in the length of stay for patients treated with IV tPA (8.2 days vs 11.0 days; P=.0055). Conclusion: IV tPA in addition to EVT was associated with an increase in the rate of ICH in LVO patients treated within 4.5 hours and in patients’ length of stay. Further research is required to determine whether EVT treatment alone in LVO patients treated within 4.5 hours is a more effective option.