In our comprehensive stroke center we analyze correct selection criteria to use self-expandable retrievable intracranial stents for acute stroke treatment. The criteria for intervention were the onset of neurological symptoms, a National Institute of Health Stroke Scale Score (NIHSS) ≥9 at presentation, large vessel occlusion stroke demonstrated by angio-CT, and failure of intravenous thrombolysis or exclusion criteria to administrate it.
METHODS:
We performed an retrospective analysis of 512 consecutive patients with acute ischemic stroke candidates for thrombectomy, from April of 2010 to June of 2012, that met inclusion criteria for intervention. Experienced vascular neurologists selected 171 patients to undergoing endovascular therapy using retrievable stents (Solitaire,Trevo). Successful recanalization results were assessed by follow-up angiography immediately after the procedure (TIMI 2-3/TICI 2b-3 score), and good functional outcome was considered when ≤2 mRankin score (mRS) was achieved at 90 days.
RESULTS:
A total of 171 patients were treated, 87% with anterior circulation stroke. The mean age was 67.5 years (range 32-87); 58% men. The median NIHSS at presentation was 17 (range 6-26). Recanalization (TICI 2b-3) was achieved in 73% of patients. Symptomatic hemorrhage occurred in 8%. Ninety-day mortality was 19, 5% and good 90-day functional outcome (mRS ≤2) was achieved by 45%. Unsuccessful recanalization (TICI 0-2a) was a significant predictor of poor outcome (mRS≤2: 9%). When we analyzed these patients according to inclusion criteria of IMS trial, 101 patients who met strict criteria achieved good neurological outcome more frequently (51% versus 34%) and significant lower mortality rates (17% vs 28%) compared with the group of 70 patients with IMS exclusion criteria.
CONCLUSIONS:
Efficacy in recanalization, safety of thrombectomy and its consequent good clinical outcome is sufficiently established. It is important an experienced vascular neurologist to select possible candidates (proportion of evaluated/treated patients 3:1). Inclusion criteria for acute stroke trials do not always represent real population of stroke patients as well as their clinical results.
Decision Fusion for Structural Damage Detection: Numerical and Experimental Studies
