Introduction: For patients transferred for EVT considerations, direct-to-angio approach is shown to reduce time to procedure and improve clinical outcomes. We aimed to assess if IV thrombolytics status prior to transfer modifies the association between direct-to-angio approach and improved clinical outcomes in transferred patients who received EVT. Methods: In a secondary analysis of a retrospective cohort of transferred EVT patients from 6 centers across US and Europe, patients were stratified based on IV thrombolytic status. Association of direct-to-angio approach vs repeated imaging approach with functional outcomes was assessed among patients with and without IV thrombolytics using appropriate regression models adjusted for age, stroke severity, time to procedure, occlusion location, serum glucose and successful reperfusion status. Heterogeneity of association was evaluated using multiplicative interaction. Results: Of 1135 patients with documented IV thrombolysis status, 612 (54%) received IVT – with younger age (IVT - 68 (57-78)y, no IVT - 70 (60-79)y, p=0.032) and higher CT ASPECTS (IVT: 8 (7-10) vs no IVT: 8 (7-9), p=0.038), but similar NIHSS (IVT: 17 (13-21) vs no IVT: 17 (12-21), p=0.91). Estimates of association favored direct-to-angio approach among both no IVT (acOR: 2.06, 95% CI: 1.38 to 3.08, p-value<0.001) and IVT (acOR: 1.33, 95% CI: 0.95 to 1.86, p-value: 0.099), without significant heterogeneity (p-interaction: 0.17). Similar findings were also observed for functional independence (IVT - aOR: 1.64, 95% CI: 1.08 to 2.49, p-value: 0.021; no IVT: aOR: 2.12, 95% CI: 1.25 to 3.58, p-value: 0.005; p-interaction: 0.57) and independent ambulation (IVT: aOR: 1.45, 95% CI: 0.93 to 2.26, p-value: 0.097; No IVT: aOR: 2.92, 95% CI: 1.68 to 5.06, p-value<0.001; p-interaction: 0.10) – Table 1. Interpretation: From a retrospective cohort of transferred patients who received EVT, use of IV thrombolytics at baseline did not modify the association between DTA vs RI approach and functional outcomes at 90-day follow-up, suggesting the feasibility of DTA approach regardless of baseline IVT status.

Seizures occur in 20-45% of patients with cerebral arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) and can potentially influence their quality of life. Some studies have suggested risk factors influencing their development, but the evidence is limited to small cohorts. To analyze seizure presentation and factors influencing seizure development in patients with cerebral AVMs using a multi-institutional consortium. Retrospective multicenter registry from multiple centers in North America and Europe of patients aged 1 to 89 years who had undergone any intervention for brain AVMs between January 2010 and December 2023. Demographics, functional assessment (modified Rankin Scale; mRS), and AVM characteristics, were evaluated to assess for relationship with seizures using a multivariate generalized linear mixed-effects model. 1,005 AVM patients were analyzed; the median age was 42, 73% had a baseline mRS <= 2. The median nidus size was 2.2 cm, and most AVMs were Spetzler-Martin grade II (37%). Seizure was the presenting symptom in 237 patients (24%). After adjusting for significant variables, patient-specific factors associated with seizures were younger age (OR 0.99, CI95% 0.98-1), male sex (OR 1.65, CI95% 1.18-2.30), and smoking history (OR 1.69, CI95% 1.17-2.44). AVM-specific factors associated with seizures included rupture status (OR 0.42, CI95% 0.30-0.61); eloquent cortex (OR 1.61, CI95% 1.13-2.29); frontal (OR 1.54, CI95% 1.01-2.35), temporal (OR 1.93, CI95% 1.26-2.96) and parietal (OR 1.71 CI95% 1.08-2.71) location; larger nidal size (OR = 1.23, CI95% 1.08-1.39), and superficial draining vein location (OR 1.86, CI95% 1.15-3.01). In this multicenter consortium, after controlling for significant variables, the incidence of AVM-related seizures was associated with younger age, male sex, smoking history, larger AVMs, eloquent locations, and AVMs in the frontal, temporal, and parietal cortices. Conversely, rupture status, deep venous drainage, and cerebellar locations were negatively associated with seizures.

BACKGROUND:Arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) are uncommon cerebral lesions that can cause significant neurological complications. Surgical resection is the gold standard for treatment, but endovascular embolization and stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) are viable alternatives. OBJECTIVE:To compare the outcomes of endovascular embolization versus SRS in the treatment of AVMs with Spetzler-Martin grades I-III. METHODS:This study combined retrospective data from 10 academic institutions in North America and Europe. Patients aged 1 to 90 years who underwent endovascular embolization or SRS for AVMs with Spetzler-Martin grades I-III between January 2010 and December 2023 were included. RESULTS:The study included 244 patients, including 84 who had endovascular embolization and 160 who had SRS. Before propensity score matching (PSM), complete obliteration at the last follow-up was achieved in 74.5% of the SRS group compared with 57.8% of the embolization group (OR=0.47; 95% CI 0.26 to 0.48; P=0.01). After propensity score matching, SRS still achieved significantly higher occlusion rates at last follow-up (78.9% vs 55.3%; OR=0.32; 95% CI 0.12 to 0.90; P=0.03).Hemorrhagic complications were higher in the embolization group than in the SRS group, although this difference did not reach statistical significance after PSM (13.2% vs 2.6%; OR=5.6; 95% CI 0.62 to 50.47; P=0.12). Similarly, re-treatment rate was higher in the embolization group (10.5% vs 5.3%; OR=2.11; 95% CI 0.36 to 12.31; P=0.40) compared with the SRS group. CONCLUSION:Our findings indicate that SRS has a significantly higher obliteration rate at last follow-up compared with endovascular embolization. Also, SRS has a higher tendency for fewer hemorrhagic complications and lower re-treatment rate. Further prospective studies are needed.

Objective:Middle meningeal artery embolization (MMAE) has emerged as a promising treatment, both as an adjunct to surgery and as a primary treatment for chronic subdural hematoma (cSDH). Here, we evaluate the efficacy of MMAE following surgery in reducing the likelihood of reoperation in patients requiring early introduction of antithrombotics. Methods:From our prospectively collected registry of patients with cSDH, we identified patients treated with surgical evacuation, either in combination with or without MMAE. Patients were included if they had a clinical indication requiring early antithrombotics within 7 days of surgery. The primary outcome was the rate of reoperation. The secondary outcomes included recurrence in midline shift or changes in cSDH width based on imaging findings. Results:Among 43 patients (53 total cSDHs) who met the inclusion criteria for the study, the median age was 71 years, 13% were female, the mean SDH thickness was 17.9 mm, and the most commonly used postoperative antithrombotic was aspirin. Sixteen cSDHs in 13 patients were treated with MMAE + surgery, while 37 cSDHs in 30 patients were treated with surgery alone. There was no difference in reoperation rates between the 2 groups (8.1% vs. 0%, surgery alone vs. surgery + MMAE, p = 0.55), nor in the rate of recurrence (24.3% vs. 12.5%, surgery alone vs. surgery + MMAE, p = 0.47). Conclusion:In this single-center cohort study, we found no clear benefit in reduced rates of reoperation or recurrence for adjunctive MMAE in patients with cSDH treated with surgical evaluation. Despite this, encouraging trends were observed in the MMAE + surgery group.

Endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) was shown to be safe and efficacious in patients with large core stroke in multiple randomized controlled trials. However, the impact of reperfusion and other procedural metrics on EVT outcomes in this population has not been well-characterized. Methods: From the SELECT2 trial, we evaluated the association between reperfusion status, first-pass effect (near-complete or complete reperfusion [extended thrombolysis in cerebral infarction (eTICI) 2c-3] in 1 pass), procedure time and primary technique (aspiration vs stent-retriever) with functional outcomes in patients receiving EVT across ASPECTS (3 vs 4 vs 5) and core estimate strata (<70 vs >= 70ml, <100 vs >= 100ml, and <150 vs >= 150ml). Results: Of 180 patients who received thrombectomy, 144 (80%) achieved successful reperfusion (eTICI 2b-3) and demonstrated better clinical outcomes (adjusted generalized odds ratios [aGenOR]: 1.48, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.01-2.15), compared with unsuccessful reperfusion. Results were consistent across ASPECTS and core estimate strata. Additionally, complete or near-complete reperfusion (eTICI 2c-3) was associated with better functional outcome (aGenOR: 1.99, 95% CI: 1.33-2.97) in patients achieving successful reperfusion. Functional outcome point estimates favored those with first-pass-effect (42 of 167 (25%), aGenOR: 1.46, 95% CI: 0.96-2.24). Longer procedure time was associated with worse modified Rankin scale (mRS) distribution (aGenOR: 0.92, 95% CI: 0.87-0.96, p-value = 0.001 for 10 minutes increment). Aspiration-first technique was used in 43 of 154 (25%) patients and was not associated with higher reperfusion (88% vs 78%, p = 0.18) or better functional outcome (aGenOR: 0.74, 95% CI: 0.50-1.10) as compared with stent-retriever first. Interpretation: Successful reperfusion resulted in improved clinical outcomes in large core patients across baseline ischemic core strata. Near complete or complete reperfusion was further associated with better outcomes, whereas prolonged procedures were associated with worse outcomes. Results were consistent regardless of the technique used.

Background: Septated chronic subdural hematomas (cSDH) have high rates of recurrence despite surgical evacuation. Middle meningeal artery embolization (MMAE) has emerged as a promising adjuvant for secondary prevention, yet its efficacy remains ill-defined. Methods: This is a retrospective review of septated cSDH cases treated at our institution. The surgery-only group was derived from cases performed before 2018, and the surgery+MMAE group was derived from cases performed 2018 or later. The primary outcome was reoperation rate. Secondary outcomes were recurrence, change in hematoma thickness, and midline shift. Results: A total of 34 cSDHs in 28 patients (surgery+MMAE) and 95 cSDHs in 83 patients (surgery-only) met the inclusion criteria. No significant difference in baseline characteristics between groups was identified. The reoperation rate was significantly higher in the surgery-only group (n = 16, 16.8%) compared with the surgery+MMAE cohort (n = 0, 0.0%) (p=0.006). A reduced incidence of recurrence (p=0.011) was also seen in the surgery+MMAE group. Conclusions: MMAE for septated cSDH was found to be highly effective in preventing recurrence and reoperation. MMAE is an adjunct to surgical evacuation may be of particular benefit in this patient cohort.

BACKGROUND: The association between patient age and cerebral arterial vasospasm (CVS) and delayed cerebral ischemia (DCI) risk following aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) remains unclear. This study aims to assess the role of age on aSAH-related complications. METHODS: Single-center retrospective study comprising aSAH patients treated between January 2009 and March 2023. Age was analyzed as continuous and categorical variables ( <60 yrs vs. >= 60 yrs and by decade). Outcomes of interest included radiographic CVS, DCI, cerebral infarction, in-hospital mortality, length-of-stay (LOS), ventriculoperitoneal shunt placement, and modified Rankin Scale (mRS) scores at discharge and 3-month follow-up. RESULTS: Nine hundred and twenty-five aSAH patients were included. Most (n = 598; 64.6%) were <60 yrs old (46 +/- 9.1 yrs). CVS likelihood was lower in the older cohort (aOR = 0.56 [0.38- 0.82]). Patients >= 60 yrs had higher mortality rates (aOR = 2.24 [1.12- 4.47]) and worse mRS scores at discharge (aOR = 2.66 [1.91- 3.72]) and 3-month follow-up (aOR = 2.19 [1.44- 3.32]). Advanced age did not have a significant effect on DCI or cerebral infarction risk. Higher in-hospital mortality was documented with increasing age ( P < 0.001). A significant interaction between CVS and age for the outcome of DCI was documented, with a stronger positive effect on poor outcomes (i.e., higher odds of DCI) among patients aged <60 years compared to those aged >= 60. CONCLUSIONS: There is an inverse relationship between patient age and CVS incidence following aSAH. Nonetheless, patients >= 60 yrs had comparable DCI rates, higher in-hospital mortality, and worse functional outcomes than their younger counterparts. Routine screening and reliance on radiographic CVS as primary marker for aSAH-related complications should be reconsidered, particularly in older patients.

BACKGROUND:Ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke incidence tends to be higher among minority racial and ethnic groups. The effect of race and ethnicity following an aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) remains poorly understood. Thus, we aimed to explore the association between race and ethnicity and aSAH outcomes. METHODS:Single-center retrospective review of patients with aSAH from January 2009 to March 2023. Primary outcome was in-hospital mortality. Secondary outcomes included delayed cerebral ischemia, cerebral infarction, radiographic and symptomatic vasospasm, pulmonary complications, epileptic seizures, external ventricular drain placement, and modified Rankin Scale score at discharge and 3-month follow-up. Associations between race and ethnicity and outcomes were assessed using binary and ordinal regression models, with multivariable models adjusted for significant covariates. RESULTS:A total of 1325 patients with subarachnoid hemorrhage presented to our center. Among them, 443 cases were excluded, and data from 882 patients with radiographically confirmed aSAH were analyzed. Distribution by race and ethnicity was 40.8% (n=360) White, 31.4% (n=277) Hispanic, 22.1% (n=195) Black, and 5.7% (n=50) Asian. Based on Hunt-Hess and modified Fisher grade, aSAH severity was similar among groups (P=0.269 and P=0.469, respectively). In-hospital mortality rates were highest for Asian (14.0%) and Hispanic (11.2%) patients; however, after adjusting for patient sex, age, health insurance, smoking history, alcohol and substance abuse, and aneurysm treatment, the overall likelihood was comparable to White patients. Hispanic patients had higher risks of developing cerebral infarction (adjusted odds ratio, 2.17 [1.20-3.91]) and symptomatic vasospasm (adjusted odds ratio, 1.64 [1.05-2.56]) than White patients and significantly worse discharge modified Rankin Scale scores (adjusted odds ratio, 1.44 [1.05-1.99]). Non-White patients also demonstrated a lower likelihood of 0 to 2 discharge modified Rankin Scale scores (adjusted odds ratio, 0.71 [0.50-0.98]). No significant interactions between race and ethnicity and age or sex were found for in-hospital mortality and functional outcomes. CONCLUSIONS:Our study identified significant differences in cerebral infarction and symptomatic vasospasm risk between Hispanic and White patients following aSAH. A higher likelihood of worse functional outcomes at discharge was found among non-White patients. These findings emphasize the need to better understand predisposing risk factors that may influence aSAH outcomes. Efforts toward risk stratification and patient-centered management should be pursued.

INTRODUCTION Middle meningeal artery embolization (MMAE) has emerged as a promising new treatment for patients with chronic subdural hematomas (cSDH). Its efficacy, however, upon the subtype with a high rate of recurrence-septated cSDH-remains undetermined. METHODS From our prospective registry of patients with cSDH treated with MMAE, we classified patients based on the presence or absence of septations. The primary outcome was the rate of recurrence of cSDH. Secondary outcomes included a reduction in cSDH thickness, midline shift, and rate of reoperation. RESULTS Among 80 patients with 99 cSDHs, the median age was 68 years (IQR 59-77) with 20% females. Twenty-eight cSDHs (35%) had septations identified on imaging. Surgical evacuation with burr holes was performed in 45% and craniotomy in 18.8%. Baseline characteristics between no-septations (no-SEP) and septations (SEP) groups were similar except for median age (SEP vs no-SEP, 72.5 vs. 65.5, p = 0.016). The recurrence rate was lower in the SEP group (SEP vs. no-SEP, 3 vs. 16.7%, p = 0.017) with higher odds of response from MMAE for septated lesions even when controlling for evacuation strategy and antithrombotic use (OR = 0.06, CI [0.006-0.536], p = 0.012). MMAE resulted in higher mean absolute thickness reduction (SEP vs. no-SEP, -8.2 vs. -4.8 mm, p = 0.016) with a similar midline shift change. The rate of reoperation did not differ (6.2 vs. 3.1%, p = 0.65). CONCLUSION MMAE appears to be equal to potentially more effective in preventing the recurrence of cSDH in septated lesions. These findings may aid in patient selection.

Introduction Chronic Subdural Hematoma (cSDH) is projected to be the most common neurosurgical disease in the US by the end of the decade. MMA embolization is a promising new treatment; however, its efficacy in patients with complex, septated cSDH remains uncertain. Methods From our prospectively maintained registry of patients with cSDH treated with MMA embolization (with or without concurrent surgical drainage), we identified patients with and without septations. Septations were defined as hyperdense septa between the inner and outer membranes on a lower‐density background. The primary outcome was recurrence of cSDH, which was defined as any radiographic evidence of increase in thickness and/or new acute hemorrhage. Secondary outcomes included reduction in cSDH thickness, midline shift and rate of reoperation. Results Among 84 patients with 100 cSDHs, median age was 70 [IQR 59‐77] with 26.2% females. 35 CSDHs (35%) had membranes identified on imaging. Evacuation with burr holes was performed in 45.2% and craniotomy in 16.7% of the total cohort. Baseline characteristics between the patients with no septations (no SEP) and those with septatations (SEP) were similar except for median age (no SEP vs SEP, 66 vs 74, p = 0.006). Recurrence rate was lower in the SEP group (no SEP vs SEP, 21.5 vs 2.9%, p = 0.017) even when adjusting for clinically relevant factors (OR 0.07, p = 0.017). Despite larger baseline thickness in the SEP groups, the mean absolute reduction in thickness was more pronounced (no SEP vs SEP, ‐4.6 vs ‐8.0 mm, p = 0.016) with similar midline shift change. Rate of reoperation did not differ (6.2 vs 2.9%, p = 0.65). Recurrence free survival was significantly improved in patients with septations even after adjustment for age and evacuation strategy (Figure 1, p = 0.04). Conclusions MMAE in traditionally higher risk septated cSDHs appears to be highly effective with an even larger reduction in volume and lower risk of recurrence than non‐septated hematomas. These findings support the mechanistic theory of MMAE as a devascularization procedure of membrane neovasculature and may aid in improved patient selection.

Purpose To identify the specific clinical and angiographic variables that determine the success of intra-arterial chemotherapy (IAC) in a patient with retinoblastoma. Methods Medical records from patients undergoing intra-arterial chemotherapy for the treatment of retinoblastoma between January 2015 and June 2020 within a large academic ocular oncology practice were retrospectively reviewed. Demographics were recorded together with clinical, ocular, and angiographic variables such as the diameter of the ophthalmic artery (OA), angle of ophthalmic artery takeoff, and branching pattern of ophthalmic vasculature. Results Forty-four eyes from 33 patients with retinoblastoma treated with IAC were identified. Over the total 32 mean months of follow-up, these patients received 144 total catheterizations and a mean of 3.2 IAC cycles for each eye. The number of IAC cycles and the chemotherapeutic agent used did not vary significantly with worsening International Classification of Retinoblastoma (ICRB) groups ( P > 0.1). Cumulative dose did not vary with the ICRB group for eyes treated with melphalan, topotecan, or carboplatin ( P > 0.1). A higher ICRB group was associated with a smaller mean ophthalmic artery diameter across all procedures ( P = 0.016), and femoral artery diameter did not vary significantly between ICRB groups ( P = 0.906). A higher cumulative dose of IAC was significantly associated with a smaller takeoff angle of the OA (melphalan, P = 0.011; topotecan, P = 0.009; carboplatin, P = 0.031) in patients who underwent successful IAC procedures. Ophthalmic artery diameter and femoral artery diameter did not have a significant association ( P > 0.1) with higher IAC doses in successful IACs. Cumulative IAC dose was not significantly associated with ophthalmic vasculature branching pattern, presence of choroidal blush, temporary OA vasospasm reported during the procedure, and OA occlusion upon microcatheter placement. Conclusion In this study, neurosurgical angioanatomy appeared to influence the cumulative dose of chemotherapy needed during IAC for retinoblastoma. In the future, these anatomic variables may be used to guide the frequency of monitoring, dosing, and estimation of recurrence risk.

BACKGROUND:Chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) is an increasingly prevalent disease in the aging population. Patients with CSDH frequently suffer from concurrent vascular disease or develop secondary thrombotic complications requiring antithrombotic treatment.OBJECTIVE:To determine the safety and impact of early reinitiation of antithrombotics after middle meningeal artery embolization for chronic subdural hematoma.METHODS:This is a single-institution, retrospective study of patients who underwent middle meningeal artery (MMA) embolizations for CSDH. Patient with or without antithrombotic initiation within 5 days postembolization were compared. Primary outcome was the rate of recurrence within 60 days. Secondary outcomes included rate of reoperation, reduction in CSDH thickness, and midline shift.RESULTS:Fifty-seven patients met inclusion criteria. The median age was 66 years (IQR 58-76) with 21.1% females. Sixty-six embolizations were performed. The median length to follow-up was 20 days (IQR 14-44). Nineteen patients (33.3%) had rapid reinitiation of antithrombotics (5 antiplatelet, 11 anticoagulation, and 3 both). Baseline characteristics between the no antithrombotic (no-AT) and the AT groups were similar. The recurrence rate was higher in the AT group (no-AT vs AT, 9.3 vs 30.4%, P = .03). Mean absolute reduction in CSDH thickness and midline shift was similar between groups. Rate of reoperation did not differ (4.7 vs 8.7%, P = .61).CONCLUSION:Rapid reinitiation of AT after MMA embolization for CSDH leads to higher rates of recurrence with similar rates of reoperation. Care must be taken when initiating antithrombotics after treatment of CSDH with MMA embolization.

Importance Intra-arterial chemotherapy (IAC) has quickly gained popularity as a mainstay of treatment for retinoblastoma. Intra-articular chemotherapy has been described as having several advantages over systemic chemotherapy, including reduced systemic toxicity and neutropenia; however, studies on the risk of neutropenia after IAC remain limited.Objective To estimate the incidence of neutropenia after IAC, as well as identify risk factors associated with the development of neutropenia.Design, Setting, and Participants This case series included pediatric patients with unilateral or bilateral retinoblastoma who were treated with IAC at a single quaternary care center from July 13, 2013, to January 6, 2023.Exposure All patients were treated with IAC and underwent multiple IAC cycles depending on treatment response. The primary chemotherapy agent used was melphalan, but topotecan or carboplatin could be used along with melphalan. Melphalan doses were kept to 0.4 mg/kg or less per cycle. After each IAC cycle, complete blood cell counts were obtained within 10 to 12 days and repeated until the absolute neutrophil count (ANC) was greater than or equal to 1000/mu L.Main Outcomes and Measures The primary outcome was the minimum ANC after each IAC cycle. The secondary outcome was the development of severe (grade 3 or 4) neutropenia (ANC <1000/mu L). Regression analyses were used to identify associations between variables and outcomes. Receiver operating characteristic curves were used to calculate threshold dose for each chemotherapy agent potentially associated with the development of severe neutropenia.Results A total of 64 eyes of 49 patients (mean [SD] age, 1.7 [1.2] years; 25 females [51.0%]) with retinoblastoma were treated with 171 cycles of IAC. The mean (SD) nadir ANC was 1325.3 (890.7)/mu L and occurred a median (IQR) of 10 (10-14) days (range, 6-28 days) after IAC administration. The frequency distribution of post-IAC neutropenia grades 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, and missing was 31 (18.1% of cycles), 25 (14.6%), 40 (23.4%), 37 (21.6%), 26 (15.2%), and 12 (7.0%), respectively. Factors weakly correlated with a lower ANC were higher melphalan dose (beta = -2356 [95% CI, -4120.6 to -611.2]; adjusted R-2 = 0.251; P = .01) and higher topotecan dose (beta = -4056 [95% CI, -7003.6 to -1344.5]; adjusted R-2 = 0.251; P = .006).Conclusions and Relevance In this case series of patients with retinoblastoma, the incidence of severe neutropenia after IAC was nearly 40%, which is higher than previously reported. Extended laboratory monitoring may aid in capturing previously overlooked cases of neutropenia. Topotecan may be associated with the development of neutropenia; limiting topotecan doses, especially in the setting of a high melphalan dose, may be beneficial in reducing the risk of neutropenia.

Many aneurysms are not safely or completely treatable by endovascular means. Surgical clipping has a firmly established safety and durability history, with the advantages of lower recurrence and re-bleeding rates compared to those associated with endovascular intervention. Surgery remains a significant tool in aneurysm management. Mastery of operative approaches and treatments is an essential component in any comprehensive aneurysm management strategy. The three most common aneurysm sites in the anterior circulation are those arising at the middle cerebral artery genu, within the anterior communicating artery complex, and from the internal carotid-posterior communicating artery junction. These lesions are very effectively managed via a pterional craniotomy with varying degrees of sylvian fissure splitting. More proximal internal carotid artery (ICA) aneurysms may also require adjunctive cervical carotid exposure and/or anterior clinoidectomy for complete aneurysm visualization and clipping. Distal anterior cerebral pericallosal or callosomarginal artery aneurysms are approachable through a frontal interhemispheric approach. Basilar apex bifurcation aneurysms can be reached through either a pterional/transsylvian or anterior subtemporal approach, usually dictated by surgeon familiarity and the level of the lesion relative to the posterior clinoidal process. Vertebral artery and proximal posterior inferior artery aneurysms are best approached through a far lateral suboccipital craniotomy.

BACKGROUND: Blunt cerebrovascular injury (BCVI) is a term for injuries to the carotid and vertebral arteries (blunt vertebral artery injury [BVAI]) caused by blunt trauma. Computed tomographic angiography is currently the best screening test for BCVI. The subsequent management of any identified vessel injury, however, is not clearly defined. OBJECTIVE: To describe one of the largest cohorts of isolated vertebral artery injuries and report the evolution of treated and untreated lesions and clinical outcomes of treatment regimens used to reduce the risk of injury-related stroke. METHODS: The list included patients who presented to or were transferred to a level 1 trauma center and found to have an isolated BVAI. Patients were included if imaging was performed within 24 hours of presentation. Data collected included location and grade of injury, timing and type of initial therapy, follow-up imaging, evolution of the disease, and associated strokes. RESULTS: A total of 156 patients were included in the analysis. Most patients (135/156) were treated with aspirin alone, 3 with anticoagulation therapy, and 18 did not receive treatment. Three strokes were detected within 24 hours of admission and before treatment initiation. No strokes were detected during the length of the hospitalization for any other patient. CONCLUSION: Our data demonstrate that the risk of stroke after cervical vertebral artery injury is low, and aspirin as a prophylactic is efficacious in grade I and IV injuries. There are limited data regarding grade II and grade III injuries. The benefit of early interval imaging follow-up is unclear and warrants investigation.

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: 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<0.001], while IV tPA (52% vs 54%, p=0.52) and time LKW to EVT center [285 (193, 537) vs 272 (190, 470) min, p=0.15] were similar. Functional independence rates were lower in patients ≥ 80 as compared to < 80 (26% vs 46%, aOR 0.50, 95%CI 0.34-0.75, p=0.001). sICH was similar (8.6 vs 9.9%, p=0.56), but octogenarians had significantly higher 90-day mortality (42% vs 17%, p<0.001). Milder strokes (aOR 0.88, 95%CI 0.86-0.91, p<0.001), earlier presentation (aOR 0.95, 95%CI 0.91-0.98, p=0.004) and IV tPA (aOR 1.34, 95%CI 0.98-1.84, p=0.069) were associated with higher functional independence odds after EVT in octogenarians. Higher stroke severity (12% for each point, aOR=1.12, 95%CI 1.11-1.17-, p<0.001) and delayed reperfusion (3% for each additional hr, aOR 1.03, 95%CI 1.00-1.06, p=0.071) were associated with profound disability following EVT in octogenarians. 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 PURPOSEThe optimal endovascular stroke therapy (EVT) care delivery structure is unknown. Here, we present our experience in creating an integrated stroke system (ISS) to expand EVT availability throughout our region while maintaining hospital and physician quality standards.METHODSWe identified all consecutive patients with large vessel occlusion acute ischemic stroke treated with EVT from January 2014 to February 2019 in our health care system. In October 2017, we implemented the ISS, in which 3 additional hospitals (4 total) became EVT-performing hospitals (EPHs) and physicians were rotated between all centers. The cohort was divided by time into pre-ISS and post-ISS, and the primary outcome was time from stroke onset to EPH arrival. Secondary outcomes included hospital and procedural quality metrics. We performed an external validation using data from the Southeast Texas Regional Advisory Council.RESULTSAmong 513 patients with large vessel occlusion acute ischemic stroke treated with EVT, 58% were treated pre-ISS and 43% post-ISS. Over the study period, EVT procedural volume increased overall but remained relatively low at the 3 new EPHs (<70 EVT/y). After ISS, the proportion of patients who underwent interhospital transfer decreased (46% versus 37%; P<0.05). In adjusted quantile regression, ISS implementation resulted in a reduction of time from stroke onset to EPH arrival by 40 minutes (P<0.01) and onset to groin puncture by 29 minutes (P<0.05). Rates of postprocedural hemorrhage, modified Thrombolysis in Cerebral Infarction (TICI) 2b/3, and 90-day modified Rankin Scale were comparable at the higher and lower volume EPHs. The improvement in onset-to-arrival time was not reflective of overall improvement in secular trends in regional prehospital care.CONCLUSIONSIn our system, increasing EVT availability decreased time from stroke onset to EPH arrival. The ISS provides a framework to maintain quality in lower volume hospitals.

OBJECTIVE:To 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. METHODS:In 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. RESULTS:We 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 <15 had higher functional independence likelihood compared to those with dEVT (aOR 4.87, 95% CI 1.56-15.18, 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 <50 cm3: 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). CONCLUSIONS:BT 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 INFORMATION:ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02446587. CLASSIFICATION OF EVIDENCE:This 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.

Objective To 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. Methods In 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. Results We 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 <15 had higher functional independence likelihood compared to those with dEVT (aOR 4.87, 95% CI 1.56–15.18, 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 <50 cm3: 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). Conclusions BT 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 Information ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02446587. Classification of Evidence This 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.