Optimizing First Pass TICI 3: FAST (Flow Arrest Aspiration Stentriever Technique)

Introduction: Timely restoration of cerebral blood flow using mechanical thrombectomy for acute ischemic stroke is constantly evolving. We evaluated the impact of combining distal access catheter with proximal balloon guiding catheter and stentriever technique for mechanical thrombectomy in acute ischemic stroke patients. Methods: In accordance with our institutional review board approval, we retrospectively analyzed all the patients who underwent mechanical thrombectomy with stentriever between May 2011 and June 2019. The patients were divided by the techniques adopted, the combined technique: proximal balloon guiding catheter, distal access catheter and stentriever and the conventional approach: proximal balloon guiding catheter and stentriever. Analysis and outcome parameters: complete recanalization (TICI ≥2b), procedural time, early independent functional outcome (mRS ≤2 at discharge). Results: Among the 267 patients included, in 58.8% the combined technique was performed. Mean age at treatment was 68.4±13.3, 55.4% male. There were no statistically significant differences in baseline characteristics between the treatment groups. Median NIHSS score was 16 (6-34) on arrival. The overall complete recanalization rate was 68.5%. The combined technique group achieved higher complete recanalization rate; TICI ≥2b: 75.6% vs. 66.3% (p=0.001). In addition, the distal access catheter group achieved lower non-reperfusion rate; TICI=0: 15.4% vs. 26.5% (p=0.001). No significant differences were observed in first-pass successful reperfusion rate: 70.5% vs. 64.2% (p=0.333). The distal aspiration approach was not associated with longer procedural time: 67.4±28.4 min vs. 31.8±74.9 min (p=0.467). There were no significant differences regarding procedural complications: 8.3% vs. 7.3% (p=0.763); SICH: 8.5% vs. 12.2% (p=0.333). There were no significant differences in clinical outcomes; early functional independence rate: 45.0% vs. 54.3% (p=0.256), mortality rate: 12.8% vs. 15.2% (p=0.256). Conclusions: The combined techniquefor mechanical thrombectomy is associated with higher complete recanalization rate. The use of aspiration system does not seem to increase the procedural time or influence in complications development.