Scientific Publications Database

Article Title: Acute Stroke Patients Treated with Stent Retrievers in Carotid T Occlusions Have Improved Recanalization and Outcome
Authors: Orton, Trent H.; Lum, Cheemun; Alhazzaa, Mohammed; Lesiuk, Howard; Dowlatshahi, Dar; dos Santos, Marlise P.; Iancu, Daniela
Journal: CANADIAN JOURNAL OF NEUROLOGICAL SCIENCES Volume 41 Issue 6
Date of Publication:2014
Abstract:
Background: Recanalization rates and patient outcomes in acute occlusion of the carotid terminus have previously been poor. The use of stent-retrievers has resulted in better recanalization and patient outcomes. We sought to compare outcomes in patients' treated with stent-retrievers to outcomes in older techniques. Methods: We retrospectively compared a stent-retriever cohort to a historical cohort. We evaluated recanalization rates and good outcomes (defined as mRS < 2 at 30 days or 10 point drop in NIHSS). Results: There were twenty patients treated with stent-retrievers versus nine without. The recanalization rate in patients treated with stent retrievers was significantly higher than that of other modalities (90% vs 33%, p=0.004). Good outcomes were significantly higher in the stein retriever cohort (70% vs 22%, p=0.041). Conclusion: The use of stent-retrievers in patients with carotid T occlusions shows promise in comparison to older techniques. A randomized trial comparing stent-retriever therapy to IV thrombolysis is warranted to determine the efficacy of this new generation of devices.