Safety and efficacy of mechanical thrombectomy with solitaire stent retrieval for acute ischemic stroke: a systematic review

Therapeutic management of ischemic stroke

Stroke is the third leading cause of years lost due to disability and the second-largest cause of mortality worldwide. Most occurrences of stroke are brought on by the sudden occlusion of an artery (ischemic stroke), but sometimes they are brought on by bleeding into brain tissue after a blood vessel has ruptured (hemorrhagic stroke). Alteplase is the only therapy the American Food and Drug Administration has approved for ischemic stroke under the thrombolysis category. Current views as well as relevant clinical research on the diagnosis, assessment, and management of stroke are reviewed to suggest appropriate treatment strategies. We searched PubMed and Google Scholar for the available therapeutic regimes in the past, present, and future. With the advent of endovascular therapy in 2015 and intravenous thrombolysis in 1995, the therapeutic options for ischemic stroke have expanded significantly. A novel approach such as vagus nerve stimulation could be life-changing for many stroke patients. Therapeutic hypothermia, the process of cooling the body or brain to preserve organ integrity, is one of the most potent neuroprotectants in both clinical and preclinical contexts. The rapid intervention has been linked to more favorable clinical results. This study focuses on the pathogenesis of stroke, as well as its recent advancements, future prospects, and potential therapeutic targets in stroke therapy.

Novel 2,6-disubstituted benzofuran-3-one analogues improve cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury via neuroprotective and antioxidative effects

There are no highly effective and safe medicines for clinical treatment of ischemic stroke, although the natural product 3-n-butylphthalide (NBP) has been approved in China for mild and moderate ischemic stroke. To discover more potent anti-cerebral ischemic agents and overcome the low stability by phthalide derivatives, benzofuran-3-one was selected as a core moiety and two types of nitric oxide (NO)-donating groups were incorporated into the structure. In this work, a series of 2,6-disubstituted benzofuran-3-one derivatives were designed and synthesised as NBP analogues, and tested as neuroprotective and antioxidative agents. Compounds 5 (without an NO donor) and 16 (with an NO donor) displayed more potent neuroprotective effects than the established clinical drugs Edaravone and NBP. More importantly, 5 and 16 also exhibited good antioxidative activity without cytotoxicity in rat primary neuronal and PC12 cells. Most active compounds showed good blood-brain barrier permeability in a parallel artificial membrane permeability assay. Furthermore, compound 5 reduced the ischemic infarct area significantly in rats subjected to ischemia/reperfusion injury, downregulated ionised calcium-binding adaptor molecule 1 and glial fibrillary acidic protein in inflammatory cells, and upregulated nerve growth factor.

Polyfunctionalized α-Phenyl-tert-butyl(benzyl)nitrones: Multifunctional Antioxidants for Stroke Treatment

Nowadays, most stroke patients are treated exclusively with recombinant tissue plasminogen activator, a drug with serious side effects and limited therapeutic window. For this reason, and because of the known effects of oxidative stress on stroke, a more tolerable and efficient therapy for stroke is being sought that focuses on the control and scavenging of highly toxic reactive oxygen species by appropriate small molecules, such as nitrones with antioxidant properties. In this context, herein we report here the synthesis, antioxidant, and neuroprotective properties of twelve novel polyfunctionalized α-phenyl-tert-butyl(benzyl)nitrones. The antioxidant capacity of these nitrones was investigated by various assays, including the inhibition of lipid peroxidation induced by AAPH, hydroxyl radical scavenging assay, ABTS+-decoloration assay, DPPH scavenging assay, and inhibition of soybean lipoxygenase. The inhibitory effect on monoamine oxidases and cholinesterases and inhibition of β-amyloid aggregation were also investigated. As a result, (Z)-N-benzyl-1-(2-(3-(piperidin-1-yl)propoxy)phenyl)methanimine oxide (5) was found to be one of the most potent antioxidants, with high ABTS+ scavenging activity (19%), and potent lipoxygenase inhibitory capacity (IC50 = 10 µM), selectively inhibiting butyrylcholinesterase (IC50 = 3.46 ± 0.27 µM), and exhibited neuroprotective profile against the neurotoxicant okadaic acid in a neuronal damage model. Overall, these results pave the way for the further in-depth analysis of the neuroprotection of nitrone 5 in in vitro and in vivo models of stroke and possibly other neurodegenerative diseases in which oxidative stress is identified as a critical player.

Synthesis and Antioxidant Properties of HeteroBisNitrones Derived from Benzene Dicarbaldehydes

We report herein the synthesis and antioxidant profile of nine novel heterobisnitrones (hBNs) as new α-phenyl-tert-butylnitrone (PBN) analogues. The synthesized hBNs 1–9 were evaluated for their antioxidant activity using different in vitro techniques, while they were also tested as inhibitors of soybean LOX, as an indication of their anti-inflammatory effect. Nitrone hBN9 is the most potent antioxidant presenting higher anti-lipid peroxidation and hydroxyl radicals scavenging activities as well as higher lipoxygenase inhibition. In silico calculations reveal that hBN9 follows Lipinski’s rule of five and that the molecule is able to penetrate theoretically the brain. All these results led us to propose hBN9 as a new potent antioxidant nitrone.

Comparative study on treatment of acute cerebral infarction between mechanical thrombectomy by micro catheter and thrombectomy by Solitaire AB stent

BACKGROUND

Acute cerebral artery occlusion is a common disease with high morbidity and mortality. At present, the commonly used mechanical thrombectomy schemes are mechanical thrombectomy and stent thrombectomy. However, the clinical differences between the two methods is not fully understood. The present study aimed to evaluate the clinical effectiveness of Solitaire AB stent thrombectomy for acute cerebral infarction (ACI).

METHODS

A retrospective study was carried out in 96 ACI patients admitted to our department from January 2017 to January 2020. According to the treatment they received, they were divided into group A (conventional microcatheter mechanical thrombectomy, n = 48) and group B (Solitaire AB stent thrombectomy, n = 48). All patients were followed up for 3 months. Their pre- and post-operative nerve function indices were compared between the 2 groups. The therapeutic effects were evaluated by thrombolysis in cerebral infarction scale system, Glasgow coma scale (GCS), National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS), and modified Rankin scale statistics.

RESULTS

Two groups of patients with NIHSS scores postoperative 3 and 30 days decreased significantly compared with preoperation. NIHSS score of group A 3 and 30 days postoperation was significantly higher than group B (P < .05). Two groups of patients with GCS scores postoperative 3 and 30 days increased significantly compared with preoperation. GCS score of group A 3 and 30 days postoperation was significantly lower than group B (P < .05). Group B with vascular recanalization ratio postoperative 30 days was higher than group A, however with no significant differences (P > .05). Moreover, group B with outcomes (modified Rankin scale score ≤2 points) postoperative 3 months was better than group A, however with no significant differences (P > .05).

CONCLUSION

Solitaire AB stent embolectomy shows similar efficacy as mechanical thrombectomy in the treatment of ACI patients.

Subarachnoid Hemorrhage in Mechanical Thrombectomy for Acute Ischemic Stroke: Analysis of the STRATIS Registry, Systematic Review, and Meta-Analysis

Background: The indications for mechanical thrombectomy in acute ischemic stroke continue to broaden, leading neurointerventionalists to treat vessel occlusions at increasingly distal locations farther in time from stroke onset. Accessing these smaller vessels raises the concern of iatrogenic subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) owing to increasing complexity in device navigation and retrieval. This study aims to determine the prevalence of SAH following mechanical thrombectomy, associated predictors, and resulting functional outcomes using a multicenter registry and compare this with a systematic review and meta-analysis of the literature. Methods: Data from STRATIS (The Systematic Evaluation of Patients Treated with Neurothrombectomy Devices for Acute Ischemic Stroke) registry were analyzed dichotomized by the presence or absence of SAH after thrombectomy. Only patients with 24-h post-procedural neuroimaging were included (n = 841). Multivariable logistic regression was performed to identify significant predictors of SAH. A systematic review and random-effects meta-analysis was also conducted in accordance with the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis) protocol. Results: The prevalence of post-thrombectomy SAH was 5.23% in STRATIS with 15.9% (1.84% overall) experiencing neurological decline. Distal location of vessel occlusion (OR 3.41 [95% CI: 1.75-6.63], p < 0.001) and more than 3 device passes (OR 1.34 [95% CI: 1.09-1.64], p = 0.01) were associated with a higher probability of SAH in contrast to a reduction with administration of intravenous tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) (OR 0.48 [95% CI: 0.26-0.89], p = 0.02). There was a trend toward a higher discharge NIHSS (8.3 ± 8.7 vs. 5.3 ± 6.6, p = 0.07) with a significantly reduced proportion achieving functional independence at 90 days (modified Rankin Score 0-2: 32.5% vs. 57.8%, p = 0.002) in SAH patients. Pooled analysis of 10,126 patients from 6 randomized controlled trials and 64 observational studies demonstrated a prevalence of 5.85% [95% CI: 4.51-7.34%, I ²: 85.2%]. Only location of vessel occlusion was significant for increased odds of SAH at distal sites (OR 2.89 [95% CI: 1.14, 7.35]). Conclusions: Iatrogenic SAH related to mechanical thrombectomy is more common with treatment of distally-situated occlusions and multiple device passes. While low in overall prevalence, its effect is not benign with fewer patients reaching post-procedural functional independence, particularly if symptomatic.

Interventional stroke treatment - Is it also safe for arteries? Looking at thrombectomy wall damage through clot histology

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to investigate whether morphological evidence of intracranial vascular injury can be found in the occluding thrombi of patients with ischemic stroke.

METHODS

From 2015 until 2018 specimens of thrombi from patients with large vessel occlusion treated either by stent-assisted aspiration thrombectomy (TE) or by aspiration thrombectomy were prospectively collected. Thrombus specimens were formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded and stained. Architectural features, presence of parts of vessel wall or atheromatous material, organisation of the thrombi, technique and number of thrombectomy manoeuvers were evaluated.

RESULTS

Thrombus specimens from 302 patients were analyzed. 238 (80%) patients were treated with stent-assisted aspiration TE and 64 (20%) patients with aspiration TE only. 286 (95%) had fresh thrombi, 14 (4.6%) showed initial/complete thrombus organisation and multi-staged thrombi were found in 2 (<1%) patients. In 8 patients (2.6%) we found atypical thrombus content after a time interval longer 6 hours after onset and final thrombectomy manoeuvre: 4 with atheromatous material and 4 with parts of a vessel wall. In 1 patient with parts of vessel wall angiographically a dissection was detected. No parts of the vessel wall were found after sole aspiration thrombectomy.

CONCLUSIONS

The overall risk of arterial vessel wall injury aspiration thrombectomy was low in our study. Aspiration thrombectomy and the procedure related with a retrieving device together with an ischemia time longer than 6 hours may increase the risk of vessel injury through the thrombectomy procedure. Further investigations are necessary to elucidate the influence of the mentioned aspects.

Economic evaluation of a phase III international randomised controlled trial of very early mobilisation after stroke (AVERT)

OBJECTIVES

While very early mobilisation (VEM) intervention for stroke patients was shown not to be effective at 3 months, 12 month clinical and economical outcomes remain unknown. The aim was to assess cost-effectiveness of a VEM intervention within a phase III randomised controlled trial (RCT).

DESIGN

An economic evaluation alongside a RCT, and detailed resource use and cost analysis over 12 months post-acute stroke.

SETTING

Multi-country RCT involved 58 stroke centres.

PARTICIPANTS

2104 patients with acute stroke who were admitted to a stroke unit.

INTERVENTION

A very early rehabilitation intervention within 24 hours of stroke onset METHODS: Cost-utility analyses were undertaken according to pre-specified protocol measuring VEM against usual care (UC) based on 12 month outcomes. The analysis was conducted using both health sector and societal perspectives. Unit costs were sourced from participating countries. Details on resource use (both health and non-health) were sourced from cost case report form. Dichotomised modified Rankin Scale (mRS) scores (0 to 2 vs 3 to 6) and quality adjusted-life years (QALYs) were used to compare the treatment effect of VEM and UC. The base case analysis was performed on an intention-to-treat basis and 95% CI for cost and QALYs were estimated by bootstrapping. Sensitivity analysis were conducted to examine the robustness of base case results.

RESULTS

VEM and UC groups were comparable in the quantity of resource use and cost of each component. There were no differences in the probability of achieving a favourable mRS outcome (0.030, 95% CI -0.022 to 0.082), QALYs (0.013, 95% CI -0.041 to 0.016) and cost (AUD1082, 95% CI -$2520 to $4685 from a health sector perspective or AUD102, 95% CI -$6907 to $7111, from a societal perspective including productivity cost). Sensitivity analysis achieved results with mostly overlapped CIs.

CONCLUSIONS

VEM and UC were associated with comparable costs, mRS outcome and QALY gains at 12 months. Compared with to UC, VEM is unlikely to be cost-effective. The long-term data collection during the trial also informed resource use and cost of care post-acute stroke across five participating countries.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

ACTRN12606000185561; Results.

Quinolinyl Nitrone RP19 Induces Neuroprotection after Transient Brain Ischemia

There is a need to develop additional effective therapies for ischemic stroke. Nitrones, which were first developed as reactive oxygen species (ROS)-trapping compounds, have been proposed as neuroprotective agents for ischemic stroke, a ROS-related disorder. The previous reported ROS-trapping compound, quinolyl nitrone RP19, is here being assayed to induce neuroprotection to ischemia-reperfusion injury in three experimental ischemia models: (i) oxygen-glucose deprivation (OGD) on primary neuronal cultures; (ii) transient global cerebral ischemia in four-vessel occlusion model; and (iii) transient focal cerebral ischemia in middle cerebral artery occlusion (tMCAO) model. RP19 (50 μM) induced long-term neuroprotection at 5 days of recovery after OGD in primary neuronal cultures, evaluated by cell viability assay, and decreased both ROS formation and lipid peroxidation upon recovery after OGD. Furthermore, treatment of animals with RP19 at the onset of reperfusion after either global or focal ischemia, at the dose range that was demonstrated to be neuroprotective in neuronal cultures, decreased neuronal death and apoptosis induction, reduced the size of infarct, and improved the neurological deficit scores after 48 h or 5 days of reperfusion after ischemia. The molecule proposed, quinolyl nitrone RP19, induced substantial neuroprotection on experimental ischemia in neuronal cells, and against ischemic injury following transient brain ischemia in treated animals. This molecule may have potential therapeutic interest in ischemic stroke and to reduce the reoxygenation-induced injury after induced reperfusion.

Extraction of a migrated coil from the Enterprise stent strut using a Solitaire AB stent

A 56-year-old woman was admitted to stent-assisted coiling for a 2-mm A1 aneurysm of the left anterior cerebral artery and a left 3-mm internal carotid artery aneurysm. While coiling the A1 aneurysm, the first 2 mm × 20 mm coil migrated through the 4.5 mm × 37 mm Enterprise stent struts, lodging at the distal anterior cerebral artery. A 4 mm × 15 mm Solitaire AB stent was used successfully in this case to remove the displaced coil. The A1 aneurysm was re-treated with a 2 mm × 40 mm coil after placement of the Enterprise stent, and the ophthalmic ICA aneurysm was also coiled through the stent struts. The patient was neurologically intact after treatment.

Mechanical thrombectomy using the Solitaire stent in a left main coronary artery: A novel approach to coronary thrombus retrieval

The Solitaire stent is a self-expanding nitinol, fully retrievable stent that was originally designed for applications in cerebral circulation. Expanded indications for its use in mechanical embolectomy during acute ischemic stroke have proven safe and effective. Herein, we describe a novel use of this stent to perform a mechanical thrombectomy of a large left main coronary artery thrombus. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Added Benefit of Stent Retriever Technology for Acute Ischemic Stroke: A Pooled Analysis of the NINDS tPA, SWIFT, and STAR Trials

BACKGROUND

Endovascular treatment is increasingly being used in acute stroke care. However, although stent retrievers show improved flow restoration rates, their clinical benefits have been uncertain.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the incremental effect of using stent retrievers compared with intravenous tissue plasminogen activator (IV tPA; alteplase) alone or placebo/control.

METHODS

We conducted a pooled analysis of 4 studies using stent retrievers (Solitaire), IV tPA, or placebo/control. We applied the ischemic stroke risk score (www.sorcan.ca/iscore) to each participant to adjust for differences in baseline characteristics. We used a shift analysis to account for the potential benefits across the entire modified Rankin scale score at 90 days, adjusting for time-to-treatment, baseline Alberta Stroke Program Early CT score, and ischemic stroke risk score.

RESULTS

Of the 915 participants in this analysis, 312 (34.1%) patients received placebo, 312 (34.1%) received tPA alone, 131 (14.4%) received stent retrievers alone, and 160 (17.5) received combined therapy (IV tPA plus stent retrievers). The shift analysis revealed that more patients remained independent at 90 days if receiving stent retrievers alone (number needed to treat 3.5) or combined with tPA (number needed to treat 3.1) compared with tPA alone. After adjustment, participants receiving stent retrievers alone (odds ratio, 2.95; 95% confidence interval, 1.48-5.89) or combined with tPA (odds ratio, 4.45; 95% confidence interval, 2.40-8.27) were more likely to be independent at 90 days compared with tPA alone.

CONCLUSION

Patients with acute ischemic stroke who received IV tPA or revascularization therapies had a higher likelihood of achieving independence at 3 months. Stent retriever technology combined with tPA was associated with the greatest benefit compared with placebo, tPA alone, or endovascular therapy alone.

Prevention, management, and rehabilitation of stroke in low- and middle-income countries

Although stroke incidence in high-income countries (HICs) decreased over the past four decades, it increased dramatically in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). In this review, we describe the current status of primary prevention, treatment, and management of acute stroke and secondary prevention of and rehabilitation after stroke in LMICs. Although surveillance, screening, and accurate diagnosis are important for stroke prevention, LMICs face challenges in these areas due to lack of resources, awareness, and technical capacity. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, such as no tobacco use, healthful diet, and physical activity are important strategies for both primary and secondary prevention of stroke. Controlling high blood pressure is also critically important in the general population and in the acute stage of hemorrhagic stroke. Additional primary prevention strategies include community-based education programs, polypill, prevention and management of atrial fibrillation, and digital health technology. For treatment of stroke during the acute stage, specific surgical procedures and medications are recommended, and inpatient stroke care units have been proven to provide high quality care. Patients with a chronic condition like stroke may require lifelong pharmaceutical treatment, lifestyle maintenance and self-management skills, and caregiver and family support, in order to achieve optimal health outcomes. Rehabilitation improves physical, speech, and cognitive functioning of disabled stroke patients. It is expected that home- or community-based services and tele-rehabilitation may hold special promise for stroke patients in LMICs.

Predictors of Outcome and Hemorrhage in Patients Undergoing Endovascular Therapy with Solitaire Stent for Acute Ischemic Stroke

BACKGROUND

Endovascular mechanical thrombectomy is emerging as a promising therapeutic approach for acute ischemic stroke and show some advantages. However, the data of predicting clinical outcome after thrombectomy with Solitaire retriever were limited. We attempt to identify prognostic factors of clinical outcome in patients with acute ischemic stroke undergoing thrombectomy with Solitaire retriever.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective analysis of consecutive acute ischemic strokes cases treated between December 2010 and December2013 where the Solitaire stent retriever was used for acute ischemic stroke. We assessed the effect of selected demographic characteristics, clinical factors on poor outcome at 3 months (modified Rankin score 3-6), mortality at 3 months, and hemorrhage within 24 h (symptomatic and asymptomatic). Clinical, imaging and logistic variables were analyzed. A multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to identify variables influencing clinical outcome, based on discharge NIHSS score change and mRS at 3 months.

RESULTS

Eighty nine consecutive patients with acute ischemic stroke underwent mechanical thrombectomy. Multivariate analysis revealed that admission NIHSS score, Serum glucose and endovascular procedure duration were independently associated with clinical outcome. Sex, NIHSS score at admission, diabetes and time of operation were associated with sICH in 1 day. NIHSS score ≥20 (OR 9.38; 95% CI 2.41-36.50), onset to reperfusion >5 hours (OR 5.23; 95% CI1.34,20.41) and symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (OR 10.19; 95% CI1.80,57.83) were potential predictive factors of mortality at 3 months.

CONCLUSION

Multiple pre- and intra-procedural factors can be used to predict clinical outcome, symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage and mortality in acute ischemic stroke patients undergoing endovascular therapy. This knowledge is helpful for patients selection for endovascular mechanical thrombectomy.

Probenecid protects against cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury by inhibiting lysosomal and inflammatory damage in rats

Probenecid has been used for decades to treat gout, and recent studies have revealed it is also a specific inhibitor of the pannexin-1 channel. It has been reported that the pannexin-1 channel is involved in ischemic injury. Here, we investigated the neuroprotective effect and the possible mechanisms of action of probenecid in global cerebral ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury in rats. Twenty minutes of transient global cerebral I/R injury was induced using the four-vessel occlusion (4-VO) method in male Sprague-Dawley rats. Different doses of probenecid were administered intravenously, intraperitoneally, or by gavage before or after reperfusion. Probenecid via all three routes protected against CA1 neuronal death when given before reperfusion. This protective effect continued when probenecid was given at 2h after reperfusion, but not at 6h. Interestingly, the protective effect regained if probenecid was given continuously for 7days after reperfusion. The release of cathepsin B and overexpression of calpain-1 after reperfusion were inhibited, while the upregulation of Hsp70 was strengthened by probenecid pre-treatment. Furthermore, the activation and proliferation of microglia and astrocytes after I/R injury were suppressed by continuous given for 7days, but only partly by a single dose at 6h of reperfusion. Thus, our data indicate that probenecid protects against transient global cerebral I/R injury probably by inhibiting calpain-cathepsin pathway and the inflammatory reaction.

Mechanical thrombectomy with the Trevo ProVue device in ischemic stroke patients: does improved visibility translate into a clinical benefit?

PURPOSE

To investigate the efficacy and safety of the Trevo ProVue (TPV) stent retriever in stroke patients with large artery occlusions, with particular attention to the full structural radiopacity of the TPV.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Case files and images of TPV treatments were reviewed for clinical and technical outcome data, including revascularization rates, device and procedure related complications, and outcome at discharge and after 90 days.

RESULTS

76 patients were treated with TPV. Mean National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score was 18 and 68% had additional intravenous thrombolysis. 63 occlusions were in the anterior circulation: 44 M1 (58%), 8 M2 (11%), 8 internal carotid artery-terminus (11%), 2 internal carotid artery- left (3%), 1 A2 (1%), and 13 vertebrobasilar (17%). 58 of 76 (76%) were solely treated with TPV; the remainder were treated with additional stent retrievers. Mean number of passes in TPV only cases was 2.2 (SD 1.2). In rescue cases, 3.2 (SD 2.2) passes were attempted with the TPV followed by 2.6 rescue device passes (SD 2). TPV related adverse events occurred in 4/76 cases (5%) and procedural events in 6/76 cases (8%). Mean procedural duration was 64 min (SD 42). Thrombolysis in Cerebral Infarction (TICI) 2b/3 recanalization was achieved in 69/76 patients (91%), including 50% TICI 3. Of 56 survivors (74%), 37 (49%) showed a favorable outcome at 90 days (Solitaire With the Intention for Thrombectomy trial criteria), statistically associated with age, baseline NIHSS, onset to revascularization time, and TICI 2b-3 reperfusion. TPV radiopacity allowed for visual feedback, changing the methodology of stent retriever use in 44/76 cases (58%).

CONCLUSIONS

Neurothrombectomy with TPV is feasible, effective, and safe. The recanalization rate compares favorably with reported data in the literature. Improved structural radiopacity may facilitate neurothrombectomy or influence the course of action during retrieval.

Treatment of acute stroke: an update

Stroke is the second leading cause of global mortality after coronary heart disease, and a major cause of neurological disability. About 17 million strokes occur worldwide each year. Patients with stroke often require long-term rehabilitation following the acute phase, with ongoing support from the community and nursing home care. Thus, stroke is a devastating disease and a major economic burden on society. In this overview, we discuss current strategies for specific treatment of stroke in the acute phase, focusing on intravenous thrombolysis and mechanical thrombectomy. We will consider two important issues related to intravenous thrombolysis treatments: (i) how to shorten the delay between stroke onset and treatment and (ii) how to reduce the risk of symptomatic intracerebral haemorrhage. Intravenous thrombolysis has been approved treatment for acute ischaemic stroke in most countries for more than 10 years, with rapid development towards new treatment strategies during that time. Mechanical thrombectomy using a new generation of endovascular tools, stent retrievers, is found to improve functional outcome in combination with pharmacological thrombolysis when indicated. There is an urgent need to increase public awareness of how to recognize a stroke and seek immediate attention from the healthcare system, as well as shorten delays in prehospital and within-hospital settings.

Acute Ischemic Stroke Treatment, Part 2: Treatment "Roles of Capillary Index Score, Revascularization and Time"

Due to recent results from clinical intra-arterial treatment for acute ischemic stroke (IAT-AIS) trials such as the interventional management of stroke III, IAT-AIS and the merit of revascularization have been contested. Even though intra-arterial treatment (IAT) has been shown to improve revascularization rates, a corresponding increase in good outcomes has only recently been noted. Even though a significant percentage of patients achieve good revascularization in a timely manner, results do not translate into good clinical outcomes (GCOs). Based on a review of the literature, the authors suspect limited GCOs following timely and successful revascularization are due to poor patient selection that led to futile and possibly even harmful revascularization. The capillary index score (CIS) is a simple angiography-based scale that can potentially be used to improve patient selection to prevent revascularization being performed on patients who are unlikely to benefit from treatment. The CIS characterizes presence of capillary blush related to collateral flow as a marker of residual viable tissue, with absence of blush indicating the tissue is no longer viable due to ischemia. By only selecting patients with a favorable CIS for IAT, the rate of GCOs should consistently approach 80–90%. Current methods of patient selection are primarily dependent on time from ischemia. Time from cerebral ischemia to irreversible tissue damage seems to vary from patient to patient; so focusing on viable tissue based on the CIS rather than relying on an artificial time window seems to be a more appropriate approach to patient selection.

Predictors of Outcome, Complications, and Recanalization of the Solitaire Device

BACKGROUND:

The use of mechanical thrombectomy in the management of acute ischemic stroke is becoming increasingly popular.

OBJECTIVE:

To identify notable factors that affect outcome, revascularization, and complications in patients with acute ischemic stroke treated with the Solitaire Flow Restoration Revascularization device.

METHODS:

Eighty-nine patients treated with the Solitaire Flow Restoration Revascularization device (ev3/Covidien Vascular Therapies, Irvine, California) were retrospectively analyzed. Three endpoints were considered: revascularization (Thrombolysis In Cerebral Infarction), outcome (modified Rankin Scale score), and complications. Univariate analysis and multivariate logistic regression were conducted to determine significant predictors.

RESULTS:

The mean time from onset of symptoms to the start of intervention was 6.7 hours. The average procedure length was 58 minutes. The mean NIH Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score was 16 on arrival and 8 at discharge. Of the patients, 6.7% had a symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage, 16.8% had fatal outcomes within 3 months post-intervention, and 81.4% had a successful recanalization. Thrombus location in the M1 segment of the middle cerebral artery was associated with successful recanalization (thrombolysis in cerebral infarction 2b/3) (P = .003). Of the patients, 56.6% had a favorable outcome (modified Rankin Scale score at 3 months: 0–2). In patients younger than 80 years of age, 66.7% had favorable outcome. Increasing age (P = .01) and NIHSS score (P = .002) were significant predictors of a poor outcome. On multivariate analysis, NIHSS score on admission (P = .05) was a predictor of complications. On univariate analysis, increasing NIHSS score from admission to 24 hours after the procedure (P = .05) and then to discharge (P = .04) was a predictor of complications. Thrombus location in the posterior circulation (P = .04) and increasing NIHSS score (P = .04) predicted mortality.

CONCLUSION:

The Solitaire device is safe and effective in achieving successful recanalization after acute ischemic stroke. Important factors to consider include age, NIHSS score, and location.

Endovascular Recanalization in Acute Ischemic Stroke Using the Solitaire FR Revascularization Device with Adjunctive C-Arm CT Imaging

In this clinical report, we examined a single-center experience by using the Solitaire FR Revascularization Device in the treatment of acute ischemic stroke in which there was poor initial visualization of the occluded arterial branches by using biplanar cerebral angiography. In all cases, adjunctive C-arm CT was used during the deployment of the thrombectomy device to gain additional information regarding device placement and expansion. Outcome measures included the extent of reperfusion, posttreatment changes in NIHSS scores, posttreatment TICI scores, cerebral hemorrhage, and survival. Clot removal with successful arterial recanalization was achieved in 15/18 cases (83.3%) with TICI scores of 2b/3 in all patients who had initial recanalization. The NIHSS score improved, on average, from 19 pretreatment to 11 posttreatment, and 72% of patients survived. In cases of acute stroke in which there is little information available regarding the positioning and deployment of a retrievable stent during mechanical thrombectomy, the use of C-arm CT may provide more information about device placement across an area of thrombus.

Chronic innominate artery occlusion with hyperacute intracranial thromboembolism: Revascularization with simultaneous local thromboaspiration and mechanical thrombectomy

Chronic innominate artery occlusion with acute right internal carotid terminus thromboembolism and successful revascularization using simultaneous local thromboaspiration and mechanical thrombectomy has not been previously described. A 51-year-old male presented with transient left hemiparesis. A CT angiogram of the head and neck demonstrated chronic occlusion of the right innominate artery with no intracranial thromboembolism. More profound symptoms recurred twelve hours after admission. A diagnostic catheter-based angiogram confirmed occlusion of the innominate artery and identified hyper-acute right carotid terminus thromboembolism. Angioplasty of the innominate artery was followed by simultaneous mechanical and aspiration thrombectomy of the right internal carotid artery terminus. Combination local thromboaspiration and mechanical thrombectomy was shown in this case to be effective in achieving a favorable clinical outcome.

Recurrent Cardioembolic Stroke Treated Successfully with Repeated Mechanical Thrombectomy within the Acute Index Stroke Period

Background

The safety of repeated mechanical thrombectomy within the acute stroke period has not yet been clearly demonstrated. We describe herein a patient who was successfully treated with repeated mechanical thrombectomy within the acute index stroke period.

Case Report

A 50-year-old woman with atrial fibrillation presented with left-sided weakness caused by occlusion of the right middle cerebral artery (MCA). Emergent mechanical thrombectomy with the Solitaire device achieved complete recanalization. The left MCA occlusion redeveloped at 6 days after the first treatment, at which time her international normalized ratio (INR) was 2.3. Endovascular thrombectomy was reattempted rapidly and complete recanalization was achieved again. Her neurologic symptoms resolved after the thrombectomy.

Conclusions

This case demonstrates that repeated mechanical thrombectomy can be safely and successfully performed even in a patient with a high INR and a recurrent stroke during the acute period after the index stroke.

Intra-arterial administration of papaverine during mechanical thrombectomy for acute ischemic stroke

BACKGROUND

The use of stent retrievers for mechanical thrombectomy in acute ischemic stroke may induce significant vasospasm, which at the early phases of reperfusion may be crucial for rethrombosis of the recanalized vessel. We aimed to study whether the use of intra-arterial papaverine in selected cases of vasospasm was associated with improved cerebral perfusion, arterial reocclusion, or increased hemorrhagic complications.

METHODS

We retrospectively studied 9 consecutive patients with large artery acute occlusion, treated with stent retriever and intra-arterial papaverine. Onset to administration of intravenous recombinant tissue-plasminogen activator time, baseline National Institute of Health Stroke Scale, time to reperfusion, number of passes of the stent retriever, modified Rankin Scale score at discharge, postprocedural hemorrhage, onset to reperfusion time, papaverine dose, and thrombolysis in cerebral infarction grade were recorded in all patients.

RESULTS

After papaverine administration, the caliber of the infused arteries and their flow was increased in all cases. In none of the treated cases a reocclusion occurred after papaverine infusion. In one of the studied patients (11%), a parenchymal bleeding occurred 36 hours postoperatively.

CONCLUSIONS

This small study suggests that intra-arterial infusion of papaverine for the treatment of cerebral vasospasm after mechanical thrombectomy in acute ischemic stroke is effective and safe.

Reperfusion therapies of acute ischemic stroke: potentials and failures

Over the past 20 years, clinical research has focused on the development of reperfusion therapies for acute ischemic stroke (AIS), which include the use of systemic intravenous thrombolytics (alteplase, desmoteplase, or tenecteplase), the augmentation of systemic intravenous recanalization with ultrasound, the bridging of intravenous with intra-arterial thrombolysis, the use of multi-modal approaches to reperfusion including thrombectomy and thromboaspiration with different available retrievers. Clinical trials testing these acute reperfusion therapies provided novel insight regarding the comparative safety and efficacy, but also raised new questions and further uncertainty on the field. Intravenous alteplase (tPA) remains the fastest and easiest way to initiate acute stroke reperfusion treatment, and should continue to be the first-line treatment for patients with AIS within 4.5 h from onset. The use of tenecteplase instead of tPA and the augmentation of systemic thrombolysis with ultrasound are both novel therapeutical modalities that may emerge as significant options in AIS treatment. Endovascular treatments for AIS are rapidly evolving due to technological advances in catheter-based interventions and are currently emphasizing speed in order to result in timely restoration of perfusion of still-salvageable, infarcted brain tissue, since delayed recanalization of proximal intracranial occlusions has not been associated with improved clinical outcomes. Comprehensive imaging protocols in AIS may enable better patient selection for endovascular interventions and for testing multi-modal combinatory strategies.

Endovascular stroke therapy

BACKGROUND

Following the development of intravenous thrombolysis as a successful treatment for ischaemic stroke, advances in neurointerventional radiology have facilitated endovascular approaches to treatment. This article reviews the available endovascular therapeutic options and their evidence-base.

SUMMARY

Initial studies demonstrated that endovascular treatment of ischaemic stroke with intra-arterial thrombolysis and/or the use of clot-retrieval, thrombus aspiration and stent-retriever devices produced early recanalisation and reperfusion and improved neurological outcome. More recent randomised trials, however, have failed to show translation of recanalisation into successful clinical outcome with 'time to treatment' proving crucial. In this rapidly evolving field, combined therapy incorporating intravenous and intra-arterial thrombolysis in combination with endovascular clot-retrieval has been developed and further studies are expected to yield better evidence to guide the optimal treatment of acute cerebral ischaemia.

Endovascular treatment of acute ischemic stroke

Early recanalization of the occluded artery leads to better clinical outcomes in patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS) through protection of the time-sensitive penumbra. Intravenous administration of pharmacologic thrombolytic agents has been a standard treatment for AIS. To get better rates of recanalization, enhance the time window, and diminish the possibility of intracranial hemorrhage, endovascular thrombectomy was launched, with first authorization of the Merci clot retriever, a corkscrew-like apparatus, followed by approval of the Penumbra thromboaspiration system. Both devices lead to a high rate of recanalization. On the other hand, time to recanalization was on an average of 45 minutes, with most of the patients attaining only partial recanalization. More lately, retrievable stents have shown promise in decreasing the time to recanalization, and attaining a superior rate of complete clot resolution. The retrievable stent can be released within the clot to engage it within the struts of the stent, and afterwards it is taken back by pulling it under flow arrest. Neurointerventional techniques have a persistently ever-increasing and stimulating role in the management of AIS, as indicated by the advent of several important techniques. Stent retrievers have the capability to be ascertained as the most important approach to endovascular stroke treatment.

Is vascular imaging valuable prior to administration of intravenous tissue plasminogen activator?

Our goals were to explore whether performing computerized tomography angiography (CTA) prior to administration of tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) delays treatment and impacts outcome in patients with proximal middle cerebral artery occlusions (pMCAO). Patients with pMCAO with a National Institutes of Health Stroke scale (NIHSS) score >10 were identified from a prospective Stroke Registry. Patients underwent multi-parametric imaging studies whenever possible. Patients who underwent CTA were compared to those who only had non-contrast CT scan. Disability was measured with the modified Rankin Scale. Logistic regression was used to determine outcome modifiers. We included 73 patients (median age 73 years, 52% men) with moderate-severe stroke (median admission NIHSS 14). Of those, 44 underwent CTA and 29 did not. There were no differences between the groups in risk factor profile or baseline characteristics including stroke severity and door to needle, door to imaging or imaging to treatment times. At 90 days post-stroke there were no statistically significant differences in outcomes between the groups. On multivariate analysis, performing CTA had no impact on the chance of obtaining favorable outcome. In conclusion, CTA does not have a major impact on outcome in patients with pMCAO treated with tPA. Therefore, performing CTA should be considered on an individual basis prior to administration of tPA.

Modern interventional management of stroke

Acute ischemic stroke continues to be one of the leading causes of disability and death and is a financial burden to an already taxed health care system. Much research and investigation has been carried out over the past decade on various recanalization devices aimed at restoring cerebral blood flow. Despite the rapidly improving technical abilities of these devices, it has been difficult to demonstrate corresponding improved clinical outcomes. This article will describe the application of the most recent generation of these devices and briefly discuss the ongoing discrepancy between these technical achievements and stroke outcomes.

Utility of a rescue endovascular therapy for the treatment of major strokes refractory to full-dose intravenous thrombolysis

OBJECTIVE

Large artery occlusion (LAO) in patients with major stroke predicts poor revascularization by intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) and more likely results in a poor outcome. We focused on the effects of intra-arterial thrombolysis (IAT) and endovascular mechanical recanalization (EMR) as rescue therapies in major strokes refractory to IVT.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of 87 patients (National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale >20), who did not respond to full-dose IVT due to LAO, was performed based on their endovascular therapy status. IAT was performed as an intraclot infusion of alteplase, and EMR was provided by the Solitaire device™ (Covidien, Dubin, Ireland). The recanalization and 3-month outcome rates after IAT/EMR were correlated with a group of patients who were scheduled to receive endovascular treatment but who underwent only IVT.

RESULTS

We achieved successful recanalization by IAT and EMR in 68.7% and 76.1% of patients, respectively. Despite no significant differences in mortality between IAT and EMR, a trend towards better outcomes after IAT and a statistically significant increase for outcome-modified Rankin scale (mRS) 0-3 (45.7%) and mRS 0-2 (34.9%) after EMR was noted when compared with IVT. The degree of recanalization did not correlate with the functional results except for the good-moderate outcome after successful recanalization by EMR.

CONCLUSION

EMR by the Solitaire device is a safe and beneficial method for the rescue treatment of patients with major stroke whose neurological status does not improve and who fail to recanalize the LAO after a 1-h full dose of IVT.

ADVANCES IN KNOWLEDGE

The article verifies efficiency of the Solitaire device in major strokes.

Endovascular therapy in hyperacute ischaemic stroke: history and current status

This is a literature review on to the use of endovascular therapy in hyperacute ischaemic stroke secondary to large vessel occlusion (LVO). The prognosis for LVO is generally poor and the efficacy of intravenous tissue plasminogen activator (IV TPA) in the treatment of this subtype of stroke is questionable. It is well documented that recanalisation is associated with improved outcomes but IV TPA has limited efficacy in LVO recanalisation and the complication rates are higher for IV TPA in this stroke subset. Improved recanalisation rates have been demonstrated with intra-arterial TPA and first and second generation mechanical techniques but the rate of favourable outcome has not overtly mirrored this improvement. Several controversial trials using these early techniques have recently been published but fail to reflect modern practice which centres on the use of stent-retriever technology. This has been proven to be superior to older techniques. Not only are recanalisation rates higher, but the speed of recanalisation is greater and clinical results are improved. Multiple observational studies demonstrate consistently high rates of LVO recanalisation; TICI 2b/3 in the order of 65-95% and, rates of favourable outcome (mRS 0-2) in the order of 55% (42.5-77%) in clinically moderate to severe stroke with complicating symptomatic haemorrhage in the order of 1.5-15%. A major factor determining outcome is time to treatment but success has been demonstrated using these devices with bridging therapy, after IV TPA failure or as a stand-alone treatment.

Stent retrievers in acute ischemic stroke: complications and failures during the perioperative period

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Stent retriever-assisted thrombectomy promotes high recanalization rates in acute ischemic stroke. Nevertheless, complications and failures occur in more than 10% of procedures; hence, there is a need for further investigation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 144 patients with ischemic stroke presenting with large-vessel occlusion were prospectively included. Patients were treated with stent retriever-assisted thrombectomy ± IV fibrinolysis. Baseline clinical and imaging characteristics were incorporated in univariate and multivariate analyses. Predictors of recanalization failure (TICI 0, 1, 2a), and of embolic and hemorrhagic complications were reported. The relationship between complication occurrence and periprocedural mortality rate was studied.

RESULTS

Median age was 69.5 years, and median NIHSS score was 18 at presentation. Fifty patients (34.7%) received stand-alone thrombectomy, and 94 (65.3%) received combined therapy. The procedural failure rate was 13.9%. Embolic complications were recorded in 12.5% and symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage in 7.6%. The overall rate of failure, complications, and/or death was 39.6%. The perioperative mortality rate was 18.4% in the overall cohort but was higher in cases of failure (45%; P = .003), embolic complications (38.9%; P = .0176), symptomatic intracranial hemorrhages (45.5%; P = .0236), and intracranial stenosis (50%; P = .0176). Concomitant fibrinolytic therapy did not influence the rate of recanalization or embolic complication, or the intracranial hemorrhage rate. Age was the only significant predictive factor of intracranial hemorrhage (P = .043).

CONCLUSIONS

The rate of perioperative mortality was significantly increased in cases of embolic and hemorrhagic complications, as well as in cases of failure and underlying intracranial stenoses. Adjunctive fibrinolytic therapy did not improve the recanalization rate or collateral embolic complication rate. The rate of symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage was not increased in cases of combined treatment.

[Mechanical recanalization in acute stroke. Torture or choice]

CLINICAL/METHODICAL ISSUE

Stroke is the third most common cause of death in the developed world and the leading cause of disability worldwide. The present demographic development will lead to increased numbers of stroke patients in the future.

STANDARD RADIOLOGICAL METHODS

Patient selection takes place by using various computer tomographic (CT) or magnetic resonance (MR) imaging modalities. For endovascular stroke treatment a modern biplane angiography suite is recommended.

METHODICAL INNOVATIONS

Intra-arterial chemical thrombolysis was shown to be effective in achieving recanalization and improving clinical outcome. Mechanical devices were introduced in the late 1990s and the highly effective stent retriever was recently included.

PERFORMANCE

Mechanical devices allows a recanalization rate of up to 90 % of affected brain vessels.

ACHIEVEMENTS

The advantage of a stent retriever compared to other mechanical devices seems to be an improvement in good clinical outcome.

PRACTICAL RECOMMENDATIONS

Currently, the stent retriever seems to be the definitive first choice in the use of mechanical devices for intra-arterial recanalization treatment in acute ischemic stroke.

The exact science of stroke thrombolysis and the quiet art of patient selection

The science of metric-based patient stratification for intravenous thrombolysis, revolutionized by the landmark National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke trial, has transformed acute ischaemic stroke therapy. Recanalization of an occluded artery produces tissue reperfusion that unequivocally improves outcome and function in patients with acute ischaemic stroke. Recanalization can be achieved mainly through intravenous thrombolysis, but other methods such as intra-arterial thrombolysis or mechanical thrombectomy can also be employed. Strict guidelines preclude many patients from being treated by intravenous thrombolysis due to the associated risks. The quiet art of informed patient selection by careful assessment of patient baseline factors and brain imaging could increase the number of eligible patients receiving intravenous thrombolysis. Outside of the existing eligibility criteria, patients may fall into therapeutic 'grey areas' and should be evaluated on a case by case basis. Important factors to consider include time of onset, age, and baseline blood glucose, blood pressure, stroke severity (as measured by National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale) and computer tomography changes (as measured by Alberta Stroke Programme Early Computed Tomography Score). Patients with traditional contraindications such as wake-up stroke, malignancy or dementia may have the potential to receive benefit from intravenous thrombolysis if they have favourable predictors of outcome from both clinical and imaging criteria. A proportion of patients experience complications or do not respond to intravenous thrombolysis. In these patients, other endovascular therapies or a combination of both may be used to provide benefit. Although an evidence-based approach to intravenous thrombolysis for acute ischaemic stroke is pivotal, it is imperative to examine those who might benefit outside of protocol-driven practice.

Treatment of middle cerebral artery occlusion and internal carotid artery dissection with combined mechanical thrombectomy and stenting of the internal carotid artery. A case report

We describe a case of combined mechanical thrombectomy of the right middle cerebral artery and stent angioplasty of the right internal carotid artery in a severe stroke caused by arterio-arterial embolism due to a traumatic dissection of the internal carotid artery. The patient was admitted with an NIHSS score of 19 and was discharged from hospital with a score of 2. Three months later neurological examination disclosed no pathological findings. The case demonstrates the crucial role of interventional procedures in the treatment of severe stroke where intravenous thrombolysis has little prospect of success.

Strategies to improve recovery in acute ischemic stroke patients: Iberoamerican Stroke Group Consensus

Stroke is not only a leading cause of death worldwide but also a main cause of disability. In developing countries, its burden is increasing as a consequence of a higher life expectancy. Whereas stroke mortality has decreased in developed countries, in Latin America, stroke mortality rates continue to rise as well as its socioeconomic dramatic consequences. Therefore, it is necessary to implement stroke care and surveillance programs to better describe the epidemiology of stroke in these countries in order to improve therapeutic strategies. Advances in the understanding of the pathogenic processes of brain ischemia have resulted in development of effective therapies during the acute phase. These include reperfusion therapies (both intravenous thrombolysis and interventional endovascular approaches) and treatment in stroke units that, through application of management protocols directed to maintain homeostasis and avoid complications, helps to exert effective brain protection that decreases further cerebral damage. Some drugs may enhance protection, and besides, there is increasing knowledge about brain plasticity and repair mechanisms that take place for longer periods beyond the acute phase. These mechanisms are responsible for recovery in certain patients and are the focus of basic and clinical research at present. This paper discusses recovery strategies that have demonstrated clinical effect, or that are promising and need further study. This rapidly evolving field needs to be carefully and critically evaluated so that investment in patient care is grounded on well-proven strategies.

Selecting endovascular treatment strategy according to the location of intracranial occlusion in acute stroke

BACKGROUND

Selection of endovascular approaches for acute stroke patients remains unclear. The efficacy of intra-arterial therapy (IAT) has been demonstrated in the past. However, in the last years, the use of mechanical thrombectomy by retrievers (RET) is increasing at the expense of IAT. We aimed to compare several clinical outcomes between patients treated with IAT or RET.

METHODS

In a 6-year period, acute stroke patients (<8 h) with confirmed internal carotid artery (ICA) occlusion or middle cerebral artery (MCA) occlusion undergoing endovascular therapy were prospectively included in our database. Patients who underwent intra-arterial tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) ± microguidewire mechanical clot disruption (IAT group) were compared with those who underwent thrombectomy with the Solitaire® or Trevo® retrievers (RET group). Recanalization (REC) was considered if at the end of the endovascular procedure thrombolysis in cerebral infarction score was 2a-3. Dramatic clinical improvement (DCI) was defined as a decrease of ≥10 NIHSSS points from baseline to discharge or 7 days.

RESULTS

One hundred and eighty patients were included, 100 (55.6%) patients in the IAT group and 80 patients (44.4%) in the RET group. There were no differences in baseline characteristics (age, gender, risk factors profile, previous treatment with i.v. tPA, baseline NIHSS, extracranial ICA angioplasty and time to REC). Rates of REC, DCI and symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage were also similar between groups. Among patients with ICA occlusions (41 IAT, 34 RET), REC was significantly higher with RET (83.9 vs. 61%; p = 0.04).There was a trend towards a higher DCI rate in the RET group (32.3%) compared with the IAT group (14.6%; p = 0.06). According to MCA occlusions, there were no major differences in the main outcome variables. The number needed to treat to achieve one additional DCI with RET compared with IAT was 12 for MCA occlusions, and only 5 for ICA occlusions.

CONCLUSIONS

Among acute stroke patients undergoing endovascular therapies, the benefits of RET over IAT are greater in ICA occlusions. Retrievers may be considered as the first therapeutic option in these patients.

Developments on the horizon in the treatment of neurovascular problems

The field of Interventional Neuroradiology and Endovascular Neurosurgery has seen much technical advancement in the past two decades, which has brought the specialty from its infancy as an alternative therapy to the current standing as near standard of care for many complex neurovascular pathologies. This past year is no exception with flow diverting stents and stent retriever devices aiming to make their mark on advanced treatments for intracranial aneurysms and ischemic stroke, respectively. This review article will focus on the development of these technologies, current data supporting their advantages and limitations, and a brief expert opinion on where these technologies may take the field in the next few years.