High brain natriuretic peptide level is associated with severe stroke in patients taking oral anticoagulants: A sub-analysis of the PASTA registry study

BACKGROUND

Brain natriuretic peptides (BNP) are an important diagnostic and prognostic marker in patients with heart failure. However, the relationship between BNP levels and stroke severity in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) remains unelucidated. In this study, we aimed to investigate the association between stroke severity at admission and BNP levels.

METHODS

In this prospective observational study, we used data from 513 patients with AF and acute ischemic stroke treated with oral anticoagulants (OAC) registered in the Multicenter Prospective Analysis of Stroke Patients Taking Oral Anticoagulants study. The patients were divided into two groups: high-BNP (≥200 pg/mL) and low-BNP level (<200 pg/mL) groups. We compared the clinical characteristics between the two groups and determined the effect of BNP levels on stroke severity on admission.

RESULTS

Among the 513 enrolled patients, 248 (females, n = 30; median age, 82 years) and 265 (females, n = 76; median age, 71 years) were assigned to the high- and low-BNP level groups, respectively. The high-BNP level group had a higher proportion of patients with severe stroke (National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score, ≥10) on admission (49.2% vs. 32.8%, p = 0.002) and major vessel occlusion (57.5% vs. 39.2%, p < 0.0001) than that had by the low-BNP level group. Multivariate analysis showed that high BNP level was independently associated with severe stroke on admission (odds ratio 1.07, 95% confidence interval 1.00-1.15; p = 0.0478).

CONCLUSIONS

High BNP level compared with low BNP level was associated with severe stroke and major vessel occlusion, even before OAC treatment.

High pre-stroke CHADS2 score predicts unfavorable functional outcome in acute cardioembolic stroke patients prescribed oral anticoagulant therapy: A sub-analysis of the PASTA registry study

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

The impact of CHADS2 score on outcome in patients with stroke taking an oral anticoagulant (OAC) has not yet been fully elucidated. We investigated the association between pre-stroke CHADS2 score and outcome at discharge in patients with acute cardioembolic (CE) stroke due to atrial fibrillation (AF) who were prescribed OAC.

METHODS

The data of 548 OAC-treated patients with AF and CE stroke who were registered in the multicenter Prospective Analysis of Stroke patients Taking oral Anticoagulants (PASTA) study were analyzed. High CHADS2 score was defined as a pre-stroke CHADS2 score ≥2. Unfavorable outcome was defined as a modified Rankin scale (mRS) of 3-6. The impacts of pre-stroke CHADS2 score on outcome at discharge were evaluated using multiple logistic regression analysis.

RESULT

A high CHADS2 score was found in 472/548 patients and unfavorable outcome was found in 330/548 patients. In patients with unfavorable outcome, age, male sex, pre-stroke CHADS2 score, initial National Institute Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score, and glucose level on admission were significantly higher, whereas creatinine clearance and body weight were significantly lower, than those with favorable outcome (each p < 0.001). Multivariate logistic regression analysis indicated that high CHADS2 score (OR 2.18, 95 %CI 1.08-4.42, p = 0.031), pre-stroke mRS (OR 2.21, 95 %CI 1.69-2.67, p < 0.001), and initial NIHSS score (OR 1.19, 95 %CI 1.17-1.24, p < 0.001) were independently associated with unfavorable outcome.

CONCLUSION

Pre-stroke CHADS2 score was associated with poor outcome in patients with cardioembolic stroke due to AF, even in those taking OAC.

The impact of SAH finding on CT to the clinical outcome after mechanical thrombectomy for large vessel occlusion

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Whether subarachnoid haemorrhage (SAH) after mechanical thrombectomy affects the clinical outcomes of patients with acute large-vessel occlusion remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the clinical impact of SAH on computed tomography (CT) after mechanical thrombectomy.

METHODS

The SKIP study was an investigator-initiated, multicentre, randomised, open-label clinical trial. This study was performed in 23 hospital networks in Japan from January 1, 2017, to July 31, 2019. Among the 204 patients, seven were excluded because they did not undergo mechanical thrombectomy (MT) and had a modified Rankin scale (mRS) score > 2. The main outcome was the association between SAH within 36 h after mechanical thrombectomy and the clinical outcome at 90 days.

RESULTS

Among 197 patients, the median age was 74 (67-79) years, 62.9% were male. Moreover, 26 (13.2%) patients had SAH (seven isolated SAH) on CT within 36 h. The SAH rate did not differ according to IV rt-PA administration (p = 0.4). The rate of favourable clinical outcomes tended to be lower in patients with SAH rather than patients without SAH (11 [42%] vs. 106 [62%], p = 0.08). Among the seven patients with isolated SAH, 6 showed favourable outcomes at 90 days. In the multivariate regression analysis, the presence of SAH within 36 h from onset was not associated with clinical outcome (Odd ratio, 0.59; 95% confidence interval, 0.18-1.95; p = 0.38).

CONCLUSIONS

Among patients with acute stroke treated with MT, SAH, especially isolated SAH findings on CT, were not associated with poor clinical outcomes after 90 days.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

UMIN000021488.

Ultra-early rt-PA administration should improve patient outcome on mechanical thrombectomy: Post hoc analysis of SKIP

BACKGROUND

To investigate whether ultra-early recombinant tissue-plasminogen activator (rt-PA) administration can improve patient outcomes on mechanical thrombectomy (MT) in patients with large vessel occlusion (LVO).

METHODS

Participants comprised rt-PA-eligible 204 patients with internal carotid artery or middle cerebral artery occlusion in the SKIP trial, who were randomly assigned to receive mechanical thrombectomy alone or combined intravenous thrombolysis (rt-PA: alteplase at 0.6 mg/kg) plus mechanical thrombectomy. We assessed associations between onset-to-puncture time and onset-to-rt-PA administration time and frequency of favorable outcome at 90 days and any intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) at 36 h after onset.

RESULTS

As a cut-off onset-to-puncture time for favorable outcome, receiver operating characteristic curves defined 2.5 h (57% sensitivity, 62% specificity). For onset-to-puncture times ≤2.5 h and > 2.5 h, frequencies of favorable outcomes were 72% and 63% (p = 0.402) in patients with rt-PA therapy and 44% and 58% (p = 0.212) in patients without rt-PA therapy, respectively. In terms of onset-to-rt-PA administration time, frequencies of favorable outcomes among patients with ultra-early rt-PA administration at ≤100, >100 min after onset, and without rt-PA therapy with onset-to-puncture time ≤ 2.5 h, and with and without rt-PA therapy with onset-to-puncture time > 2.5 h were 84% and 64%, 63%, and 44% and 58%, respectively (p = 0.025). Frequencies of any ICH among those patients were 37% and 32%, 32%, and 63% and 40%, respectively (p = 0.006).

CONCLUSION

Ultra-early rt-PA administration should improve patient outcomes on mechanical thrombectomy among patients with LVO. Relatively late rt-PA administration might increase the frequency of any ICH.

Resumption of oral anticoagulation in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation after intracerebral hemorrhage: A sub-analysis of the PASTA registry study

PURPOSE

To investigate the rate and timing of oral anticoagulant (OAC) resumption and its safety in patients after intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) in current clinical practice in Japan.

METHODS

We conducted a sub-analysis of the PASTA registry, an observational, multicenter registry of 1043 patients with stroke receiving OACs in Japan, by including patients with ICH on OAC treatment for non-valvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF). The clinical characteristics of the patients in the resumption and non-resumption groups, rate and timing of OAC resumption, its safety, and switching of OACs after ICH were investigated.

RESULTS

Of the 160 patients (women, n = 52; median age, 77 years) included, OACs were resumed in 108 (68%) at a median of 7 days (interquartile range, 4-11) after acute ICH onset. The non-resumption group had higher rates of hematoma expansion (21.2% vs. 7.4%; P = 0.0118) and modified Rankin Scale (mRS) scores at discharge (4 (Suda et al., 2019; Steiner et al., 2014 [3, 4]) vs. 4 (Suda et al., 2019; Steiner et al., 2014; Pasquini et al., 2014 [3-5]); P = 0.0302}. The resumption rate in the mRS 0-4 group was higher than that in the mRS 5 group (75.2% vs. 46.5%; P = 0.00006). The number of days to resumption after ICH onset was longer in the mRS 5 than that in the mRS 0-4 group (median 12 days vs. 7 days, P = 0.0065). There were no significant differences in new-onset ICH, symptomatic hematoma expansion, or gastrointestinal bleeding between groups (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Early resumption of OAC for NVAF in patients after ICH appeared to be safe. Expected functional outcomes at discharge were associated with OAC resumption and with the timing of resumption.

REGISTRATION

https://upload.umin.ac.jp/cgi-open-bin/ctr_e/ctr_view.cgi?recptno=R000034958.

Association between Living Conditions and the Risk Factors, Etiology, and Outcome of Ischemic Stroke in Young Adults

Objective In recent decades, living conditions have changed drastically. However, there are few data regarding the interaction between living conditions and the risk of ischemic stroke (IS) in young adults. The present study explored the association between living conditions or marital status and the risk factors, etiology, and outcome of IS in young adults. Methods We prospectively enrolled patients with incident IS who were 20-49 years old from 37 clinical stroke centers. We collected the demographic data, living conditions, marital status, vascular risk factors, disease etiology, treatment, and outcomes at discharge. A comparison group was established using the official statistics of Japan. We categorized patients into the two groups based on living conditions: solitary group and cohabiting group. Clinical characteristics were then compared between living conditions. Results In total, 303 patients were enrolled (224 men; median age at the onset: 44 years old). Significant factors associated with the incidence of IS were as follows: solitary status, body mass index >30 kg/m2, current smoking, heavy alcohol consumption, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and dyslipidemia. Furthermore, in the solitary group, the proportions of men, unmarried individuals, and current smokers were significantly higher than in the cohabiting group. In addition, poor outcomes (modified Rankin Scale ≥4) of IS were more common in the solitary group than in the cohabiting group. Conclusion Our study showed that not only conventional vascular risk factors but also living conditions, especially living alone while unmarried, were independent risk factors for IS in young adults.

Detection of Atrial Fibrillation Using Insertable Cardiac Monitors in Patients With Cryptogenic Stroke in Japan (the LOOK Study): Protocol for a Prospective Multicenter Observational Study

BACKGROUND

Paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (AF) is a probable cause of cryptogenic stroke (CS), and its detection and treatment are important for the secondary prevention of stroke. Insertable cardiac monitors (ICMs) are clinically effective in screening for AF and are superior to conventional short-term cardiac monitoring. Japanese guidelines for determining clinical indications for ICMs in CS are stricter than those in Western countries. Differences between Japanese and Western guidelines may impact the detection rate and prediction of AF via ICMs in patients with CS. Available data on Japanese patients are limited to small retrospective studies. Furthermore, additional information about AF detection, including the number of episodes, cumulative episode duration, anticoagulation initiation (type and dose of regimen and time of initiation), rate of catheter ablation, role of atrial cardiomyopathy, and stroke recurrence (time of recurrence and cause of the recurrent event), was not provided in the vast majority of previously published studies.

OBJECTIVE

In this study, we aim to identify the proportion and timing of AF detection and risk stratification criteria in patients with CS in real-world settings in Japan.

METHODS

This is a multicenter, prospective, observational study that aims to use ICMs to evaluate the proportion, timing, and characteristics of AF detection in patients diagnosed with CS. We will investigate the first detection of AF within the initial 6, 12, and 24 months of follow-up after ICM implantation. Patient characteristics, laboratory data, atrial cardiomyopathy markers, serial magnetic resonance imaging findings at baseline, 6, 12, and 24 months after ICM implantation, electrocardiogram readings, transesophageal echocardiography findings, cognitive status, stroke recurrence, and functional outcomes will be compared between patients with AF and patients without AF. Furthermore, we will obtain additional information regarding the number of AF episodes, duration of cumulative AF episodes, and time of anticoagulation initiation.

RESULTS

Study recruitment began in February 2020, and thus far, 213 patients have provided written informed consent and are currently in the follow-up phase. The last recruited participant (May 2021) will have completed the 24-month follow-up in May 2023. The main results are expected to be submitted for publication in 2023.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings of this study will help identify AF markers and generate a risk scoring system with a novel and superior screening algorithm for occult AF detection while identifying candidates for ICM implantation and aiding the development of diagnostic criteria for CS in Japan.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

UMIN Clinical Trial Registry UMIN000039809; https://tinyurl.com/3jaewe6a.

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID)

DERR1-10.2196/39307.

Vitamin K antagonists but not non-vitamin K antagonists in addition on antiplatelet therapy should be associated with increase of hematoma volume and mortality in patients with intracerebral hemorrhage: A sub-analysis of PASTA registry study

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Prior concomitant use of vitamin K antagonists (VKAs) and antiplatelet (AP) therapy increase the hematoma volume and mortality compared with VKA monotherapy in patients with intracranial hemorrhage (ICH). However, the prior concomitant use of non-vitamin K oral antagonists (NOACs) and AP has not been clarified.

METHODS

We conducted a PASTA registry study, which was an observational, multicenter, registry of 1043 patients with stroke receiving oral anticoagulants (OACs) in Japan. In the present study, ICH from the PASTA registry was used to analyze the clinical characteristics including mortality among the four groups (NOAC, VKA, NOAC and AP, and VKA and AP) using univariate and multivariate analyses.

RESULTS

Among the 216 patients with ICH, 118 (54.6%), 27 (12.5%), 55 (25.5%), 16 (7.4%) were taking NOAC monotherapy, NOAC and AP, VKA, and VKA and AP, respectively. In-hospital mortality rates were the highest in VKA and AP (31.3%) than in NOACs (11.9%), NOACs and AP (7.4%), and VKA (7.3%). Multivariate logistic regression analysis demonstrated that the concomitant use of VKA and AP (odds ratio [OR], 20.57; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.75-241.75, p = 0.0162), initial National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score (OR, 1.21; 95%CI, 1.10-1.37, p < 0.0001), hematoma volume (OR, 1.41; 95%CI, 1.10-1.90, p = 0.066), and systolic blood pressure (OR, 1.31; 95%CI, 1.00-1.75, p = 0.0422) were independently associated with in-hospital mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

Although VKA in addition to AP therapy could increase the in-hospital mortality, NOAC and AP did not increase the hematoma volume, stroke severity, or mortality compared to NOAC monotherapy.

Safety of recanalization therapy in patients with acute ischemic stroke on direct oral anticoagulants: A sub-analysis of PASTA registry study

BACKGROUND

The safety of intravenous recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (rtPA) and mechanical thrombectomy (MT) in patients treated with direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) before stroke has not been fully investigated. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the safety of recanalization therapy in patients receiving DOACs.

METHODS

We assessed data from a prospective multicenter registry of patients with stroke, including those with acute ischemic stroke (AIS) treated with rtPA and/or MT who were administered DOACs. We evaluated the safety of recanalization considering the DOACs dosage and interval between the last DOAC intake and recanalization.

RESULTS

The final analysis included 108 patients (women, n = 54; median age, 81 years; DOAC overdose, n = 7; appropriate dose, n = 74; and inappropriate low dose, n = 27). The rate of any ICH differed significantly among overdose-, appropriate dose-, and inappropriate-low dose DOACs groups (71.4, 23.0, and 33.3%, respectively; P = 0.0121), whereas no significant difference was observed in respect of symptomatic ICH (P = 0.6895). Multivariate analysis showed that the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score on admission (odds ratio [OR]: 1.06, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.01-1.11; P = 0.0267) and overdose-DOAC (OR: 8.40, 95% CI: 1.24-56.88; P = 0.0291) were independently associated with any ICH. No relationship was observed between the timing of the last DOAC intake and occurrence of ICH in patients treated with rtPA and/or MT (all P > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Recanalization therapy during DOAC treatment may be safe in selected patients with AIS, if it is performed >4 h after the last DOAC intake and the patient is not overdosed with DOACs.

REGISTRATION

https://upload.umin.ac.jp/cgi-open-bin/ctr_e/ctr_view.cgi?recptno=R000034958.

Carotid endarterectomy for acute carotid thrombosis after carotid artery stenting with CASPER Rx® stent: A case report

Background

Acute carotid stent thrombosis (ACST) is a rare but devastating complication for carotid artery stenting (CAS). That requires early diagnosis and immediate treatment. Although administration of drugs or endovascular treatment is the most widely used approach for patients with ACST, there is no consensus on the standard treatment of this disease.

Case Description

The present study reports on an 80-year-old female patient with the right internal carotid artery stenosis (ICS) that had been followed up by ultrasonography for 8 years. Although the optimal medical treatment was followed, the patient's right ICS worsened, and the patient was subsequently hospitalized for CAS. On the 12^th day after CAS, left paralysis and dysarthria were observed. Head magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed acute obstruction of the stent and scattered cerebral infarction in the right cerebral hemisphere caused possibly by the discontinuation of temporary antiplatelet drug therapy as a means to prepare for embolectomy of the femoral artery. Stent removal and carotid endarterectomy (CEA) were selected as the appropriate treatment approach. CEA was performed with the precaution of stent removal and distal embolism, and complete recanalization was obtained. Postoperative head MRI showed no new findings of cerebral infarction, and the patients remained symptom-free after 6 months of postoperative follow-up.

Conclusion

Stent removal with CEA could be an appropriate curative option in some cases with ACST except in patients at high risk of CEA and in the chronic phase after CAS.

Characteristics of Ischemic Versus Hemorrhagic Stroke in Patients Receiving Oral Anticoagulants: Results of the PASTA Study

Objective Limited data exist regarding the comparative detailed clinical characteristics of patients with ischemic stroke (IS)/transient ischemic attack (TIA) and intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) receiving oral anticoagulants (OACs). Methods The prospective analysis of stroke patients taking oral anticoagulants (PASTA) registry, a multicenter registry of 1,043 stroke patients receiving OACs [vitamin K antagonists (VKAs) or non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulant (NOACs)] across 25 medical institutions throughout Japan, was used. Univariate and multivariable analyses were used to analyze differences in clinical characteristics between IS/TIA and ICH patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) who were registered in the PASTA registry. Results There was no significant differences in cardiovascular risk factors, such as hypertension, diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia, smoking, or alcohol consumption (all p>0.05), between IS/TIA and ICH among both NOAC and VKA users. Cerebral microbleeds (CMBs) [odds ratio (OR), 4.77; p<0.0001] were independently associated with ICH, and high brain natriuretic peptide/N-terminal pro B-type natriuretic peptide levels (OR, 1.89; p=0.0390) were independently associated with IS/TIA among NOAC users. A history of ICH (OR, 13.59; p=0.0279) and the high prothrombin time-international normalized ratio (PT-INR) (OR, 1.17; p<0.0001) were independently associated with ICH, and a history of IS/TIA (OR, 3.37; 95% CI, 1.34-8.49; p=0.0101) and high D-dimer levels (OR, 2.47; 95% CI, 1.05-5.82; p=0.0377) were independently associated with IS/TIA among VKA users. Conclusion The presence of CMBs, a history of stroke, natriuretic peptide and D-dimer levels, and PT-INR may be useful for risk stratification of either IS/TIA or ICH development in patients with AF receiving OACs.

Revascularization to the ACA: effectiveness and variation of the STA-RAG-A3 bonnet bypass

BACKGROUND

The effectiveness of bypass surgery in patients with atherothrombotic ischemia in the anterior cerebral artery (ACA) domain remains unclear. In this study, three cases with ischemia in the ACA territory underwent revascularization surgery using superficial temporal artery (STA)-radial artery graft (RAG)-A3 (pericallosal artery) bonnet bypass. Herein, we discuss the effectiveness and variations of this approach.

METHODS

Among 182 consecutive patients with atherothrombotic ischemic stroke admitted to the NTT Medical Center, Tokyo, from April 2017 to May 2021, three patients with hemodynamic insufficiency in the extensive ACA territory beyond the recent infarct area were treated using STA-RAG-A3 bonnet bypass.

RESULTS

One patient with bilateral severe cerebral blood flow (CBF) deficiency required additional A3-A3 and STA-middle cerebral artery single bypass in conjunction with STA-RAG-A3 bypass. There were no complications associated with the surgical procedure. The patients' hemodynamic study results and neurocognitive performances improved dramatically after surgery.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest the efficacy of STA-RAG-A3 bypass for atherothrombotic ACA ischemia. However, because the number of cases was too small to generalize our results, more cases and thorough pre- and postoperative hemodynamic studies are necessary to prove the validity of the approach.

Intravenous Alteplase is Associated with First Pass Effect in Stent-retriever but not ADAPT Thrombectomy : Post Hoc Analysis of the SKIP Study

PURPOSE

To investigate the effect of alteplase, either combined with stent-retriever thrombectomy or a direct aspiration first pass technique (ADAPT), in patients with large-vessel occlusion stroke.

METHODS

This was a retrospective post hoc analysis of data from The Direct Mechanical Thrombectomy in Acute LVO Stroke (SKIP) study. Patients were divided into two groups according to the first-line thrombectomy technique: stent-retriever and ADAPT. Each group was further divided into two subgroups, namely MT and MT + alteplase. The procedural outcomes, such as first pass effect (FPE) ratio and number of passes, were evaluated. The clinical outcomes included mRS score at 3 months.

RESULTS

A total of 180 patients were included (116 in the stent-retriever group and 64 in the ADAPT group). No interaction was detected between the first-line technique and alteplase administration. In the stent-retriever group, after adjusting for factors associated with FPE, the adjusted odds ratio (95% confidence interval) of FPE of the MT + alteplase subgroup versus the MT subgroup was 3.57 (1.5-8.48) and in the ADAPT group it was 1.35 (0.37-4.91). With alteplase, the number of passes decreased with adjusted odds ratios of 0.59 (0.37-0.93) in the stent-retriever group but not in the ADAPT group. In both first-line technique groups, clinical outcomes did not differ between subgroups.

CONCLUSION

In the SKIP study, alteplase administration was associated with increased FPE when combined with stent-retriever thrombectomy, but not with ADAPT. We found no differences in the clinical outcomes.

Abstract P659: Pre-Stroke Chads 2 Scores Should Be Associated With Onset Severity and Functional Outcome in Acute Stroke Patients With Atrial Fibrillation During Oral Anticoagulants: A Sub-Analysis of PASTA Registry Study

Background and Purpose: The impact of CHADS 2 score on neurological severity in patients with stroke during oral anticoagulant (OAC) has not yet been elucidated. We investigated the association between pre-stroke CHADS 2 score and severity on admission and functional outcome in acute cardioembolic stroke due to AF during OAC.

Methods: We conducted an investigator-initiated, multicenter, prospective, observational cohort study, PASTA registry. One thousand forty-three patients with transient ischemic attack, ischemic stroke, and ICH who were taking OACs were prospectively enrolled in 25 medical institutions throughout Japan. We compared the clinical characteristics including severity onset and discharge outcome between low CHADS 2 score group (<2), and high CHADS 2 score group (≥2) in patients with cardioembolic stroke due to AF.

Result: A total of 548 patients (237 women; median age 80 [quartiles 74-85] years) were enrolled. Of these, there were 76 patients (14%) in low CHADS 2 group and 472 (86%) in high CHADS 2 score group (Fig A). Along with increase of pre-stroke CHADS 2 score, NIHSS score was gradually increased (Fig B). Low CHADS 2 score group was associate with good outcome than high CHADS 2 group (p<0.001, Fig C). Age (p<0.001), male (p<0.001), pre-stroke CHADS 2 score (p<0.001), and initial NIHSS score (p<0.001) were significantly higher in non-excellent outcome (mRS≥2) group than excellent outcome group (mRS<2). In contrast, creatinine clearance and body weight were higher in excellent outcome group (Both p<0.001). Multivariate logistic regression analysis indicated that high pre-stroke CHADS 2 score independently associated with higher NIHSS score (NIHSS score≥6; OR 1.55, 95%CI 1.02-2.36, p=0.041) and non-excellent outcome (OR 1.94, 95%CI 1.01-3.80, p=0.047).

Conclusion: The present study suggests that the pre-stroke CHADS 2 score should be useful for the prediction of clinical outcomes in patients with cardioembolic stroke due to AF even taking OAC.

Effect of Mechanical Thrombectomy Without vs With Intravenous Thrombolysis on Functional Outcome Among Patients With Acute Ischemic Stroke: The SKIP Randomized Clinical Trial

IMPORTANCE

Whether intravenous thrombolysis is needed in combination with mechanical thrombectomy in patients with acute large vessel occlusion stroke is unclear.

OBJECTIVE

To examine whether mechanical thrombectomy alone is noninferior to combined intravenous thrombolysis plus mechanical thrombectomy for favorable poststroke outcome.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

Investigator-initiated, multicenter, randomized, open-label, noninferiority clinical trial in 204 patients with acute ischemic stroke due to large vessel occlusion enrolled at 23 hospital networks in Japan from January 1, 2017, to July 31, 2019, with final follow-up on October 31, 2019.

INTERVENTIONS

Patients were randomly assigned to mechanical thrombectomy alone (n = 101) or combined intravenous thrombolysis (alteplase at a 0.6-mg/kg dose) plus mechanical thrombectomy (n = 103).

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

The primary efficacy end point was a favorable outcome defined as a modified Rankin Scale score (range, 0 [no symptoms] to 6 [death]) of 0 to 2 at 90 days, with a noninferiority margin odds ratio of 0.74, assessed using a 1-sided significance threshold of .025 (97.5% CI). There were 7 prespecified secondary efficacy end points, including mortality by day 90. There were 4 prespecified safety end points, including any intracerebral hemorrhage and symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage within 36 hours.

RESULTS

Among 204 patients (median age, 74 years; 62.7% men; median National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score, 18), all patients completed the trial. Favorable outcome occurred in 60 patients (59.4%) in the mechanical thrombectomy alone group and 59 patients (57.3%) in the combined intravenous thrombolysis plus mechanical thrombectomy group, with no significant between-group difference (difference, 2.1% [1-sided 97.5% CI, -11.4% to ∞]; odds ratio, 1.09 [1-sided 97.5% CI, 0.63 to ∞]; P = .18 for noninferiority). Among the 7 secondary efficacy end points and 4 safety end points, 10 were not significantly different, including mortality at 90 days (8 [7.9%] vs 9 [8.7%]; difference, -0.8% [95% CI, -9.5% to 7.8%]; odds ratio, 0.90 [95% CI, 0.33 to 2.43]; P > .99). Any intracerebral hemorrhage was observed less frequently in the mechanical thrombectomy alone group than in the combined group (34 [33.7%] vs 52 [50.5%]; difference, -16.8% [95% CI, -32.1% to -1.6%]; odds ratio, 0.50 [95% CI, 0.28 to 0.88]; P = .02). Symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage was not significantly different between groups (6 [5.9%] vs 8 [7.7%]; difference, -1.8% [95% CI, -9.7% to 6.1%]; odds ratio, 0.75 [95% CI, 0.25 to 2.24]; P = .78).

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

Among patients with acute large vessel occlusion stroke, mechanical thrombectomy alone, compared with combined intravenous thrombolysis plus mechanical thrombectomy, failed to demonstrate noninferiority regarding favorable functional outcome. However, the wide confidence intervals around the effect estimate also did not allow a conclusion of inferiority.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

umin.ac.jp/ctr Identifier: UMIN000021488.

Stenting for Common Carotid Artery Stenosis Using the Sheath Pull-Through Technique

Objective

We report the "sheath pull-through technique" for stenting of common carotid artery stenosis (CCAS).

Case Presentations

In this technique, an 8-10 Fr super-long sheath (SLS) 55-65 cm is inserted into the femoral artery and the brachiofemoral pull-through technique is subsequently used, improving the support of the sheath itself. We pulled both ends of a pull-through wire to further improve the support of SLS, stabilizing guiding catheter (GC) during the procedure in two cases.

Conclusion

This technique stabilizes GC during CCAS stenting.

Negative-FLAIR vascular hyperintensities serve as a marker of no recanalization during hospitalization in acute stroke

BACKGROUND

Since acute fluid-attenuated inversion recovery vascular hyperintensity (FVH) is indicative of disordered blood flow, FVH is considered a marker of acute major arterial occlusion. Conversely, the role of the absence of FVH (negative-FVH) remains unknown.

METHODS

Consecutive stroke patients were studied via magnetic resonance angiography, within 24 h of onset and major arterial occlusion. All patients were examined using serial angiography to evaluate the presence of recanalization. Patients were classified into negative-FVH and positive-FVH groups.

RESULTS

A total of 72 patients (49 [68%] male patients, aged 76 [66-83] years) were enrolled. Ten patients were allocated to the negative-FVH group and 62 to the positive-FVH group. Initial National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score was 4 (2-8) in the negative-FVH group and 10 (4-21) in the positive-FVH group (p = 0.012). Recanalization was achieved in 1 (10%) of the 10 patients in the negative-FVH group and in 49 (79%) of the 62 patients in the positive-FVH group during hospitalization (p < 0.001). Patients with recanalization were older (p = 0.023), had higher NIHSS score (p = 0.008), were admitted earlier (p = 0.014), exhibited a higher prevalence of atrial fibrillation (p = 0.010) and anterior circulation occlusion (p = 0.021), and were more frequently treated with hyperacute recanalization therapy (p = 0.004). Multivariate regression analysis demonstrated that negative-FVH (odds ratio 0.087, 95% confidential interval [0.008-0.988], p = 0.049) was a negative independent factor associated with recanalization during hospitalization.

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, negative-FVH in acute stroke was associated with lack of recanalization during hospitalization.

Aortogenic Embolic Stroke Diagnosed by a Pathological Examination of Endovascularly Removed Thrombus: An Autopsy Report

Complex aortic atheroma is a high-risk factor for recurrent embolic stroke. An accurate identification of stroke etiology is clinically important; however, it can be challenging. A 91-year-old man with atrial fibrillation was diagnosed with cardioembolic stroke and treated with mechanical thrombectomy. The removed thrombus microscopically contained foamy cells, suggesting an atheroembolism. An autopsy revealed an atherosclerotic lesion with ulceration, located in the aortic arch. At the lesion, the plaque had microscopically ruptured into the lumen. We therefore concluded that the aortic atherosclerotic lesion was the embolic source. Removed thrombi should be pathologically examined even if a cardioembolic stroke is clinically suspected.

Cerebral Embolism Caused by Thrombus in the Pulmonary Vein Stump after Left Lower Lobectomy: A Case Report and Literature Review

Cerebral embolism after left upper lobectomy caused by a thrombus in the pulmonary vein stump (PVS) is a serious complication. However, it is unclear if cerebral embolism can develop after other types of lobectomy. We present a case of a 68-year-old man with cerebral embolism after left lower lobectomy with a longer PVS than normal. There were no clinically suspected sources for the thrombus except for the PVS. This thrombus seemed to have formed in the PVS. The endovascularly removed thrombus contained scattered nuclear debris around neutrophils, suggesting a physiological response caused by tissue injury.

The randomized study of endovascular therapy with versus without intravenous tissue plasminogen activator in acute stroke with ICA and M1 occlusion (SKIP study)

Rationale

Bridging therapy with endovascular therapy (EVT) and intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) has been reported to improve outcomes for acute stroke patients with large-vessel occlusion in the anterior circulation. While the IVT may increase the reperfusion rate, the risk of hemorrhagic complications increases. Whether EVT without IVT (direct EVT) is equally effective as bridging therapy in acute stroke remains unclear.

Aim

This randomized study of endovascular therapy with versus without intravenous tissue plasminogen activator for acute stroke with ICA and M1 occlusion aims to clarify the efficacy and safety of direct EVT compared with bridging therapy.

Methods and design

This is an investigator-initiated, multicenter, prospective, randomized, open-treatment, blinded-endpoint clinical trial. The target patient number is 200, comprising 100 patients receiving direct EVT and 100 receiving bridging therapy.

Study outcome

The primary efficacy endpoint is a modified Rankin Scale score of 0–2 at 90 days. Safety outcome measures are any intracranial hemorrhage at 24 h.

Discussion

This trial may help determine whether direct EVT should be recommended as a routine clinical strategy for ischemic stroke patients within 4.5 h from onset. Direct EVT would then become the choice of therapy in stroke centers with endovascular facilities.

Trial registration

UMIN000021488.

Development and application of 2.5 GPa-25 T high-pressure high-field electron spin resonance system using a cryogen-free superconducting magnet

We have developed a high-pressure electron spin resonance probe and successfully installed into the world's highest-field cryogen-free superconducting magnet having a maximum central field of 24.6 T. The high pressure of 2.5 GPa is achieved by the specially designed piston-cylinder pressure cell using THz-wave-transparent components. In the first application of this high-pressure high-field ESR system, we observed that the orthogonal dimer spin system SrCu₂(BO₃)₂ undergoes a quantum phase transition from the dimer singlet ground to the plaquette singlet ground states.

Prior Direct Oral Anticoagulant Therapy is Related to Small Infarct Volume and No Major Artery Occlusion in Patients With Stroke and Non-Valvular Atrial Fibrillation

Background The aims of the present study were to investigate the relationships between prior direct oral anticoagulant ( DOAC ) therapy and infarct volume and the site of arterial occlusion in patients with acute ischemic stroke and non-valvular atrial fibrillation. Methods and Results From March 2011 through November 2016, consecutive patients with acute ischemic stroke in the middle cerebral artery territory and non-valvular atrial fibrillation were recruited. The infarct volume was assessed semi-automatically using initial diffusion-weighted imaging, and the arterial occlusion site was evaluated on magnetic resonance angiography. The effect of prior DOAC treatment on the site of arterial occlusion was assessed by multivariate ordinal logistic regression analysis. A total of 330 patients (149 women; median age 79 [quartiles 71-86] years; median National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score 11 [4-21]) were enrolled. Of these, 239 were on no anticoagulant, 40 were undertreated with a vitamin K antagonist ( VKA ), 22 were sufficiently treated with VKA ( PT - INR ≥1.6), and 29 were on a DOAC before the acute ischemic stroke. The infarct volume on admission differed among the groups (median 14.5 [2.0-59.8] cm3 in patients with no anticoagulation, 24.8 [2.1-63.0] in undertreated VKA , 1.3 [0.3-13.5] in sufficient VKA , and 2.3 [0.5-21.0] in DOAC , P=0.001). Multivariate analysis showed that prior DOAC treatment was independently and negatively associated with more proximal artery occlusion (odds ratio [OR] 0.34, P=0.015), compared with no anticoagulant. Conclusions DOAC treatment before the event was associated with smaller infarct volume and decreased risk of greater proximal artery occlusion in acute ischemic stroke patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation, compared with no anticoagulation.

Thrombus Reformation in the Pulmonary Vein Stump Confirmed 16 Months After Cerebral Embolism on the Day After Left Upper Lobectomy for Lung Cancer

Cerebral embolism is a very serious complication after lung cancer surgery. In such cases, cerebral embolism is caused by a thrombus formed in the pulmonary vein stump. Most such cases have been reported to occur within 10 days after left upper lobectomy. The patients were treated with anticoagulation therapy to prevent the recurrence of cerebral embolism, and recurrence or thrombus reformation has not been reported to the best of our knowledge. We present a 68-year-old man with a cerebral embolism detected on the day after left upper pulmonary lobectomy for lung cancer. The patient was treated with unfractionated heparin and his neurological symptoms improved. Heparin treatment was subsequently changed to aspirin for the prevention of recurrence; however, thrombus formation in the vein stump was asymptomatically confirmed 16 months after the surgery by contrast-enhanced computed tomography. This is the first case to our knowledge of thrombus reformation in the pulmonary vein stump after a cerebral embolism associated with lung cancer surgery. In our case, anticoagulation therapy was not continued to prevent recurrence, and antiplatelet therapy was performed instead, which might be associated with the thrombus reformation.

[To optimize the initial assessment for stroke patients transferred from general hospital may improve the clinical outcome after endovascular thrombectomy]

Rapid adaption of endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) is essential for patients with large arterial occlusion (LAO). Although patients transferred need longer transportation, they have an advantage of preadmission diagnosis regarding arterial occlusion. The aim of the present study is to evaluate whether optimizing the assessment at comprehensive center for patients transferred may improve the clinical outcome after EVT. Data on consecutive patients treated with EVT between September 2014 and May 2017 were studied. Generally, we have two distinct protocols for EVT candidates: 1) the transfer group, patients are directly taken to the CT and escorted to the angiography room; and 2) the direct group, patients receive the routine emergent evaluation and examined with MRI/MRA. Good outcome was defined as modified Rankin Scale score ≤1 at 3 months. Thirty-one (29%) patients were classified into the transfer group and the 77 (71%) were into the direct group. Although the onset to door time was longer in the transfer group (175 [137-275] min. vs. 76 [51-260] min, P = 0.001), the rate of good outcome was similar between the 2 groups (41% vs. 25%, P = 0.205). By multivariate regression analysis, the onset to reperfusion time was the independent factor (odds ratio 0.982, 95%CI: 0.967-0.998, P = 0.026) associated with good outcome, while transfer itself was not the independent parameter (odds ratio 0.732, 95%CI: 0.125-4.291, P = 0.730). Regarding time parameters, door to picture time (11 [7-24] min vs. 27 [21-39] min., P < 0.001) and picture to puncture time (27 [18-60] min. vs. 54 [39-78] min, P < 0.001) were shorter in the transfer group. Thus, the onset to puncture time (234 [177-299] min. vs. 170 [125-367] min, P = 0.063) and the onset to reperfusion time (271 [208-352] min. vs. 237 [159-382] min., P = 0.183) were similar between the 2 groups. Shortening the initial evaluation at comprehensive stroke center can provide a good outcome for patients transferred.

In Hyperacute Recanalization Therapy, Early Hospital Arrival Improves Outcome in Patients with Large Artery Occlusion

BACKGROUND

It is unknown whether the effect of onset---to-door (OTD) time on clinical outcomes differs between -patients with and without large artery occlusion (LAO) who undergo hyperacute recanalization therapy.

METHODS

Hyperacute recanalization therapy includes intravenous thrombolysis tissue-plasminogen activator (tPA), and endovascular therapy (EVT). Favorable clinical outcome was defined as modified Rankin Scale of ≤2 at discharge.

RESULTS

Among 164 patients, 117 (71%) patients received tPA, 86 (52%) received EVT, and 39 (24%) received tPA and EVT. One hundred and fifteen patients (70%) were classified into the LAO group and 49 (30%) into the non-LAO group. In the total cohort, multivariate regression analysis showed OTD time (OR 0.809 [95% CI 0.693-0.944], p = 0.007) was an independent factor related to the favorable outcome. Similarly, among patients with LAO, OTD was an independent negative factor for the favorable outcome (0.779 [0.646-0.940], p = 0.009). On the contrary, OTD was not associated with the favorable outcome (1.5 [0.7-2.5] vs. 1.7 [1.1-3.2], p = 0.155) in patients without LAO. This was confirmed with multivariate regression analysis, which did not show OTD to be an independent factor for the favorable outcome (0.900 [0.656-1.236], p = 0.516).

CONCLUSION

The effect of early hospital arrival on clinical outcome differed between patients with and without LAO.

A Report of a Case Involving Body Lateropulsion with Numbness of the Ipsilesional Fingers Caused by a Small Infarction in the Dorsal Part of the Middle Medulla

Based on the complexity of functional anatomy, a small infarction in the medulla can produce various types of clinical symptoms or signs depending on the location of this infarction. We describe the case of a 46-year-old man who presented with sudden onset of body lateropulsion to the left side and numbness of the ipsilateral fingers. 3-tesla diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging with a section thickness of 2 mm revealed a small infarction in the dorsal part of the left middle medulla. To our knowledge, this is the first case report describing vestibular dysfunction apparent upon otoelectrophysiological examination but without vestibular symptoms or signs except for body lateropulsion.

MRI scout images can detect the acute intracerebral hemorrhage on CT

INTRODUCTION

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has recently emerged as a first-line tool for investigating acute stroke. However, MRI requires long scan times, which could be detrimental for severe stroke patients with a large intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). MRI scout images, which are taken prior to a study to determine the range of subsequent images, can be used to rapidly screen the whole brain. We examined whether MRI scout imaging can detect ICHs observed by computed tomography (CT).

METHODS

Between September 2014 and March 2016, consecutive acute ICH patients who underwent both MRI scout and CT imaging in the acute setting were studied. ICHs on MRI scout images were defined as space-occupying lesions. Two neurologists independently assessed the scout images. We investigated whether ICHs on CT scans can be detected on MRI scout images and the characteristics of ICHs not detected by MRI scout images.

RESULTS

One hundred and forty-eight ICH patients (median age, 68 [interquartile range, 59-77] years; 99 [67%] males; median National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score, 11 [4-17]) were enrolled. Among these, 138 (93%) patients were diagnosed as having ICH by MRI scout imaging (positive group), and 10 (7%) patients were not (negative group). The bleeding volume was 9.3 [4.5-22.4] ml in the positive group and 1.0 [0.4-2.0] ml in the negative group (p < .001). The cut-off value of bleeding volume calculated from the receiver operating characteristic curve was 2.0 ml. Regarding ICH lesions, 4 (44%) of the 9 pontine hemorrhages were detected on MRI scout images, whereas 134 (96%) of the 139 other hemorrhages were diagnosed (p < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

We diagnosed >90% of ICHs using MRI scout images. Low levels of ICH and pontine hemorrhaging might be difficult to detect using MRI scout imaging.

Abstract WP195: Current Status of Reperfusion Therapy and Functional Outcome in Acute Ischemic Stroke Patients With Non-Valvular Atrial Fibrillation: a Single-Center, Six-Year Experience of Consecutive 546 Patients

Background: The concept and tools of oral anticoagulation (OAC) therapy for preventing stroke in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF) and their use as part of an acute treatment regimen in patients experiencing large-vessel occlusive stroke have grossly changed in the last 10 years. The aim of this study was therefore to evaluate the changes in reperfusion therapy and the clinical outcomes in acute ischemic stroke (AIS) patients with NVAF during a six-year time period.

Methods: From March 2011 to March 2017, consecutive patients with AIS with NVAF who were admitted to our department were retrospectively analyzed. Patients were divided into three groups according to the year of their initial visit: 2011-2012 (n=136), 2013-2014 (n=206), and 2015-2016 (n=204). Reperfusion therapy including intravenous thrombolysis and endovascular therapy, and functional outcome, were compared between the three time periods.

Results: The rate of reperfusion therapy increased steadily from 19.9% in 2011-2012 to 42.7% in 2015-2016 ( P < 0.0001). Parenchymal hematoma (PH) occurrence increased slightly from 5.9% in 2011-2012 to 9.8% in 2015-2016, but there was no significant difference ( P = 0.4301). Although there was no difference with respect to National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score at admission between the 2011-2012 and 2015-2016 groups (8 vs. 7, P = 0.3926), and CHA 2 DS 2 -VASc score was significantly higher in 2015-2016 compared with in 2011-2012 (4 vs 3, P = 0.0062), and discharge NIHSS score in 2015-2016 was significantly lower compared with that in 2011-2012 (2 vs. 4; P = 0.0093). The percentage of modified Rankin Scale 0-1 upon discharge was significantly higher in patients treated with reperfusion therapy than in those who were treated without it, among moderate-severe stroke patients (initial NIHSS ≥ 8) (15.4 vs. 2.8%, P = 0.0002). Moreover, hospital mortality rate significantly decreased from 11.0% in 2011-2012 to 3.4% in 2015-2016 ( P = 0.0167).

Conclusions: According to the six-year trend, the use of reperfusion therapy increased steadily and this increase appears to be factor in improvement of functional outcome and mortality in patients with AIS with NVAF.

Abstract WP396: Prior Doac Therapy is Related to Small Infarct Size and No Major Artery Occlusion in Patients With Acute Stroke and Nvaf

Background: Anticoagulant treatment with a vitamin K antagonist (VKA) has been reported to be associated with no major artery occlusion and small infarct volume. However, the effect of direct oral anticoagulant (DOAC) therapy on stroke volume or the site of arterial occlusion in acute ischemic stroke (AIS) patients is not well known.

Methods: From March 2011 through July 2016, consecutive patients with AIS in the middle cerebral artery territory and non-valvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF) who underwent MRI were recruited. The infarct size was assessed by ASPECTS score on DWI, and the arterial occlusion site was evaluated on MR angiography. The effect of prior DOAC treatment on the site of arterial occlusion was assessed by multivariate ordinal logistic regression analysis.

Results: A total of 345 patients (160 women; median age 79 years; median NIHSS score 12) were enrolled. Of these, 248 were on no anticoagulant, 45 were undertreated with a VKA, 24 were sufficiently treated with a VKA, and 28 were on a DOAC prior to the AIS. The DWI-ASPECTS on admission differed among the groups (median 7 in patients with no anticoagulant, 8 in undertreated VKA, 9 in sufficient VKA, and 9 in DOAC, p=0.002). Multivariate analysis showed that prior DOAC treatment was independently and negatively associated with more proximal artery occlusion (OR 0.39, p=0.031), compared to no anticoagulant.

Conclusion: DOAC treatment prior to the event was associated with decreased risk of more proximal artery occlusion in AIS patients with NVAF, compared to no anticoagulation.

Low Free Triiodothyronine at Admission Predicts Poststroke Infection

BACKGROUND

Poststroke infection (PSI) is common and is usually associated with a severe prognosis. We investigated the association between PSI and thyroid hormones, which are critical to immune regulation, in patients with acute stroke.

METHODS

We retrospectively enrolled 520 consecutive patients with acute ischemic stroke (326 men; age, 71.9 ± 13.2 years) admitted to our department between September 2014 and June 2016. The impact of serum thyroid hormone levels measured at admission (thyroid-stimulating hormone [TSH], free triiodothyronine [FT3], and free thyroxine [FT4]) on the PSI was evaluated using multivariate logistic regression analysis.

RESULTS

We diagnosed 107 patients (20.6%; pneumonia, 65; urinary tract infection, 19; others, 23) with PSIs. While age (P <.001), body mass index (P = .0012), preadmission modified Rankin scale score (P = .0001), National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score on admission (P <.001), admission FT3 level (P <.001), atrial fibrillation (P <.001), and ischemic heart disease (P = .0451) were significantly associated with PSI, we found no relationship among TSH levels, FT4 levels, and PSI occurrence. After multivariate adjustment, patients with PSIs were more frequently in the Q1 quartile (≤2.25 pg/mL) than in the Q2 (2.26-2.55 pg/mL; P = .0251), Q3 (2.56-2.89 pg/mL; P = .0007), or Q4 (≥2.90 pg/mL; P = .0010) quartiles of FT3 levels. Moreover, low FT3 levels (<2.29 pg/mL) were independently associated with PSI occurrence (P = .0013).

CONCLUSIONS

Low FT3 levels at admission are independently associated with PSI occurrence.

Ataxic Hemiparesis Associated with Cortical Infarct Localized in the Postcentral Gyrus

Ataxic hemiparesis (AH) is a classic lacunar syndrome associated with localized damage to the pons, internal capsule, thalamus, or corona radiata. A depression of metabolic activity known as crossed cerebellar diaschisis (CCD) is frequently observed in the cerebellar hemisphere contralateral to the site of the lesion in patients with AH. Though small cortical or subcortical lesions may result in AH, such occurrences are rare. The current report details the case of a patient with AH resulting from acute infarction associated with localized lesions of the postcentral gyrus who presented without CCD.

The Prevalence of and Factors Related to Vascular Hyperintensity on T1-Weighted Imaging in Acute Ischemic Stroke

BACKGROUND

Thrombus visualization in patients with acute ischemic stroke has been detected and reported using various imaging modalities. T1-weighted imaging (T1-WI) can depict thrombi as hyperintense signals within vessels. Moreover, in addition to thrombi, T1-WI hyperintensities in arteries may suggest arterial dissection. However, the frequency of and factors related to the T1-hyperintense vessel sign (T1-HVS) are not fully known. The aim of this study was to clarify the prevalence of and related factors for the T1-HVS in patients with acute ischemic stroke.

METHODS

From September 2014 through December 2015, consecutive acute ischemic stroke patients who were admitted to our stroke unit within 7 days from symptom onset were retrospectively recruited from the prospective registry. A T1-HVS was defined as the presence of a hyperintense signal, with intensity higher than surrounding brain, within the vessel lumen. Moreover, T1-HVSs were separated into filled T1-HVSs (hyperintensity fills whole vessel lumen) and non-filled T1-HVSs. The frequency of the T1-HVS and the timing of emersion and the relationship between the presence of the T1-HVS and arterial occlusion were assessed.

RESULTS

A total of 399 patients (139 women; median age 73 years; National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score 3) were enrolled in the present study. Of these, 327 (82%) patients had T1-WI on admission. Two hundred and sixty-seven (67%) subjects had at least one follow-up T1-WI (median 6 days after admission), and 134 (34%) cases had ≥2 follow-up T1-WI examinations. The T1-HVS was observed in 18 patients during admission; therefore, the frequency of the T1-HVS in acute ischemic stroke patients was 4.5% (95% CI 2.5-6.5%). All but one (94%) of the T1-HVSs were first observed on follow-up imaging, and the median number of days from onset to T1-HVS appearance was 9. For patients having initial major artery occlusion and follow-up MRI (n = 95), sensitivity and specificity of the T1-HVS for persistent arterial occlusion on follow-up MR angiography were 22 and 100%, respectively. T1-HVS persisted for a few months and then normalized. Although there were no significant differences between filled and non-filled T1-HVS, more patients with non-filled T1-HVS had arterial dissection (43%) than those with filled T1-HVS (9%, p = 0.245).

CONCLUSION

The T1-HVS was observed in 4.5% of acute ischemic stroke patients. T1-HVSs appeared in the subacute phase in arteries with persistent occlusion and remained for a few months.

High-field/high-pressure ESR

We present a historical review of high-pressure ESR systems with emphasis on our recent development of a high-pressure, high-field, multi-frequency ESR system. Until 2000, the X-band system was almost established using a resonator filled with dielectric materials or a combination of the anvil cell and dielectric resonators. Recent developments have shifted from that in the low-frequency region, such as X-band, to that in multi-frequency region. High-pressure, high-field, multi-frequency ESR systems are classified into two types. First are the systems that use a vector network analyzer or a quasi-optical bridge, which have high sensitivity but a limited frequency region; the second are like our system, which has a very broad frequency region covering the THz region, but lower sensitivity. We will demonstrate the usefulness of our high-pressure ESR system, in addition to its experimental limitations. We also discuss the recent progress of our system and future plans.

Low risk of ICH after reperfusion therapy in acute stroke patients treated with direct oral anti-coagulant

BACKGROUND

The safety of intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) and endovascular therapy (EVT) in patients treated with DOAC is unclear. We investigated whether recanalization therapy in patients treated with DOAC is safe.

METHODS

A nationwide, multicenter, retrospective cohort questionnaire survey was conducted to investigate the: (1) frequency of intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) after recanalization therapy in patients treated with DOAC; (2) independent factors related to ICH; (3) relationship between last intake time of DOAC and ICH; and (4) comparison of ICH frequency between patients treated with DOAC, vitamin K antagonist (VKA), and no-anticoagulation (no-ACT) (control).

RESULTS

One hundred eighteen stroke centers returned the questionnaire and 100 patients (56 IVT alone, 29 EVT alone, and 15 both IVT and EVT) on DOAC were registered. The frequency of asymptomatic and symptomatic (≥4-point NIHSS score increase) ICH within 24h in DOAC patients were 18% and 2%, and were not different compared with the VKA and no-ACT groups (p=0.728; and p=0.626). On multivariate analysis, systolic blood pressure (OR, 1.04; p<0.001) and blood glucose (OR, 1.02; p=0.019) were independent factors for ICH. Among the 52 patients with a known last intake time of DOAC, the rate of ICH was higher in patients ≤4h from last intake than those >4h (38% vs. 10%, p=0.033).

CONCLUSIONS

Risk of ICH after reperfusion therapy in patients treated with DOAC should be low. Systolic blood pressure, glucose level, and DOAC intake time appear to be factors for ICH.

Fast x-ray detector system with simultaneous measurement of timing and energy for a single photon

We developed a fast X-ray detector system for nuclear resonant scattering (NRS) experiments. Our system employs silicon avalanche photo-diode (Si-APD) as a fast X-ray sensor. The system is able to acquire both timing and energy of a single X-ray photon simultaneously in a high rate condition, 10⁶ counts per second for one Si-APD. The performance of the system was investigated in SPring-8, a synchrotron radiation facility in Japan. Good time resolution of 120 ps (FWHM) was achieved with a slight tail distribution in the time spectrum by a level of 10^-9 at 1 ns apart from the peak. Using this system, we successfully observed the NRS from the 26.27-keV level of mercury-201, which has a half-life of 630(50) ps. We also demonstrated the reduction of background events caused by radioactive decays in a radioactive sample by discriminating photon energy.

Abstract TP237: In Hyperacute Recanalization Therapy, Early Hospital Arrival Should Improve Outcome in Patients With Large Artery Occlusion but Not Without It

Introduction: Early hospital arrival form symptom onset has been related to the good outcome. However, it has been unknown whether in hyperacute recanalization therapy, early hospital arrival improves outcome in patients with and without large artery occlusion (LAO). We evaluated the association of onset-to-door (OTD) time with clinical outcome after hyperacute recanalization therapy in patients with and without LAO.

Methods: Consecutive stroke patients treated using hyperacute recanalization therapy including intravenous thrombolysis using tissue-plasminogen activator (tPA) and endovascular therapy (EVT) were studied. Good outcome was defined as mRS ≤2 at hospital discharge. All patients were divided into patient with and without LAO.

Results: From 2014 September to 2016 July, 129 (median age, 73 [64-82] years; 86 [67%] males) patients were analyzed. tPA alone was administered in 65 (50%) patients, EVT alone in 33 (26%), and tPA and EVT in 31 (24%). At discharge, 67 (52%) patients achieved the good outcome. Ninety-one patients (71%) were classified into the LAO group and 38 (29%) were into the non-LAO group. The OTD was similar between the LAO and the non-LAO groups (1.57 [0.87-3.42] h vs. 1.38 [0.76-2.68], p=0.420). Forty-six (51%) patients in the LAO and 21 (55%) patients in the non-LAO groups had good outcome (p=0.701). Regarding patients with LAO, age, OTD, and NIHSS score were significantly associated with good outcome (p=0.021, 0.014, and 0.001). Multivariate regression analysis also showed the OTD was the independent negative factor for good outcome (OR 0.77, 95%CI: 0.65-0.91, p=0.003). On the other hand, when we analyzed patients without LAO, OTD and NIHSS score were also significantly associated with good outcome (p=0.009, and 0.004). However, multivariate regression analysis did not show the OTD was the independent factor for good outcome (OR 0.83, 95%CI: 0.58-1.18, p=0.299). Only NIHSS score was independently related to it (OR 0.80, 95%CI: 0.67-0.96, p=0.018).

Conclusion: Impact of early hospital arrival on clinical outcome after hyperacute recanalization therapy differed between patients with and without LAO. In hyperacute recanalization therapy, early hospital arrival should improve outcome in patients with LAO but not without it.

Abstract TP200: Urinary Albumin/creatinine Ratio Should Be Associated With White Matter Lesion Severity in First-ever Stroke Patients

Background and purpose: White matter lesion (WML) is an indicator of small vessel disease, however, the underlying pathological mechanisms has not been fully understood. In recent years, experimental and epidemiological studies have suggested that chronic kidney disease (CKD) is associated with endothelial dysfunction; thereby, a CKD state may initiate small vessel damage. Our aim was to investigate the association of estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), urinary albumin/creatinine ratio (UACR), and WML in first-ever stroke patients.

Methods: We retrospectively enrolled 284 consecutive patients (177 male; median age 72 years) admitted to our stroke center between May 2010 and January 2012. eGFR and UACR measurements were performed on admission. WML were assessed using the Fazekas classification. Severe WML was defined as Fazekas gradings of 2 or higher. The impact of the eGFR and UACR on WML was evaluated using multiple logistic regression analysis. Separate analyses were conducted according to severe WML and trichotomized eGFR level [60 mL/min ≤ eGFR (reference), 45 mL/min ≤ eGFR < 60 mL/min, and eGFR < 45 mL/min)] and UACR level [UACR < 30.0 mg/g creatinine (reference), 30.0 mg/g creatinine ≤ UACR < 300 mg/g creatinine, and 300 mg/g creatinine ≤ UACR].

Results: According to the Fazekas gradings, 91 patients (32.0%) had scale 0; 90 patients (31.7%), scale 1; 59 patients (20.8%), stage 2; and 44 patients (15.5%), scale 3. Age ( P < 0.0001), sex ( P = 0.0094), eGFR ( P = 0.0173), UACR ( P = 0.0001), hypertension ( P = 0.0436), and brain natriuretic peptide ( P = 0.0354) were significantly associated with severe WML. On multivariable logistic regression analysis, high UACR (≥ 39.6 mg/g creatinine), but not low eGFR (≤ 74 mL/min/1.73 m 2 ), was independently associated with severe WML. In comparisons between trichotomized UACR level, severe WML were more frequent in UACR ≥ 300 mg/g creatinine group than in UACR < 30.0 mg/g creatinine group after multivariate adjustment (OR, 2.25; 95% CI, 1.04-5.00; P = 0.039). On the other hand, there was no significant association with trichotomized eGFR level and severe WML (OR, 1.51; 95% CI, 0.62-3.77; P = 0.3672).

Conclusions: Our data suggest that a high UACR, but not eGFR, is independently associated with severe WML.

Abstract TP181: Albuminuria Should Be A Strong Predictor Of Acute Kidney Injury in Acute Ischemic Stroke Patients

Background: Acute kidney injury (AKI) in the setting of cardiovascular events is recognized as a high risk of poor clinical outcome. Although estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and albuminuria are known to be associated with ischemic stroke outcomes, solid evidence has not yet to be presented regarding the relationship among the two markers and AKI. The present study aimed to clarify this issue in patients with acute ischemic stroke.

Methods: From a prospectively gathered registry, we examined acute ischemic stroke patients who were hospitalized within 48 hours after symptom from September 2014 to June 2016. Admission serum creatinine level was considered to be the baseline. AKI is defined by an increase in the serum creatinine level of ≥0.3 mg/dl within 48 hours; or percentage increase of 50% or more from the baseline value within 7 days after admission. We divided all patients into the AKI group and the non-AKI group, and compared clinical characteristics between the two groups. The factors associated with AKI were investigated by multivariate logistic regression analysis.

Results: Three hundred and eighty-nine patients (245 males, 74 [65-82] years old) were enrolled in the study. AKI occurred in 14 patients (3.6%) with acute ischemic stroke patients. Compared with patients without AKI, patients with AKI had increased serum creatinine level (1.20 mg/dl vs. 0.80 mg/dl, p=0.033) and urine albumin level (259.6 mg/g vs. 38.7mg/g, P<0.001). On the other hand, eGFR level was decreased in the AKI group than in the non-AKI group (45.5 ml/min/1.73 m 2 vs. 65.0 ml/min/1.73 m 2 , P=0.048). Poor clinical outcome at discharge (mRS ≥5) was frequently observed in the AKI group than the non-AKI group (42.9% vs. 16.5%, P=0.022). The optimal cut-off urine albumin value to distinguish the AKI from the non-AKI using receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curves was 170 mg/g, with 78.6% sensitivity and 79.2% specificity. Multivariate regression analysis showed that urine albumin level > 170mg/g was an independent factor of AKI (odds ratio [OR] 12.73; 95% confidence interval [CI], 3.10-52.30, P<0.001), but not eGFR <60 ml/min/1.73 m 2 (OR 0.96; 95% CI 0.26-3.54, P=0.944).

Conclusion: Albuminuria should be a strong predictor for AKI in acute ischemic stroke patients.

Abstract TP323: Prevalence And Clinical Character Of Cortical Superficial Siderosis In Stroke Patient

Background and purpose: Cortical superficial siderosis (CSS) is a neuroimaging marker of cerebral amyloid angiopathy and has been associated with a high risk for intracerebral hemorrhage. However, CSS in acute stroke patients have not been fully investigated. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of CSS in both ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke patients. Furthermore, we aimed to assess the relation between CSS and clinical or radiologic characteristics.

Methods: From September 2014 through June 2016, consecutive acute ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke patients who were admitted to our department within 7 days from symptom onset were retrospectively recruited from the prospective registry. CSS was defined as a homogeneous curvilinear signal intensity (black) on T2*-GRE sequences in the superficial layers of the cerebral cortex, within the subarachnoid space, away from at least three sulci of the hematoma with no corresponding signal hyperintensity on FLAIR sequences, to exclude potential hemorrhagic mimics. We analyzed the association between CSS and the topographic distribution of cerebral microbleeds (MBs), white matter lesions plus cardiovascular risk factors.

Results: A total of 680 patients (530 ischemic stroke and 150 hemorrhagic stroke; median age 71 years) were enrolled in the present study. CSS was detected in 6 patients (1.1 %) with ischemic stroke and 7 patients (4.7%) with hemorrhagic stroke ( P < 0.0001). CSS are associated with previous stroke ( P = 0.0234), hemorrhagic stroke ( P < 0.0001), white matter lesions ( P = 0.0105), and lobar and non-lobar MBs (both P < 0.0001), but no relationship between age, sex, cardiovascular risk factors and CSS were found. On multivariable logistic regression analysis, high lobar MBs (≥ 2; odds ratio [OR], 74.39; 95% confidence interval [CI], 10.24-1553.25; P < 0.0001) and hemorrhagic stroke (OR, 4.30; 95% CI, 1.12-18.14; P = 0.0336) were independently associated with the presence of CSS.

Conclusions: Our results suggest that CSS occurs with high prevalence in hemorrhagic stroke patients and is associated with lobar MBs, while the association between CSS and age, sex and cardiovascular risk factors were not observed.

Abstract WP209: Plasma Brain Natriuretic Peptide Should be a Predictor for 3-Month Mortality in Non-Cardioembolic Stroke

Background: Plasma brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) is primarily released from the ventricular myocardium and is a biomarker of cardioembolic stroke. Previous studies have shown that elevated plasma BNP level predicts short and long term mortality in cardioembolic stroke. However, the relationship between BNP and mortality in non-cardioembolic stroke has not been fully examined. The present study tested the hypothesis that admission plasma BNP level can serve as a marker of 3-month mortality in non-cardioembolic stroke.

Methods: From a prospective stroke registry, we examined acute non-cardioembolic stroke patients within 7 days after symptom onset who measured plasma BNP on admission from September 2014 to March 2016. We divided all patients into the non-survivors and the survivors within 3 month of non-cardioembolic stroke, and compared clinical characteristics between the two groups. The factors associated with 3-month mortality were investigated by multivariate logistic regression analysis.

Results: Three hundred and one patients (198 males, 71 [61-80] years old) were enrolled in the study. Thirteen patients (3.8%) died within 3 month of non-cardioembolic stroke. There were no significant differences in male (61.5% vs. 66.0%, P=0.769), age (71 years old vs. 68 years old, P=0.450), hypertension (61.5% vs. 65.6%, P=0.771), diabetes (15.4% vs. 28.7%, P=0.525), dyslipidemia (30.8% vs. 43.4%, P=0.409), and smoking (61.5% vs. 50.0%, P=0.573) between the non-survivors and the survivors. The NIHSS score was significantly higher in the non-survivors than in the survivors (15 vs. 2, P<0.001). The plasma BNP was significantly higher in the group of non-survivors than in the group of survivors (85 pg/ml vs. 31 pg/ml, p =0.005). A cut off plasma BNP level of 65.0 pg/ml could predict death within 3 month of non-cardioembolic stroke. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that a plasma BNP level of >65.0 pg/ml (odds ratio [OR] 6.49; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.79-23.56, P=0.04) was independently associated with 3-month mortality in non-cardioembolic stroke.

Conclusions: A high plasma BNP level on admission should be a predictor for 3-month mortality in non-cadioembolic stroke.

Abstract TP161: Low Free Triiodothyronine on Admission Should Be Associated With Post-stroke Infection in Acute Stroke Patients

Background and purpose: Post-stroke infection (PSI) is a common and it is associated with a severe prognosis. Recent studies have shown that thyroid hormones play critical roles in the immune system regulation. However, association between PSI and thyroid hormone have not been fully elucidated. We therefore investigated the impact of thyroid hormone on PSI in acute stroke patients.

Methods: We retrospectively enrolled 520 consecutive patients with acute ischemic stroke (326 male, 71.9 ± 13.2 years) admitted to our department between September 2014 and June 2016. Serum thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), free triiodothyronine (FT3), and free thyroxine (FT4) were evaluated upon admission. PSI was defined as infection occurring during hospitalization. The impact of the thyroid hormone on PSI was evaluated using multiple logistic regression analysis. Separate analyses were conducted according to PSI and quartile serum FT3 concentration.

Results: PSI was diagnosed in 107 patients (20.6 %). The most common infection was pneumonia with the prevalence of 65 patients (60.7 %), followed by urinary tract infection recorded in 19 patients (17.8 %). Age ( P < 0.001), body mass index ( P = 0.0044), pre-admission mRS ( P = 0.002), NIHSS score on admission ( P < 0.001), admission FT3 (2.63 ± 0.49 pg/mL vs. 2.24 ± 0.66 pg/mL, P < 0.001), and cardio-embolic stroke ( P < 0.001) were significantly associated with PSI, but no relationship between TSH (2.84 ± 8.12 mIU/L vs. 2.20 ± 1.45 mIU/L, P = 0.4610), FT4 (1.22 ± 0.21 ng/dL vs. 1.21 ± 0.28 ng/dL, P = 0.1478), and PSI were found. On multivariable logistic regression analysis, low FT3 (< 2.29 pg/mL; odds ratio [OR], 2.96; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.61- 5.45; P = 0.0005) and high admission NIHSS score (≥ 9 points, OR, 7.65; 95% CI, 4.10-14.73; P <0.0001) were independently associated with PSI. In comparisons between PSI and FT3 quartiles (Q1 [≤ 2.25 pg/mL], Q2 [2.26-2.55 pg/mL], Q3 [2.56-2.89 pg/mL], Q4 [≥ 2.90 pg/mL]), patients with PSI were significantly more frequent in Q1 than in Q2, Q3, and Q4 after multivariate adjustment.

Conclusions: Our results showed that a low FT3 at admission should be associated with PSI in acute ischemic stroke patients.

Efficiency of the Penumbra 5MAX ACE Reperfusion Catheter in Acute Ischemic Stroke Patients

OBJECTIVE

This study was performed to investigate whether the Penumbra 5MAX ACE is superior to other Penumbra systems.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We performed a retrospective, single center analysis of patients with acute ischemic stroke with occlusion of the internal carotid artery or middle cerebral artery (M1 segment) who underwent endovascular therapy using a Penumbra system. The reperfusion success rate, puncture-to-revascularization time, and number of passes were assessed. Multivariate regression analysis was conducted to evaluate independent factors related to revascularization within 60 minutes. Successful revascularization was defined by a thrombolysis in cerebral infarction score ≥2b.

RESULTS

The Penumbra 5MAX ACE was used in 24 of the 40 patients (60%). Although the revascularization success rate was similar between patient groups (P = .229), the number of passes was significantly lower (1.5 ± .8 versus 2.6 ± 1.3, P = .006) and the puncture-to-revascularization time was shorter (50 ± 26 minutes versus 116 ± 69 minutes, P = .002) in patients treated with the Penumbra 5MAX ACE. The Penumbra 5MAX ACE was identified as an independent factor for early revascularization (odds ratio, 5.80; P = .041). Among patients with a premorbid modified Rankin Scale score of 0-1, a modified Rankin Scale score of 0-2 at 3 months was observed in 15 of the 19 patients (79%) treated with the Penumbra 5MAX ACE and in 8 of the 16 (50%) who were not (P = .072).

CONCLUSION

Acute revascularization therapy using the Penumbra 5MAX ACE can achieve rapid successful recanalization and tend to improve clinical outcomes.