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Background: Despite the well-established potent benefit of mechanical thrombectomy (MT) for large vessel occlusion (LVO) stroke, access to MT has not been studied globally. We conducted a worldwide survey of countries on 6 continents to define MT access (MTA), the disparities in MTA, and its determinants on a global scale. Methods: Our survey was conducted in 75 countries through the Mission Thrombectomy 2020+ global network between November 22, 2020, and February 28, 2021. The primary end points were the current annual MTA, MT operator availability, and MT center availability. MTA was defined as the estimated proportion of patients with LVO receiving MT in a given region annually. The availability metrics were defined as ([current MT operators×50/current annual number of estimated thrombectomy-eligible LVOs]×100 = MT operator availability) and ([current MT centers×150/current annual number of estimated thrombectomy-eligible LVOs]×100= MT center availability). The metrics used optimal MT volume per operator as 50 and an optimal MT volume per center as 150. Multivariable-adjusted generalized linear models were used to evaluate factors associated with MTA. Results: We received 887 responses from 67 countries. The median global MTA was 2.79% (interquartile range, 0.70–11.74). MTA was Conclusions: Access to MT on a global level is extremely low, with enormous disparities between countries by income level. The significant determinants of MT access are the country’s per capita gross national income, prehospital LVO triage policy, and MT operator and center availability.

Distal transradial access (dTRA) has several advantages compared with proximal transradial access (pTRA) for cerebral angiography. The learning curve for transitioning from pTRA to dTRA has not been described.Retrospective analysis of the first 75 diagnostic cerebral angiograms performed with dTRA by a single operator was performed. Outcomes included time for sheath insertion, sheath to first vessel time, procedure duration, fluoroscopy time, radiation dose, and contrast volume. Their associations with procedure number were evaluated with multivariate linear regressions, segmented linear regression, and locally weighted regression (LOESS).The mean age of patients was 56.1 years and 61.3% were female. Seventy-four of 75 angiograms were successfully completed with dTRA. There were 3 minor and no major complications. After adjusting for covariates, sheath to first vessel time (β = -0.50, P0.001) and procedure duration (β = -0.26, P = 0.002) were associated with procedure number. Time for sheath insertion, fluoroscopy time, radiation dose, and contrast volume were not associated with procedure number. Segmented linear regression identified break-points of 33 for sheath to first vessel time and 11 for procedure duration, which corresponded to the procedure number after which these outcomes trended down. LOESS models for time to sheath placement, procedure duration, fluoroscopy time, and radiation dose predicted minimum values between procedures 40-50.Transitioning from pTRA to dTRA for diagnostic cerebral angiography is feasible and safe. The learning curve is overcome between procedures 11 and 33, and further refinement in performance occurs through procedures 40-50.

BACKGROUND: Radial artery access for cerebral angiography is traditionally performed in the wrist. Distal transradial access in the anatomic snuffbox is an alternative with several advantages. PURPOSE: Our aim was to review the safety and efficacy of distal transradial access for diagnostic cerebral angiography and neurointerventions. DATA SOURCES: We performed a comprehensive search of the literature using PubMed, Scopus, and EMBASE. STUDY SELECTION: The study included all case series of at least 10 patients describing outcomes associated with distal transradial access for diagnostic cerebral angiography or a neurointervention. DATA ANALYSIS: Random-effects models were used to obtain pooled rates of procedural success and complications. DATA SYNTHESIS: A total of 7 studies comprising 348 (75.8%) diagnostic cerebral angiograms and 111 (24.2%) interventions met the inclusion criteria. The pooled success rate was 95% (95% CI, 91%–98%; I2 = 74.33). The pooled minor complication rate was 2% (95% CI, 1%–4%; I2 = 0. No major complications were reported. For diagnostic procedures, the combined mean fluoroscopy time was 13.53 [SD, 8.82] minutes and the mean contrast dose was 74.9 [SD, 35.6] mL. LIMITATIONS: A small number of studies met the inclusion criteria, all of them were retrospective, and none compared outcomes with proximal transradial or femoral access. CONCLUSIONS: Early experience with distal transradial access suggests that it is a safe and effective alternative to proximal radial and femoral access for performing diagnostic cerebral angiography and interventions. Additional studies are needed to establish its efficacy and compare it with other access sites.

Background and ObjectiveTo test the hypothesis that age-specific, sex-specific, and race-specific and ethnicity-specific incidence of nontraumatic subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) increased in the United States over the last decade.MethodsIn this retrospective cohort study, validated International Classification of Diseases codes were used to identify all new cases of SAH (n = 39,475) in the State Inpatients Databases of New York and Florida (2007–2017). SAH counts were combined with Census data to calculate incidence. Joinpoint regression was used to compute the annual percentage change (APC) in incidence and to compare trends over time between demographic subgroups.ResultsAcross the study period, the average annual age-standardized/sex-standardized incidence of SAH in cases per 100,000 population was 11.4, but incidence was significantly higher in women (13.1) compared with that in men (9.6),p< 0.001. Incidence also increased with age in both sexes (men aged 20–44 years: 3.6; men aged 65 years or older: 22.0). Age-standardized and sex-standardized incidence was greater in Black patients (15.4) compared with that in non-Hispanic White (NHW) patients (9.9) and other races and ethnicities,p< 0.001. On joinpoint regression, incidence increased over time (APC 0.7%,p< 0.001), but most of this increase occurred in men aged 45–64 years (APC 1.1%,p= 0.006), men aged 65 years or older (APC 2.3%,p< 0.001), and women aged 65 years or older (APC 0.7%,p= 0.009). Incidence in women aged 20–44 years declined (APC −0.7%,p= 0.017), while those in other age/sex groups remained unchanged over time. Incidence increased in Black patients (APC 1.8%,p= 0.014), whereas that in Asian, Hispanic, and NHW patients did not change significantly over time.DiscussionNontraumatic SAH incidence in the United States increased over the last decade predominantly in middle-aged men and elderly men and women. Incidence is disproportionately higher and increasing in Black patients, whereas that in other races and ethnicities did not change significantly over time.

Key Points Question In patients with proximal anterior circulation occlusion stroke presenting in the extended window, are rates of favorable outcomes at 90 days comparable in the patients selected for thrombectomy with noncontrast computed tomography vs patients selected with computed tomography perfusion or magnetic resonance imaging? Findings In a multicenter cohort of 1604 patients in the extended window with large-vessel occlusion, patients selected by noncontrast computed tomography had comparable clinical and safety outcomes with patients selected by computed tomography perfusion or magnetic resonance imaging. Meaning These findings suggest noncontrast computed tomography alone may be used as an alternative to advanced imaging in selecting patients with late-presenting large-vessel occlusion for mechanical thrombectomy., This cohort study compares the clinical outcomes of patients with stroke who presented 6 to 24 hours after symptom onset and were selected for mechanical thrombectomy by noncontrast computed tomography vs those selected by computed tomography perfusion or magnetic resonance imaging., Importance Advanced imaging for patient selection in mechanical thrombectomy is not widely available. Objective To compare the clinical outcomes of patients selected for mechanical thrombectomy by noncontrast computed tomography (CT) vs those selected by computed tomography perfusion (CTP) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in the extended time window. Design, Setting, and Participants This multinational cohort study included consecutive patients with proximal anterior circulation occlusion stroke presenting within 6 to 24 hours of time last seen well from January 2014 to December 2020. This study was conducted at 15 sites across 5 countries in Europe and North America. The duration of follow-up was 90 days from stroke onset. Exposures Computed tomography with Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score, CTP, or MRI. Main Outcomes and Measures The primary end point was the distribution of modified Rankin Scale (mRS) scores at 90 days (ordinal shift). Secondary outcomes included the rates of 90-day functional independence (mRS scores of 0-2), symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage, and 90-day mortality. Results Of 2304 patients screened for eligibility, 1604 patients were included, with a median (IQR) age of 70 (59-80) years; 848 (52.9%) were women. A total of 534 patients were selected to undergo mechanical thrombectomy by CT, 752 by CTP, and 318 by MRI. After adjustment of confounders, there was no difference in 90-day ordinal mRS shift between patients selected by CT vs CTP (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 0.95 [95% CI, 0.77-1.17]; P = .64) or CT vs MRI (aOR, 0.95 [95% CI, 0.8-1.13]; P = .55). The rates of 90-day functional independence (mRS scores 0-2 vs 3-6) were similar between patients selected by CT vs CTP (aOR, 0.90 [95% CI, 0.7-1.16]; P = .42) but lower in patients selected by MRI than CT (aOR, 0.79 [95% CI, 0.64-0.98]; P = .03). Successful reperfusion was more common in the CT and CTP groups compared with the MRI group (474 [88.9%] and 670 [89.5%] vs 250 [78.9%]; P

This meeting abstract was removed due to the OA licensing requirements of this journal. The full abstract is listed here : https://www.svin.org/files/SVIN_2021_Abstracts_for_Web.pdf

Background As much of the scope of neurointerventional practice falls outside data covered by existing randomized clinical trials, and, as a result, may have failed to enter into existing guidelines, an evidence‐based framework for guideline and standards development is needed. We establish an evidence‐based framework to guide all subsequent guidelines and brief practice updates produced by the Society of Vascular and Interventional Neurology (SVIN). Methods The SVIN formed the Guidelines and Practice Parameters committee to develop the structure and procedures for guidelines and brief practice updates. Results In this article, the Guidelines and Practice Parameters committee has outlined the process by which the guidelines will be created and approved by the SVIN. Additionally, the Guidelines and Practice Parameters committee has adopted the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association framework of Class of Recommendation and Level of Evidence. A unique, additional separation of the Expert Opinion endorsement category has been developed when high‐quality evidence does not exist at the time of the publication. Conclusions The SVIN has developed an evidence‐based framework for all guideline statements and brief practice updates. The SVIN guidelines and brief practice updates will guide clinicians in the field of interventional neurology to improve and standardize patient care.

Sleep disordered breathing (SDB) is highly prevalent, but frequently unrecognized among stroke patients. Polysomnography (PSG) is difficult to perform soon after a stroke. We evaluated the use of screening questionnaires and portable sleep testing (PST) for patients with acute stroke, subarachnoid hemorrhage, or transient ischemic attack to expedite SDB diagnosis and management. We performed a single-center retrospective analysis of a quality improvement study on SDB screening of consecutive daytime, weekday, adult admissions to a stroke unit. We excluded patients who were unable to communicate and lacked available family members. Patients were screened with the Epworth Sleepiness Scale, Berlin Questionnaire, and STOP-BANG Questionnaire and underwent overnight PST and/or outpatient PSG. The 4-item STOP Questionnaire was derived from STOP-BANG for a secondary analysis. We compared the sensitivity and specificity of the questionnaires for the diagnosis of at least mild SDB (apnea hypopnea index (AHI) ≥5) on PST and correlated AHI measurements between PST and PSG using the Spearman correlation. Out of sixty-eight patients included in the study, 54 (80%) were diagnosed with SDB. Only one (1.5%) had a previous SDB diagnosis. Thirty-three patients completed all questionnaires and a PST. The STOP-BANG questionnaire had the highest sensitivity for at least mild SDB (0.81, 95% CI (confidence interval): 0.65–0.92) but a low specificity (0.33, 95% CI 0.10, 0.65). The discrimination of all questionnaires was overall poor (C statistic range 0.502–0.640). There was a strong correlation (r = 0.71) between the AHI results estimated using PST and outpatient PSG among 28 patients. The 4-item STOP Questionnaire was the easiest to administer and had a comparable or better sensitivity than the other questionnaires. Inpatient PSTs were useful for screening in the acute setting to facilitate an early diagnosis of SDB and to establish further outpatient evaluations with sleep medicine.

Peduncular hallucinosis is a rare form of hallucinations consisting of vivid and nonthreatening colourful visual hallucinations. It was first described by French neurologist Jean Lhermitte in 1922. It sometimes includes distorted images of animals and people. Peduncular hallucinosis has been described after vascular and infective lesions of the mesencephalon and thalamus.We present a case of peduncular hallucinosis after a right thalamic infarction. This is a case of a 75-year-old Caucasian man with a previous medical history of hypertension and hyperlipidaemia who presented as a transfer from an outside hospital with transient left facial palsy, upper and lower extremity weakness. His symptoms resolved on arrival. CTA head and neck revealed focal filling defect in the basilar artery and a right posterior cerebral artery (PCA) occlusion at its origin. MRI brain without contrast revealed a right thalamic infarct. The patient had vivid hallucinations including his wife sleeping on his hospital bed, seeing his favourite book on the table while he had left it at home, seeing his dogs and a TV show on his room television while it was off. He was easily redirectable, and the hallucinations resolved over 2 days without pharmacological intervention. In cases of thalamic, midbrain or peduncular infarctions, physicians should be cognizant of the possibility of peduncular hallucinosis and inquire about hallucinations. New onset hallucinations in a patient with no prior psychiatric history presenting with concerns for stroke should prompt physicians to strongly consider peduncular hallucinosis.

ObjectiveThe widespread adoption of endovascular therapy (EVT) for emergent large vessel occlusion has led to increased nationwide demand for neurointerventionalists, heightened interest among neurology residents to pursue neurointervention as a career, and increased importance of neurointervention exposure for all neurologists who care for patients with acute ischemic stroke. Exposure to neurointervention and its career path are not well-defined for neurology trainees.MethodsThe Society for Vascular and Interventional Neurology (SVIN) Education Committee conducted a multicenter electronic survey directed towards neurology residents and vascular neurology (VN), neurocritical care (NCC), and neurointervention fellows in June 2018. A total of 250 programs were invited to participate; 76 trainees completed the survey.ResultsRespondents self-identified as 22% postgraduate year (PGY)2, 40% PGY3/4, 30% VN fellows, and 8% neurointervention or NCC fellows. Eighty-seven percent of trainees had more than 2 months exposure to VN during residency, 41% to NCC, and only 3% to neurointervention. Sixty-eight percent of respondents had no exposure to neurointervention during residency. Whereas 72% believed that a background in neurology was good preparation for neurointervention, only 41% agreed that fellowship training pathway in neurointervention is well-structured for neurology residents when compared to other subspecialties.ConclusionIn this survey, respondents identified lack of exposure to neurointervention and a well-defined training pathway as obstacles towards pursuing neurointervention as a career. These obstacles must be addressed for the continued development of neurointervention as a subspecialty of neurology.

BackgroundDuring the COVID-19 pandemic, decreased volumes of stroke admissions and mechanical thrombectomy were reported. The study’s objective was to examine whether subarachnoid haemorrhage (SAH) hospitalisations and ruptured aneurysm coiling interventions demonstrated similar declines.MethodsWe conducted a cross-sectional, retrospective, observational study across 6 continents, 37 countries and 140 comprehensive stroke centres. Patients with the diagnosis of SAH, aneurysmal SAH, ruptured aneurysm coiling interventions and COVID-19 were identified by prospective aneurysm databases or by International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision, codes. The 3-month cumulative volume, monthly volumes for SAH hospitalisations and ruptured aneurysm coiling procedures were compared for the period before (1 year and immediately before) and during the pandemic, defined as 1 March–31 May 2020. The prior 1-year control period (1 March–31 May 2019) was obtained to account for seasonal variation.FindingsThere was a significant decline in SAH hospitalisations, with 2044 admissions in the 3 months immediately before and 1585 admissions during the pandemic, representing a relative decline of 22.5% (95% CI −24.3% to −20.7%, pInterpretationThere was a relative decrease in the volume of SAH hospitalisations, aneurysmal SAH hospitalisations and ruptured aneurysm embolisations during the COVID-19 pandemic. These findings in SAH are consistent with a decrease in other emergencies, such as stroke and myocardial infarction.

Introduction: Optimal antiplatelet regimen post-emergent stenting in acute stroke remains challenging among patients at high-risk for thrombosis and/or hemorrhage, especially after tPA. We describe our preliminary experience with cangrelor, an immediate acting IV P2Y12 receptor inhibitor with rapid onset and clearance. Methods: Retrospective cross-sectional study of mechanical thrombectomy (MER) patients requiring urgent stenting(0-48h). Patients treated with cangrelor were compared to those treated with other antiplatelets. Results: Nine cangrelor patients were compared to twelve patients treated with other antiplatelets. Pre- and post-treatment measures were similar overall (Table). Conclusions: Cangrelor may be a safe alternative to current antiplatelets used in immediate perioperative period post-MER and urgent stenting, including tPA patients and those at high-risk for malignant cerebral edema or hemorrhagic transformation. Additional studies are required to confirm or refute our observations.

Radial access is an increasingly popular approach for performing cerebral angiography. There are two sites for radial artery puncture: proximal transradial access (pTRA) in the wrist and distal transradial access (dTRA) in the snuffbox. These approaches have not been directly compared.Consecutive diagnostic cerebral angiograms performed at a single institution were retrospectively reviewed. Outcomes included fluoroscopy time, radiation dose, contrast volume, time to obtain access, procedure duration, and time to discharge home. Success rates as well as minor and major complication rates associated with each approach were also compared. Multivariate linear regression models were used to determine the relationship between access site and outcomes while adjusting for covariates.A total of 287 angiograms on 244 patients met the inclusion criteria. pTRA was associated with shorter fluoroscopy time (ß -2.54, 95% CI -4.18 - -0.9, p = 0.003) and lower radiation dose (ß -242.89, 95% CI -351.55 - -134.24, p 0.001), but not contrast volume. Time to obtain access, procedure duration, and time to discharge home were similar between approaches. A total of 10 minor complications occurred with similar rates for each approach (8 for dTRA, 2 for pTRA, p = 0.168) and there were no major complications. The conversion rate to femoral access was low (1.05% overall) and did not differ with approach.dTRA and pTRA are associated with similarly high rates of safety and efficacy. Procedure duration, time to obtain access, and time to discharge did not differ between approaches.

Background: The role of general anesthesia in precipitating aneurysm rupture is not clearly defined. In this study, we aimed to assess the natural history of unruptured aneurysms in patients undergoing non-aneurysm-related procedures requiring general anesthesia. Methods: Retrospective review of consecutive patients with untreated intracranial aneurysms that underwent unrelated surgery with operative note documentation of general anesthesia. Events of intraoperative and postoperative subarachnoid hemorrhage were recorded to determine the incidence of rupture. Results: A total of 110 patients harboring 134 unsecured aneurysms were studied. The mean age was 56.5 years (range, 17–92), and 68% were women (n = 75/110). Mean aneurysm size was 3.5 mm (range 1.5–17). A total of 208 procedures were performed under general anesthesia. There were no events of subarachnoid hemorrhage in 5.7 years of follow-up. Conclusion: In our study, general anesthesia did not precipitate aneurysm rupture, and there were no instances of subarachnoid hemorrhage during the follow-up period. Our results suggest a benign natural history for aneurysms undergoing unrelated general anesthesia. However, this should be interpreted with caution given limitations related to our small sample size and retrospective study design.

Introduction: Exposure to Interventional Neurology (IN) for Neurology trainees varies from site to site and from year to year, depending on training program needs, political climate, and trainee interest. With new stroke trials expanding the indications and manpower needs for endovascular stroke therapy (EST), we sought to determine the current exposure of Neurology residents and fellows to the burgeoning field. Methods: Neurology residency and Vascular Neurology (VN) fellowship programs were identified from the ACGME database available online. Electronic surveys were distributed to Neurology residency program directors and Vascular Neurology fellowship directors for further distribution to their trainees. Results: A total of 250 programs were invited to participate, from which 76 trainees completed the survey. A range of training levels was captured (22% PGY2, 40% PGY3/4, 30% VN fellows). 72% of respondents had >4 months of exposure to VN in their residency training, though exposure to NeuroICU was less (majority 2 months. Respondents overall felt comfortable with acute stroke treatment decisions, with 60% comfortable or very comfortable with IV tPA decisions and 86% for EST in both early and late windows. While 65% of respondents felt welcomed in the angiography suite and 72% felt a background in Neurology is a good preparation for the field, only 41% agreed that pursuing training and a career in IN is straightforward. Conclusion: Neurology trainees and VN fellows have limited residency exposure to IN, and while most feel well prepared for the field, less than half feel that access to a career in IN is readily available. Efforts to expand exposure to IN and creating consistent pathways for training will be paramount to address the current and urgent patient care needs for EST.

Introduction: There is continued interest in identifying factors that predict a favorable outcome after endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) for anterior circulation large vessel occlusion (ACLVO). We compared the predictive values of 2 different scoring systems for evaluating venous collateral circulation. Methods: A retrospective review of patients who underwent EVT for ACLVO at a single institution was performed. Those who underwent preprocedural computed tomography angiography (CTA) were selected. The Cortical Vein Opacification Score (COVES) and Prognostic Evaluation based on Cortical vein score difference In Stroke (PRECISE) score were calculated from each patient's CTA. Our primary outcome of interest was the Modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score at 90 days. Results: A total of 103 patients were included in the study (average age = 68.3 years, median National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale = 15). The mean time to reperfusion was 6.4 hours and Thrombolysis in Cerebral Infarction 2B or 3 reperfusion was achieved in 77.7% of cases. An unfavorable COVES score was significantly associated with an unfavorable (mRS 3-6) outcome (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 3.06; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.15-8.13, P = .025), while an unfavorable PRECISE score was not (aOR: 1.02; 95% CI .37-2.80, P = .966). Based on the Receiver Operating Characteristic analysis, the COVES score had a sensitivity of 68.1%, specificity of 71.4%, and area under the curve (AUC) of .77. The PRECISE score had a sensitivity of 68.9%, specificity of 70.7%, and the AUC of .73. Conclusions: The COVES score, but not the PRECISE score, is associated with functional outcomes at 90 days after EVT for ACLVO.

Spontaneous dissection of the major arteries of the neck is known to increase the risk of stroke or transient ischaemic attack in young and middle-aged adults. Most of the reported cases of arterial dissections in the neck involve one or both paired extracranial carotid or vertebral arteries. Spontaneous dissection of the bilateral internal carotid and vertebral arteries is extremely rare. We report a case of spontaneous bilateral internal carotid artery and vertebral artery dissection while using a prescribed pill for weight loss which contained amphetamine derivative. A review of literature is also provided.

BackgroundThe optimal management strategy for unruptured cerebral arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) is controversial since the ARUBA trial (A Randomized trial of Unruptured Brain AVMs). An accurate understanding of the morbidity associated with AVM hemorrhages may help clinicians to formulate the best treatment strategy for unruptured AVMs.ObjectiveTo determine the morbidity associated with initial cerebral AVM rupture in patients presenting to tertiary medical centers.MethodsRetrospective chart reviews from three tertiary academic medical centers were performed for the period between 2008 and 2014. All patients admitted with intracranial hemorrhage due to untreated AVMs were included in this study. Patient-specific variables, including demographics, imaging characteristics, neurologic examination results, and clinical outcome, were analyzed and recorded.Results101 Patients met the inclusion criteria. Admission National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) scores were 0, 1–9, and ≥10 in 26%, 29%, and 45% of patients, respectively. Hematoma locations were subarachnoid, intraventricular, intraparenchymal, and combined in 5%, 11%, 32%, and 52% of patients, respectively. Deep venous drainage was present in 43% of AVMs; AVM-associated aneurysms were present in 44% of patients. Emergent hematoma evacuations were performed in 37% of patients and 8% of patients died while in hospital. At discharge, of those who survived, NIHSS scores of ≥1 and ≥10 were found in 69% and 23%, respectively. At the 90-day follow-up, 34% had a modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score >2. Patients with admission NIHSS score ≥10 had significantly higher rates of midline shift, surgical hematoma evacuation, and follow-up mRS ≥3 (pConclusionsThe morbidity associated with cerebral AVM rupture appeared to be higher in our study than previously reported. Morbidity from AVM rupture should be considered as an important factor, together with variables such as risk of AVM rupture and procedural risk, in determining the optimal treatment strategy for unruptured cerebral AVMs.

Introduction: 25% of all strokes are Cryptogenic; paroxysmal atrial fibrillation is frequently the underlying cause. Patients with cryptogenic stroke require cardiac event monitoring (CEM) after hospital discharge in order to diagnose paroxysmal atrial fibrillation and switch to anticoagulant therapy from antiplatelet therapy. Very important question remains regarding who is responsible for CEM among healthcare providers. The objectives of our quality improvement project were to understand the barriers and ensure all patients receive CEM after cryptogenic stroke. Methods: All patients with MRI evidence of ischemic stroke and documented transient ischemic attack during a two-month period at an academic comprehensive stroke center were included. Data were recorded and compared for one month prior to (Group A) and one month after (Group B) implementation of the QI project. The QI project included patient counseling about importance of CEM and dual-verification of orders for CEM and cardiology referral. Two members of the stroke team independently verified placement of the CEM order and the referral to cardiology. One month after discharge, patients in the QI project were contacted by telephone to ensure CEM placement. Results: 48 patients suffered ischemic stroke or TIA before and 54 patients after implementation of the QI project. The incidence of cryptogenic stroke was 20.83% (10/48) in group A and 16.66% (9/54) in group B. In Group A, only 2 of 10 patients with cryptogenic stroke received CEM. Major barriers were (1) patient ignorance and concern (2)unapproachable patient (3) lack of follow-up with primary care provider/neurologist. In Group B, after implementation of the QI project, 8 of 9 patients received CEM. One patient in Group B refused cardiac event monitoring. CEM diagnosed paroxysmal atrial fibrillation in one patient in group B and anticoagulation was initiated. Our quality improvement initiative increased the incidence of cardiac event monitoring from 20% in group A to 88.88% in group B. Conclusion: This project highlights that patient’s with cryptogenic stroke face barriers towards receiving cardiac event monitoring which can be improved by proper counseling, ensuring cardiology referral and a telephone follow-up by neurologist.

Background: Simulation-based learning has improved medical knowledge, proficiency and performance. The treatment window for acute stroke is limited, making preparedness exceedingly critical. We aimed to assess improvement in performance in first responders to ‘stroke codes’, namely junior Neurology and Emergency Medicine (EM) residents. EM residents were included because EM physicians often make tPA decisions at peripheral and non-academic hospitals. Methods: 14 Neurology and 10 EM residents participated at Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York. The simulation consisted of senior Neurology residents playing the roles of stroke patient, CT technician and radiologist, nurse, pharmacist and the stroke fellow on-call. The simulation included the time from patient arrival to acute stroke treatment. Each junior Neurology and EM resident completed this simulation, while the rest of the group observed. Cases included stroke mimics, strokes with large vessel occlusions, dissections, cases ineligible for acute intervention, intracerebral and subarachnoid hemorrhages, basilar thrombosis, wake-up strokes, seizure at onset and dissections. Participants reviewed non-contrast CT head, EKG and CT angiography of the head and neck to make decisions about tPA administration and endovascular interventions. This was followed by a debriefing session by the attending and chief residents. Participants filled a pre-and post-simulation graded questionnaire on medical knowledge and confidence (range 0-25, with higher scores reflecting higher performance). Results: The mean score was 18 (range 14-23) pre-simulation and 22 (range 18-25) post-simulation for Neurology residents and 14 (range 8-24) pre-simulation and 18 (range 10-23) post-simulation for EM residents. For all residents, pre-and post-median score was 17 and 19 (Wilcoxon signed-rank test p Conclusion: Because running an effective stroke code requires coordination and rapid analysis, stroke simulation is an effective way of improving knowledge and confidence among residents and should be integrated into the Neurology and EM residency curriculum.

Mechanical thrombectomy using retrievable stents or stent retriever devices has become the mainstay of intra-arterial therapy for acute ischemic stroke. The recent publication of a series of positive trials supporting intra-arterial therapy as standard of care for the treatment of large vessel occlusion will likely further increase stent retriever use. Rarely, premature stent detachment during thrombectomy may be encountered. In our multicenter case series, we found a rate of detachment of less than 1% (n = 7/1,067), and all were first-generation Solitaire FR devices. A review of the US Food and Drug Administration database of device experience yielded 90 individual adverse reports of detachment. There were 82, 1 and 7 detachments of Solitaire FR (first generation), Solitaire FR2 (second generation) and Trevo devices, respectively. We conclude with a brief overview of the technical and procedural considerations which may be helpful in avoiding this rare complication.

Background: Very small ruptured aneurysms (≤3 mm) demonstrate a significant risk for procedural rupture with endovascular therapy. Since 2007, 1.5-mm-diameter coils have been available (Micrus, Microvention, and ev3), allowing neurointerventionalists the opportunity to offer patients with very small aneurysms endovascular treatment. In this study, we review the clinical and angiographic outcome of patients with very small ruptured aneurysms treated with the 1.5-mm coil. Methods: This is a retrospective cohort study in which we examined consecutive ruptured very small aneurysms treated with coil embolization at a single institution. The longest linear aneurysm was recorded, even if the first coil was sized to a smaller transverse diameter. Very small aneurysms were defined as ≤3 mm. Descriptive results are presented. Results: From July 2007 to March 2015, 81 aneurysms were treated acutely with coils in 78 patients presenting with subarachnoid hemorrhage. There were 5 patients with 3-mm aneurysms, of which the transverse diameter was ≤2 mm in 3 patients. In all 5 patients, a balloon was placed for hemostatic prophylaxis in case of rupture, and a single 1.5-mm coil was inserted for aneurysm treatment without complication. Complete aneurysm occlusion was achieved in 1 patient, residual neck in 2, and residual aneurysm in 2 patients. Aneurysm recanalization was present in 2 patients with an anterior communicating artery aneurysm; a recoiling attempt was unsuccessful in 1 of these 2 patients due to inadvertent displacement and distal coil embolization, but subsequent surgical clipping was successful. Another patient was retreated by surgical clipping for a residual wide-neck carotid terminus aneurysm. One patient died of ventriculitis 3 weeks after presentation; all 4 other patients had an excellent outcome with no rebleed at follow-up (mean 21 months, range 1-62). Conclusion: The advent of the 1.5-mm coil may be used in the endovascular treatment of patients with very small ruptured aneurysms, providing a temporary protection to the site of rupture in the acute phase. If necessary, bridging with elective clipping may provide definitive aneurysm treatment.

We present a rare case of bilateral posterior cerebral artery variant anatomy seen in a patient presenting with acute ischemic stroke. An embryological explanation of the variant configuration is discussed along with demonstrative radiologic images and a display of the vascular territory supplied.

Background: Recent randomized trials demonstrated the efficacy of endovascular therapy (EVT) in managing acute ischemic stroke (AIS), though EVT was initiated 6 hours, and more so for those with posterior circulation strokes. We aim to assess safety and clinical outcome of EVT in patients presenting >6 hours, with anterior or posterior circulation strokes. Methods: We conducted a retrospective review of patients with AIS receiving EVT >6 hours between 2012-2015, including those with unknown time of onset and wake-up strokes. Outcomes observed include mRS at ≥90 days, rates of recanalization (TICI 2b-3), sICH and mortality. Results: A total of 34 patients were identified presenting with AIS and receiving EVT >6 hours, including 25 anterior and 9 posterior circulation strokes. See Table 1 for comparison with published data from recent EVT trials. Conclusion: Our results are not significantly different from some of the recent trials. MR CLEAN, the only trial that did not employ advanced imaging in patient selection, had similar outcomes. The IV-tPA only groups of recent trials (where data is available) also produced comparable results. It should be noted that the patients in our study all have large vessel occlusions and high NIHSS, are mostly ineligible for tPA, and thus would be expected to have very poor outcomes without treatment. Our data supports the possibility of expanding the EVT window to >6 hours, and with advanced imaging screening, better rates of functional outcome/mortality may still be achieved. DAWN and DEFUSE3 trials currently underway should provide further insight into this subject.

Background: Despite high prevalence in the stroke population, sleep apnea is underdiagnosed. Obstructive sleep apnea is associated with poor cardiovascular outcomes and treatment with continuous positive airway pressure has been shown to lower blood pressure. No standard exists for screening patients who present to the hospital with acute stroke. We assessed three screening tools, the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), Berlin Questionnaire (BQ), and STOP-BANG Questionnaire (STOP-BANG), along with the use of a portable sleep study device for evaluation of sleep apnea. Overnight polysomnography (PSG) was performed on a subset of patients on outpatient follow up. Methods: Patients admitted to the stroke unit at our hospital, over nine months, were screened for sleep apnea using the three instruments, ESS, BQ, and STOP-BANG. The patients were evaluated with a portable sleep study device, ApneaLink Air (ResMed, USA), prior to discharge. Respiratory effort, respiratory flow, pulse oximetry, and oxygen saturation were recorded and sleep apnea was determined by apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) ≥ 5. Predictions from the screening tools were compared to the portable sleep study and overnight PSG results. Sensitivity and specificity testing were used to assess the validity and reliability of the tools. Results: Sleep questionnaires were administered on 37 patients who underwent an overnight sleep study. Portable studies were used to evaluate 33 patients, and 13 PSGs were performed. Obstructive sleep apnea was diagnosed in 20 (69%) and central sleep apnea in 9 (31%). Cheyne-Stokes pattern breathing was observed in 2 (5%). Mean AHI was 18.3 + 21.8/hr and maximum AHI was 105.8/hr. Sensitivity for the ESS, BQ, and STOP-BANG were 0.39, 0.66, and 0.83 and specificity for these tools were 0.26, 0.33, and 0.29, respectively. In patients who underwent the portable sleep study and overnight PSG, 9/10 (90%) of the studies were concordant. Conclusions: The STOP-BANG questionnaire, administered to hospitalized stroke patients, had high sensitivity and low-moderate specificity in our study, compared to two other commonly used screening tools. Further, the feasibility of using an unattended inpatient portable sleep study on stroke inpatients is demonstrated.

Background: Previously published single center studies suggest the morbidity associated with brain arteriovenous malformations (AVM) hemorrhage to be lower than assumed. Given the recent controversy over the appropriate management of unruptured brain AVMs, we performed a multi-center critical assessment of the morbidity associated with ruptured brain AVMs. Methods: A retrospective chart review from tertiary care, urban, academic medical centers was performed. Inclusion criteria consisted of patients admitted for intracranial hemorrhage caused by a previously untreated AVM. Thirty-seven variables were analyzed, including patient demographics, imaging findings, clinical course and clinical exams. Results: 101 patients from three medical centers dating from 2008-2014 met the inclusion criteria. Admission NIHSS scores of 0, 1-9 and ≥10 were 26%, 29% and 45% respectively. Hematoma location was parenchymal in 32%, intraventricular in 11%, subarachnoid in 5%, and combined in 52%. Deep venous drainage was present in 43% of cases, and associated aneurysms were present in 44%. Thirty-seven percent underwent emergent hematoma evacuation while 8 patients expired during their admission. At discharge, of those that survived, 69% had a NIHSS ≥ 1, and 23% had a NIHSS ≥ 10. At 90 day follow-up, 27% had a mRS ≥ 3. Patients with admission NIHSS ≥ 10 had significantly higher rates of midline shift, surgical hematoma evacuation, and follow-up mRS ≥ 3( p < 0.05). Conclusion: This multicenter critical assessment of the morbidity associated with brain AVM rupture suggests poorer clinical outcomes than previously assumed and reported. Rupture morbidity should be considered alongside rupture risk and procedural risk when considering preventative anatomic treatment of unruptured brain AVMs.

Background and Purpose— In contrast to middle cerebral artery territory strokes, anterior cerebral artery strokes (ACAS) occur rarely. The low frequency of ACAS, in relation to middle cerebral artery territory strokes, may be explained by differences in ACA and middle cerebral artery anatomy influencing their respective flow-directed embolism rates. We aimed to determine whether variability in ACA anatomy, and in particular A1 segment diameter, is associated with embolic ACAS. Methods— Consecutive patients admitted to Boston Medical Center with embolic ACAS were reviewed. Ipsilateral and contralateral A1 diameters, M1 diameters, and terminal internal carotid artery bifurcation angles were measured from computed tomographic angiography and MRI angiography images. We compared these measurements between cases of ACAS and consecutive cases of embolic middle cerebral artery territory strokes. Results— The study comprised 55 individuals (27 ACAS, 28 middle cerebral artery territory strokes) with mean age of 69 years. In multivariate regression analysis, larger ipsilateral A1 diameters (odds ratio per 1 mm increment: 8.5; 95% confidence interval, 1.4–53.3) and ipsilateral A1/M1 diameter ratio (odds ratio per 10% increment: 1.8; 95% confidence interval, 1.2–2.9) were associated with ACAS, whereas larger ipsilateral M1 diameters was protective for ACAS (odds ratio per 1 mm increment: 0.8; 95% confidence interval, 0.0–0.9). Conclusions— Larger ipsilateral A1 diameters and A1/M1 diameter ratio are associated with embolic ACAS. These findings suggest that A1 diameters and M1 diameters are important in determining the path of emboli that reach the terminal internal carotid artery.