Risk of emergent carotid endarterectomy varies by type of presenting symptoms

Urgent Carotid Artery Revascularization Fraught with Higher Rates of Neurovascular Events in Symptomatic Carotid Artery Stenosis

BACKGROUND

Symptomatic carotid artery stenosis requires timely intervention to reduce risk of recurrent stroke. However, the optimal timing of revascularization remains debated. This study evaluates outcomes in patients undergoing urgent (<48 hr), early (3-14 days), or delayed (>14 days) carotid artery revascularization.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study included 186 interventions in symptomatic patients categorized by timing of intervention defined as urgent (<48 hr from symptom onset, n = 47), early (3-14 days, n = 90), and delayed (>14 days, n = 49). Baseline characteristics, procedural details, and outcomes were analyzed. Outcome measures included perioperative stroke, transient ischemic attack (TIA), myocardial infarction, and mortality at 30 days and on follow-up.

RESULTS

The cohort's mean age was 71.3 ± 9.6 years, with no difference among groups, and with a balanced sex distribution (P = 0.75). Comorbidities included hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and chronic kidney disease, which were similar across groups (P > 0.05). National Institutes of Health stroke scale on admission was significantly different between groups (urgent: 4.7 ± 4.6; early: 8.2 ± 8.1; delayed: 4.0 ± 5.2; P = 0.01). The level of disability measured through the modified Rankin scale at discharge demonstrated no significant difference between groups (urgent: 0.9 ± 1.3; early: 1.1 ± 1.3; delayed: 0.5 ± 1.0; P = 0.09). At 30 days, ipsilateral strokes/TIA occurred in 3 (6.4%) patients in the urgent group, and none in either the early group or delayed group (P = 0.02). Thirty-day mortality was observed in 2 (4.3%) patients in the urgent group and 1 (1.1%) in the early group (P = 0.23). The 30-day composite of stroke, TIA, myocardial infarction, or death was significantly higher in the urgent group (urgent: 8.5%, early: 1.1%, delayed: 0.0%; P = 0.02). At a mean follow-up of 14.6 ± 16.9 months, ipsilateral stroke rates were similar across groups (urgent: 4.3%, early: 5.6%, delayed: 4.1%; P = 1.00). All-cause mortality at follow-up occurred in 21.3% of urgent, 10.0% of early, and 10.2% of delayed patients (P = 0.17). Restenosis and reintervention rates at follow-up were significantly higher in the urgent (10.6%) and delayed (14.3%) groups than the early group (2.2%; P = 0.01).

CONCLUSION

Urgent carotid revascularization is associated with higher perioperative stroke/TIA rate than early and delayed interventions. Mid-term outcomes were comparable across groups. Restenosis and reintervention rates were higher in the urgent and delayed groups than the early intervention group.

A systematic review and meta-analysis on the outcomes of carotid endarterectomy after intravenous thrombolysis for acute ischemic stroke

BACKGROUND

Intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) is the mainstay of treatment for patients presenting with acute ischemic stroke, whereas carotid endarterectomy (CEA) is indicated in patients with symptomatic carotid stenosis. However, the impact of prior IVT on the outcomes of CEA (IVT-CEA) is not clear. The aim of this study was to determine whether IVT may create additional stroke and death risk for CEA, compared with CEA performed in the absence of a history of recent IVT, and to determine the optimal timing for CEA after IVT.

METHODS

We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of studies comparing the outcomes of IVT-CEA vs CEA, using the Medline, Embase, and Cochrane databases.

RESULTS

We included 11 retrospective comparative studies, in which 135,644 patients underwent CEA and 2070 underwent IVT-CEA. The pooled rate of perioperative stroke was 4.2% in the IVT-CEA group and 1.3% in the CEA group (odds ratio [OR], 0.44; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.12-1.58; P = .21), with a high heterogenicity (I2 = 93%). The rate of stroke/death was 5.9% in patients undergoing IVT-CEA 1.9% in those receiving CEA only (OR, 0.42; 95% CI, 0.15-1.14; I2 = 92%; P = .09); after exclusion of studies including TIA as presenting symptom, stroke/death risk was 3.6% in IVT-CEA and 3.0% in CEA (OR, 1.42; 95% CI, 0.80-2.53; I2 = 50%; P = .11). The risk of stoke decreased with a delay in the performance of CEA (P = .268). Using results of the metaregression, the calculated delay of CEA that allows for a <6% risk was 4.6 days. Compared with CEA, patients undergoing IVT-CEA had a significantly higher risk of intracranial hemorrhage (2.5% vs 0.1%; OR, 0.11; 95% CI, 0.06-0.21; I2 = 28%; P < .001) and neck hematoma requiring reintervention (3.6% vs 2.3%; OR, 0.61; 95% CI, 0.43-0.85; I2 = 0%; P = .003).

CONCLUSIONS

In patients presenting with an acute ischemic stroke, CEA can be safely performed after a prior endovenous thrombolysis, maintaining a stroke/death risk of <6%. After IVT, CEA should be deferred for ≥5 days to minimize the risk for intracranial hemorrhage and neck bleeding.

Racial and ethnic influences on carotid atherosclerosis: Epidemiology and risk factors

Carotid atherosclerosis-related stenosis, marked by atherosclerotic plaque formation in the carotid artery, significantly increases ischemic stroke risk. Its prevalence varies across ethnic groups, reflecting racial disparities. Epidemiological studies have highlighted different susceptibilities to carotid stenosis among racial groups. Native Americans and Whites show greater vulnerability, indicating genetic and environmental influences. The impact of carotid stenosis is more severe in Hispanic and Black populations, with a higher incidence of related brain injuries, underscoring the need for targeted interventions. Comparative imaging studies between Chinese and White individuals reveal unique patterns of carotid stenosis, enhancing understanding of its pathophysiology and management across ethnicities. This review also categorizes risk factors, distinguishing those with racial disparity (such as genetic loci, sleep apnea, and emotional factors, socioeconomic status) from those without. In summary, racial disparities affect carotid stenosis, leading to varying susceptibilities and outcomes among ethnic groups. Recognizing these differences is essential for developing effective prevention, diagnosis, and management strategies. Addressing these disparities is critical to reducing ischemic stroke's burden across populations. Continued research and targeted interventions are crucial to improve outcomes for individuals at risk of carotid stenosis and its complications.

Predictors of Occlusion after Carotid Stenting

BACKGROUND

Carotid artery stent (CAS) occlusion is a rare complication not well studied. We used a national dataset to assess real world CAS experience to determine the rate of stent occlusion. The purpose of this study was to 1) Identify risk factors associated with CAS occlusion on long-term follow-up (LTFU) and 2) Determine the adjusted odds of death/transient ischemic attack (TIA)/stroke (cerebrovascular accident (CVA)) in patients with occlusion.

METHODS

The national Vascular Quality Initiative CAS dataset (2016-2021) comprised the sample. The primary endpoint was occlusion on LTFU (9-21 months postoperatively as defined by the Vascular Quality Initiative LTFU dataset) with secondary endpoint examining a composite of death/TIA/CVA. Descriptive analyses used chi-square and Wilcoxon tests for categorical and continuous variables respectively. Adjustment variables were selected a priori based on clinical expertise and univariate analyses. Multivariable logistic regression was used to model the odds of occlusion and the odds of death/TIA/CVA. Generalized estimating equations accounted for center level variation.

RESULTS

During the study period, 109 occlusions occurred in 12,143 cases (0.9%). On univariate analyses, symptomatic indication, prior stroke, prior neck radiation, lesion calcification (>50%), stenosis (>80%), distal embolic protection device (compared to flow reversal), balloon size, >1 stent and current smoking at time of LTFU were predictive for occlusion. Age ≥ 65, coronary artery disease (CAD), elective status, preoperative statin, preoperative and discharge P2Y12 inhibitor, use of any protection device intraoperatively and protamine were protective. On multivariable analyses, age ≥ 65, CAD, elective status and P2Y12 inhibitor on discharge were protective for occlusion, while patients with prior radiation and those taking P2Y12 inhibitor on LTFU were at increased odds. The adjusted odds of death/TIA/CVA in patients with occlusion on LTFU were 6.05; 95% confidence interval: 3.61-10.11, P < 0.0001.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides an in-depth analysis of predictors for CAS occlusion on LTFU. On univariate analyses, variables related to disease severity (urgency, degree of stenosis, nature of lesion) and intraoperative details (balloon diameter, >1 stent) were predictive for occlusion. These variables were not statistically significant after risk adjustment. On multivariable analyses, prior neck radiation was strongly predictive of occlusion. Elective status, patient age ≥ 65, CAD, and P2Y12 inhibitor upon discharge (but not on LTFU) were protective for occlusion. Additionally, patients who developed occlusion had high odds for death/TIA/CVA. These findings provide important data to guide clinical decision-making for carotid disease management, particularly identifying high-risk features for CAS occlusion. Closer postoperative follow-up and aggressive risk factor modification in these patients may be merited.

Comparing carotid endarterectomies with or without shunting in symptomatic and asymptomatic patients

BACKGROUND

Recent research shows that placement of an intraluminal shunt during a carotid endarterectomy (CEA) can be associated with postoperative complications. Therefore, we compared CEA operations with or without shunting to further analyze their clinical outcomes.

METHODS

From the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) database, 13,736 cases between 2016 and 2019 were analyzed to compare adult symptomatic and asymptomatic carotid stenosis patients who underwent a CEA operation, with or without shunt placement.

RESULTS

Rates of stroke with a neurological deficit (p = 0.012), myocardial infarction (p = 0.021), and urinary tract infection (p = 0.030) were higher among symptomatic patients with shunting. Multivariate logistic regression revealed that risk of CNI was higher among both symptomatic (93.63%, p < 0.001) and asymptomatic (69.58%, p = 0.001) patients with shunting, irrespective of confounding variables.

CONCLUSION

Shunting was found to be associated with higher rates of postoperative complications in both symptomatic and asymptomatic patient populations.

Management of ocular arterial ischemic diseases: a review

PURPOSE

To summarize the existing treatment options regarding central retinal artery occlusion (CRAO), branch retinal artery occlusion (BRAO), arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (AAION), non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION), and ocular ischemic syndrome (OIS), proposing an approach to manage and treat these patients.

METHODS

A systematic literature search of articles published since 1st January 2010 until 31st December 2020 was conducted using MEDLINE (PubMed), Scopus, and Web of Science. Exclusion criteria included case reports, non-English references, articles not conducted in humans, and articles not including diagnostic or therapeutic options. Further references were gathered through citation tracking, by hand search of the reference lists of included studies, as well as topic-related European society guidelines.

RESULTS

Acute ocular ischemia, with consequent visual loss, has a variety of causes and clinical presentations, with prognosis depending on an accurate diagnosis and timely therapeutic implementation. Unfortunately, most of the addressed entities do not have a standardized management, especially regarding their treatment, which often lacks good quality evidence on whether it should or not be used to treat patients.

CONCLUSION

Ophthalmologic signs and symptoms may be a warning sign of cardiovascular or cerebrovascular events, namely stroke. Most causes of acute ocular ischemia do not have a standardized management, especially regarding their treatment. Timely intervention is essential to improve the visual, and possibly vital, prognosis. Awareness must be raised among non-ophthalmologist clinicians that might encounter these patients. Further research should focus on assessing the benefit of the management strategies already being employed .

Outcomes and role of shunting during carotid endarterectomy for symptomatic patients

OBJECTIVE

Shunt placement during carotid endarterectomy (CEA) is often advocated to protect the ischemic penumbra in patients with symptomatic carotid stenosis. This study assesses the effect of shunt placement on postoperative stroke risk in symptomatic patients undergoing CEA.

METHODS

We queried the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database (2016-2019) for CEA cases with complete CEA procedure-targeted data. Symptomatic patients were identified as having a preoperative diagnosis of stroke on presentation (DS), transient ischemic attack (TIA), amaurosis fugax (AF), or temporary monocular blindness (TMB). DS patients were further analyzed according to the severity of their stroke based on their modified Rankin Scale (mRS). To better assess the effect of shunt placement on stroke rate, we compared cases of CEA with patch angioplasty technique, with and without the use of intraoperative shunt. Patients who underwent carotid eversion or primary closure were excluded. Baseline demographics and perioperative outcomes were compared using Chi-square and Mann-Whitney U test. Multivariate analysis was performed to identify independent risk factors for postoperative stroke and cranial nerve injury.

RESULTS

We identified 4,652 cases of CEA with patch angioplasty in symptomatic patients, including 1,889 (40.6%) with shunt placement and 2,763 (59.4%) without. Age, race, and sex distributions were similar for both procedures. Compared to patients without shunt, those with shunt had significantly higher rates of emergency (9.1% vs 7.0%, P = .010) and non-elective surgery (40.3% vs 37.2%, P = .035), general anesthesia (97.0% vs 86.3%, P < .001), and bleeding disorders (27.2% vs 22.7%, P < .001). Thirty-day incidence of postoperative stroke was similar between patients who had shunt placement (3.2%) and those who did not (2.6%) (P = .219). Additionally, subgroup analysis failed to show any benefit of shunting on postoperative stroke regardless of preoperative symptoms or neurologic disability. In contrast, shunt placement was associated with increased rate of cranial nerve injury (4.1% vs 2.4%, P = .001). Multivariate analysis revealed that non-elective surgery (OR 1.99, 95% CI 1.36-2.91, P < .001) and DS (vs TIA/AF/TMB) (OR 1.64, 95% CI 1.12-2.41, P = .012) were predictive of 30-day postoperative stroke. After adjusting for confounders, shunt placement had no effect on stroke risk at 30 days but remained an independent risk factor for cranial nerve injury (aOR 1.87, 95% CI 1.32-2.64, P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

In symptomatic patients undergoing CEA with patch angioplasty, shunting is associated with increased risk of cranial nerve injury without reduction in postoperative stroke risk.

Impact of Shunting Practice Patterns During Carotid Endarterectomy for Symptomatic Carotid Stenosis

BACKGROUND

We aimed to assess the effect of surgeons' shunting practice and shunt use on the early outcomes of carotid endarterectomy (CEA) in recently symptomatic patients.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective observational study based on a multicenter national prospective database. The Vascular Quality Initiative database (2010-2019) was queried for CEAs performed within 14 days after an ipsilateral stroke or transient ischemic attack. Surgeons were gauged as routine shunters if they shunted in >95% of CEAs, otherwise were classified as selective shunters. In-hospital stroke and death rates were compared between routine and selective shunters, stratifying by type of index event (transient ischemic attack versus stroke) and timing of CEA (≤2 versus >2 days).

RESULTS

Thirteen thousand four hundred sixty-nine CEAs were performed after a transient ischemic attack (43%) or stroke (57%), 3186 (24%) by routine shunters, and 10 283 (76%) by selective shunters. Comparing routine and selective shunters, in-hospital stroke (1.9% versus 2.4%; P=0.09) and death (0.4% versus 0.5%; P=0.73) rates were similar. A lower stroke rate (1.5% versus 4.2%; P=0.02) was achieved by routine shunters for CEA performed <2 days after an ischemic stroke. Among selective shunters, a higher stroke rate occurred in case of shunt use (2.9% versus 2.3%; P<0.01), mainly due to cases presenting with stroke (3.5% versus 2.4%; P<0.01) but not transient ischemic attack (1.8% versus 1.5%; P=0.57). Awake anesthesia was adopted in 7.8% of cases by selective shunters and in 0.8% by routine shunters, without impact on the perioperative stroke rate (1.8% versus 2.3%; P=0.349).

CONCLUSIONS

In this large national cohort, the overall outcomes of CEA were similar between routine and selective shunters. A lower postoperative stroke rate was achieved by routine shunters in CEA performed <2 days after an ischemic stroke. Among selective shunters, intraoperatively indicated shunting determined an increased stroke rate, likely due to intraoperative hypoperfusion. These data may guide the decision regarding timing of CEA and shunting intention in symptomatic patients.

In-Hospital Complications and Long-Term Outcomes Associated with Timing of Carotid Endarterectomy

OBJECTIVE

To perform a comprehensive analysis of in-hospital and long-term outcomes of carotid endarterectomy (CEA) performed within different time intervals after most recent symptoms.

INTRODUCTION

Carotid revascularization performed within two weeks of symptoms has proven to reduce risk of recurrent stroke in patients with symptomatic carotid artery stenosis. However, the optimal timing of revascularization within the two-week window has yet to be determined.

METHODS

We analyzed 2003-2016 data from the Vascular Quality Initiative (VQI) Vascular Implant Surveillance and Interventional Outcomes Network (VISION). Only revascularizations performed for symptomatic carotid artery stenosis were included. Procedures were categorized as urgent (0-2 days from latest symptom), early (3-14 days) or late (15-180 days). The primary in-hospital outcome was stroke/death. The primary long-term outcomes of interest were 5-year recurrent ipsilateral stroke/death. Multivariable logistic regression, Kaplan-Meier analysis, and Cox-regression were utilized to compare outcomes.

RESULTS

A total of 18,970 revascularizations were included: 1,130 (6.0%) urgent, 4,643 (24.5%) early, and 13,197 (69.6%) late. Earlier CEA had increased odds of in-hospital stroke/death compared to late CEA [urgent, aOR:1.9, 95%CI:1.3-2.8, p=0.001], [early, aOR:1.7, 95%CI:1.3-2.2, p<0.001]. No differences were seen in 5-year risk of stroke/death [urgent, aHR:0.95, 95%CI:0.79-1.15, p=0.592], [early, aHR:0.97, 95%CI:0.87-1.07, p=0.928].

CONCLUSIONS

Urgent and early CEA were associated with increased perioperative risk without difference in 5-year outcomes compared to late CEA. Short-term recurrent stroke prevention could not be assessed. Updated population-based studies comparing recurrent stroke prevention with urgent or early revascularization versus best medical management are warranted.

Timing of Carotid Intervention in Symptomatic Carotid Artery Stenosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

OBJECTIVE

This review aimed to analyse the timing of carotid endarterectomy (CEA) and carotid artery stenting (CAS) after the index event as well as 30 day outcomes at varying time periods within 14 days of symptom onset.

METHODS

A systematic review was performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-analysis statement, comprising an online search of the Medline and Cochrane databases. Methodical quality assessment of the included studies was performed. Endpoints included procedural stroke and/or death stratified by delay from the index event and surgical technique (CEA/CAS).

RESULTS

Seventy-one studies with 232 952 symptomatic patients were included. Overall, 34 retrospective analyses of prospective databases, nine prospective, three RCT, three case control, and 22 retrospective studies were included. Compared with CEA, CAS was associated with higher 30 day stroke (OR 0.70; 95% CI 0.58 - 0.85) and mortality rates (OR 0.41; 95% CI 0.31 - 0.53) when performed ≤ 2 days of symptom onset. Patients undergoing CEA/CAS were analysed in different time frames (≤ 2 vs. 3 - 14 and ≤ 7 vs. 8 - 14 days). Expedited CEA (vs. 3 - 14 days) presented a sampled 30 day stroke rate of 1.4%; 95% CI 0.9 - 1.8 vs. 1.8%; 95% CI 1.8 - 2.0, with no statistically significant difference. Expedited CAS (vs. 3 - 14 days) was associated with no difference in stroke rate but statistically significantly higher mortality rate (OR 2.76; 95% CI 1.39 - 5.50).

CONCLUSION

At present, CEA is safer than transfemoral CAS within 2/7 days of symptom onset. Also, considering absolute rates, expedited CEA complies with the accepted thresholds in international guidelines. The ideal timing for performing CAS (when indicated against CEA) is not yet defined. Additional granular data and standard reporting of timing of intervention will facilitate future monitoring.

In-Hospital Outcomes of Urgent, Early, or Late Revascularization for Symptomatic Carotid Artery Stenosis

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Advancements in carotid revascularization have produced promising outcomes in patients with symptomatic carotid artery stenosis. However, the optimal timing of revascularization procedures after symptomatic presentation remains unclear. The purpose of this study is to compare in-hospital outcomes of transcarotid artery revascularization (TCAR), transfemoral carotid stenting (TFCAS), or carotid endarterectomy (CEA) performed within different time intervals after most recent symptoms.

METHODS

This is a retrospective cohort study of United States patients in the vascular quality initiative. All carotid revascularizations performed for symptomatic carotid artery stenosis between September 2016 and November 2019 were included. Procedures were categorized as urgent (0-2 days after most recent symptom), early (3-14 days), or late (15-180 days). The primary outcome of interest was in-hospital stroke and death. Secondary outcomes include in-hospital stroke, death, and transient ischemic attacks. Multivariable logistic regression was used to compare outcomes.

RESULTS

A total of 18 643 revascularizations were included: 2006 (10.8%) urgent, 7423 (39.8%) early, and 9214 (49.42%) late. Patients with TFCAS had the highest rates of stroke/death at all timing cohorts (urgent: 4.0% CEA, 6.9% TFCAS, 6.5% TCAR, P=0.018; early: 2.5% CEA, 3.8% TFCAS, 2.9% TCAR, P=0.054; late: 1.6% CEA, 2.8% TFCAS, 2.3% TCAR, P=0.003). TFCAS also had increased odds of in-hospital stroke/death compared with CEA in all 3 groups (urgent adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 1.7 [95% CI, 1.0-2.9] P=0.03; early aOR, 1.6 [95% CI, 1.1-2.4] P=0.01; and late aOR, 1.9 [95% CI, 1.2-3.0] P=0.01). TCAR and CEA had comparable odds of in-hospital stroke/death in all 3 groups (urgent aOR, 1.9 [95% CI, 0.9-4], P=0.10), (early aOR, 1.1 [95% CI, 0.7-1.7], P=0.66), (late aOR, 1.5 [95% CI, 0.9-2.3], P=0.08).

CONCLUSIONS

CEA remains the safest method of revascularization within the urgent period. Among revascularization performed outside of the 48 hours, TCAR and CEA have comparable outcomes.

Early outcomes of routine delayed shunting in carotid endarterectomy for symptomatic patients

BACKGROUND

The role of shunting during carotid endarterectomy (CEA) in symptomatic patients is unclear. The aim was to evaluate early outcomes of CEA with routine "delayed" shunt insertion, for patients with symptomatic carotid stenosis.

METHODS

we conducted a single-center retrospective review of symptomatic patients undergoing CEA (2009-2020). All CEAs were performed under general anesthesia using a standardized technique, based on delayed routine shunt insertion after plaque removal. Primary endpoints were 30-days mortality and stroke. A logistic regression was performed to identify clinical and procedural factors predictors of post-operative stroke. A literature systematic review was conducted using the terms "carotid endarterectomy" "stroke", "transient ischemic attack", "symptomatic carotid stenosis", and "shunt".

RESULTS

two-hundred-sixty-three CEAs were performed for TIA (n=178, 47%) or acute ischemic stroke (n=85, 32%). Mean delay of surgery was 6±19 days, and early CEA (<48 hours) was performed in 98 cases (37%). Conventional CEA was performed in 171 patients (67%), eversion CEA in 83 (33%). Early (30-days) mortality was 0.3%. Stroke/death rate was 2.3%. Female sex (OR 5.14, 95%CI 1.32-24.93; P=.023), use of anticoagulants (OR 10.57, 95%CI 2.67-51.86; P=.001), preoperative stroke (OR 5.34, 95%CI 1.62-69.21; P=.006), and the presence of preoperative CT/MRI cerebral ischemic lesions (OR 5.96, 95%CI 1.52-28.59; P=.013) were associated with early neurological complications. Statin medication (OR 0.18, 95%CI 0.04-0.71; P=.019) and CEA timing <2 days (OR 0.14, 95%CI 0.03-0.55; P=.005) were protective from postoperative stroke. CEA outcomes were independent from time period (P=.201) and operator's volume (P=.768). Four studies described the CEA outcomes with routine shunting in symptomatic patients, with a large variability in the selection of patients, surgical technique, and description of the results.

CONCLUSIONS

Routine delayed shunting after plaque removal seems to be a safe and effective technique, that contributed to maintain a low complication rate in neurologically symptomatic patients. Statin use and expedited timing were associated with improved outcomes using this technique.

A pilot protocol and review of triple neuroprotection with targeted hypothermia, controlled induced hypertension, and barbiturate infusion during emergency carotid endarterectomy for acute stroke after failed tPA or beyond 24-hour window of opportunity

An alternative to tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) failure has been a daunting challenge in ischemic stroke management. As tPA is time-dependent, delays can occur in definitive treatment while passively waiting to observe a clinical response to intravenous thrombolysis. Until today, uncertainty exists in the management strategy of wake-up stroke patients or those presenting beyond the therapeutic tPA window. Clinical dilemmas in these situations can prolong the transitional period of inertia, resulting in an adverse neurological outcome. We propose and review an innovative approach called triple neuro-protection (TNP), which encompasses three technical domains-targeted hypothermia, systemic induced hypertension, and barbiturates infusion, to protect the brain during carotid endarterectomy after failed tPA and/or beyond the 24-hour therapeutic mechanical thrombectomy window. This proposal assimilates discussion on the clinical evidence of the individual domains of TNP with our own clinical experience with TNP. Our first TNP was successfully employed in a 55-year-old man in 2015 while performing emergency carotid endarterectomy after he was referred to us 72 hours post tPA failure. The patient had a successful clinical outcome despite being in therapeutic inertia with 90–99% ipsilateral carotid stenosis and contralateral occlusion on presentation. In the last five years, we have safely used TNP in 25 selected cases with favourable clinical outcomes.

Effects of timing on in-hospital and one-year outcomes after transcarotid artery revascularization

OBJECTIVE

The current recommendations are to perform carotid endarterectomy within 2 weeks of symptoms for maximum long-term stroke prevention, although urgent carotid endarterectomy within 48 hours has been associated with increased perioperative stroke. With the development and rapid adoption of transcarotid artery revascularization (TCAR), we decided to study the effect of timing on the outcomes after TCAR.

METHODS

The Vascular Quality Initiative database was searched for symptomatic patients who had undergone TCAR from September 2016 to November 2019. These patients were stratified by the interval to TCAR after symptom onset: urgent, within 48 hours; early, 3 to 14 days; and late, >14 days. The primary outcome was the in-hospital rate of combined stroke and death (stroke/death), evaluated using logistic regression analysis. The secondary outcome was the 1-year rate of recurrent ipsilateral stroke and mortality, evaluated using Kaplan-Meier survival analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 2608 symptomatic patients who had undergone TCAR were included. The timing was urgent for 144 patients (5.52%), early for 928 patients (35.58%), and late for 1536 patients (58.90%). Patients undergoing urgent intervention had an increased risk of in-hospital stroke/death, which was driven primarily by an increased risk of stroke. No differences were seen for in-hospital death. On adjusted analysis, urgent intervention resulted in a threefold increased risk of stroke (odds ratio [OR], 2.8; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.3-6.2; P = .01) and a threefold increased risk of stroke/death (OR, 2.9; 95% CI, 1.3-6.4; P = .01) compared with late intervention. Patients undergoing early intervention had comparable risks of stroke (OR, 1.3; 95% CI, 0.7-2.3; P = .40) and stroke/death (OR, 1.2; 95% CI, 0.7-2.1; P = .48) compared with late intervention. On subset analysis, the type of presenting symptoms was an effect modifier. Patients presenting with stroke and those presenting with transient ischemic attack or amaurosis fugax both had an increased risk of stroke/death when undergoing urgent compared with late TCAR (OR, 2.7; 95% CI, 1.1-6.6; P = .04; and OR, 4.1; 95% CI, 1.1-15.0; P = .03, respectively). However only patients presenting with transient ischemic attack or amaurosis fugax had experienced an increased risk of stroke with urgent compared with late TCAR (OR, 5.0; 95% CI, 1.4-17.5; P < .01). At 1 year of follow-up, no differences were seen in the incidence of recurrent ipsilateral stroke (urgent, 0.7%; early, 0.2%; late, 0.1%; P = .13) or postdischarge mortality (urgent, 0.7%; early, 1.6%; late, 1.8%; P = .71).

CONCLUSIONS

We found that TCAR had a reduced incidence of stroke when performed 48 hours after symptom onset. Urgent TCAR within 48 hours of the onset of stroke was associated with a threefold increased risk of in-hospital stroke/death, with no added benefit for ≤1 year after intervention. Further studies are needed on long-term outcomes of TCAR stratified by the timing of the procedure.

Safety of Triple Neuroprotection with Targeted Hypothermia, Controlled Induced Hypertension, and Barbiturate Infusion during Emergency Carotid Endarterectomy for Acute Stroke after Missing the 24 Hours Window Opportunity

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study is to establish the initial safety of triple neuroprotection (TNP) in an acute stroke setting in patients presenting outside the window for systemic tissue plasminogen activator (tPA).

METHODS

Over 12,000 patients were referred to our vascular services with carotid artery disease, of whom 832 had carotid intervention with a stroke rate of 0.72%. Of these, 25 patients presented (3%), between March 2015 and 2019, with acute dense stroke. These patients had either failed tPA or passed the recommended timing for acute stroke intervention. Fifteen (60%) had hemi-neglect with evidence of acute infarct on magnetic resonance imaging of the brain and a Rankin score of 4 or 5. Ninety-six percent had an 80-99% stenosis on the symptomatic side. Mean ABCD3-I score was 11.35. All patients underwent emergency carotid endarterectomy (CEA) with therapeutically induced hypothermia (32-34°C), targeted hypertension (systolic blood pressure 180-200 mm Hg), and brain suppression with barbiturate.

RESULTS

There were no cases of myocardial infarction, death, cranial nerve injury, wound hematoma, or procedural bleeding. Mean hospital stay was 8.4 (±9.5) days. All cases had resolution of neurological symptoms, except 3 who had failed previous thrombolysis. Eighty percent had a postoperative Rankin score of 0 on discharge and 88% of patients were discharged home with 3 requiring rehabilitation.

CONCLUSIONS

Positive neurological outcomes and no serious adverse events were observed using TNP during emergency CEA in patients with acute brain injury. We recommend TNP for patients who are at an increased risk of stroke perioperatively, or who have already suffered from an acute stroke beyond the recommended window of 24 hr. Certainly, the positive outcomes are not likely reproducible outside of high-volume units and patients requiring this surgery should be transferred to experienced surgeons in appropriate tertiary referral centers.

Shunt intention during carotid endarterectomy in the early symptomatic period and perioperative stroke risk

OBJECTIVE

Whether recent stroke mandates planned shunting during carotid endarterectomy (CEA) is controversial. Our goal was to determine associations of various shunting practices with postoperative outcomes of CEAs performed after acute stroke.

METHODS

The Vascular Quality Initiative database (2010-2018) was queried for CEAs performed within 14 days of an ipsilateral stroke. Surgeons who prospectively planned to shunt either shunted routinely per their usual practice or shunted selectively for preoperative indications. Surgeons who prospectively planned not to shunt either shunted selectively for intraoperative indications or did not shunt. Univariable and multivariable analyses compared shunting approaches.

RESULTS

There were 5683 CEAs performed after acute ipsilateral stroke. Surgeons planned to shunt in 56.1% of cases. Patients whose surgeons planned to shunt vs planned not to shunt were more likely to have severe contralateral stenosis (8.8% vs 6.9%; P = .008), to receive general anesthesia (97.5% vs 89.1%; P < .001), and to undergo conventional CEA (94% vs 81.8%; P < .001). Unadjusted outcomes were similar between the cohorts for operative duration (124.3 ± 48.1 minutes vs 123.6 ± 47 minutes; P = .572) and 30-day stroke (3.4% vs 3%; P = .457), myocardial infarction (1.1% vs 0.8%; P = .16), and mortality (1.6% vs 1.3%; P = .28). On multivariable analysis, planning to shunt vs planning not to shunt was associated with similar risk of 30-day stroke (odds ratio [OR], 1.17; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.82-1.67; P = .402). On subgroup analysis, in 38.4% patients, no shunt was placed, whereas the remainder received routine shunts (44.4%), preoperatively indicated shunts (11.6%), and intraoperatively indicated shunts (5.5%). Compared with no shunting, shunting by surgeons who routinely shunt was associated with a similar stroke risk (OR, 1.39; 95% CI, 0.91-2.13; P = .129), but shunting by surgeons who selectively shunt on the basis of preoperative indications (OR, 2.11; 95% CI, 1.22-3.63; P = .007) or intraoperative indications (OR, 3.34; 95% CI, 1.86-6.01; P < .001) was associated with increased stroke risk. Prior coronary revascularization independently predicted increased intraoperatively indicated shunting (OR, 1.37; 95% CI, 1.05-1.8; P = .022).

CONCLUSIONS

In CEAs performed after acute ipsilateral stroke, there is no difference in postoperative stroke risk when surgeons prospectively plan to shunt or not to shunt. Shunting is often not necessary; however, when shunting is performed, routine shunters achieve better outcomes.