Systolic blood pressure variability following endovascular thrombectomy and clinical outcome in acute ischemic stroke: A meta-analysis

Blood Pressure Variability After Acute Ischemic Stroke and Intracerebral Hemorrhage: Refining Its Definition, Intervention Opportunities, and Research Directions

Increased blood pressure variability (BPV) in the acute phases of cerebrovascular emergencies, such as acute ischemic stroke (AIS) and intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH), has been shown to result in worsened outcomes. Although several studies have reported this association, no consensus exists for specific BPV targets or a consistent, unified definition of BPV in AIS or ICH. Therefore, we convened the Blood Pressure Variability in Cerebrovascular Emergencies Consortia, consisting of a multidisciplinary group of experts in stroke, neurocritical care, perioperative medicine, emergency medicine, and clinical pharmacy to assess the clinical impact of BPV and to develop a working consensus on defining BPV, identifying interventions to mitigate negative outcomes from increased BPV, and laying the groundwork for BPV research concepts in the future. First, the Consortia proposed bifurcating systolic BPV (SBPV) into two distinct periods-SBPV1 and SBPV2. SBPV1 involves hyperacute management, when rapid and smooth blood pressure control is crucial. SBPV2, the plateauing phase, consists of a more gradual, maintenance-therapy slope. For both periods, enabling a "smooth" (SBPV1) and "sustained" (SBPV2) trajectory is likely ideal, but more phase-specific research is required to validate this concept. Secondly, Consortia proposed to calculate BPV by subtracting maximum and minimum systolic blood pressure over subsequent measurements because it represents the most clinically feasible option among many proposed equations in the literature. Third, for ICH, the Consortia preferred intravenous antihypertensive medication to reach BPV goals as fast, safe, and efficiently as possible, consistent with American Heart Association/American Stroke Association guidelines recommending "treatment regimens that limit BPV and achieve smooth, sustained blood pressure control." For AIS, guidelines do not yet address BPV, but Consortia members proposed an algorithm with distinct SBPV goals based on time (as a function of stroke acuity), arterial subtype (large, medium, and small vessel), thrombolytic and/or thrombectomy status, and presenting SBP. As the understanding of BPV evolves, future research may build on and/or refine concepts proposed by this Consortia.

Intensive blood pressure management for ischemic stroke patients following endovascular thrombectomy: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

OBJECTIVE

This meta-analysis aimed to determine the potential benefits of intensive blood pressure management in ischemic stroke patients who have undergone endovascular thrombectomy (EVT).

METHODS

We comprehensively searched all relevant studies published before August 23, 2024, using multiple databases, including Cochrane Library, Embase, PubMed, Web of Science and China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) and Wangfang. The primary outcomes were favorable outcomes at 90 days (mRS score = 0-2), while the secondary outcomes comprised 90-day mortality, incidence of symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (sICH), and 7-day mortality.

RESULTS

Six randomized controlled trials studies involving 1752 patients were included. The incidence of 90 days (mRS score = 0-2) score was significant difference between different blood pressure management (RR = 0.81, 95% CI [0.74, 0.89], p < 0.01) with heterogeneity (I2 = 0%, p = 0.52). No significant difference was perceived in the 90-day mortality (RR = 1.16, 95% CI [0.90, 1.48], p = 0.28; I2= 0%, p = 0.89). Additionally, there was no statistically significant difference in the incidence of sICH, (RR = 1.03, 95% CI [0.72, 1.48], p = 0.86; I2= 0%, p = 0.42). There was also no statistically significant discerned in the 7-day mortality (RR = 1.33, 95% CI [0.88, 2.01], p = 0.17; I2= 0%, p = 0.67).

CONCLUSION

Our research results suggest that routine standard blood pressure management is more beneficial to the functional independence for patients, a more moderate intensive blood pressure management should be used.

Blood pressure during long-term cilostazol-based dual antiplatelet therapy after stroke: a post hoc analysis of the CSPS.com trial

We determined the associations of follow-up blood pressure (BP) after stroke as a time-dependent covariate with the risk of subsequent ischemic stroke, as well as those of BP levels with the difference in the impact of long-term clopidogrel or aspirin monotherapy versus additional cilostazol medication on secondary stroke prevention. In a sub-analysis of a randomized controlled trial (CSPS.com), patients between 8 and 180 days after stroke onset were randomly assigned to receive aspirin or clopidogrel alone, or a combination of cilostazol with aspirin or clopidogrel. The percent changes, differences, and raw values of follow-up BP were examined. The primary efficacy outcome was the first recurrence of ischemic stroke. In a total of 1657 patients (69.5 ± 9.3 years, female 29.1%) with median 1.5-year follow-up, ischemic stroke recurred in 74 patients. The adjusted hazard ratio for ischemic stroke of a 10% systolic BP (SBP) increase from baseline was 1.19 (95% CI 1.03-1.36), that of a 10 mmHg SBP increase was 1.14 (1.03-1.28), and that of SBP as the raw value with the baseline SBP as a fixed (time-independent) covariate was 1.14 (1.00-1.31). Such significant associations were not observed in diastolic BP-derived variables. The estimated adjusted hazard ratio curves for the outcome showed the benefit of dual therapy over a wide SBP range between ≈120 and ≈165 mmHg uniformly. Lower long-term SBP levels after ischemic stroke were associated with a lower risk of subsequent ischemic events. The efficacy of dual antiplatelet therapy including cilostazol for secondary stroke prevention was evident over a wide SBP range.

Association between 24-hour blood pressure parameters and 90-day functional outcome in acute ischemic stroke patients with early anticoagulation

This study aimed to examine the relationship between blood pressure (BP) and blood pressure variability (BPV) during the first 24 hours from admission with 90-day functional outcomes in acute ischemic stroke (AIS) patients whose onset within 24 hours and receiving early argatroban treatment. The study recruited 214 AIS patients. BP was monitored using a cuff at 1-hour fixed intervals, and BP/BPV parameters [standard deviation (SD), coefficient of variation (CV), successive variation (SV), and average real variability (ARV)] were collected. Age, the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score at admission, previous history of diabetes mellitus (DM), and infarction site (located in anterior circulation) were identified as independent factors affecting 90-day outcomes in multiple logistic regression. After adjusting for confounding variables, association between BP/BPV and 90-day modified Rankin Scale (mRS) was assessed using logistic regression models. In model 1 (adjusted for age and NIHSS score at admission), mean-systolic blood pressure (SBP) showed association with 90-day outcomes [1.068 (1.008, 1.131), P = .025]. In model 2 (adjusted for age, NIHSS score at admission, previous history of DM), mean-SBP [1.061 (1.001, 1.123), P = .045] and max-SBP [0.951 (0.906, 0.998), P = .040] showed relatively weak association with outcomes. In model 3 [adjusted for age, NIHSS score at admission, previous history of DM, infarct site (located in anterior circulation)], all BP values were not related with outcomes, meanwhile, none of the BPV parameters calculated from SBP, diastolic blood pressure and mean arterial pressure showed association with 90-day outcomes. Future prospective studies are required to assess the relationship between early BP/BPV parameters with 90-day outcomes and further clarify the reference values for BP parameters. This is important for effective BP/BPV management and improved patient prognosis.

Blood Pressure Fluctuation During 72 Hours After Endovascular Therapy and Prognosis in Acute Ischemic Stroke Patients

PURPOSE

Our study aimed to investigate the relationship between fluctuations in different blood pressure (BP) components within 72 hours following endovascular therapy (EVT) and the prognosis of acute ischemic stroke (AIS) patients.

METHODS

This prospective multicenter study included 283 AIS patients who underwent EVT and had available BP data. The primary outcome was the ordinal modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score evaluated at 90 days. The secondary outcome was a combination of death and major disability, defined as an mRS score of 3 to 6 within 3 months.

RESULTS

After adjusting for imbalanced variables, the highest tertile of systolic blood pressure (SBP) fluctuation had an odds ratio (OR) of 1.747 (95% confidence interval [CI]=1.031-2.961; p for trend=0.035) for the primary outcome and 1.889 (95% CI=1.015-3.516; p for trend=0.039) for the secondary outcome, respectively. Fluctuations in diastolic blood pressure (DBP) (OR=1.914, 95% CI=1.134-3.230, p for trend=0.015) and mean arterial pressure (MAP) (OR=1.759, 95% CI=1.026-3.015, p for trend=0.039) were only associated with the primary outcome. The multivariate-adjusted restricted cubic spline analyses supported these findings. Furthermore, the fluctuations in both SBP and MAP exhibited the significant discriminatory capability in predicting the prognosis, comparable to their mean values.

CONCLUSION

Our study revealed that larger fluctuations in SBP, DBP, and MAP within 72 hours after EVT were associated with a higher risk of poor clinical outcomes within 3 months in AIS patients. Controlling BP fluctuations may be valuable for improving the prognosis in patients undergoing EVT.

CLINICAL IMPACT

How will this change clinical practice?It provides physicians a new approach to directly monitor BP fluctuations over an extended observation period in AIS patients after EVT in routine clinical practice.What does it mean for the clinicians?These results underscore the importance of giving equal attention to controlling long-term BP fluctuations, in addition to managing mean BP, as a means to improve the prognosis of AIS patients after EVT.What is the innovation behind the study?This study systematically evaluated the association between fluctuations in different blood pressure components and clinical outcomes in AIS patients over an extended period following EVT.

Procedural blood pressure and contrast extravasation on dual energy computed tomography after endovascular stroke treatment

BACKGROUND

Blood brain barrier disruption (BBBD) can be visualized by contrast extravasation (CE) after endovascular treatment (EVT) in patients with acute ischemic stroke. Elevated blood pressure is a risk factor for BBBD. However, the association between procedural blood pressure and CE post-EVT is unknown.

METHODS

In this single-center retrospective study, we analyzed 501 eligible patients who received a dual energy CT (DECT) immediately post-EVT for acute ischemic stroke. Procedural blood pressure values (SBPmean, SBPmax, SBPmax-min, and MAPmean) were collected. CE was quantified by measuring the maximum parenchymal iodine concentration on DECT iodine overlay map reconstructions. As a measure for the extent of BBBD, we created CE-ASPECTS by deducting one point per hyperdense ASPECTS region on iodine overlay maps. The association between blood pressure and CE was assessed using multivariable linear regression.

RESULTS

The procedural SBPmean, SBPmax, and MAPmean were 150 ± 26 mmHg, 173 ± 29 mmHg, and 101 ± 17 mmHg, respectively. The median maximum iodine concentration on post-EVT DECT was 1.2 mg/ml (IQR 0.7-2.0), and median CE-ASPECTS was 8 (IQR 5-11). The maximum iodine concentration was not associated with blood pressure. SBPmean, SBPmax, and MAPmean were significantly associated with CE-ASPECTS (per 10 mmHg, β = -0.2, 95 % CI -0.31 to -0.09, β = -0.15, 95 % CI -0.25 to -0.06, β = -0.33, 95 % CI -0.49 to -0.17, respectively).

CONCLUSION

In acute ischemic stroke patients undergoing EVT, particularly in patients achieving successful recanalization, SBPmean, SBPmax, and MAPmean are associated with the extent of BBBD on immediate post-EVT DECT, but not with maximum iodine concentration.

Antihypertensive Drugs Affect the Association of Systolic Blood Pressure Variability with Outcomes in Patients with Acute Stroke who had Successful Recanalization after Endovascular Treatment

AIMS

Blood pressure variability (BPV) was associated with the clinical outcomes in patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS) due to large-vessel occlusion (LVO) after endovascular treatment (EVT). This study aimed to investigate whether the use of antihypertensive drugs could affect this association in patients with AIS-LVO after EVT.

METHODS

We retrospectively screened consecutive patients with AIS-LVO who had successful recanalization after EVT and calculated their systolic BPV (SBPV) during the first 24 h after EVT using eight statistical methodologies based on previously published literature. Poor outcome was defined as a modified Rankin Scale score of 3-6 at 90 days. Logistic regression analysis was performed to assess this association, and different prediction models were constructed to assess the effect of the use of antihypertensive drugs.

RESULTS

A total of 214 patients were finally included, including 92 (43.0%) with good outcomes, and 136 (63.6%) who received antihypertensive drugs. SBPV indicators were significantly lower in patients with good outcomes versus those with poor outcomes. The logistic analysis showed that all SBPV indicators were consistently associated with poor outcomes (odds ratio, 1.031-1.282, all P＜0.05) in all populations, which was confirmed in patients not using antihypertensive drugs. However, no SBPV indicator was found to be associated with poor outcomes in patients using antihypertensive drugs. Receiver operating characteristic curves showed that the area under the curve (AUC) was larger in the model adjusting for antihypertensive drugs (AUC 0.774-0.783) compared with the one not adjusted for antihypertensive drugs (AUC 0.739-0.754).

CONCLUSION

In the anterior circulation of patients with AIS-LVO who had successful recanalization after EVT, the utilization of antihypertensive drugs may have some impact on the relationship between SBPV and clinical outcomes.

Blood Pressure Variability in Acute Stroke: A Narrative Review

The management of blood pressure variability (BPV) in acute stroke presents a complex challenge with profound implications for patient outcomes. This narrative review examines the role of BPV across various stages of acute stroke care, highlighting its impact on treatment strategies and prognostic considerations. In the prehospital setting, while guidelines lack specific recommendations for BP management, emerging evidence suggests a potential link between BPV and outcomes. Among ischaemic stroke patients who are ineligible for reperfusion therapies, BPV independently influences functional outcomes, emphasising the need for individualised approaches to BP control. During intravenous thrombolysis and endovascular therapy, the intricate interplay between BP levels, recanalisation status, and BPV is evident. Striking a balance between aggressive BP lowering and avoiding hypoperfusion-related complications is essential. Intracerebral haemorrhage management is further complicated by BPV, which emerges as a predictor of mortality and disability, necessitating nuanced BP management strategies. Finally, among patients with acute subarachnoid haemorrhage, increased BPV may be correlated with a rebleeding risk and worse outcomes, emphasizing the need for BPV monitoring in this population. Integration of BPV assessment into clinical practice and research protocols is crucial for refining treatment strategies that are tailored to individual patient needs. Future studies should explore novel interventions targeting BPV modulation to optimise stroke care outcomes.

The impact of blood pressure variability on the development of parenchymal hematoma in acute cerebral infarction with atrial fibrillation

Although blood pressure variability (BPV) and reperfusion are associated with parenchymal hematoma (PH) after stroke, the relationship between BPV and PH in atrial fibrillation (AF) patients who are at risk of reperfusion injury with frequent spontaneous recanalization is unknown. This study aimed to investigate whether BPV within the first 48 h is associated with PH within 72 h in patients with AF and stroke in terms of major vessel occlusion status. A total of 131 patients with AF that were admitted within 24 h after stroke onset were enrolled. PH was defined as a confluent hemorrhage with mass effect. The maximum (max), minimum (min), and average blood pressure (BP) during the first 48 h after admission were calculated. BPV was analyzed by using range between maximum and minimum (max-min), successive variation (SV), standard deviation (SD), and coefficient of variation (CV). All parameters were applied for systemic (SBP), diastolic (DBP), and pulse pressure (PP). After adjusting for confounding variables, various BPV parameters were associated with PH, including SBPmax (p = 0.0426), SBPSV (p = 0.0006), DBPmax-min (p = 0.0437), DBPSV (p = 0.0358), DBPSD (p = 0.0393), PPmax-min (p = 0.0478), PPSV (p < 0.0001), PPSD (p = 0.0034), and PPCV (p = 0.0120). The relationship remained significant in patients with a patent major vessel responsible for infarction but not in patients with an occluded major vessel. In conclusion, this study revealed that high BPV was associated with PH in patients with AF and acute stroke, particularly for those with a patent major vessel. The control of BP and BPV after stroke may be considered in patients with AF.

Association between blood pressure variability and outcomes after endovascular thrombectomy for acute ischemic stroke: An individual patient data meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION

Data on the association between blood pressure variability (BPV) after endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) for acute ischemic stroke (AIS) and outcomes are limited. We sought to identify whether BPV within the first 24 hours post EVT was associated with key stroke outcomes.

METHODS

We combined individual patient-data from five studies among AIS-patients who underwent EVT, that provided individual BP measurements after the end of the procedure. BPV was estimated as either systolic-BP (SBP) standard deviation (SD) or coefficient of variation (CV) over 24 h post-EVT. We used a logistic mixed-effects model to estimate the association [expressed as adjusted odds ratios (aOR)] between tertiles of BPV and outcomes of 90-day mortality, 90-day death or disability [modified Rankin Scale-score (mRS) > 2], 90-day functional impairment (⩾1-point increase across all mRS-scores), and symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (sICH), adjusting for age, sex, stroke severity, co-morbidities, pretreatment with intravenous thrombolysis, successful recanalization, and mean SBP and diastolic-BP levels within the first 24 hours post EVT.

RESULTS

There were 2640 AIS-patients included in the analysis. The highest tertile of SBP-SD was associated with higher 90-day mortality (aOR:1.44;95% CI:1.08-1.92), 90-day death or disability (aOR:1.49;95% CI:1.18-1.89), and 90-day functional impairment (adjusted common OR:1.42;95% CI:1.18-1.72), but not with sICH (aOR:1.22;95% CI:0.76-1.98). Similarly, the highest tertile of SBP-CV was associated with higher 90-day mortality (aOR:1.33;95% CI:1.01-1.74), 90-day death or disability (aOR:1.50;95% CI:1.19-1.89), and 90-day functional impairment (adjusted common OR:1.38;95% CI:1.15-1.65), but not with sICH (aOR:1.33;95% CI:0.83-2.14).

CONCLUSIONS

BPV after EVT appears to be associated with higher mortality and disability, independently of mean BP levels within the first 24 h post EVT. BPV in the first 24 h may be a novel target to improve outcomes after EVT for AIS.

Opinions over Targets for Blood Pressure Control after Mechanical Thrombectomy in Patients with Acute Ischemic Stroke: Baseline Survey for the ENCHANTED2/MT Trial in China

INTRODUCTION

Although guidelines recommend a target blood pressure 185-180/105-110 mm Hg after mechanical thrombectomy for acute ischemic stroke, there is limited randomized evidence to support this level. We surveyed candidate institutions about the approach to blood pressure management in this patient group in preparation for inviting them to participate in the Enhanced Blood Pressure Control after Endovascular Thrombectomy for the Acute Ischemic Stroke Trial (ENCHANTED2/MT).

METHODS

Physicians from a professional network of institutions that met mechanical thrombectomy qualification requirements were invited to participate in an online questionnaire covering basic clinical information as well as questions on blood pressure management.

RESULTS

We invited 88 sites to participate with 44 (50%) ultimately joining the trial, and a total of 88 physicians finished the survey. The median number of annual mechanical thrombectomy cases performed per site was 89 (IQR: 65-150). Only 38 (43%) institutions strictly adhere to guidelines when managing the blood pressure of mechanical thrombectomy patients. The most popular blood pressure target for reperfusion patients was 140-160 mm Hg (n = 47, 53%) and <120 mm Hg (n = 28, 32%). Fewer hospital stroke beds (40 [21-57] vs. 60 [39-110], p = 0.01) and lower proportion of elevated blood pressure after mechanical thrombectomy (25% [10-50%] vs. 50% [20-70%], p = 0.02) were related to a more aggressive blood pressure target (<120 mm Hg). Urapidil (n = 82, 93%) and calcium channel blockers (n = 87, 99%) were the most widely used antihypertensive drugs, respectively.

CONCLUSION

According to the survey, unstandardized blood pressure management protocols are performed in mechanical thrombectomy patients at institutions across China, which is different from prior survey from another country. More high-quality studies are needed to guide clinical practice.

A novel nomogram predicting early neurological deterioration after intravenous thrombolysis for acute ischemic stroke

Objectives

Intravenous thrombolysis therapy (IVT) with recombinant tissue plasminogen activator has proven to be a beneficial treatment for acute ischemic stroke (AIS) patients when administered within 4.5 h after a stroke. This study aimed to investigate an available and inexpensive predictive tool for early neurological deterioration in AIS.

Methods

Patients admitted to our department with acute stroke who were given IVT with recombinant tissue plasminogen activator within 4.5 h of stroke onset were included in the study. The NIH stroke scale (NIHSS) was used to assess patients' neurological state prior to IVT and for 24 h after. Early neurological deterioration was defined as occurring if the NIHSS total score increased by ≥ 4 or the NIHSS individual score increased by ≥ 2 compared to baseline. Patients were randomly assigned to training or validation cohorts.

Results

Of the 266 AIS patients receiving IVT who were screened, 217 were deemed eligible for the study. Multivariate logistic regression analysis identified smoking history, NIHSS score, homocysteine level, and neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio as independent factors for predicting early neurological deterioration. ROC analysis was used to assess the quality of the resulting nomogram. The AUC for the training dataset was 0.826 (95 % CI, 0.719-0.932), and for the validation dataset was 0.887 (95 % CI, 0.763-1.000).

Conclusion

The robustness of this nomogram suggests that it may be a reliable tool for evaluating the progression of AIS after IVT.

Strict blood pressure control following thrombectomy is associated with neuronal injury and poor functional outcome

OBJECTIVE

Mechanical thrombectomy (MT) has become standard treatment in acute ischemic stroke due to large vessel occlusion (LVO). However, optimal blood pressure (BP) management following successful recanalization remains unclear. We aim to investigate the association of strictly achieving BP targets of ≤160/90 mmHg with the extent of neuronal loss and functional outcome.

METHODS

In patients prospectively enrolled in the Gutenberg-Stroke-Study (May 2018-November 2019), BP was measured half-hourly for 24 h following MT. Based on achieving BP target of ≤160/90 mmHg, patients with successful recanalization of LVO were divided into "low-BP" group (BP ≤ 160/90 mmHg) or "high-BP" group (BP > 160/90 mmHg). Neuronal loss was quantified by serum-based measurement of neurofilament light chain (sNfL) after three days. BP groups and association of BP parameters with sNfL were investigated by correlation analyses and multiple regression modeling.

RESULTS

Of 253 enrolled patients (mean age 73.1 ± 12.9 years, 53.4% female), 165 met inclusion criteria. 21.2% (n = 35) strictly achieved "low-BP" target. "low-BP" was associated with unfavorable functional outcome at 90-day follow-up (aOR [95%CI]: 5.88 [1.88-18.32], p = 0.002) and decreased health-related quality of life (mean EQ-5D-index 0.45 ± 0.28 vs 0.63 ± 0.31, p = 0.009). sNfL levels were increased in "low-BP" patients (median [IQR] 239.7 [168.4-303.4] vs 118.8 [52.5-220.5] pg/mL, p = 0.026). Hypotensive episodes were more frequent in the "low-BP" group (48.6% vs 29.2%, p = 0.031). sNfL level could identify patients who had experienced hypotensive episodes with high discriminative ability (AUC [95%CI]: 0.68 [0.56-0.78], p = 0.007).

INTERPRETATION

Strict BP control (≤160/90 mmHg) within 24 h following successful recanalization of LVO by MT is associated with increased neuronal injury, displayed by higher sNfL levels, and poorer functional outcome, potentially indicating hypotension-induced neuronal loss during post-MT phase.

Early Epileptic Seizures after Ischemic Stroke: Their Association with Stroke Risk Factors and Stroke Characteristics

Background and Objectives: A growing number of stroke survivors face various stroke complications, including new-onset epileptic seizures (ESs). Post-stroke ESs are divided into early and late ESs based on the time of onset after stroke. Early ESs are associated with worse stroke outcomes, longer hospitalization and an increased risk of late ESs. A variety of risk factors for early ESs are being studied in order to prevent their occurrence. Therefore, we aim to determine the association of early ESs with ischemic stroke risk factors and characteristics. Materials and Methods: A total of 166 patients, treated for ischemic stroke in the Hospital of Lithuanian University of Health Sciences Kaunas Clinics, were enrolled in a prospective cohort study. Initially, data about stroke risk factors, localization, severity and treatment were collected, followed by an observation period of 14 days for early ESs. Results: Early ESs occurred in 11 (6.6%) participants. The probability of early ESs after ischemic stroke among males and females (LogRank = 1.281; p > 0.05), younger (≤65 y) and older (>65 y) participants (LogRank = 0.129; p > 0.05) was the same. The presence of ischemic stroke risk factors, such as atrial fibrillation (LogRank = 0.004; p > 0.05), diabetes mellitus (LogRank = 1.168; p > 0.05) and dyslipidemia (LogRank = 0.092; p > 0.05), did not increase the probability of early ESs. However, participants without a prior history of arterial hypertension (LogRank = 4.453; p < 0.05) were more likely to develop early ESs. Stroke localization (anterior versus posterior) (LogRank = 0.011; p > 0.05), stroke severity (LogRank = 0.395; p > 0.05) and type of treatment (specific versus non-specific) (LogRank = 1.783; p > 0.05) did not affect the probability of early ESs.

Blood pressure targets for acute ischemic stroke patients following endovascular thrombectomy: A meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this meta-analysis was to explore the impact of different blood pressure levels following endovascular therapy on clinical outcomes, including safety and efficacy in acute ischemic stroke (AIS) patients.

METHODS

A systematic search was performed on PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science databases, covering studies published before February 1, 2023. Our primary outcomes were 90-day mRs 0-2 score, 90-day mortality, incidence of symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage(sICH), and hemicraniectomy.

RESULTS

The incidence of 90-day mRs= 2 score was no significant difference between different blood pressure values (OR=1.37, 95 % CI [0.82, 2.29], p = 0.23) with heterogeneity (I2 =85 %, p < 0.001). Subgroup analysis indicated that when the blood pressure targets were SBP< 140 mmHg (OR=1.73, 95 % CI [1.04, 2.90], p = 0.04) with heterogeneity (I2 =37 %, p = 0.20), and SBP< 130 mmHg (OR=1.58, 95 % CI [0.53, 4.70], p = 0.41) with heterogeneity (I2 =80 %, p = 0.02), there were statistic differences in the incidence of 90-day modified mRs 0-2 score. Regarding 90-day mortality, there was no significant difference between different blood pressure values (OR=0.75, 95 % CI [0.47, 1.21], p = 0.24; I2 =69 %, p = 0.007). As for the incidence of sICH, the difference was not statistically significant (OR = 0.82, 95 % CI [0.61, 1.09], p = 0.17; I2 =24 %, p = 0.26). However, subgroup analysis was performed due to different blood pressure values, and it was found that when the blood pressure targets were SBP＜140 mmHg (OR=0.49, 95 % CI [0.28, 0.87], p = 0.02) and SBP＜120 mmHg (OR = 0.84, 95 % CI [0.58, 1.23], p = 0.37), there were statistic differences in the incidence of sICH with SBP＜140 mmHg. Furthermore, SBP＜140 mmHg was associated with a lower incidence of hemicraniectomy (OR = 0.30, 95 % CI [0.15, 0.58], p＜0.001). PROSPERO Register Number: CRD42022376706 CONCLUSION: The present meta-analysis findings indicate that intensive treatment is advantageous for achieving successful reperfusion in acute ischemic stroke (AIS) patients undergoing endovascular therapy (EVT). For different blood pressure targets (SBP < 140mmhg, SBP < 130mmhg, SBP < 120mmhg), with a reduction in systolic blood pressure (SBP) to less than 140 mmHg appearing to confer the greatest benefit. Furthermore, this study provides a significant blood pressure target that could inform the design of future multicentre, open-label, blinded-endpoint, randomized controlled trials.

The influence of pre-reperfusion blood pressure on outcomes following mechanical thrombectomy for anterior circulation large vessel occlusion

BACKGROUND

We evaluated how systolic blood pressure (SBP) and mean arterial pressure (MAP) parameters between presentation and reperfusion influence functional status and intracranial hemorrhage (ICH).

METHODS

All patients who underwent MT for LVO at a single institution were reviewed. Independent variables included SBP and MAP measurements obtained on presentation, between presentation and reperfusion (pre-reperfusion), and between groin puncture and reperfusion (thrombectomy). Mean, minimum, maximum, and standard deviations (SD) for SBP and MAP were calculated. Outcomes included 90-day favorable functional status, radiographic ICH (rICH), and symptomatic ICH (sICH).

RESULTS

305 patients were included. Higher pre-reperfusion SBP_max was associated with rICH (OR 1.41, 95% CI 1.08-1.85) and sICH (OR 1.84, 95% CI 1.26-2.72). Higher SBP_SD was also associated with rICH (OR 1.38, 95% CI 1.06-1.81) and sICH (OR 1.59, 95% CI 1.12-2.26). Greater SBP_max (OR 0.64, 95% CI 0.47-0.86), MAP_max (OR 0.72, 95% CI 0.52-0.97), SBP_SD (OR 0.63, 95% CI 0.46-0.86), and MAP_SD (0.63, 95% CI 0.45-0.84) during thrombectomy were associated with lower odds of 90-day favorable functional status. In a subgroup analysis, these associations were primarily limited to patients with intact collateral circulation. Optimal SBP_max cutoffs for predicting rICH were 171 (pre-reperfusion) and 179 mmHg (thrombectomy). Cutoffs for predicting sICH were 178 (pre-reperfusion) and 174 mmHg (thrombectomy).

CONCLUSION

Greater maximum BP and variability in BP during the pre-reperfusion period are associated with unfavorable functional status and ICH after MT for anterior circulation LVO.

Within-Person Blood Pressure Variability During Hospitalization and Clinical Outcomes Following First-Ever Acute Ischemic Stroke

BACKGROUND

Uncertainty remains over the relationship between blood pressure (BP) variability (BPV), measured in hospital settings, and clinical outcomes following acute ischemic stroke (AIS). We examined the association between within-person systolic blood pressure (SBP) variability (SBPV) during hospitalization and readmission-free survival, all-cause readmission, or all-cause mortality 1 year after AIS.

METHODS

In a cohort of 862 consecutive patients (age [mean ± SD] 75 ± 15 years, 55% women) with AIS (2005-2018, follow-up through 2019), we measured SBPV as quartiles of standard deviations (SD) and coefficient of variation (CV) from a median of 16 SBP readings obtained throughout hospitalization.

RESULTS

In the cumulative cohort, the measured SD and CV of SBP in mmHg were 16 ± 6 and 10 ± 5, respectively. The hazard ratios (HR) for readmission-free survival between the highest vs. lowest quartiles were 1.44 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.04-1.81) for SD and 1.29 (95% CI 0.94-1.78) for CV after adjustment for demographics and comorbidities. Similarly, incident readmission or mortality remained consistent between the highest vs. lowest quartiles of SD and CV (readmission: HR 1.29 [95% CI 0.90-1.78] for SD, HR 1.29 [95% CI 0.94-1.78] for CV; mortality: HR 1.15 [95% CI 0.71-1.87] for SD, HR 0.86 [95% CI 0.55-1.36] for CV).

CONCULSIONS

In patients with first AIS, SBPV measured as quartiles of SD or CV based on multiple readings throughout hospitalization has no independent prognostic implications for the readmission-free survival, readmission, or mortality. This underscores the importance of overall patient care rather than a specific focus on BP parameters during hospitalization for AIS.

Impact of leukoaraiosis or blood pressure on clinical outcome, mortality and symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage after mechanical thrombectomy in acute ischemic stroke

We aimed to study the impact of leukoaraiosis (LA) and blood pressure (BP) on clinical outcome, mortality and symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage (sICH) in acute ischemic stroke (AIS) patients treated with mechanical thrombectomy (MT). We analyzed data retrospectively from 521 patients with anterior large vessel occlusion treated with MT. LA was dichotomized in 0-2 (absent-to-moderate) versus 3-4 (moderate-to-severe) according to the van Swieten scale. Various systolic (SBP) and diastolic (DBP) BP parameters during the first 24 h were collected. Multivariable logistic regressions were performed to identify predictors of a poor 90-day outcome, mortality and sICH. LA was significantly associated with poor outcome (OR 3.2; p < 0.001) and mortality (OR 3.19; p = 0.008), but not sICH (p = 0.19). Higher maximum SBP was significantly associated with poor outcome (OR per 10 mmHg increase = 1.21; p = 0.009) and lower mean DBP was a predictor of mortality (OR per 10 mmHg increase = 0.53; p < 0.001). In the univariate analysis high SBP variability was associated with poor outcome, mortality and sICH, but not in the multivariate model. There was no association between BP and sICH. Severity of LA, SBP variability, high maximum SBP and low DBP are associated with either poor outcome or mortality in AIS patients undergoing MT. However, neither LA nor BP were associated with sICH in our cohort. Thus, mechanisms of the negative impact on outcome remain unclear. Further studies on impact of BP course and its mechanisms and interventions are needed to improve outcome in patients undergoing MT.

Blood pressure variability related to early outcome of acute ischemia stroke in a prospective observational study

Hypertension is a well-known risk factor for stroke, but the relationship between blood pressure variation (BPV) and prognosis remains unclear. This prospective observational study assessed the association between BPV and early functional outcomes in acute ischemic stroke patients. A total of 871 patients with acute ischemic stroke within 24 h of symptom onset were recruited from the Third Affiliated Hospital of Qiqihar Medical University between 2013 and 2016. Within 6 days of hospitalization, blood pressure was continuously measured from 8:00 to 9:00 every day, and the coefficient of variation (CV) of blood pressure was calculated (including systolic blood pressure [SBP] and diastolic blood pressure [DBP]). The modified Rankin scale was used to evaluate early functional outcomes at discharge. The coefficients of variation of SBP, DBP, and functional outcomes were included as primary outcome variables. Demographic characteristics and medical history were recorded as secondary outcome variables. We found that a greater CV level of SBP and DBP were associated with the poor early functional outcome at hospital discharge, and the odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (95%CI) of them were 1.56 (1.04-2.35) and 1.99 (1.31-3.03) respectively. A higher standard deviation (SD) of SBP and DBP significantly increased risk of poor early prognosis, OR (95%CI) was 1.78 (1.17-2.71) and 2.25 (1.47-3.45) respectively. Similar results were observed for SBP and DBP. The larger the range of SBP and DBP, the worse is the prognosis. In conclusion, the present study suggests that high BPV is a risk factor for poor early prognosis in acute ischemic stroke.

Association between systolic blood pressure parameters and unexplained early neurological deterioration (UnND) in acute ischemic stroke patients treated with mechanical thrombectomy

Background:

Neurological deterioration (ND) after mechanical thrombectomy (MT) of acute ischemic stroke (AIS) in anterior circulation is an important complication associated with a poor outcome. Moreover, evident causes of ND may remain unexplained (UnND).

Objective:

We sought to evaluate the association of the systolic blood pressure (SBP) parameters before MT, during MT, and during a 24-h period after MT with UnND.

Methods:

We analyzed 382 MT-treated AIS patients in two stroke centers from 2017 to 2019. The patients with unsuccessful recanalization and/or with symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage after MT were excluded. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to identify the SBP parameters that predict UnND.

Results:

There were 5.9% patients with UnND within 24 h after MT among patients with successful recanalization what comprises 4.9% of all patients who had undergone MT. SBP > 180 mmHg on admission (odds ratio (OR): 4, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.6–10, p = 0.004) and a drop of SBP below100 mmHg during MT (OR: 4.7, 95% CI: 1.3–17, p = 0.019) were associated with UnND occurrence within 7 days without a significant association with UnND within 24 h. UnND within 7 days was predicted by the episodes of SBP exceeding the level of SBP observed before the groin puncture and occurring over the first 2 h following recanalization (OR: 5, 95% CI: 1.3–19, p = 0.021), an increase of SBP of more than 20% within 2–24 h after MT (OR: 3.4, 95% CI: 1.1–10, p = 0.035), and a drop of SBP below 100 mmHg after MT (OR: 3.2, 95% CI: 1.1–9, p = 0.039).

Conclusion:

The association between the SBP parameters and UnND depends on the treatment period and the time of UnND occurrence. The J/U resembling relationship between SBP and UnEND was established during a 24-h period after MT.

Stroke thrombectomy perioperative anesthetic and hemodynamic management

There is an ongoing debate about the optimal anesthetic and hemodynamic management of acute stoke patients with large vessel occlusion undergoing endovascular mechanical thrombectomy. Several prospective and retrospective analyses, and randomized controlled trials, attempted to address the challenges of using different anesthetic modalities in acute stroke patients requiring mechanical thrombectomy. We review the advantages and disadvantages of monitored anesthesia care, local anesthesia, conscious sedation, and general anesthesia, along with the relevance of hemodynamic management and perioperative oxygenation status in these complex patients.

Detrimental effect of increased blood pressure variability on clinical outcome in acute ischemic stroke treated with reperfusion therapy: a case control study

Background

Blood pressure variability (BPV) is related to clinical outcome in acute ischemic stroke (AIS) treated with reperfusion therapy, but still is not included in clinical practice. This study aims to associate BPV during the first week of AIS with the outcome at three months.

Methods

We included 236 AIS patients treated with reperfusion therapy, and then divided them into good outcome and poor outcome groups. BPV measurements, including standard deviation, coefficient of variation, average real variability (ARV), and range, were recorded at stages of 2 h, 24 h, and 7 days after reperfusion therapy, respectively. These measurements were compared between the two groups. Then, ROC curve analysis examined the ability of BPV measurements in differentiating good and poor outcome groups; logistic regression analysis detected variables associated with clinical outcome in all subjects.

Results

The good outcome group exhibited significantly less BPV at all stages relative to the poor outcome group. The BPV measurements exhibited the potential to differentiate the two groups by the ROC curve analysis, especially for those at the 24-h stage. Higher ARV of diastolic BP and higher range of systolic BP at the 24-h stage, together with greater disease severity at baseline, were associated with poor clinical outcome.

Conclusions

Greater BPV during the first week of AIS is associated with poor outcome for the patients treated with reperfusion therapy. The BPV measurements play an important role in modulating clinical outcome, and have the potential to be included in future AIS guidelines.