Intraarterial Versus Intravenous Tirofiban as an Adjunct to Endovascular Thrombectomy for Acute Ischemic Stroke

Stent Retriever AssIsted Lysis Technique with Tirofiban: A Potential Bailout Alternative to Angioplasty and Stenting

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Angioplasty and stent placement have been described as a bailout technique in individuals with failed thrombectomy. We aimed to investigate Stent retriever AssIsted Lysis (SAIL) with tirofiban before angioplasty and stent placement.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Patients from 2 comprehensive stroke centers were reviewed (2020-2023). We included patients with failed thrombectomy and/or underlying intracranial stenosis who received SAIL with tirofiban before the intended angioplasty and stent placement. SAIL consisted of deploying a stent retriever through the occluding lesion to create a bypass channel and infuse 10 mL of tirofiban for 10 minutes either intra-arterially or IV. The stent retriever was re-sheathed before retrieval. The primary end points were successful reperfusion (expanded TICI 2b-3) and symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage. Additional end points included 90-day mRS 0-2 and mortality.

RESULTS

After a median of 3 (interquartile range, 2-4) passes, 44 patients received the SAIL bridging protocol with tirofiban, and later they were considered potential candidates for angioplasty and stent placement bailout (43.2%, intra-arterial SAIL). Post-SAIL successful reperfusion was obtained in 79.5%. A notable residual stenosis (>50%) after successful SAIL was observed in 45.7%. No significant differences were detected according to post-SAIL: successful reperfusion (intra-arterial SAIL, 80.0% versus IV-SAIL, 78.9%; P = .932), significant stenosis (33.3% versus 55.0%; P = .203), early symptomatic re-occlusion (0% versus 8.0%; P = .207), or symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage (5.3% versus 8.0%; P = .721). Rescue angioplasty and stent placement were finally performed in 15 (34.1%) patients (intra-arterial SAIL 21.0% versus IV-SAIL 44%; P = .112). At 90 days, mRS 0-2 (intra-arterial SAIL 50.0% versus IV-SAIL 43.5%; P = .086) and mortality (26.3% versus 12.0%; P = .223) were also similar.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with stroke in which angioplasty and stent placement are considered, SAIL with tirofiban, either intra-arterial or IV, seems to safely induce sustained recanalization, offering a potential alternative to definitive angioplasty and stent placement.

Preoperative and intraoperative tirofiban during endovascular thrombectomy in large vessel occlusion stroke due to large artery atherosclerosis

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

The aim of this study is to investigate the efficacy and safety of preoperative versus intraoperative tirofiban in patients with large vessel occlusion (LVO) due to large artery atherosclerosis (LAA).

METHODS

This is a retrospective multicenter cohort study based on the RESCUE-RE (Registration Study for Critical Care of Acute Ischemic Stroke After Recanalization) trial enrolling patients with anterior circulation LVO classified as LAA within 24 h of onset. Patients were divided into three groups: preoperative tirofiban (PT), intraoperative tirofiban (IT), and no tirofiban (NT). Propensity score matching (PSM) was used to balance baseline characteristics. The efficacy outcomes included 90-day functional independence (modified Rankin Scale score = 0-2) and early partial recanalization (EPR; defined as a modified Thrombolysis in Cerebral Infarction score = 1-2a). The safety outcomes included symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (sICH).

RESULTS

A total of 104 matched triplets were obtained through PSM. Compared with NT, PT increased 90-day functional independence (60.8% vs. 42.3%, p = 0.008) and EPR (42.7% vs. 18.3%, p < 0.001) rate, with a tendency to increase the asymptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (aICH) proportion (28.8% vs. 18.3%, p = 0.072). Compared with IT, PT had a higher 90-day functional independence (60.8% vs. 45.2%, p = 0.025) and EPR (42.7% vs. 20.2%, p = 0.001) rate, with no significant difference in sICH (14.4% vs. 7.7%, p = 0.122) and aICH (28.8% vs. 21.2%, p = 0.200). Compared with NT, IT had a lower 90-day mortality rate (9.6% vs. 24.0%, p = 0.005).

CONCLUSIONS

Tirofiban shows good adjuvant therapy potential in acute ischemic stroke-LVO due to LAA patients. PT is associated with higher rates of EPR and better therapeutic efficacy. In addition, EPR may be a potential way to improve prognosis.

Predictors of outcome in large vessel occlusion stroke patients with intravenous tirofiban treatment: a post hoc analysis of the RESCUE BT clinical trial

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to investigate the factors influencing good outcomes in patients receiving only intravenous tirofiban with endovascular thrombectomy for large vessel occlusion stroke.

METHODS

Post hoc exploratory analysis using the RESCUE BT trial identified consecutive patients who received intravenous tirofiban with endovascular thrombectomy for large vessel occlusion stroke in 55 comprehensive stroke centers from October 2018 to January 2022 in China.

RESULTS

A total of 521 patients received intravenous tirofiban, 253 of whom achieved a good 90-day outcome (modified Rankin Scale [mRS] 0-2). Younger age (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 0.965, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.947-0.982; p < 0.001), lower serum glucose (aOR: 0.865, 95%CI: 0.807-0.928; p < 0.001), lower baseline National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score (aOR: 0.907, 95%CI: 0.869-0.947; p < 0.001), fewer total passes (aOR: 0.791, 95%CI: 0.665-0.939; p = 0.008), shorter punctures to recanalization time (aOR: 0.995, 95%CI:0.991-0.999; p = 0.017), and modified Thrombolysis in Cerebral Infarction (mTICI) score 2b to 3 (aOR: 8.330, 95%CI: 2.705-25.653; p < 0.001) were independent predictors of good outcomes after intravenous tirofiban with endovascular thrombectomy for large vessel occlusion stroke.

CONCLUSION

Younger age, lower serum glucose level, lower baseline NIHSS score, fewer total passes, shorter punctures to recanalization time, and mTICI scores of 2b to 3 were independent predictors of good outcomes after intravenous tirofiban with endovascular thrombectomy for large vessel occlusion stroke.

CHINESE CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRY IDENTIFIER

ChiCTR-IOR-17014167.

Efficacy and safety of tirofiban in patients with acute branch atheromatous disease-related stroke (BRANT): a protocol for a randomised controlled trial

INTRODUCTION

Branch atheromatous disease (BAD)-related stroke is increasingly becoming a clinical entity and prone to early neurological deterioration (END) and poor prognosis. There are no effective regimens to reduce the disability caused by BAD-related stroke in acute phase. Recent studies have indicated the efficacy of tirofiban in acute ischaemic stroke; however, its efficacy has not been validated in patients with BAD-related stroke. Thus, we aim to test whether intravenous tirofiban initiated within 48 hours after the onset would improve the functional outcome in patients with acute BAD-related stroke, in comparison with the standard antiplatelet therapy based on the current guideline.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

BRANT is a multicentre, randomised, open-label, blinded endpoint, parallel-controlled, phase III trial conducted in 21 hospitals in China. Participants aged 18-75 years with acute BAD-related stroke within 48 hours after the stroke onset are randomised in a 1:1 ratio to the tirofiban or control group. The treatment period is 48 hours in both groups. The primary outcome is the excellent functional outcome (modified Rankin Scale Score: 0-1) at 90 days. The secondary outcomes include END, major bleeding, stroke, death, functional status, serious adverse events and change in bleeding-related markers. Assuming the rates of the primary outcome to be 74% in the tirofiban group and 62% in the control group, a total of 516 participants are needed for 0.8 power (two-sided 0.05 alpha).

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

BRANT study has been approved by the Ethics Committee of the Peking Union Medical College Hospital (I-23PJ1242). Written informed consent is required for all the patients before enrolment. The results of the study will be published in a peer-reviewed journal.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT06037889).

Adjunct Intraarterial or Intravenous Tirofiban Versus No Tirofiban After Successful Recanalization of Basilar Artery Occlusion Stroke: The BASILAR Registry

BACKGROUND

Approximately half of patients who achieve successful reperfusion do not achieve functional independence. The present study sought to investigate the clinical outcomes and safety of intraarterial or intravenous tirofiban as adjunct therapy in patients with acute basilar artery occlusion who had achieved successful recanalization with endovascular treatment.

METHODS AND RESULTS

In the national, prospective BASILAR (Endovascular Treatment for Acute Basilar Artery Occlusion Study) registry, 458 patients who met inclusion criteria were divided into 3 groups based on tirofiban administration (no tirofiban, n=262; intravenous tirofiban, n=101; intraarterial+intravenous tirofiban, n=95). Their clinical outcomes were compared with 90-day modified Rankin Scale scores. Adjusted odds ratios (aORs) and 95% CIs were obtained by logistic regression models and propensity score matching. Safety outcomes included any intracranial hemorrhage (ICH), symptomatic ICH, and mortality. Among 458 included patients, 184 (40.2%) achieved a favorable outcome (modified Rankin Scale score 0-3). There were no differences between the intravenous tirofiban group and the no tirofiban group in terms of safety and clinical outcomes (all P>0.05). Compared with the no tirofiban group, the intraarterial+intravenous tirofiban group had higher odds of 90-day modified Rankin Scale score 0 to 3 (aOR, 2.44 [95% CI, 1.30-4.64], P=0.006) and lower 3-month mortality (aOR, 0.38 [95% CI, 0.19-0.71], P=0.002) without an increase in any ICH (aOR, 0.34 [95% CI, 0.09-1.01], P=0.07) or symptomatic ICH (aOR, 0.23 [95% CI, 0.03-0.90], P=0.05). Similar results of intraarterial+intravenous tirofiban on improving clinical outcomes were detected in novel cohorts constructed by propensity score matching.

CONCLUSIONS

Intraarterial+intravenous rather than intravenous tirofiban improved clinical outcomes without increasing the frequency of symptomatic ICH among patients with basilar artery occlusion after successful endovascular treatment. Further studies are needed to delineate the roles of intraarterial+intravenous tirofiban in patients with basilar artery occlusion receiving endovascular treatment.

The impact of intraarterial, intravenous, and combined tirofiban on endovascular treatment for acute intracranial atherosclerotic occlusion

Background and purpose

Adjunctive tirofiban administration in patients undergoing endovascular treatment (EVT) for acute large vessel occlusion (LVO) has been investigated in several studies. However, the findings are conflict. This study aimed to compare the effect of different administration pathways of tirofiban on patients undergoing EVT for acute LVO with intracranial atherosclerotic disease (ICAD).

Methods

Patients were selected from the ANGEL-ACT Registry (Endovascular Treatment Key Technique and Emergency Workflow Improvement of Acute Ischemic Stroke: A Prospective Multicenter Registry Study) and divided into four groups: intra-arterial (IA), intravenous (IV), and intra-arterial plus intravenous (IA+IV) and non-tirofiban. The primary outcome was 90-day ordinal modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score, and the secondary outcomes included the rates of mRS 0-1, 0-2, and 0-3 at 90-day, successful recanalization. The safety outcomes were symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (sICH) and other safety endpoints. The multivariable logistic regression models adjusting for potential baseline confounders were performed to compare the outcomes. A propensity score matching (PSM) with a 1:1:1:1 ratio was conducted among four groups, and the outcomes were then compared in the post-matched population.

Results

A total of 502 patients were included, 80 of which were in the IA-tirofiban group, 73 in IV-tirofiban, 181 in (IA+IV)-tirofiban group, and 168 in the non-tirofiban group. The median (IQR) 90-day mRS score in the four groups of IA, IV, IA+IV, and non-tirofiban was, respectively 3(0-5) vs. 1(0-4) vs. 1(0-4) vs. 3(0-5). The adjusted common odds ratio (OR) for 90-day ordinal modified Rankin Scale distribution with IA-tirofiban vs. non-tirofiban was 0.77 (95% CI, 0.45-1.30, P = 0.330), with IV-tirofiban vs. non-tirofiban was 1.36 (95% CI, 0.78-2.36, P = 0.276), and with (IA+IV)-tirofiban vs. non-tirofiban was 1.03 (95% CI, 0.64-1.64, P = 0.912). The adjusted OR for mRS 0-1 and mRS 0-2 at 90-day with IA-tirofiban vs. non-tirofiban was, respectively 0.51 (95% CI, 0.27-0.98, P = 0.042) and 0.50 (95% CI, 0.26-0.94, P = 0.033). The other outcomes of each group were similar with non-tirofiban group, all P was >0.05. After PSM, the common odds ratio (OR) for 90-day ordinal modified Rankin Scale distribution with IA-tirofiban vs. non-tirofiban was 0.41 (95% CI, 0.18-0.94, P = 0.036), and the OR for mRS 0-1 and mRS 0-2 at 90-day with IA-tirofiban vs. non-tirofiban was, respectively 0.28 (95% CI, 0.11-0.74, P = 0.011) and 0.25 (95% CI, 0.09-0.67, P = 0.006).

Conclusions

Intra-arterial administration of tirofiban was associated with worse outcome than non-tirofiban, which suggested that intra-arterial tirofiban had a harmful effect on patients undergoing EVT for ICAD-LVO.

Clinical trial registration

http://www.clinicaltrials.gov, Unique identifier: NCT03370939.

The safety and efficacy of intra-arterial low-dose tirofiban administration during endovascular therapy in patients with large ischemic core volume

This study aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of intra-arterial (IA) administration of low- dose tirofiban during endovascular therapy in patients with large ischemic core volumes on initial brain CT. Patients were divided into two groups based on the use of IA tirofiban. We identified 87 patients (16 and 71 patients in the tirofiban and no-tirofiban groups, respectively) with acute ischemic stroke due to intracranial artery occlusion who underwent endovascular therapy with a low Alberta Stroke Program Early CT scores (2-5). Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed no association between IA tirofiban administration and serious postprocedural hemorrhagic complications (adjusted odds ratio (aOR), 0.720; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.099-5.219; p = 0.960), any radiologic hemorrhage (aOR 0.076; 95% CI 0.003-2.323; p = 0.139), or 3-month mortality (aOR, 0.087; 95% CI 0.005-1.501; p = 0.093). However, IA tirofiban was associated with a lower 90-day mRS score (aOR, 0.197; 95% CI 0.015-1.306; p = 0.017) and change of NIHSS compared with baseline (aOR, 0.698; 95% CI 0.531-0.917; p = 0.010). IA tirofiban administration during endovascular therapy in patients with large ischemic core volumes may be effective and safe.

Efficacy and safety of tirofiban combined with endovascular therapy for basilar artery occlusion stroke due to large artery atherosclerosis

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of adjuvant tirofiban in patients with acute basilar artery occlusion due to large-artery atherosclerotic (LAA) receiving endovascular therapy (EVT).

METHODS

This was a non-randomized, multicenter study using data from the Endovascular Treatment for Acute BASILAR Artery Occlusion (BASILAR) registry. Patients with acute basilar artery occlusion due to LAA within 24h of symptom onset who underwent EVT were included. Patients were divided into tirofiban and non-tirofiban groups according to whether tirofiban was used. The primary outcome was the ordinal modified Rankin scale score at 90 days. Safety outcomes were mortality within 90 days and symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (sICH) within 48 h.

RESULTS

A total of 417 patients were included, of whom 275 patients were in the tirofiban group and 142 patients in the non-tirofiban group. Compared with patients in the non-tirofiban group, patients in the tirofiban group were associated with a favorable shift in functional outcome at 90 days (6[4-6] vs 5 [2-6]; adjusted common OR, 2.51; 95 % CI, 1.64-3.83). The mortality was lower in the tirofiban group than the non-tirofiban group (40.7 % vs 58.5 %; adjusted OR, 0.35; 95 % CI, 0.21-0.56). The rate of sICH was 12.2 % in the non-tirofiban group and 5.2 % in the tirofiban group (adjusted OR, 0.37; 95 % CI, 0.17-0.80; P = 0.012).

CONCLUSION

Tirofiban plus EVT might improve functional outcomes with a good safety for patients with acute basilar artery occlusion due to LAA. The results need to be confirmed in a randomized trial.

The Efficacy and Safety of Tirofiban Use in Endovascular Thrombectomy for Intravenous Thrombolysis Applicable Patients with Large Vessel Occlusion Stroke-a Post Hoc Analysis from the Direct-MT Trial

PURPOSE

The purpose of the study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of tirofiban use in endovascular thrombectomy for intravenous thrombolysis applicable patients of large vessel occlusion stroke with data from Direct-MT trial.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Direct-MT was the first randomized controlled trial to prove the non-inferiority of thrombectomy alone to bridging therapy (intravenous thrombolysis before thrombectomy) for large vessel occlusion stroke. Patients who underwent endovascular procedure were included and divided into thrombectomy-alone group and bridging therapy group. The effect of tirofiban use on 90 days MRS distribution, MRS 0-2 and mortality, successful reperfusion, the ASPECTS and outcome lesion volume of index stroke, re-occlusion of the treated vessel, futile recanalization and safety outcomes were further evaluated in both groups after adjustment for relevant confounding factors. The interaction between tirofiban and rt-PA was also assessed.

RESULTS

Of 639 patients included in this analysis, 180 patients underwent thrombectomy with tirofiban use (28.2%). Patients with tirofiban use had lower percentage of bridging therapy (41.1% vs 54.3%, P = 0.003), higher proportion of large artery atherosclerosis (P < 0.001) and more emergent stenting (30.56% vs 6.97%, P < 0.001). After adjustment for confounding factors, the 90-day modified Rankin Scale distribution, successful final recanalization rate, outcome lesion volume of index stroke on CT and intracranial hemorrhage risk showed no difference after tirofiban use in thrombectomy-alone group and in bridging therapy group. No interaction effect between tirofiban and rt-PA was detected.

CONCLUSION

Based on data from Direct-MT trial, tirofiban is a safe medication for intravenous thrombolysis applicable patients with large vessel occlusion stroke undergoing thrombectomy.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level 3, cohort study of randomized trial.

Glycoprotein inhibitors as a first line rescue treatment after unsuccessful recanalization of endovascular thrombectomy: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Intracranial atherosclerotic disease (ICAD) is a major cause of stroke with a high rate of re-occlusion following mechanical thrombectomy (MT). Among the available rescue options, glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitors (GPI) have shown promise as a potential therapeutic strategy. This systematic review and meta-analysis examine studies exploring the use of glycoprotein inhibitors as a first-line treatment for refractory occlusion or high-grade stenosis following EVT in the setting of ICAD.

METHODS

A systematic review and meta-analysis were performed. Studies using GPI as the first-line rescue treatment (GPI-rt) after failed thrombectomy or in the setting with high-grade stenosis (>50%) were included. The primary outcome of interest was good clinical outcomes (defined as a modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score of 0-2 at 90 days). Secondary outcomes of interest were successful recanalization (TICI 2b-3), symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (sICH), and mortality by 90 days.

RESULTS

Our study processed 2111 articles, which yielded eight relevant studies for review, four single and four double arm. These studies comprised 763 patients, divided into GPI-rt (535 patients) and non-GPI-rt (228 patients) cohorts. The GPI-rt group had higher rates of mRS ≤ 2 at 90 days (58.5% vs 38.9%, p = 0.002) and lower mortality rates (7.8% vs 17.5%, p = 0.04) compared to the non-GPI-rt cohort. mTICI 2b-3 rates and rates of sICH were not significantly different between the cohorts.

CONCLUSIONS

First line GPI-rt demonstrates significant clinical benefit and significantly lower mortality without a rise in rates of sICH. GPI are a potential first line rescue treatment of ICAD.

Does Endovascular Thrombectomy(ET) plus tirofiban benefit stroke patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Ischemic stroke is the second leading cause of death worldwide. Endovascular thrombectomy (ET) has been shown to prevent disability in a proportion of patients. The use of tirofiban in patients undergoing ET after acute stroke has resulted in improved patient function and reduced mortality to some extent. In this systematic review and meta-analysis of the current period, an overview of the most recent studies on the potential efficacy of using tirofiban to help acute stroke patients improve function and reduce mortality was provided.

METHODS

In this meta-analysis, we explore the safety and efficacy of ET combined with tirofiban in patients with acute stroke. We searched the PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and The Cochrane Library database from the construction of the library to the present relevant RCTs/non-RCTs. The following key words were used for finding relevant studies from the databases"tirofiban""thrombectomy"" Stroke"" balloon angioplasty""stenting".

RESULTS

Total of 14 trials with 4366 individuals enrolled were included in the Meta-analysis including 2732(62.6) who received ET alone and 1634(37.4 %) who received tirofiban plus ET. The primary outcome of 90-day functional independence (modified Rankin scale (mRS) score≤2) was 42.2 % (1043/2473) in the ET alone group vs. 46.2 % (684/1480) in the tirofiban with ET group (risk ratio (RR), 1.10 [95 % CI, 1.02-1.18]; P=0.02),mortality at 90 days (RR, 0.86 [95 % CI, 0.76-0.98]; P = 0.02). There is no significant between-group differences were found in excellent outcome (mRS score ≤1) (RR, 1.08 [95 % CI, 0.95-1.23]; P = 0.22), symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (RR, 1.11 [95 % CI, 0.92-1.34]; P = 0.27).

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest that the use of ET combined with tirofiban in patients with acute stroke is safe and has the potential to reduce mortality and improve functional independence at 90 days.

Telestroke network to robotic telestroke network: How to upgrade regional stroke care to include remote robotics?

Objective

Selected patients with large vessel occlusion (LVO) strokes can benefit from endovascular therapy (EVT). However, the effectiveness of EVT is largely dependent on how quickly the patient receives treatment. Recent technological developments have led to the first neurointerventional treatments using robotic assistance, opening up the possibility of performing remote stroke interventions. Existing telestroke networks provide acute stroke care, including remote administration of intravenous thrombolysis (IVT). Therefore, the introduction of remote EVT in distant stroke centers requires an adaptation of the existing telestroke networks. The aim of this work was to propose a framework for centers that are potential candidates for telerobotics according to the resources currently available in these centers.

Methods

In this paper, we highlight the future challenges for including remote robotics in telestroke networks. A literature review provides potential solutions.

Results

Existing telestroke networks need to determine which centers to prioritize for remote robotic technologies based on objective criteria and cost-effectiveness analysis. Organizational challenges include regional coordination and specific protocols. Technological challenges mainly concern telecommunication networks.

Conclusions

Specific adaptations will be necessary if regional telestroke networks are to include remote robotics. Some of these can already be put in place, which could greatly help the future implementation of the technology.

Association of tirofiban treatment with outcomes following endovascular therapy in cardioembolic stroke: insights from the RESCUE BT randomized trial

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

The efficacy and safety of tirofiban in endovascular therapy for cardioembolic ischemic stroke patients remain controversial. This study aimed to evaluate the role of intravenous tirofiban before endovascular therapy in cardioembolic stroke.

METHODS

This post hoc analysis utilized data from the RESCUE BT (Endovascular Treatment With versus Without Tirofiban for Patients with Large Vessel Occlusion Stroke) trial, which was an investigator-initiated, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Participants were randomized to receive either tirofiban or a placebo in a 1:1 ratio before undergoing endovascular therapy. The study included patients aged 18 years or older, presenting with occlusion of the internal carotid artery or middle cerebral artery (MCA) M1/M2 within 24 h of the last known well time, and with a stroke etiology of cardioembolism. The primary efficacy outcome was global disability at 90 days, assessed using the modified Rankin Scale (mRS). The safety outcome included symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (sICH) within 48 h and mortality within 90 days.

RESULTS

A total of 406 cardioembolic stroke patients were included in this study, with 212 assigned to the tirofiban group and 194 assigned to the placebo group. Tirofiban treatment did not correlate with a favorable shift towards a lower 90-day mRS score (adjusted common odds ratio [OR], 0.91; 95% CI 0.64-1.3; p = 0.617). However, the tirofiban group had a significantly higher risk of symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (sICH) within 48 h (adjusted OR, 3.26; 95% CI 1.4-7.57; p = 0.006) compared to the placebo group. The adjusted odds ratio (aOR) for mortality within 90 days was 1.48 (95% CI 0.88-2.52; p = 0.143).

CONCLUSIONS

Tirofiban treatment was not associated with a lower level of disability and increased the incidence of sICH after endovascular therapy in cardioembolic stroke patients.

Adjuvant intra-arterial thrombolysis during mechanical thrombectomy is an effective means of improving outcomes for patients with large vessel occlusion stroke: A systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

It is unknown whether adjunctive intra-arterial thrombolysis (IAT) during mechanical thrombectomy (MT) improves outcomes in patients with large vessel occlusion (LVO) stroke. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to compare the safety and efficacy of MT with and without IAT for the treatment of LVO stroke.

METHODS

A systematic literature search of PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library was conducted to identify studies that compared rates of 3-month functional independence (modified Rankin Scale score 0-2), successful revascularization, symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage, and 3-month mortality for MT+IAT and MT alone. Meta-analyses were performed using random effects models, and effect sizes were expressed as odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Heterogeneity was assessed with Cochran's Q test and I2 statistic.

RESULTS

Twelve studies met eligibility criteria, comprising one randomized controlled trial and 11 observational cohort studies involving 2584 patients. Compared to MT alone, MT+IAT had a 43% higher odds of 3-month functional independence (OR 1.43, 95% CI 1.11-1.83; I2 =21%) and a 23% decrease in odds for 3-month mortality (OR 0.77, 95% CI 0.60-0.99; I2 =0%). There were no differences in successful revascularization (OR 1.39, 95% CI 0.89-2.17; I2 =57%) or symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (OR 0.87, 95% CI 0.56-1.35; I2 =6%) between the two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

The present study has demonstrated that, compared with MT alone, the use of adjunct IAT during MT in patients with LVO stroke resulted in better functional outcomes and lower mortality.

The 2023 Taiwan Stroke Society Guidelines for the management of patients with intracranial atherosclerotic disease

Intracranial atherosclerotic disease (ICAD) is a major cause of ischemic stroke, especially in Asian populations, which has a high risk of recurrent stroke and cardiovascular comorbidities. The present guidelines aim to provide updated evidence-based recommendations for diagnosis and management of patients with ICAD. Taiwan Stroke Society guideline consensus group developed recommendations for management of patients with ICAD via consensus meetings based on updated evidences. Each proposed class of recommendation and level of evidence was approved by all members of the group. The guidelines cover six topics, including (1) epidemiology and diagnostic evaluation of ICAD, (2) nonpharmacological management of ICAD, (3) medical therapy for symptomatic ICAD, (4) endovascular thrombectomy and rescue therapy for acute ischemic stroke with underlying ICAD, (5) endovascular interventional therapy for postacute symptomatic intracranial arterial stenosis, and (6) surgical treatment of chronic symptomatic intracranial arterial stenosis. Intensive medical treatment including antiplatelet therapy, risk factor control, and life style modification are essential for patients with ICAD.

Rescue therapy after thrombectomy for large vessel occlusion due to underlying atherosclerosis: review of literature

In this review article, we summarized the current advances in rescue management for reperfusion therapy of acute ischemic stroke from large vessel occlusion due to underlying intracranial atherosclerotic stenosis (ICAS). It is estimated that 24-47% of patients with acute vertebrobasilar artery occlusion have underlying ICAS and superimposed in situ thrombosis. These patients have been found to have longer procedure times, lower recanalization rates, higher rates of reocclusion and lower rates of favorable outcomes than patients with embolic occlusion. Here, we discuss the most recent literature regarding the use of glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitors, angioplasty alone, or angioplasty with stenting for rescue therapy in the setting of failed recanalization or instant/imminent reocclusion during thrombectomy. We also present a case of rescue therapy post intravenous tPA and thrombectomy with intra-arterial tirofiban and balloon angioplasty followed by oral dual antiplatelet therapy in a patient with dominant vertebral artery occlusion due to ICAS. Based on the available literature data, we conclude that glycoprotein IIb/IIIa is a reasonably safe and effective rescue therapy for patients who have had a failed thrombectomy or have residual severe intracranial stenosis. Balloon angioplasty and/or stenting may be helpful as a rescue treatment for patients who have had a failed thrombectomy or are at risk of reocclusion. The effectiveness of immediate stenting for residual stenosis after successful thrombectomy is still uncertain. Rescue therapy does not appear to increase the risk of sICH. Randomized controlled trials are warranted to prove the efficacy of rescue therapy.

Association of Tirofiban With Functional Outcomes After Thrombectomy in Acute Ischemic Stroke Due to Intracranial Atherosclerotic Disease

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

To investigate the efficacy and safety of IV infusion of tirofiban before endovascular thrombectomy for patients with large vessel occlusion due to intracranial atherosclerotic disease. The secondary objective was to identify potential mediators for the clinical effect of tirofiban.

METHODS

Post hoc exploratory analysis of the Endovascular Treatment With versus Without Tirofiban for Patients with Large Vessel Occlusion Stroke (RESCUE BT) trial, which was a randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial at 55 centers in China from October 2018 to October 2021. Patients with occlusion of the internal carotid artery or middle cerebral artery due to intracranial atherosclerosis were included. The primary efficacy outcome was the proportion of patients achieving functional independence (defined as modified Rankin scale 0-2) at 90 days. Binary logistic regression and causal mediation analyses were used to estimate the treatment effect of tirofiban and the potential mediators.

RESULTS

This study included 435 patients, of whom 71.5% were men. The median age was 65 (interquartile range [IQR] 56-72) years, with a median NIH Stroke Scale of 14 (IQR 10-19). Patients in the tirofiban group had higher rates of functional independence at 90 days than patients in the placebo group (adjusted odds ratio 1.68; 95% CI 1.11-2.56, p = 0.02) without an increased risk of mortality or symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage. Tirofiban was associated with fewer thrombectomy passes (median [IQR] 1 [1-2] vs 1 [1-2], p = 0.004), which was an independent predictor of functional independence. Mediation analysis showed tirofiban-reduced thrombectomy passes explained 20.0% (95% CI 4.1%-76.0%) of the effect of tirofiban on functional independence.

DISCUSSION

In this post hoc analysis of the RESCUE BT trial, tirofiban was an effective and well-tolerated adjuvant medication of endovascular thrombectomy for patients with large vessel occlusion due to intracranial atherosclerosis. These findings need to be confirmed in future trials.

TRIAL REGISTRATION INFORMATION

The RESCUE BT trial was registered on the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry: chictr.org.cn, ChiCTR-INR-17014167.

CLASSIFICATION OF EVIDENCE

This study provides Class II evidence that tirofiban plus endovascular therapy improves 90-day outcome for patients with large vessel occlusion due to intracranial atherosclerosis.

Antithrombotic therapies for neurointerventional surgery: a 2021 French comprehensive national survey

BACKGROUND

Neurointerventionists lack guidelines for the use of antithrombotic therapies in their clinical practice; consequently, there is likely to be significant heterogeneity in antithrombotic use between centers. Through a nationwide survey, we aimed to obtain an exhaustive cross-sectional overview of antithrombotic use in neurointerventional procedures in France.

METHODS

In April 2021, French neurointerventional surgery centers were invited to participate in a nationwide 51-question survey disseminated through an active trainee-led research collaborative network (the JENI-RC).

RESULTS

All 40 centers answered the survey. Fifty-one percent of centers reported using ticagrelor and 43% used clopidogrel as premedication before intracranial stenting. For flow diversion treatment, dual antiplatelet therapy was maintained for 3 or 6 months in 39% and 53% of centers, respectively, and aspirin was prescribed for 12 months or more than 12 months in 63% and 26% of centers, respectively. For unruptured aneurysms, the most common heparin bolus dose was 50 IU/kg (59%), and only 35% of centers monitored heparin activity for dose adjustment. Tirofiban was used in 64% of centers to treat thromboembolic complications. Fifteen percent of these comprehensive stroke centers reported using tenecteplase to treat acute ischemic strokes. Cangrelor appeared as an emergent drug in specific indications.

CONCLUSION

This nationwide survey highlights the important heterogeneity in clinical practices across centers. There is a pressing need for trials and guidelines to further evaluate and harmonize antithrombotic regimens in the neurointerventional field.

Advances in the management of acute ischemic stroke

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This review aims to summarize the therapeutic advances and evidence in the medical management of acute ischemic stroke (AIS). Recent evidence comparing the efficacy and safety of tenecteplase (TNK) with alteplase for intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) in AIS will be highlighted. Recent advances and evidence on improving micro-circulation following endovascular procedures and neuroprotection will be reviewed.

RECENT FINDINGS

A significant number of randomized control studies now support the use of tenecteplase for IVT in AIS. TNK 0.25 mg/kg single bolus is as effective and well tolerated as alteplase 0.9 mg/kg infusion for IVT in AIS. Evidence from randomized control trials (RCTs) has shown effective and well tolerated expansion of the therapeutic window of IVT in the wake-up stroke and up to 9 h after last seen well, using advanced neuroimaging with computed tomography perfusion/MRI. Early evidence suggests that intra-arterial alteplase may help improve microcirculation in patients with large vessel occlusion following successful thrombectomy. However, more trials are required to confirm the results. Similarly, early evidence from a recent RCT showed that remote ischemic conditioning confers potential neuroprotection and improves outcomes in AIS.

SUMMARY

Converging evidence has demonstrated that for patients with ischemic stroke presenting at under 4.5 h from the onset, TNK is comparable to alteplase. These data along with the practical advantages of TNK have resulted in a shift to replace intravenous TNK as the standard for thrombolysis. Ongoing studies of IVT with TNK are focussed on defining the optimal dose, expanding the time window with multimodal imaging and defining the role of thrombolysis for bridging patients with stroke due to large vessel occlusion.

Effects of Antecedent Intravenous Thrombolysis on Endovascular Treatment of Acute Stroke Using Tirofiban

PURPOSE

To investigate whether preceding intravenous thrombolysis combined with tirofiban in patients with acute ischemic stroke undergoing endovascular treatment is safe and effective.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Consecutive data were identified for patients who experienced acute ischemic stroke and were admitted to 2 comprehensive stroke centers from January 2015 to August 2021. All patients were divided into 2 groups-a thrombolytic with tirofiban group and a tirofiban-alone group-on the basis of whether intravenous thrombolysis before emergency endovascular angioplasty was used. Multivariate regression and propensity adjustment analyses were performed to characterize differences in safety and clinical outcomes between the 2 groups.

RESULTS

Of 373 eligible patients, 111 (29.7%) were treated with thrombolysis with tirofiban. There was a significant difference in the rate of any intracerebral hemorrhage (35.1% vs 24.8%; P = .04) but not in the rates of symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage (16.2% vs 11.5%; P = .23) and reocclusion at 24 hours (5.4% vs 7.6%; P = .51) between the 2 groups. Multivariate regression analysis revealed that intravenous thrombolysis was not associated with any or symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage, artery occlusion, functional outcome, or death at the 3-month follow-up (all adjusted P > .05). After propensity adjustment, the thrombolytic with tirofiban group showed nonsignificant rates of clinical and safety outcomes compared with those of the tirofiban-alone group (all P > .05).

CONCLUSIONS

Tirofiban may be used without increasing the risk of adverse events in selected patients who experienced ischemic stroke and were treated with intravenous thrombolysis and endovascular therapy.

Successful endovascular thrombectomy 8 days after onset of acute ischemic stroke: A case report

Endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) is the recommended option for acute ischemic stroke (AIS) patients with large vessel occlusion (LVO) that within 6 h onset of stroke. The EVT treatment time window has been extended to 24 h in carefully selected patients by DAWN trial. Recent evidences indicated that some patients presented beyond 24 h still potentially benefit from EVT treatment. Herein, we describe one case of successful delayed EVT in a 50-year-old male AIS patient with an 8-day history of left middle cerebral artery occlusion. Before surgery, CT perfusion demonstrated a marked left hypoperfusion with penumbra volume of 127 mL and ischemic core volume of 10 mL. EVT was performed with complete recanalization and significant improvement in his neurological deficits at 90-days post-surgery follow-up. In future, more randomized clinical trials are warranted to further confirm the safety, efficacy, as well as the applicable population of delayed EVT.

Factors affecting the outcomes of tirofiban after endovascular treatment in acute ischemic stroke: Experience from a single center

AIMS

To investigate the predicted factors influencing the outcomes in acute ischemic stroke (AIS) patients who received tirofiban after endovascular treatment (EVT) and the optimal administration of tirofiban.

METHODS

In this retrospective study, AIS patients who received EVT followed by tirofiban between January 2017 and October 2021 were enrolled. The dose and duration of tirofiban were adjusted by trained clinicians according to the patient's clinical status. A reduction of at least four points on the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) after tirofiban compared with that before tirofiban was defined as an effective response. A modified ranking scale (mRS) of 0-2 was defined as a favorable outcome at a 90-day follow-up.

RESULTS

A total of 260 consecutive patients were enrolled, and 36.5% of patients achieved a favorable outcome. The modified thrombolysis in cerebral infarction (mTICI) 2b-3 occurred in 93.5% of patients. Symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage (sICH) occurred in 6.2% of patients, and the mortality at 90-day follow-up was 16.9%. Duration of tirofiban >24 h (adjusted OR: 2.545; 95% CI: 1.008-6.423; p = 0.048) and effective response to tirofiban (adjusted OR: 25.562; 95% CI: 9.794-66.715; p < 0.001) were related to the favorable outcome (mRS 0-2). Higher NIHSS (adjusted OR: 0.855; 95% CI: 0.809-0.904; p < 0.001) and glucose level on admission (adjusted OR: 0.843; 95% CI: 0.731-0.971; p = 0.018) were predictive for the unfavorable outcome (mRS 3-6).

CONCLUSIONS

An effective response to tirofiban is an independent factor in predicting the long-term efficacy outcome, and extending the duration of tirofiban is beneficial for neurological improvement.

Risk factors of hemorrhagic transformation in acute ischaemic stroke: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

Hemorrhagic transformation (HT) following reperfusion therapies for acute ischaemic stroke often predicts a poor prognosis. This systematic review and meta-analysis aims to identify risk factors for HT, and how these vary with hyperacute treatment [intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) and endovascular thrombectomy (EVT)].

Methods

Electronic databases PubMed and EMBASE were used to search relevant studies. Pooled odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) were estimated.

Results

A total of 120 studies were included. Atrial fibrillation and NIHSS score were common predictors for any intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) after reperfusion therapies (both IVT and EVT), while a hyperdense artery sign (OR = 2.605, 95% CI 1.212-5.599, I ² = 0.0%) and number of thrombectomy passes (OR = 1.151, 95% CI 1.041-1.272, I ² = 54.3%) were predictors of any ICH after IVT and EVT, respectively. Common predictors for symptomatic ICH (sICH) after reperfusion therapies were age and serum glucose level. Atrial fibrillation (OR = 3.867, 95% CI 1.970-7.591, I ² = 29.1%), NIHSS score (OR = 1.082, 95% CI 1.060-1.105, I ² = 54.5%) and onset-to-treatment time (OR = 1.003, 95% CI 1.001-1.005, I ² = 0.0%) were predictors of sICH after IVT. Alberta Stroke Program Early CT score (ASPECTS) (OR = 0.686, 95% CI 0.565-0.833, I ² =77.6%) and number of thrombectomy passes (OR = 1.374, 95% CI 1.012-1.866, I ² = 86.4%) were predictors of sICH after EVT.

Conclusion

Several predictors of ICH were identified, which varied by treatment type. Studies based on larger and multi-center data sets should be prioritized to confirm the results.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=268927, identifier: CRD42021268927.

Low-dose intravenous tirofiban infusion after endovascular recanalization for non-acute middle cerebral artery occlusion

Background and purpose

Endovascular recanalization for patients with symptomatic non-acute middle cerebral artery occlusion still remines challenging. Postoperative treatment is still controversial. This study aims to investigate the safety and effectiveness of tirofiban after elective angioplasty in patients with non-acute middle cerebral artery occlusion related ischemic stroke.

Methods

Our study is a retrospective case series study of 48 stroke patients who received elective endovascular recanalization for middle cerebral artery occlusion. Patients who received EVT without hemorrhage were divided into 2 groups: those who did not receive intravenous tirofiban treatment (control group, n = 25); those who received continuous intravenous infusion of 0.2-0.3 mg/h tirofiban for 48 h after endovascular recanalization (intravenous tirofiban group, n = 23). Early reocclusion of treated arteries, symptomatic hemorrhage, and 90-day functional outcome of the 2 groups were compared.

Results

The 90-day mRS score and NIHSS score after endovascular recanalization showed no significantly different between the two groups. However, the rate of mRS score reverse (≥1) was significantly higher in the intravenous tirofiban group than the control (73.9% versus 24.0%, P = 0.001), and the rate of NIHSS score reverse (≥3) in the intravenous tirofiban group was also higher (43.5% verse 16.0%, P = 0.037). The rate of early reocclusion, symptomatic hemorrhage (4.3% versw 4%, P = 0.734), showed no difference between the two groups.

Conclusions

Low-dose intravenous tirofiban infusion (0.2-0.3 mg/h for 48 h) after endovascular treatment seems to be safe and potentially effective for non-acute middle cerebral artery occlusion patients.

Study protocol of Branch Atheromatous Disease-related stroke (BAD-study): a multicenter prospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

As a meaningful subtype of ischemic stroke in Asians, Branch atheromatous disease (BAD)-related stroke is associated with high early neurological deterioration (END) and disability, but is understudied and without recommended therapy. The mechanism of END still remains unclear. Branch atheromatous disease-related stroke study (BAD-study) therefore aims to investigate demographic, clinical and radiological features, and prognosis of BAD-related stroke in Chinese patients.

METHODS/DESIGN

BAD-study is a nationwide, multicenter, consecutive, prospective, observational cohort study enrolling patients aged 18-80 years with BAD-related stroke within 72 h after symptom onset. Initial clinical data, laboratory tests, and imaging data are collected via structured case report form, and follow-ups will be performed at 7 days, 30 days, 90 days, 6 months and 12 months after enrollment. The primary outcome is the score on modified Rankin Scale at 90-day follow-up with single-blinded assessment. Secondary outcomes include END within 7 days, and National institute of health stroke scale score, Barthel index, cerebrovascular events, major bleeding complications, and all-cause mortality during 90-day follow-up. Characteristics of penetrating and parent artery will be assessed by high-resolution magnetic resonance imaging combined with other imaging techniques.

DISCUSSION

BAD-study can provide demographic, clinical, radiological, and prognostic characteristics of BAD-related stroke, and thereby potentially figure out the vascular mechanism of early neurological deterioration and optimize therapy strategy with the aid of advanced imaging technique. Baseline data and evidence will also be generated for randomized controlled trials on BAD-related stroke in the future.

Safety and Efficacy of Tirofiban in Severe Ischemic Stroke Patients Undergoing Mechanical Thrombectomy

Tirofiban has recently shown encouraging efficacy and safety among acute ischemic stroke (AIS) patients with mechanical thrombectomy (MT). However, the benefits of tirofiban varied among studies depending on the patient’s condition, which was often not well analyzed. This study aimed to identify the characteristics of patients who may obtain the largest benefits from tirofiban. The efficacy endpoint was a favorable outcome defined as a modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score of 0~2 at 90 days. The safety endpoints were intracranial hemorrhage (ICH), symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (sICH) and mortality at 90 days. Adjusted logistic regression analysis and subgroup analyses were utilized to investigate the factors associated with tirofiban and the outcome. All of 285 patients fit the inclusion criteria. Tirofiban was associated with a higher rate of favorable outcome (aOR 2.033, 95% CI, 1.002~4.123, p = 0.043) but not with an increased risk of ICH, sICH or mortality (p > 0.05). Moreover, subgroup analyses revealed that tirofiban was associated with favorable outcomes in patients with NIHSS > 14 (aOR 2.778, 95% CI 1.056~7.356, p = 0.038) but not in patients with NIHSS ≤ 14 (aOR 1.719, 95% CI 0.646~4.578, p = 0.278). No significant heterogeneity was found in the effect of tirofiban across the subgroups of age, sex, ASPECTS, time from onset to puncture, use of t-PA or stroke etiology (p for interaction > 0.05). The administration of tirofiban was associated with favorable outcomes in severe ischemic stroke patients, and further studies are needed to confirm this finding.

Prospective pilot study of tirofiban in progressive stroke after intravenous thrombolysis

Background

Intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) is a standard procedure for the treatment of patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS). Improving the therapeutic efficacy of IVT is an important task for neurologists. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of early low-dose tirofiban treatment in AIS patients with early neurological deterioration (END) after IVT.

Methods

In this prospective and randomized pilot study, 73 AIS patients with END were recruited from a local hospital in China. Of these, 14 patients were treated with regular antiplatelet agents (aspirin plus clopidogrel) and 59 patients were treated with tirofiban within 24 h of IVT, followed by regular antiplatelet therapy. Neurological deficits and functional recovery were assessed with NIHSS and modified Rankin Scale (mRS) at 7 and 90 days. During the 90-day follow-up period, both hemorrhagic (e.g., intracerebral hemorrhage) and non-hemorrhagic (e.g., pneumonia) events were recorded.

Results

Treatment with tirofiban compared with regular antiplatelet therapy: (1) improved functional recovery of AIS patients to mRS (≤2) at both 7 and 90 days (odds ratios [ORs], 1.37 and 1.64; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.16–1.61 and 1.26–2.12; P = 0.008 and < 0.001, respectively), and (2) reduced NIHSS scores from 11.14 ± 2.38 to 5.95 ± 3.48 at day 7 (P < 0.001) and from 8.14 ± 2.74 to 4.08 ± 3.50 at day 90 (P < 0.001). Tirofiban treatment did not increase the risk of hemorrhagic complications. Multivariate regression analysis showed that tirofiban treatment independently predicted a favorable functional outcome (P ≤ 0.001).

Conclusion

Early treatment with low-dose tirofiban in AIS patients with neurologic deterioration after IVT potentially improved functional recovery and attenuated neurologic deficits as early as 7 days and did not increase the risk of various hemorrhagic complications. However, the therapeutic efficacy of tirofiban treatment in END patients needs to be determined by future randomized clinical trials with a large study population.

Clinical trial registration

http://www.chictr.org.cn/, Identifier ChiCTR2200058513.

Safety and efficacy of different tirofiban administration routes on acute ischemic stroke patients with successful recanalization: A propensity score matching analysis

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to explore the effect of different administration routes of a low dose of tirofiban on acute ischemic stroke (AIS) patients with successful recanalization after endovascular treatment (EVT).

METHODS

This is a cohort study that retrospectively analyzed data of patients with AIS who underwent EVT and achieved successful recanalization from a prospective registry. Eligible patients were divided into three groups according to their use of tirofiban. Propensity score matching (PSM) was used to balance baseline bias. Safety outcomes included any intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) and symptomatic ICH (sICH). Efficacy outcomes included arterial reocclusion, in-hospital mortality, 3-month mortality, and 3-month functional outcomes.

RESULTS

We included 821 patients with 306 in the no tirofiban group, 202 in the IA + IV tirofiban group, and 313 in the IV tirofiban group. After PSM, each group included 101 patients with balanced baseline characteristics. There was no difference between the IV tirofiban group and the no tirofiban group in terms of safety and efficacy outcomes (all p > 0.05). Compared with no tirofiban, IA + IV tirofiban group did not increase ICH (30.7% vs. 37.6%, p > 0.05) and sICH (6.9% vs. 17.8%, p > 0.05) whereas reduced 3-month mortality (14.3% vs. 28.7%, p < 0.05) and improved 3-month modified Rankin Scale (median 3 vs. 4, p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

A low dose of tirofiban, regardless of their administration routes, was safe for AIS patients who achieved successful recanalization with EVT, whereas only IA + IV tirofiban improved clinical outcomes.

Endovascular Treatment of ICAS Patients: Targeting Reperfusion Rather than Residual Stenosis

Background and Purpose: Previous studies showed that acute reocclusion after endovascular therapy is related to residual stenosis. However, we observed that reperfusion status but not residual stenosis severity is related to acute reocclusion. This study aimed to assess which factor mention above is more likely to be associated with artery reocclusion after endovascular treatment. Methods: This study included 86 acute ischemic stroke patients who had middle cerebral artery (MCA) atherosclerotic occlusions and received endovascular treatment within 24 h of a stroke. The primary outcomes included intraprocedural reocclusion assessed during endovascular treatment and delayed reocclusion assessed through follow-up angiography. Results: Of the 86 patients, the intraprocedural reocclusion rate was 7.0% (6/86) and the delayed reocclusion rate was 2.3% (2/86). Regarding intraprocedural occlusion, for patients with severe residual stenosis, patients with successful thrombectomy reperfusion showed a significantly lower rate than unsuccessful thrombectomy reperfusion (0/30 vs. 6/31, p = 0.003); on the other hand, for patients with successful thrombectomy reperfusion, patients with severe residual stenosis showed no difference from those with mild to moderate residual stenosis in terms of intraprocedural occlusion (0/30 vs. 0/25, p = 1.00). In addition, after endovascular treatment, all patients achieved successful reperfusion. There was no significant difference in the delayed reocclusion rate between patients with severe residual stenosis and those with mild to moderate residual stenosis (2/25 vs. 0/61, p = 0.085). Conclusion: Reperfusion status rather than residual stenosis severity is associated with artery reocclusion after endovascular treatment. Once successful reperfusion was achieved, the reocclusion occurrence was fairly low in MCA atherosclerosis stroke patients, even with severe residual stenosis.

Safety and Efficacy of Tirofiban During Intravenous Thrombolysis Bridging to Mechanical Thrombectomy for Acute Ischemic Stroke Patients: A Meta-Analysis

Introduction

The safety and efficacy of tirofiban in intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) bridging to mechanical thrombectomy in patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS) is unknown. The purpose of this meta-analysis was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of tirofiban in IVT bridging to mechanical thrombectomy in acute ischemic stroke.

Methods

We systematically searched PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and The Cochrane Library, CNKI, and Wan Fang databases for randomized controlled trials and observational studies (case-control studies and cohort studies) comparing the tirofiban and non-tirofiban groups in AIS intravenous thrombolysis bridging to mechanical thrombectomy (Published by November 20, 2021). Our primary safety endpoints were symptomatic cerebral hemorrhage (sICH), intracranial hemorrhage (ICH), postoperative re-occlusion, and 3-month mortality; the efficacy endpoints were 3-month favorable functional outcome (MRS ≤ 2) and successful recanalization rate (modified thrombolytic therapy in cerebral infarction (mTICI) 2b or 3).

Results

A total of 7 studies with 1,176 patients were included in this meta-analysis. A comprehensive analysis of the included literature showed that the difference between the tirofiban and non-tirofiban groups in terms of successful recanalization (OR = 1.19, 95% Cl [0.69, 2.03], p = 0.53, I² = 22%) and favorable functional outcome at 3 months (OR = 1.13, 95% Cl [0.81, 1.60], p = 0.47, I² = 17%) in patients with IVT bridging mechanical thrombectomy of AIS was not statistically significant. Also, the differences in the incidence of sICH (OR = 0.97, 95% Cl [0.58, 1.62], p = 0.89) and ICH (OR = 0.83, 95% Cl [0.55, 1.24], p = 0.36) between the two groups were not statistically significant. However, the use of tirofiban during IVT bridging mechanical thrombectomy reduced the rate of postoperative re-occlusion (OR = 0.36, 95% Cl [0.14, 0.91], p = 0.03) and mortality within 3 months (OR = 0.54, 95% Cl [0.33, 0.87], p = 0.01) in patients.

Conclusion

The use of tirofiban during IVT bridging mechanical thrombectomy for AIS does not increase the risk of sICH and ICH in patients and reduces the risk of postoperative re-occlusion and mortality in patients within 3 months. However, this result needs to be further confirmed by additional large-sample, multicenter, prospective randomized controlled trials.

Systematic Review Registration

http://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/, identifier: CRD42022297441.

Continuous intravenous tirofiban can improve the 90-day functional outcome and decrease 90-day mortality without increasing bleeding risk in acute ischemic stroke patients treated by endovascular therapy: A meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The role of continuous intravenous administration of tirofiban in endovascular therapy is still unclear. This meta-analysis aims to evaluate the 90-day functional prognosis in acute ischemic stroke patients (AIS) treated by endovascular treatment and intravenous administration of tirofiban.

METHODS

We searched PubMed, Embase, and CENTRAL databases with the subject terms "tirofiban", "brain ischemia", and some related free words. Inclusion criteria were: (1) cohort study or randomized control trials; (2) AIS patients who received endovascular therapy; (3) the intervention or exposure was intravenous tirofiban monotherapy or combined with intra-arterial tirofiban; (4) containing data on modified Rankin Scale at 90 days and including at least one of the following indicators: mortality, symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (sICH), intracranial hemorrhage (ICH), and recanalization. A summary odds ratio was calculated.

RESULTS

Twelve eligible studies, consisting of 3268 AIS participants, were identified. There was a significant trend of favorable outcomes (measured by mRS at three months) in the tirofiban group (ORs = 1.36; 95% CI = 1.09-1.70). In addition, compared with the non-tirofiban group, intravenous tirofiban was significantly associated with decreased risk of 90-day mortality (ORs = 0.73; 95% CI:0.59-0.89) and increased recanalization rate (ORs = 1.50; 95% CI:1.08-2.09) but no significant difference in rates of sICH (ORs = 0.93; 95% CI = 0.70-1.24) or ICH (ORs = 0.84; 95% CI = 0.62-1.15).

CONCLUSIONS

Intravenous tirofiban appears to be safe and effective when used following intra-arterial tirofiban or as monotherapy in AIS patients treated by endovascular therapy, which can improve the 90-day functional outcome, decrease the 90-day mortality and increase the possibility of early recanalization without increasing rates of sICH and ICH.

Safety and Efficacy of Cangrelor in Acute Stroke Treated with Mechanical Thrombectomy: Endovascular Treatment of Ischemic Stroke Registry and Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Rescue therapies are increasingly used in the setting of endovascular therapy for large-vessel occlusion strokes. Among these, cangrelor, a new P2Y12 inhibitor, offers promising pharmacologic properties to join the reperfusion strategies in acute stroke. We assessed the safety and efficacy profiles of cangrelor combined with endovascular therapy in patients with large-vessel-occlusion stroke.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We performed a retrospective patient data analysis in the ongoing prospective multicenter observational Endovascular Treatment in Ischemic Stroke Registry in France from July 2018 to December 2020 and conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis using several data bases. Indications for cangrelor administration were rescue strategy in case of refractory intracranial occlusion with or without intracranial rescue stent placement, and cervical carotid artery stent placement in case of cervical occlusion (tandem occlusion or isolated cervical carotid occlusion).

RESULTS

In the clinical registry, 44 patients were included (median initial NIHSS score, 12; prior intravenous thrombolysis, 29.5%). Intracranial stent placement was performed in 54.5% (n = 24/44), and cervical stent placement, in 27.3% (n = 12/44). Adjunctive aspirin and heparin were administered in 75% (n = 33/44) and 40.9% (n = 18/44), respectively. Rates of symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage, parenchymal hematoma, and 90-day mortality were 9.5% (n = 4/42), 9.5% (n = 4/42), and 24.4% (n = 10/41). Favorable outcome (90-day mRS, 0-2) was reached in 51.2% (n = 21/41), and successful reperfusion, in 90.9% (n = 40/44). The literature search identified 6 studies involving a total of 171 subjects. In the meta-analysis, including our series data, symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage occurred in 8.6% of patients (95% CI, 5.0%-14.3%) and favorable outcome was reached in 47.6% of patients (95% CI, 27.4%-68.7%). The 90-day mortality rate was 22.6% (95% CI, 13.6%-35.2%). Day 1 artery patency was observed in 89.7% (95% CI, 81.4%-94.6%).

CONCLUSIONS

Cangrelor offers promising safety and efficacy profiles, especially considering the complex endovascular reperfusion procedures in which it is usually applied. Further large prospective data are required to confirm these findings.

Combined Approach to Eptifibatide and Thrombectomy in Acute Ischemic Stroke Because of Large Vessel Occlusion: A Matched-Control Analysis

BACKGROUND

In patients undergoing mechanical thrombectomy (MT), adjunctive antithrombotic might improve angiographic reperfusion, reduce the risk of distal emboli and reocclusion but possibly expose patients to a higher intracranial hemorrhage risk. This study evaluated the safety and efficacy of combined MT plus eptifibatide for acute ischemic stroke.

METHODS

This was a propensity-matched analysis of data from 2 prospective trials in Chinese populations: the ANGEL-ACT trial (Endovascular Treatment Key Technique and Emergency Workflow Improvement of Acute Ischemic Stroke) in 111 hospitals between November 2017 and March 2019, and the EPOCH trial (Eptifibatide in Endovascular Treatment of Acute Ischemic Stroke) in 15 hospitals between April 2019 and March 2020. The primary efficacy outcome was good outcome (modified Rankin Scale score 0-2) at 3 months. Secondary efficacy outcomes included the distribution of 3-month modified Rankin Scale scores and poor outcome (modified Rankin Scale score 5-6) and successful recanalization. The safety outcomes included any intracranial hemorrhage, symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage, and 3-month mortality. Mixed-effects logistic regression models were used to account for within-hospital clustering in adjusted analyses.

RESULTS

Eighty-one combination arm EPOCH subjects were matched with 81 ANGEL-ACT noneptifibatide patients. Compared with the no eptifibatide group, the eptifibatide group had significantly higher rates of successful recanalization (91.3% versus 81.5%; P=0.043) and 3-month good outcomes (53.1% versus 33.3%; P=0.016). No significant difference was found in the remaining outcome measures between the 2 groups. All outcome measures of propensity score matching were consistent with mixed-effects logistic regression models in the total population.

CONCLUSIONS

This matched-control study demonstrated that MT combined with eptifibatide did not raise major safety concerns and showed a trend of better efficacy outcomes compared with MT alone. Overall, eptifibatide shows potential as a periprocedural adjunctive antithrombotic therapy when combined with MT. Further randomized controlled trials of MT plus eptifibatide should be prioritized.

REGISTRATION

URL: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov; Unique identifier: NCT03844594 (EPOCH), NCT03370939 (ANGEL-ACT).

Can Tirofiban Improve the Outcome of Patients With Acute Ischemic Stroke: A Propensity Score Matching Analysis

Objective: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of tirofiban for patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS), especially posterior circulation stroke (PCS).

Methods: We enrolled consecutive patients with AIS who suffered large artery occlusion (LAO) and underwent mechanical thrombectomy (MT) between January 2016 and May 2020. Patients were divided into two groups according to whether tirofiban was used during MT. The primary efficacy outcome was a favorable functional outcome, defined as a modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score of 0–2 at 3 months. The safety outcomes were the rate of mortality at 3 months and the presence of intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) and symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (sICH). Cohorts were balanced using 1:1 propensity score matching (PSM). Subgroup analysis was further performed to compare the efficacy and safety of tirofiban between the anterior circulation stroke (ACS) and PCS groups.

Results: A total of 292 patients were eligible for this study and divided into the tirofiban group (n = 51) and the no-tirofiban group (n = 241). In the propensity-score-matched cohort, the tirofiban group had a higher rate of favorable outcomes than the no-tirofiban group (49.0 vs. 25.5%, p = 0.014), and the mortality at 3 months showed a greater downward trend in the tirofiban group than the no-tirofiban group (15.6 vs. 33.3% p = 0.064). The risk of sICH and ICH was the same between the tirofiban and control groups (17.6 vs. 27.4% p = 0.236, 31.3 vs. 45.1% p = 0.154, respectively). Tirofiban use was predictive of favorable outcomes [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 2.87, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.52–6.44, p = 0.043] after multiple logistic regression analysis. Subgroup analysis revealed that tirofiban use was significantly associated with favorable outcomes in ACS (aOR = 3.66, 95% CI 1.24–5.22, p = 0.019) but not in PCS (aOR = 1.12, 95% CI 0.47–7.52, p = 0.570).

Conclusion: We demonstrated that tirofiban may be associated with improving favorable outcome for the AIS patients who underwent MT, without increasing ICH or sICH. Furthermore, our results indicated that for PCS patients tirofiban may not be associated with favorable outcome, and more comprehensive randomized controlled trials are needed to confirm this finding.

A Multicenter Preliminary Study of Cangrelor following Thrombectomy Failure for Refractory Proximal Intracranial Occlusions

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Rescue endovascular and pharmacologic approaches are increasingly being adopted after recanalization failure of acute large-vessel occlusion strokes with mechanical thrombectomy, with encouraging results. The safety and efficacy of glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitors in ischemic stroke have been investigated, though cangrelor, a recent intravenous P2Y12-receptor inhibitor with a rapid onset/offset of action and a short half-life, may be a valuable option. We compared the safety and efficacy of cangrelor with those of glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitors for refractory occlusions.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We performed a retrospective analysis of the ongoing prospective, multicenter, observational Endovascular Treatment in Ischemic Stroke Registry in France between May 2012 and February 2020. Refractory intracranial occlusions of the anterior and posterior circulation were included and defined as recanalization failure of large-vessel occlusion stroke, perioperative target artery reocclusion, or high risk of early reocclusion related to an arterial wall lesion. The primary end point was a favorable outcome, defined as a 90-day mRS of 0-2. Secondary end points were reperfusion, intracranial hemorrhage, and procedural complications.

RESULTS

Among 69 patients, 15 were treated with cangrelor, and 54, with glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitors. The favorable outcome (adjusted OR = 2.22; 95% CI, 0.42-11.75; P = .348) and mortality (adjusted OR = 0.44; 95% CI, 0.06-3.16; P = .411) rates were similar in both groups. There was no difference in the rates of any intracranial hemorrhage (adjusted OR = 0.40; 95% CI, 0.08-2.09; P = .280), symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (6.7% versus 0.0%, P = .058), or procedural complications (6.7% versus 20.4%, P = .215). Reperfusion rates were higher in the cangrelor group, though the difference did not reach statistical significance (93.3% versus 75.0% for modified TICI 2b-3; adjusted OR =10.88; 95% CI, 0.96-123.84; P = .054).

CONCLUSIONS

Cangrelor seems to be as safe as glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitors for managing refractory intracranial occlusion and leads to satisfactory brain reperfusion. Cangrelor is a promising agent in this setting, and additional studies are warranted to confirm our findings.

The Safety of Intra-arterial Tirofiban during Endovascular Therapy after Intravenous Thrombolysis

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

The safety and efficacy of tirofiban during endovascular therapy in patients undergoing intravenous thrombolysis with recombinant IV tPA remain unclear. This study aimed to investigate the safety and efficacy of intra-arterial tirofiban use during endovascular therapy in patients treated with IV tPA.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Using a multicenter registry, we enrolled patients with acute ischemic stroke who underwent endovascular therapy. Safety outcomes included postprocedural parenchymal hematoma type 2 and/or thick subarachnoid hemorrhage, intraventricular hemorrhage, and 3-month mortality. Efficacy outcomes included the successful reperfusion rate, postprocedural reocclusion, and good outcomes at 3 months (mRS scores of 0-2). The tirofiban effect on the outcomes was evaluated using a multivariable analysis while adjusting for potential confounders.

RESULTS

Among enrolled patients, we identified 314 patients with stroke (279 and 35 patients in the no tirofiban and tirofiban groups, respectively) due to an intracranial artery occlusion who underwent endovascular therapy with intravenous thrombolysis. A multivariable analysis revealed no association of intra-arterial tirofiban with postprocedural parenchymal hematoma type and/or thick subarachnoid hemorrhage (adjusted OR, 1.07; 95% CI, 0.20-4.10; P = .918), intraventricular hemorrhage (adjusted OR, 0.43; 95% CI, 0.02-2.85; P = .467), and 3-month mortality (adjusted OR, 0.38; 95% CI, 0.04-1.87; P = .299). Intra-arterial tirofiban was not associated with good outcome (adjusted OR, 2.22; 95% CI, 0.89 -6.12; P = .099).

CONCLUSIONS

Using intra-arterial tirofiban during endovascular therapy after IV tPA could be safe.

Safety and Efficacy of Direct Angioplasty in Acute Basilar Artery Occlusion Due to Atherosclerosis

Background and Purpose: Endovascular treatment (EVT) is one of the promising treatment options in patients with intracranial atherosclerotic disease (ICAD)-related basilar artery occlusion (BAO). In this study, we compared the safety and efficacy of direct angioplasty (DA) with stent-retriever thrombectomy (SRT) with or without rescue treatment in ICAD-related BAO.

Methods: We retrospectively evaluated 187 patients who underwent EVT for BAO from January 2012 to July 2018. We identified patients who underwent EVT due to ICAD-related BAO. Patients who accepted SRT with or without rescue treatment were classified into the SRT group. Patients treated with DA with or without stent placement were classified into DA group. Clinical and laboratory findings and outcomes were compared between groups.

Results: A total of 108 patients were enrolled, among them 77 underwent SRT and 31 underwent DA; 61 (79.2%) SRT group patients underwent angioplasty with or without stent placement. Compared with patients in the SRT group, those in the DA group experienced a significantly shorter procedure time [60 min (60–120 min) vs. 120 min (60–120 min); p = 0.038] and a lower number of device passes [2 passes (1–2 passes) vs. 3 passes (2–4 passes); p < 0.001]. No significant differences in balloon angioplasty (35.5 vs. 22.1%; p = 0.150), emergent stent placement (64.5 vs. 57.1%; p = 0.481), successful recanalization (93.5 vs. 85.7%; p = 0.340), embolization in distal or new territory (3.2 vs. 9.1%, p = 0.314), and reocclusion (22.6 vs. 9.1%; p = 0.109) among DA and SRT groups were found. Additionally, no differences in symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage incidence [adjusted odds ratio (OR), 0.74; 95% CI, 0.06–9.44; p = 0.815], functional independence (adjusted OR, 1.44; 95% CI, 0.50–4.16; p = 0.497), and mortality rate (adjusted OR, 0.36; 95% CI, 0.06–2.04; p = 0.247) were noted among groups.

Conclusions: In certain patients with ICAD-related BAO, DA may shorten procedure time and reduce required device passes compared to SRT. In this study, DA was retrospectively found to be of similar safety and efficacy as SRT.

Antiplatelet therapy and outcomes following endovascular therapy for acute ischemic stroke: A systemic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

The outcomes of antiplatelet therapy (APT) in patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS) receiving endovascular therapy (EVT) remains controversial. Thus, we sought to make a systematic review and meta-analysis of recent clinical trials to confirm the safety and efficacy of APT.

METHODS

All of clinical trails were systematically retrieved from PubMed, Embase and Cochrane. The endpoints or main outcome measures included symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (sICH), 3-month mortality, successful recanalisation (SR) and 3-month functional independence (FI). Odd ratios (ORs) with their 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated to synthesize effect size by using random-effects models. Sensitivity analysis was performed via calculation of rest data owiting one by one.

RESULTS

23 articles were included after screening. APT as an adjunct to EVT was associated with a higher likelihood of pooled successful recanalisation (OR 1.46, 95% CI 1.07-2.00) and 3-month FI (OR 1.24, 95% CI 1.01-1.51), no associated with sICH and 3-month mortality. However, Sensitivity analysis indicated that the association between APT and SR and 3-month FI were unstable. For patients with prior use of APT or receiving intravenous thrombolysis before EVT, no associated were found between APT and all of endpoints above.

CONCLUSION

Although adjuvant APT appears to increase the number of SR and 3-month FI, the results were unstable. Randomised controlled trials are needed to confirm the efficacy.

Intravenous Tirofiban Infusion After Angioplasty and Stenting in Intracranial Atherosclerotic Stenosis-Related Stroke

[Figure: see text].