Does stereotactic thrombolysis with alteplase for intracerebral haemorrhage alter intraventricular haematoma volume? A secondary analysis of the MISTIE-III trial

BACKGROUND

Stereotactic thrombolysis reduces intracerebral haemorrhage (ICH) volume in patients with spontaneous ICH. Whether intrahaematomal alteplase administration is associated with a change in intraventricular haemorrhage volume (deltaIVH) and functional outcomes is unknown.

METHODS

Post hoc secondary analysis of the Minimally Invasive Surgery plus Alteplase for Intracerebral Hemorrhage Evacuation Phase III (MISTIE-III) trial in patients with IVH on the stability CT scan. Exposure was minimally invasive surgery plus alteplase (MIS+alteplase). Primary outcome was deltaIVH defined as IVH volume on end-of-treatment CT minus IVH volume on stability CT scan. Secondary outcomes were favourable functional outcome (modified Rankin Scale 0-3) and mortality at 365 days. We assessed the relationship between MIS+alteplase and deltaIVH in the primary analysis using multivariable linear regression, and between deltaIVH and functional outcomes in secondary analyses using multiple logistic regression.

RESULTS

Of 499 patients in MISTIE-III, 310 (62.1%) had IVH on stability scans; mean age (SD) was 61.2±12.3 years. A total of 146 (47.1%) received the MISTIE procedure and 164 (52.9%) standard medical care (SMC) only. The MIS+alteplase group had a greater mean reduction in IVH volume compared with the SMC group (deltaIVH: -2.35 (5.30) mL vs -1.15 (2.96) mL, p=0.02). While IVH volume decreased significantly in both treatment groups, in the primary analysis, MIS+alteplase was associated with greater deltaIVH in multivariable linear regression analysis adjusted for potential confounders (β -0.80; 95% CI -1.37 to -0.22, p=0.007). Secondary analysis demonstrated no associations between IVH reduction and functional outcomes (adjusted OR (aOR) for poor outcome 1.02; 95% CI 0.96 to 1.08, p=0.61; aOR for mortality 0.99; 95% CI 0.92 to 1.06, p=0.77).

CONCLUSIONS

Alteplase delivered into the ICH in MISTIE-III subjects with IVH was associated with a small reduction in IVH volume. This reduction did not translate into a significant benefit in mortality or functional outcomes at 365 days.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT01827046.

Clinical Trial Protocol for BEACH: A Phase 2a Study of MW189 in Patients with Acute Nontraumatic Intracerebral Hemorrhage

Patients with acute spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) develop secondary neuroinflammation and cerebral edema that can further damage the brain and lead to increased risk of neurologic complications. Preclinical studies in animal models of acute brain injury have shown that a novel small-molecule drug candidate, MW01-6-189WH (MW189), decreases neuroinflammation and cerebral edema and improves functional outcomes. MW189 was also safe and well tolerated in phase 1 studies in healthy adults. The proof-of-concept phase 2a Biomarker and Edema Attenuation in IntraCerebral Hemorrhage (BEACH) clinical trial is a first-in-patient, multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. It is designed to determine the safety and tolerability of MW189 in patients with acute ICH, identify trends in potential mitigation of neuroinflammation and cerebral edema, and assess effects on functional outcomes. A total of 120 participants with nontraumatic ICH will be randomly assigned 1:1 to receive intravenous MW189 (0.25 mg/kg) or placebo (saline) within 24 h of symptom onset and every 12 h for up to 5 days or until hospital discharge. The 120-participant sample size (60 per group) will allow testing of the null hypothesis of noninferiority with a tolerance limit of 12% and assuming a "worst-case" safety assumption of 10% rate of death in each arm with 10% significance and 80% power. The primary outcome is all-cause mortality at 7 days post randomization between treatment arms. Secondary end points include all-cause mortality at 30 days, perihematomal edema volume after symptom onset, adverse events, vital signs, pharmacokinetics of MW189, and inflammatory cytokine concentrations in plasma (and cerebrospinal fluid if available). Other exploratory end points are functional outcomes collected on days 30, 90, and 180. BEACH will provide important information about the utility of targeting neuroinflammation in ICH and will inform the design of future larger trials of acute central nervous system injury.

Association Between Neutrophil-Lymphocyte Ratio and 30-Day Infection and Thrombotic Outcomes After Intraventricular Hemorrhage: A CLEAR III Analysis

BACKGROUND

Serum neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) is a surrogate marker for the inflammatory response after intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) and is associated with perihematomal edema and long-term functional outcomes. Whether NLR is associated with short-term ICH complications is poorly understood. We hypothesized that NLR is associated with 30-day infection and thrombotic events after ICH.

METHODS

We performed a post hoc exploratory analysis of the Clot Lysis: Evaluating Accelerated Resolution of Intraventricular Hemorrhage III trial. The study exposure was the serum NLR obtained at baseline and on days 3 and 5. The coprimary outcomes, ascertained at 30 days, were any infection and a thrombotic event, defined as composite of cerebral infarction, myocardial infarction, or venous thromboembolism; both infection and thrombotic event were determined through adjudicated adverse event reporting. Binary logistic regression was used to study the relationship between NLR and outcomes, after adjustment for demographics, ICH severity and location, and treatment randomization.

RESULTS

Among the 500 patients enrolled in the Clot Lysis: Evaluating Accelerated Resolution of Intraventricular Hemorrhage III trial, we included 303 (60.6%) without missing data on differential white blood cell counts at baseline. There were no differences in demographics, comorbidities, or ICH severity between patients with and without data on NLR. In adjusted logistic regression models, NLR ascertained at baseline (odds ratio [OR] 1.03; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.01-1.07, p = 0.03) and NLR ascertained at day 3 were associated with infection (OR 1.15; 95% CI 1.05-1.20, p = 0.001) but not with thrombotic events. Conversely, NLR at day 5 was associated with thrombotic events (OR 1.07, 95% CI 1.01-1.13, p = 0.03) but not with infection (OR 1.13; 95% CI 0.76-1.70, p = 0.56). NLR at baseline was not associated with either outcome.

CONCLUSIONS

Serum NLR ascertained at baseline and on day 3 after randomization was associated with 30-day infection, whereas NLR obtained on day 5 was associated with thrombotic events after ICH, suggesting that NLR could be a potential early biomarker for ICH-related complications.

Association Between Hematoma Volume and Risk of Subsequent Ischemic Stroke: A MISTIE III and ATACH-2 Analysis

BACKGROUND

Nontraumatic intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) is independently associated with a long-term increased risk of major arterial ischemic events. While the relationship between ICH location and ischemic risk has been studied, whether hematoma volume influences this risk is poorly understood.

METHODS

We pooled individual patient data from the MISTIE III (Minimally Invasive Surgery Plus Alteplase for Intracerebral Hemorrhage Evacuation Phase 3) and the ATACH-2 (Antihypertensive Treatment of Acute Cerebral Hemorrhage-2) trials. The exposure was hematoma volume, treated as a continuous measure in the primary analysis, and dichotomized by the median in the secondary analyses. The outcome was a symptomatic, clinically overt ischemic stroke, adjudicated centrally within each trial. We evaluated the association between hematoma volume and the risk of an ischemic stroke using Cox regression analyses after adjustment for demographics, vascular comorbidities, and ICH characteristics.

RESULTS

Of 1470 patients with ICH, the mean age was 61.7 (SD, 12.8) years, and 574 (38.3%) were female. The median hematoma volume was 17.3 mL (interquartile range, 7.2-35.7). During a median follow-up of 107 days (interquartile range, 91-140), a total of 30 ischemic strokes occurred, of which 22 were in patients with a median ICH volume of ≥17.3 mL and a cumulative incidence of 4.6% (95% CI, 3.1-7.1). Among patients with a median ICH volume <17.3 mL, there were 8 ischemic strokes with a cumulative incidence of 3.1% (95% CI, 1.7-6.0). In primary analyses using adjusted Cox regression models, ICH volume was associated with an increased risk of ischemic stroke (hazard ratio, 1.02 per mL increase [95% CI, 1.01-1.04]). In secondary analyses, ICH volume of ≥17.3 mL was associated with an increased risk of ischemic stroke (hazard ratio, 2.5 [95% CI, 1.1-7.2]), compared with those with an ICH volume <17.3 mL.

CONCLUSIONS

In a heterogeneous cohort of patients with ICH, initial hematoma volume was associated with a heightened short-term risk of ischemic stroke.

Catheter Tract Hemorrhages and Intracerebral Hemorrhage Outcomes in the Clot Lysis: Evaluating Accelerated Resolution of Intraventricular Hemorrhage Trial

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Factors associated with external ventricular catheter tract hemorrhage (CTH) are well studied; whether CTH adversely influence outcomes after intracerebral hemorrhage (sICH), however, is poorly understood. We therefore sought to evaluate the association between CTH and sICH outcomes.

METHODS

We performed a post hoc analysis of the Clot Lysis: Evaluating Accelerated Resolution of Intraventricular Hemorrhage trial. The exposure was CTH and evaluated on serial computed tomography scans between admission and randomization (approximately 72 hours). The primary outcomes were a composite of death or major disability (modified Rankin Score >3) and mortality alone, both assessed at 6 months. Secondary outcomes were functional outcomes at 30 days, permanent cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) shunt placement, any infection, and ventriculitis. We performed logistic regression adjusted for demographics, comorbidities, sICH characteristics, and treatment assignment, for all analyses.

RESULTS

Of the 500 patients included, the mean age was 59 (SD, ±11) years and 222 (44%) were female. CTH occurred in 112 (22.4%) patients and was more common in minority patients, those on prior antiplatelet therapy, and patients who had more than 1 external ventricular drain placed. The end of treatment intraventricular hemorrhage volume was higher among patients with CTH (11.7 vs 7.9 mL, P = .01), but there were no differences in other sICH characteristics or the total duration of external ventricular drain. In multivariable regression models, CTH was not associated with death or major disability (odds ratio, 0.7; 95% CI: 0.4-1.2) or death alone (odds ratio, 0.8; 95% CI, 0.5-1.4). There were no relationships between CTH and secondary outcomes including 30-day functional outcomes, permanent CSF shunt placement, any infection, or ventriculitis.

CONCLUSION

Among patients with sICH and large intraventricular hemorrhage, CTH was not associated with poor sICH outcomes, permanent CSF shunt placement, or infections. A more detailed cognitive evaluation is needed to inform about the role of CTH in sICH prognosis.

Neonatal Survival After Serial Amnioinfusions for Bilateral Renal Agenesis: The Renal Anhydramnios Fetal Therapy Trial

Importance

Early anhydramnios during pregnancy, resulting from fetal bilateral renal agenesis, causes lethal pulmonary hypoplasia in neonates. Restoring amniotic fluid via serial amnioinfusions may promote lung development, enabling survival.

Objective

To assess neonatal outcomes of serial amnioinfusions initiated before 26 weeks' gestation to mitigate lethal pulmonary hypoplasia.

Design, Setting, and Participants

Prospective, nonrandomized clinical trial conducted at 9 US fetal therapy centers between December 2018 and July 2022. Outcomes are reported for 21 maternal-fetal pairs with confirmed anhydramnios due to isolated fetal bilateral renal agenesis without other identified congenital anomalies.

Exposure

Enrolled participants initiated ultrasound-guided percutaneous amnioinfusions of isotonic fluid before 26 weeks' gestation, with frequency of infusions individualized to maintain normal amniotic fluid levels for gestational age.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary end point was postnatal infant survival to 14 days of life or longer with dialysis access placement.

Results

The trial was stopped early based on an interim analysis of 18 maternal-fetal pairs given concern about neonatal morbidity and mortality beyond the primary end point despite demonstration of the efficacy of the intervention. There were 17 live births (94%), with a median gestational age at delivery of 32 weeks, 4 days (IQR, 32-34 weeks). All participants delivered prior to 37 weeks' gestation. The primary outcome was achieved in 14 (82%) of 17 live-born infants (95% CI, 44%-99%). Factors associated with survival to the primary outcome included a higher number of amnioinfusions (P = .01), gestational age greater than 32 weeks (P = .005), and higher birth weight (P = .03). Only 6 (35%) of the 17 neonates born alive survived to hospital discharge while receiving peritoneal dialysis at a median age of 24 weeks of life (range, 12-32 weeks).

Conclusions and Relevance

Serial amnioinfusions mitigated lethal pulmonary hypoplasia but were associated with preterm delivery. The lower rate of survival to discharge highlights the additional mortality burden independent of lung function. Additional long-term data are needed to fully characterize the outcomes in surviving neonates and assess the morbidity and mortality burden.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03101891.

Mechanistic Evaluation of Diffusion Weighted Hyperintense Lesions After Large Spontaneous Intracerebral Hemorrhage: A Subgroup Analysis of MISTIE III

BACKGROUND

Ischemic lesions on diffusion weighted imaging (DWI) are common after acute spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) but are poorly understood for large ICH volumes (> 30 mL). We hypothesized that large blood pressure drops and effect modification by cerebral small vessel disease markers on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are associated with DWI lesions.

METHODS

This was an exploratory analysis of participants in the Minimally Invasive Surgery Plus Alteplase for Intracerebral Hemorrhage Evacuation phase 3 trial with protocolized brain MRI scans within 7 days from ICH. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to assess biologically relevant factors associated with DWI lesions, and relationships between DWI lesions and favorable ICH outcomes (modified Rankin Scale 0-3).

RESULTS

Of 499 enrolled patients, 300 had MRI at median 7.5 days (interquartile range 7-8), and 178 (59%) had DWI lesions. The incidence of DWI lesions was higher in patients with systolic blood pressure (SBP) reduction ≥ 80 mm Hg in first 24 h (76%). In adjusted models, factors associated with DWI lesions were as follows: admission intraventricular hematoma volume (p = 0.03), decrease in SBP ≥ 80 mm Hg from admission to day 1 (p = 0.03), and moderate-to-severe white matter disease (p = 0.01). Patients with DWI lesions had higher odds of severe disability at 1 month (p = 0.04), 6 months (p = 0.036), and 12 months (p < 0.01). No evidence of effect modification by cerebral small vessel disease on blood pressure was found.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with large hypertensive ICH, white matter disease, intraventricular hemorrhage volume, and large reductions in SBP over the first 24 h were independently associated with DWI lesions. Further investigation of potential hemodynamic mechanisms of ischemic injury after large ICH is warranted.

Cerebral small vessel disease modifies outcomes after minimally invasive surgery for intracerebral haemorrhage

BACKGROUND

Minimally invasive surgery (MIS) for spontaneous supratentorial intracerebral haemorrhage (ICH) is controversial but may be beneficial if end-of-treatment (EOT) haematoma volume is reduced to ≤15 mL. We explored whether MRI findings of cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD) modify the effect of MIS on long-term outcomes.

METHODS

Prespecified blinded subgroup analysis of 288 subjects with qualified imaging sequences from the phase 3 Minimally Invasive Surgery Plus Alteplase for Intracerebral Haemorrhage Evacuation (MISTIE) trial. We tested for heterogeneity in the effects of MIS and MIS+EOT volume ≤15 mL on the trial's primary outcome of good versus poor function at 1 year by the presence of single CSVD features and CSVD scores using multivariable models.

RESULTS

Of 499 patients enrolled in MISTIE III, 288 patients had MRI, 149 (51.7%) randomised to MIS and 139 (48.3%) to standard medical care (SMC). Median (IQR) ICH volume was 42 (30-53) mL. In the full MRI cohort, there was no statistically significant heterogeneity in the effects of MIS versus SMC on 1-year outcomes by any specific CSVD feature or by CSVD scores (all Pinteraction >0.05). In 94 MIS patients with EOT ICH volume ≤15 mL, significant reduction in odds of poor outcome was found with cerebral amyloid angiopathy score <2 (OR, 0.14 (0.05-0.42); Pinteraction=0.006), absence of lacunes (OR, 0.37 (0.18-0.80); Pinteraction=0.02) and absence of severe white matter hyperintensities (WMHs) (OR, 0.22 (0.08-0.58); Pinteraction=0.03).

CONCLUSIONS

Following successful haematoma reduction by MIS, we found significantly lower odds of poor functional outcome with lower total burden of CSVD in addition to absence of lacunes and severe WMHs. CSVD features may have utility for prognostication and patient selection in clinical trials of MIS.

Abstract WP121: Can The Extended Glasgow Outcome Scale (e-gos) Augment The Interpretation Of Results From Clinical Trials Of Minimally Invasive Surgery Of Spontaneous Intracerebral Hemorrhage Using The Modified Rankin Scale (mrs): A Secondary Analysis Of The Clear-iii And Mistie-iii Trials

Introduction: Currently, the modified Rankin scale (mRS) is most commonly used to assess functional outcome in clinical trials of interventions for spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). Extended Glasgow Outcome Score (eGOS) is often used to assess global disability/recovery after traumatic brain injury and provides additional discrimination of vegetative state (VS) from lower severe disability (LSD). We compared primary outcomes from 2 clinical trials of minimally invasive surgery for intracerebral and intraventricular hemorrhage (ICH/IVH) at different thresholds of eGOS.

Methods: Post-hoc analysis of primary outcomes (PO) from the CLEAR-III trial (intraventricular alteplase [IVtPA] vs. saline for obstructive IVH; N=500; PO: mRS 0-3 at day 180), and MISTIE-III trial (stereotactic thrombolysis [MIS+tPA] vs. conservative management; N=499; PO: mRS 0-3 at day 365). eGOS was derived from functional outcome scales obtained during the trials. Outcomes on eGOS were categorized into 5 subgroups: good outcomes: 7-8 (A), 5-6 (B), 4 (C), and poor outcomes: 3 (D), and 1-2 (E). Generalized, ordered logistic regression analysis was performed, adjusting for age, ICH location, stability ICH and IVH volumes, and randomization GCS.

Results: eGOS scales were available in 481 (96%) patients at day 180 in CLEAR-III and 478 (96%) patients at day 365 in MISTIE-III. In CLEAR-III, odds of being in eGOS category D (LSD) or E (death or VS) vs. the others, were approximately 40% lower for IVtPA group compared to saline group (aOR = 0.59; 95% CI, 0.38-0.90; p=0.016), and odds of being in category E (vs. the others) were almost 50% lower (aOR = 0.51; 95% CI, 0.33-0.80; p=0.004). VS occurred in 2.49% of IVtPA and 2.07% of saline group patients. In MISTIE-III, odds of being in eGOS category D or E (vs. the others) were not significantly different for MIS+tPA vs. conservative treatment: aOR = 0.84; 95% CI, 0.55-1.28; p=0.41), as were odds for being in eGOS category E (vs. the others), aOR = 0.77; 95% CI, 0.48-1.24; p=0.29).

Conclusions: The 5-category dichotomized eGOS (4-8 vs. 1-3) defines a functional outcome improvement in CLEAR-III at day 180, which was not observed using the PO with mRS. Use of eGOS did not result in a different interpretation of the MISTIE-III trial.

Abstract TP121: Association Between Neutrophil-lymphocyte Ratio And 30-day Infection And Thrombotic Outcomes After Intracerebral Hemorrhage: A CLEAR III Analysis

Introduction: Serum neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) is a surrogate marker for the inflammatory response after intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH), and is associated with perihematomal edema and long-term functional outcomes. Whether NLR is associated with short-term ICH complications is poorly understood.

Hypothesis: NLR is associated with 30-day infection and thrombotic events after ICH.

Methods: We performed a post hoc exploratory analysis of the Clot Lysis: Evaluating Accelerated Resolution of Intraventricular Hemorrhage (CLEAR) III trial. The study exposure was the serum NLR obtained at baseline, and on days 3 and 5. The co-primary outcomes, ascertained at 30 days, were any infection and a thrombotic event, defined as composite of cerebral infarction, myocardial infarction, or venous thromboembolism; both infection and thrombotic event were determined via adjudicated adverse event reporting. Binary logistic regression was used to study the relationship between NLR and outcomes, after adjustment for demographics, ICH severity and location, and treatment randomization.

Results: Among the 500 patients enrolled in CLEAR III, we included 228 (45.6%) with no missing data on daily NLR in the first week. There were no differences in demographics, comorbidities, or ICH severity between patients with and without data on NLR. In adjusted logistic regression models, NLR at day 3 was associated with infection (OR, 1.2; 95% CI, 1.01-1.26), but not with thrombotic events (OR, 0.96; 95% CI, 0.85-1.10). Conversely, NLR at day 5 was associated with thrombotic events (OR, 1.2, 95% CI, 1.01-1.26), but not with infections (OR, 1.03; 95% CI, 0.94-1.14). NLR at baseline was not associated with either outcome.

Conclusions: Serum NLR ascertained between days 3 and 5 was associated with 30-day infection and thrombotic events after ICH, suggesting that NLR could be a potential early biomarker for ICH-related complications.

Association of Intraventricular Fibrinolysis With Clinical Outcomes in Intracerebral Hemorrhage: An Individual Participant Data Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

In patients with intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH), the presence of intraventricular hemorrhage constitutes a promising therapeutic target. Intraventricular fibrinolysis (IVF) reduces mortality, yet impact on functional disability remains unclear. Thus, we aimed to determine the influence of IVF on functional outcomes.

METHODS

This individual participant data meta-analysis pooled 1501 patients from 2 randomized trials and 7 observational studies enrolled during 2004 to 2015. We compared IVF versus standard of care (including placebo) in patients treated with external ventricular drainage due to acute hydrocephalus caused by ICH with intraventricular hemorrhage. The primary outcome was functional disability evaluated by the modified Rankin Scale (mRS; range: 0-6, lower scores indicating less disability) at 6 months, dichotomized into mRS score: 0 to 3 versus mRS: 4 to 6. Secondary outcomes included ordinal-shift analysis, all-cause mortality, and intracranial adverse events. Confounding and bias were adjusted by random effects and doubly robust models to calculate odds ratios and absolute treatment effects (ATE).

RESULTS

Comparing treatment of 596 with IVF to 905 with standard of care resulted in an ATE to achieve the primary outcome of 9.3% (95% CI, 4.4-14.1). IVF treatment showed a significant shift towards improved outcome across the entire range of mRS estimates, common odds ratio, 1.75 (95% CI, 1.39-2.17), reduced mortality, odds ratio, 0.47 (95% CI, 0.35-0.64), without increased adverse events, absolute difference, 1.0% (95% CI, -2.7 to 4.8). Exploratory analyses provided that early IVF treatment (≤48 hours) after symptom onset was associated with an ATE, 15.2% (95% CI, 8.6-21.8) to achieve the primary outcome.

CONCLUSIONS

As compared to standard of care, the administration of IVF in patients with acute hydrocephalus caused by intracerebral and intraventricular hemorrhage was significantly associated with improved functional outcome at 6 months. The treatment effect was linked to an early time window <48 hours, specifying a target population for future trials.

One-Year Outcome Trajectories and Factors Associated with Functional Recovery Among Survivors of Intracerebral and Intraventricular Hemorrhage With Initial Severe Disability

Importance

Patients who survive severe intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) and intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) typically have poor functional outcome in the short term and understanding of future recovery is limited.

Objective

To describe 1-year recovery trajectories among ICH and IVH survivors with initial severe disability and assess the association of hospital events with long-term recovery.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This post hoc analysis pooled all individual patient data from the Clot Lysis: Evaluating Accelerated Resolution of Intraventricular Hemorrhage phase 3 trial (CLEAR-III) and the Minimally Invasive Surgery Plus Alteplase for Intracerebral Hemorrhage Evacuation (MISTIE-III) phase 3 trial in multiple centers across the US, Canada, Europe, and Asia. Patients were enrolled from August 1, 2010, to September 30, 2018, with a follow-up duration of 1 year. Of 999 enrolled patients, 724 survived with a day 30 modified Rankin Scale score (mRS) of 4 to 5 after excluding 13 participants with missing day 30 mRS. An additional 9 patients were excluded because of missing 1-year mRS. The final pooled cohort included 715 patients (71.6%) with day 30 mRS 4 to 5. Data were analyzed from July 2019 to January 2022.

Exposures

CLEAR-III participants randomized to intraventricular alteplase vs placebo. MISTIE-III participants randomized to stereotactic thrombolysis of hematoma vs standard medical care.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Primary outcome was 1-year mRS. Patients were dichotomized into good outcome at 1 year (mRS 0 to 3) vs poor outcome at 1 year (mRS 4 to 6). Multivariable logistic regression models assessed associations between prospectively adjudicated hospital events and 1-year good outcome after adjusting for demographic characteristics, ICH and IVH severity, and trial cohort.

Results

Of 715 survivors, 417 (58%) were male, and the overall mean (SD) age was 60.3 (11.7) years. Overall, 174 participants (24.3%) were Black, 491 (68.6%) were White, and 49 (6.9%) were of other races (including Asian, Native American, and Pacific Islander, consolidated owing to small numbers); 98 (13.7%) were of Hispanic ethnicity. By 1 year, 129 participants (18%) had died and 308 (43%) had achieved mRS 0 to 3. In adjusted models for the combined cohort, diabetes (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 0.50; 95% CI, 0.26-0.96), National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (aOR, 0.93; 95% CI, 0.90-0.96), severe leukoaraiosis (aOR, 0.30; 95% CI, 0.16-0.54), pineal gland shift (aOR, 0.87; 95% CI, 0.76-0.99]), acute ischemic stroke (aOR, 0.44; 95% CI, 0.21-0.94), gastrostomy (aOR, 0.30; 95% CI, 0.17-0.50), and persistent hydrocephalus by day 30 (aOR, 0.37; 95% CI, 0.14-0.98) were associated with lack of recovery. Resolution of ICH (aOR, 1.82; 95% CI, 1.08-3.04) and IVH (aOR, 2.19; 95% CI, 1.02-4.68) by day 30 were associated with recovery to good outcome. In the CLEAR-III model, cerebral perfusion pressure less than 60 mm Hg (aOR, 0.30; 95% CI, 0.13-0.71), sepsis (aOR, 0.05; 95% CI, 0.00-0.80), and prolonged mechanical ventilation (aOR, 0.96; 95% CI, 0.92-1.00 per day), and in MISTIE-III, need for intracranial pressure monitoring (aOR, 0.35; 95% CI, 0.12-0.98), were additional factors associated with poor outcome. Thirty-day event-based models strongly predicted 1-year outcome (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve [AUC], 0.87; 95% CI, 0.83-0.90), with significantly improved discrimination over models using baseline severity factors alone (AUC, 0.76; 95% CI, 0.71-0.80; P < .001).

Conclusions and Relevance

Among survivors of severe ICH and IVH with initial poor functional outcome, more than 40% recovered to good outcome by 1 year. Hospital events were strongly associated with long-term functional recovery and may be potential targets for intervention. Avoiding early pessimistic prognostication and delaying prognostication until after treatment may improve ability to predict future recovery.

Intraventricular Hemorrhage Expansion in the CLEAR III Trial: A Post Hoc Exploratory Analysis

BACKGROUND

The objective of this study was to evaluate factors associated with intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) expansion and its association with long-term outcomes.

METHODS

We performed a post hoc analysis of the international, multi-center CLEAR III trial (Clot Lysis: Evaluating Accelerated Resolution of Intraventricular Hemorrhage) which enrolled IVH patients between September 1, 2009, and January 31, 2015. The exposure was IVH expansion, defined as >1 mL increase in volume between baseline and stability computed tomography scans, before treatment randomization. We assessed factors associated with IVH expansion and secondarily assessed the relationship of IVH expansion with clinical outcomes: composite of death or major disability (modified Rankin Scale score, >3), and mortality alone at 6 months. The relationship of IVH expansion on ventriculoperitoneal shunt placement was additionally explored. Multivariable logistic regression was used for all analyses.

RESULTS

Of 500 IVH patients analyzed, the mean age was 59 (±11) years old, 44% were female and 135 (27%) had IVH expansion. In multivariable regression models, factors associated with IVH expansion were baseline parenchymal intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) volume (adjusted odds ratio [OR], 1.04 per 1 mL increase [95% CI, 1.01-1.08]), presence of parenchymal hematoma expansion: >33% (adjusted OR, 6.63 [95% CI, 3.92-11.24]), time to stability head CT (adjusted OR, 0.71 per 1 hour increase [95% CI, 0.54-0.94]), and thalamic hematoma location (adjusted OR, 1.68 [95% CI, 1.01-2.79]) while additionally adjusting for age, sex, and race. In secondary analyses, IVH expansion was associated with higher odds of poor 6-month outcomes (adjusted OR, 1.84 [95% CI, 1.12-3.02]) but not mortality (OR, 1.40 [95% CI, 0.78-2.50]) after adjusting for baseline ICH volume, thalamic ICH location, age, anticoagulant use, Glasgow Coma Scale score, any withdrawal of care order, and treatment randomization arm. However, there were no relationships of IVH expansion on subsequent ventriculoperitoneal shunt placement (adjusted OR, 1.02 [95% CI, 0.58-1.80]) after adjusting for similar covariates.

CONCLUSIONS

In a clinical trial cohort of patients with large IVH, acute hematoma characteristics, specifically larger parenchymal volume, hematoma expansion, and thalamic ICH location were associated with IVH expansion. Given that IVH expansion resulted in poor functional outcomes, exploration of treatment approaches to optimize hemostasis and prevent IVH expansion, particularly in patients with thalamic ICH, require further study.

REGISTRATION

URL: https://www.

CLINICALTRIALS

gov; Unique identifier: NCT00784134.

Cerebral Microbleeds and Acute Hematoma Characteristics in the ATACH-2 and MISTIE III Trials

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

To study the relationship between the presence of cerebral microbleeds (CMBs) and acute hematoma characteristics among patients with primary intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH).

METHODS

We pooled individual patient data from the Antihypertensive Treatment of Acute Cerebral Hemorrhage 2 (ATACH-2) trial and the Minimally Invasive Surgery Plus Alteplase for Intracerebral Hemorrhage Evacuation phase 3 (MISTIE III) trial. We included individuals with a brain MRI scan. Exposure was the presence of a CMB. The coprimary outcomes were admission ICH volume and hematoma expansion. Mixed-effects linear and logistic regression models were used, with demographics and comorbid conditions considered fixed effects and the study cohort treated as a random effect. Additional analyses assessed the relationship between CMB topography and number and hematoma characteristics.

RESULTS

Of the 1,499 patients with ICH enrolled in the parent trials, 466 (31.1%) were included in this analysis, and 231 (49.6%) patients had CMBs. In adjusted models, presence of CMBs was associated with smaller ICH volume (β = -0.26, 95% confidence interval [CI] -0.44 to -0.08) and lower odds of hematoma expansion (odds ratio 0.65, 95% CI 0.40-0.95; p = 0.04). The strength of association between CMBs and hematoma characteristics increased with increasing number of CMBs. The location of the CMBs and the severity of leukoaraiosis did not modify these results.

DISCUSSION

In a pooled cohort of patients with ICH, our results are consistent with the hypothesis that more severe underlying small vessel disease, as represented by CMBs, leads to smaller baseline hematoma volumes and reduced hematoma expansion. Underlying cerebral small vessel disease may be of prognostic significance after ICH.

TRIAL REGISTRATION INFORMATION

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT01176565 and NCT01827046.

CLASSIFICATION OF EVIDENCE

This study provides Class II evidence that the presence of microbleeds on MRI is associated with a smaller ICH volume at presentation and a lower rate of hematoma expansion on follow-up imaging.

Abstract TP131: Association Of Hemoglobin Over The First Week With Clinical Outcomes And Neuroimaging Characteristics In Patients With Spontaneous Intracerebral Hemorrhage

Introduction: Studies have shown independent associations of lower admission hemoglobin (HB) levels with larger spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) volumes and poor outcomes, possibly mediated by hematoma expansion (HE).

Objective: We retrospectively investigated the association of HB levels over the first week post ICH with functional outcomes (FO) and neuroimaging findings in patients with spontaneous ICH (>30 mL). We explored whether comorbidities modify the effects of HB.

Methods: We analyzed HB levels from subjects enrolled in the Minimally Invasive Surgery Plus Alteplase for Intracerebral Hemorrhage Evacuation phase 3 trial (MISTIE III). The exposure was admission HB and the HB nadir in the first week. The primary outcome was good FO at 180 days, defined as modified Rankin Scale of 0-3. Secondary outcomes were good FO at 365 days, 30-day mortality, admission ICH volume, and HE (>6 mL). Linear and logistic regression models were used to test the association of HB with clinical outcomes and neuroimaging findings. All models were adjusted for age, sex, race, treatment (medical Vs. MISTIE), Glasgow Coma Scale, ICH volume, presence of intraventricular hemorrhage, and ICH location (deep Vs. lobar). We investigated effect modification of comorbidities on association of HB with FO.

Results: A total of 493 of 499 enrolled patients (61% males, mean age 61(SD=12) years, median ICH volume 41.8 (IQR=30.8-51.5) mL) were included. Patients with good FO at 180 days had a higher admission HB (13.2 Vs. 12.6 g/dl, p=0.001) and a higher nadir HB (11.7 Vs. 10.9 g/dl, p<0.001). In adjusted analyses, each additional g/dl in nadir HB (but not admission HB) was associated with higher odds of good FO at 180 (OR 1.29, p=0.005) and 365 (OR 1.18, P=0.048) days. Baseline (B= -1.16, p=0.02) and nadir HB (B= -1.71, p=0.001) were inversely associated with hematoma volumes, but not with HE. There was evidence of heterogeneity in the effects of diabetes on the association of nadir HB with day 180 FO (OR 0.67; p interaction = 0.045).

Conclusions: In patients with ICH > 30 mL, higher nadir HB in the first week was associated with better long-term FO and smaller ICH volumes, but not with HE. Early hemoglobin changes may serve as a prognostic biomarker and a potentially modifiable factor to improve FO.

Association Between Intraventricular Alteplase Use and Parenchymal Hematoma Volume in Patients With Spontaneous Intracerebral Hemorrhage and Intraventricular Hemorrhage

IMPORTANCE

Intraventricular thrombolysis reduces intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) volume in patients with spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH), but it is unclear if a similar association with parenchymal ICH volume exists.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the association between intraventricular alteplase use and ICH volume as well as the association between a change in parenchymal ICH volume and long-term functional outcomes.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

This cohort study was a post hoc exploratory analysis of data from the Clot Lysis: Evaluating Accelerated Resolution of Intraventricular Hemorrhage phase 3 randomized clinical trial with blinded outcome assessments. Between September 1, 2009, and January 31, 2015, patients with ICH and IVH were randomized to receive either intraventricular alteplase or normal saline via an external ventricular drain. Participants with primary IVH were excluded. Data analyses were performed between January 1 and June 30, 2021.

EXPOSURE

Randomization to receive intraventricular alteplase.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

The primary outcome was the change in parenchymal ICH volume between the hematoma stability and end-of-treatment computed tomography scans. Secondary outcomes were a modified Rankin Scale score higher than 3 and mortality, both of which were assessed at 6 months. The association between alteplase and change in parenchymal ICH volume was assessed using multiple linear regression, whereas the associations between change in parenchymal ICH volume and 6-month outcomes were assessed using multiple logistic regression. Prespecified subgroup analyses were performed for baseline IVH volume, admission ICH volume, and ICH location.

RESULTS

A total of 454 patients (254 men [55.9%]; mean [SD] age, 59 [11] years) were included in the study. Of these patients, 230 (50.7%) were randomized to receive alteplase and 224 (49.3%) to receive normal saline. The alteplase group had a greater mean (SD) reduction in parenchymal ICH volume compared with the saline group (1.8 [0.2] mL vs 0.4 [0.1] mL; P < .001). In the primary analysis, alteplase use was associated with a change in the parenchymal ICH volume in the unadjusted analysis per 1-mL change (β, 1.37; 95% CI, 0.92-1.81; P < .001) and in multivariable linear regression analysis that was adjusted for demographic characteristics, stability ICH and IVH volumes, ICH location, and time to first dose of study drug per 1-mL change (β, 1.20; 95% CI, 0.79-1.62; P < .001). In the secondary analyses, no association was found between change in parenchymal ICH volume and poor outcome (odds ratio [OR], 0.97; 95% CI 0.87-1.10; P = .64) or mortality (OR, 0.97; 95% CI 0.99-1.08; P = .59). Similar results were observed in the subgroup analyses.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

This study found that intraventricular alteplase use in patients with a large IVH was associated with a small reduction in parenchymal ICH volume, but this association did not translate into improved functional outcomes or mortality. Intraventricular thrombolysis should be examined in patients with moderate to large ICH with IVH, especially in a thalamic location.

Post-Stroke Depression in Patients with Large Spontaneous Intracerebral Hemorrhage

OBJECTIVES

To determine factors associated with post-stroke depression (PSD) and relationship between PSD and functional outcomes in spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) using prospective data from a large clinical trial.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

MISTIE III, a randomized, multicenter, placebo-controlled trial, was conducted to determine if minimally invasive surgery with thrombolysis improves outcome compared to standard medical care. Our primary outcome was post-stroke depression at 180 days. Secondary outcomes were change in blinded assessment of modified Rankin Scale (mRS) from 30 to 180 days, and from 180 to 365 days. Logistic regression models were used to assess the relationship between PSD and outcomes.

RESULTS

Among 379 survivors at day 180, 308 completed Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale, of which 111 (36%) were depressed. In the multivariable analysis, female sex (Adjusted Odds Ratio [AOR], 95% Confidence Interval [CI]: 1.93 [1.07-3.48]), Hispanic ethnicity (3.05 [1.19-7.85]), intraventricular hemorrhage (1.88 [1.02-3.45]), right-sided lesions (3.00 [1.43-6.29]), impaired mini mental state examination at day 30 (2.50 [1.13-5.54]), and not being at home at day 30 (3.17 [1.05-9.57]) were significantly associated with higher odds of PSD. Patients with PSD were significantly more likely to have unchanged or worsening mRS from day 30 to 180 (42.3% vs. 25.9%; p=0.004), but not from day 180 to 365.

CONCLUSIONS

We report high burden of PSD in patients with large volume ICH. Impaired cognition and not living at home may be more important than physical limitations in predicting PSD. Increased screening of high-risk post-stroke patients for depression, especially females and Hispanics may be warranted.

Intracranial Pressure and Cerebral Perfusion Pressure in Large Spontaneous Intracranial Hemorrhage and Impact of Minimally Invasive Surgery

Introduction: We investigated the effect of hematoma volume reduction with minimally invasive surgery (MIS) on intracranial pressure (ICP) and cerebral perfusion pressure (CPP) in patients with large spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH).

Methods:Post-hoc analysis of the Minimally Invasive Surgery Plus Alteplase for Intracerebral Hemorrhage Evacuation (MISTIE III) study, a clinical trial with blinded outcome assessments. The primary outcome was the proportion of ICP readings ≥20 and 30 mmHg, and CPP readings <70 and 60 mm Hg. Secondary outcomes included major disability (modified Rankin scale >3) and mortality at 30 and 365 days. We assessed the relationship between proportion of high ICP and low CPP events and MIS using binomial generalized linear models, and outcomes using multiple logistic regression.

Results: Of 499 patients enrolled in MISTIE III, 72 patients had guideline based ICP monitors placed, 34 in the MIS group and 38 in control (no surgery) group. Threshold ICP and CPP events ≥20/ <70 mmHg occurred in 31 (43.1%) and 52 (72.2%) patients respectively. On adjusted analyses, proportion of ICP readings ≥20 and 30 mmHg were significantly lower in the MIS group vs. control group [Odds Ratio (OR) 0.27, 95% Confidence Interval [CI] 0.11–0.63 (p = 0.002); OR = 0.18, 0.04–0.75, p = 0.02], respectively. Proportion of CPP readings <70 and 60 mm Hg were also significantly lower in MIS patients [OR 0.31, 95% CI 0.15–0.63 (p = 0.001); OR 0.30, 95% CI 0.11–0.83 (p = 0.02)], respectively. Higher proportions of CPP readings <70 and 60 mm were significantly associated with short term mortality (p = 0.04), and (p = 0.006), respectively. Long term mortality was significantly associated with higher proportion of time with ICP ≥ 20 (p = 0.04), ICP ≥ 30 (p = 0.04), and CPP <70 mmHg (p = 0.01).

Conclusion: Our results are consistent with the hypothesis that surgical reduction of ICH volume decreases proportion of high ICP and low CPP events and that these variables are associated with short- and long-term mortality.

Abstract P447: Intracranial Pressure and Cerebral Perfusion Pressure Monitoring in Spontaneous Intracranial Hemorrhage: A Secondary Analysis of the Mistie III Trial

Introduction: Intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) management guidelines recommend maintaining intracranial pressure (ICP) <20 and cerebral perfusion pressure (CPP) between 50-70 mmHg. We did subgroup analyses of MISTIE III trial to explore whether minimally invasive surgery (MIS) improves ICP or CPP and whether thresholds are associated with long term outcomes.

Methods: MISTIE III was a randomized clinical trial including 499 patients with spontaneous ICH randomized to MIS+Alteplase or standard medical care (SMC). Primary outcomes were any threshold event of ICP >20 and CPP <60/70 mmHg. Secondary outcomes were poor modified Rankin Scale at one year and mortality at 30/365 days. We used multivariable models to investigate factors associated with ICP/CPP events and outcomes.

Results: Of 72 patients with ICP monitored for median 92 (72-96) hours, 31 (43.1%) had at least one ICP reading >20 and 52/35 (72.2/34.7%) had at least one CPP reading <70/60 mmHg. Lower intraventricular hemorrhage volume and SMC group were associated with having any ICP threshold event >20 and CPP event <70 mmHg whereas CPP<60 mmHg was associated with end of treatment (EOT) ICH volume, hydrocephalus on diagnostic CT and no prior antiplatelet agent use. On adjusted analyses, percentage of ICP readings >20 were significantly less likely in patients undergoing MIS vs SMC (Coefficient -0.79, 95% Confidence Interval [CI] [(-)1.46-(-)0.11]; p=0.02). Percentage of CPP readings <70 were significantly less frequent in MIS group (Coefficient -1.59 [(-)2.58-(-)0.59]; p=0.002). Patients who underwent successful MIS with EOT ICH volume <15mL also had significantly lower percentage of readings at ICP<20 (p=0.02), and CPP<70 (p=0.05). Lower percentage of CPP readings <60 mmHg was independently associated with lower mortality at 30 and 365 days (p=0.02 and 0.04) and CPP <70 was associated with lower one-year mortality (p=0.04). There were no significant associations with one-year functional outcome.

Conclusion: Elevated ICP and inadequate CPP are not infrequent during ICP monitoring for large ICH. Burden of low CPP events predict higher short and long term mortality, but not functional outcomes. CPP may be more significant than ICP. MIS appears to mitigate ICP and CPP threshold events.

Diffusion-Weighted Imaging Lesions After Intracerebral Hemorrhage and Risk of Stroke: A MISTIE III and ATACH-2 Analysis

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Punctate ischemic lesions noted on diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) are associated with poor functional outcomes after intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). Whether these lesions increase long-term risk of stroke is poorly understood.

METHODS

We pooled individual patient data from the ATACH-2 trial (Antihypertensive Treatment of Acute Cerebral Hemorrhage) and the MISTIE III trial (Minimally Invasive Surgery Plus Alteplase for Intracerebral Hemorrhage Evacuation Phase 3). We included subjects with a magnetic resonance imaging scan. The exposure was a DWI lesion. The primary outcome was any stroke, defined as a composite of ischemic stroke or recurrent ICH, whereas secondary outcomes were incident ischemic stroke and recurrent ICH. Using multivariate Cox regression analysis, we evaluated the risk of stroke.

RESULTS

Of 505 patients with ICH with magnetic resonance imaging, 466 were included. DWI lesions were noted in 214 (45.9%) subjects, and 34 incident strokes (20 ischemic stroke and 14 recurrent ICH) were observed during a median follow-up of 324 days (interquartile range, 91-374). Presence of a DWI lesion was associated with a 6.9% (95% CI, 2.2-11.6) absolute increase in risk of all stroke (hazard ratio, 2.6 [95% CI, 1.2-5.7]). Covariate adjustment with Cox regression models also demonstrated this increased risk. In the secondary analyses, there was an increased risk of ischemic stroke (hazard ratio, 3.5 [95% CI, 1.1-11.0]) but not recurrent ICH (hazard ratio, 1.7 [95% CI, 0.6-5.1]).

CONCLUSIONS

In a heterogeneous cohort of patients with ICH, presence of a DWI lesion was associated with a 2.5-fold heightened risk of stroke among ICH survivors. This elevated risk persisted for ischemic stroke but not for recurrent ICH.

A Pooled Analysis of Diffusion-Weighted Imaging Lesions in Patients With Acute Intracerebral Hemorrhage

Importance

The etiology and significance of diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) lesions in patients with acute intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) remain unclear.

Objective

To evaluate which factors are associated with DWI lesions, whether associated factors differ by ICH location, and whether DWI lesions are associated with functional outcomes.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This analysis pooled individual patient data from 3 randomized clinical trials (Minimally Invasive Surgery Plus Alteplase for Intracerebral Hemorrhage Evacuation phase 3 trial, Antihypertensive Treatment of Acute Cerebral Hemorrhage trial, and Intracerebral Hemorrhage Deferoxamine phase 2 trial) and 1 multicenter prospective study (Ethnic/Racial Variations of Intracerebral Hemorrhage). Patients were enrolled from August 1, 2010, to September 30, 2018. Of the 4782 patients, 1788 who underwent magnetic resonance imaging scans of the brain were included. Data were analyzed from July 1 to December 31, 2019.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcome consisted of factors associated with DWI lesions. Secondary outcomes were poor functional outcome, defined as a modified Rankin score (mRS) of 4 to 6, and mortality, both assessed at 3 months. Mixed-effects logistic regression was used to evaluate the association between exposures and outcomes. Subgroup analyses stratified by hematoma location were performed.

Results

After exclusion of 36 patients with missing data on DWI lesions, 1752 patients were included in the analysis (1019 men [58.2%]; mean [SD] age, 60.8 [13.3] years). Diffusion-weighted imaging lesions occurred in 549 patients (31.3%). In mixed-effects regression models, factors associated with DWI lesions included younger age (odds ratio [OR] per year, 0.98; 95% CI, 0.97-0.99), black race (OR, 1.64; 95% CI, 1.17-2.30), admission systolic blood pressure (OR per 10-mm Hg increase, 1.13; 95% CI, 1.08-1.18), baseline hematoma volume (OR per 10-mL increase, 1.12; 95% CI, 1.02-1.22), cerebral microbleeds (OR, 1.85; 95% CI, 1.39-2.46), and leukoaraiosis (OR, 1.59; 95% CI, 1.67-2.17). Diffusion-weighted imaging lesions were independently associated with poor mRS (OR, 1.50; 95% CI, 1.13-2.00), but not with mortality (OR, 1.11; 95% CI, 0.72-1.71). In subgroup analyses, similar factors were associated with DWI lesions in lobar and deep ICH. Diffusion-weighted imaging lesions were associated with poor mRS in deep but not lobar ICH.

Conclusions and Relevance

In a large, heterogeneous cohort of prospectively identified patients with ICH, results were consistent with the hypothesis that DWI lesions represent acute sequelae of chronic cerebral small vessel disease, particularly hypertensive vasculopathy. Diffusion-weighted imaging lesions portend a worse prognosis after ICH, mainly deep hemorrhages.

Relationship of White Matter Lesions with Intracerebral Hemorrhage Expansion and Functional Outcome: MISTIE II and CLEAR III

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVE

Intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) patients commonly have concomitant white matter lesions (WML) which may be associated with poor outcome. We studied if WML affects hematoma expansion (HE) and post-stroke functional outcome in a post hoc analysis of patients from randomized controlled trials.

METHODS

In ICH patients from the clinical trials MISTIE II and CLEAR III, WML grade on diagnostic computed tomography (dCT) scan (dCT, < 24 h after ictus) was assessed using the van Swieten scale (vSS, range 0-4). The primary outcome for HE was > 33% or > 6 mL ICH volume increase from dCT to the last pre-randomization CT (< 72 h of dCT). Secondary HE outcomes were: absolute ICH expansion, > 10.4 mL total clot volume increase, and a subgroup analysis including patients with dCT < 6 h after ictus using the primary HE definition of > 33% or > 6 mL ICH volume increase. Poor functional outcome was assessed at 180 days and defined as modified Rankin Scale (mRS) ≥ 4, with ordinal mRS as a secondary endpoint.

RESULTS

Of 635 patients, 55% had WML grade 1-4 at dCT (median 2.2 h from ictus) and 13% had subsequent HE. WML at dCT did not increase the odds for primary or secondary HE endpoints (P ≥ 0.05) after adjustment for ICH volume, intraventricular hemorrhage volume, warfarin/INR > 1.5, ictus to dCT time in hours, age, diabetes mellitus, and thalamic ICH location. WML increased the odds for having poor functional outcome (mRS ≥ 4) in univariate analyses (vSS 4; OR 4.16; 95% CI 2.54-6.83; P < 0.001) which persisted in multivariable analyses after adjustment for HE and other outcome risk factors.

CONCLUSIONS

Concomitant WML does not increase the odds for HE in patients with ICH but increases the odds for poor functional outcome.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION

http://www.clinicaltrials.gov trial-identifiers: NCT00224770 and NCT00784134.

Abstract 76: Non-Contrast CT Markers and Pre- and Post-Surgical Hematoma Expansion in the MISTIE III Trial Surgical Cohort

Introduction: A range of findings on non-contrast CT (NCCT) have been found to predict hematoma expansion after spontaneous ICH, but it is unclear whether these findings predict peri-procedural bleeding. We explored whether any specific NCCT marker(s) predict pre- or post-surgical hematoma expansion events.

Methods: NCCTs were reviewed for presence of black hole sign, blend sign, swirl sign, and island sign in the surgical cohort from the MISTIE-III trial which evaluated minimally invasive surgery plus alteplase in ICH >30 mL. Hematoma expansion was defined as any expansion ≥6 mL or 33% ICH volume increase during pre-surgical period (Model 1) from diagnostic CT (DiagCT) to 24 hours post DiagCT and from stability CT (StabCT) to 24 hours post last dose of alteplase (Model 2). Blend sign was removed from analysis due to small sample size. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to identify independent predictors of pre-op and post-op hematoma expansion.

Results: Of 250 surgical subjects, 5 were excluded due to poor image quality. Expansion events occurred in 82 of 234 (35.0%) subjects in the pre-op interval and in 15 of 226 (7%) in the post-op interval. None of the markers were significant for pre-op expansion, but ICH volume and time from ictus to DiagCT were statistically significant predictors. Swirl sign, ICH volume, and posterior trajectory compared to lateral trajectory were independent predictors of post-op expansion events. Expansion volume pre-op and post-op were weakly associated with presence of swirl sign; Spearmans rho=0.3 p=0.065 and rho=0.60 p=0.047, respectively.

Conclusion: This is the first analysis of impact of NCCT markers on re-bleeding post minimally invasive surgery from a large clinical trial. Despite an absence of association between NCCT markers and hematoma expansion in the pre-surgical period perhaps reflecting inclusion criteria for hemorrhage stability, swirl sign was associated with post-surgical rebleeding.

Abstract 7: Cerebral Small Vessel Disease Burden and Association With Post-Surgical Rebleeding and Long-Term Outcome in Intracerebral Hemorrhage Patients From the Mistie III Trial

Objectives: To examine the effect of cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD) markers and CSVD burden on hematoma expansion and long-term functional outcomes in large spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) >30 mL.

Method: Retrospective analysis of 288 patients from the MISTIE III trial with qualified MRI sequences. MISTIE III evaluated minimally invasive surgery plus alteplase (vs medical management). We identified 6 CSVD markers including lacunes, cerebral microbleeds (CMB), enlarged perivascular space (EPVS), white matter hyperintensities (WMH), cortical superficial siderosis (cSS), and acute DWI positive lesions. First 5 components were reviewed on day 1 MRI and DWI lesions on day 7. The primary outcome was death or major disability at one year (modified Rankin score 4-6). Secondary outcome was post-surgical rebleeding, defined as symptomatic or asymptomatic hemorrhage expansion within 72 hours post last dose of alteplase.

Result: Unfavorable outcome occurred in 65.9% at one year. Post-surgical ICH expansion occurred in 34 (22.9%) of 148 surgical patients. Mean time from symptom onset to first MRI was 0.94 (IQR 0.2-6.3) days. Most individual CSVD markers were more common in patients with unfavorable vs. favorable outcome: CMB≧5 (26.1% vs 15.0%, p=0.03), DWI lesions (65.8%vs 49.6%, p=0.006), cSS (16.8% vs 7.1%, p=0.02) severe WMH (67.7% vs 29.9%, p<0.001) severe EPVS in basal ganglia (19.3% vs 10.2%, p=0.047), and lacunes (11.2% vs 6.3%, p=0.21), In the multivariable adjusted model, cumulative CSVD score (one point for each component: CMB≥5, severe EPVS in basal ganglia, lacunes, severe WMH and cSS) was independently associated with unfavorable outcome (OR 0.56, 95%CI 0.41-0.76, p<0.001; AUC 0.855). We did not find a relationship between either independent CSVD markers or CSVD score with post-surgical ICH expansion. Cumulative CSVD score in multivariable analysis adjusted for predictors of hematoma expansion had OR 0.77 (95% CI 0.50-1.19, p=0.77; AUC 0.659).

Conclusion: In large volume ICH patients with long-term follow-up, heavy burden of CSVD at ICH onset remains an independent predictor of unfavorable outcome, and particularly severe white matter hyperintensities. CSVD markers did not show association with post-surgical ICH expansion.

Abstract 17: An Evaluation of Patient Disposition and Long-term Health-related Quality of Life In MISTIE III: Opportunities to Improve Decision Making for Critically Ill Intracerebral Hemorrhage Patients

Introduction: Recovery in intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) is prolonged and unpredictable, resulting in challenges in estimating health-related quality of life (HRQoL). We describe HRQoL and patient disposition for ICH survivors with similar clinical characteristics to ICH patients who had withdrawal of life-sustaining treatment (WoLST).

Methods: Using MISTIE III trial data (N = 499), we performed a matched cohort analysis using a published modified severity index (mSI) to compare ICH survivors (N = 379) with WoLST patients (N = 61). We used multivariable logistic regression adjusting for age, Glasgow Coma Score, deep ICH location, stability ICH and intraventricular hemorrhage volume and ≥ 3 comorbidities to create the mSI. After matching survivors with equal mSI to WoLST patients, we compared EuroQoL (EQ) visual analog scale (VAS) scores (US norm 69-76; range 0-100) by mSI quartile and patient disposition.

Results: We matched 224 survivors to WoLST patients by mSI (range 0-6.5), with data at all timepoints. Given the large mSI range, EQ VAS scores and patient disposition were evaluated by mSI quartile groups. The median (interquartile range [IQR]) EQ VAS score increase for all mSI groups from day 30 (D30) to 180 (D180) was 20 (0-35.5, p < 0.0001), and 23.5 (5-40, p < 0.0001) for D30 to 365 (D365). The highest percentage of survivors for all mSI groups were home by D365 (G1 55%, G2 88%, G3 84.5%, G4 90%). Median (IQR) EQ VAS scores by mSI quartile, patient disposition and timepoint are reported below.

Conclusion: ICH survivors, matching WoLST individuals, in all mSI groups demonstrated improvement in HRQoL over time, and the majority were home by D365. This study challenges current practice of identifying poor outcomes in concert with decision making employing WoLST in ICH. If goals of care are to include return to home and HRQoL, these results strongly suggest that prognostication can be improved. Prospective studies of ICH prognostication and decision making are needed.

Abstract 12: An Evaluation of Functional Outcome at 1 Year of Poor Prognosis Patients in Mistie-III

Introduction: Clinical factors impacting prognosis following Intracerebral Hemorrhage (ICH) have been well described in the literature, with “poor” prognosis often leading to withdrawing life sustaining treatments (WoLST). The MISTIE-III trial data provides an opportunity to review 12 month outcome of “poor" prognosis subjects.

Methods: In order to evaluate functional recovery of ICH survivors compared with patients who had WoLST we used a severity index (SI) score for predicting good functional recovery 1 year following ICH. The SI used 6 clinical univariate variables from the MISTIE-III analysis (age > 67, Glasgow Coma Score [GCS] < 8, deep ICH location, stability ICH volume > 45mL, stability intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) volume>0.4mL) and > 3 comorbidities (hypertension, hyperlipidemia, cardiovascular disease, and end-stage renal disease). Based on the SI scores for subjects who had WoLST, a matched cohort of survivors with “poor" prognosis (mRS 4-5) were tracked for functional recovery for 12 months.

Results: Of the participants enrolled in MSITIE-III, 61 had WoLST. Of the non-WoLST ICH survivors, 16 progressed to death during the acute period. Another 48 had died prior to the 1 year (D365) follow up. At the 30 Day (D30) evaluation, there were 263 ICH survivors with “poor" prognosis SI scores having a mRS of 4 or 5 and 94% were still in a treatment facility. By D365, 47% of the “poor prognosis” patients had improved to mRS 0-3 (good outcome) with 98% living at home. Of the remaining, 36% had a mRS of 4 (moderately severe disability) with 64% living at home, and 17% had a mRS of 5 (severe disability) with 31% living at home.

Conclusion: For family members of patients sustaining an ICH where clinical factors indicate a “poor" prognosis, the decision to continue or withdraw life sustaining treatment is difficult. Our data shows that ICH patients with clinical factors that are assumed to indicate “poor" prognosis for recovery can, when given time, achieve a favorable outcome.

Abstract 18: Diffusion Weighted Imaging Lesions in Patients With Acute Intracerebral Hemorrhage: A Pooled Analysis of Individual Patient Data From MISTIE-III, ATACH-II, I-DEF, and ERICH

Introduction: The etiology and significance of diffusion weighted imaging (DWI) lesions in patients with acute intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) remain unclear. We evaluated which factors were associated with DWI lesions, whether associated factors differed by ICH location, and whether DWI lesions were associated with functional outcomes.

Methods: We pooled individual patient data from the MISTIE III trial, the ATACH-II trial, the i-DEF trial, and the ERICH study. We included only patients who underwent protocolized magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain. A poor functional outcome was defined as a modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score of 4-6 at 3-6 months. We used mixed effects logistic regression with the study database as a random effect.

Results: Among 1,775 ICH patients, there were 621 (35.6%) lobar, 978 (55.9%) deep, and 148 (8.5%) infratentorial ICHs. Median time to MRI scan was 1.5 days (IQR, 1-4). DWIHLs occurred in 559 (31.5%) patients, with 190 (34.3%) in lobar ICH and 320 (57.8%) in deep ICHs. In mixed effects regression models, factors associated with DWIHLs included younger age factors associated with DWIHLs after acute ICH included younger age (OR, 0.98; 95% CI, 0.97-0.99), black race (OR, 1.59; 95% CI, 1.18-2.16), admission systolic blood pressure (SBP per 10 mm Hg, OR, 1.13; 95% CI, 1.05-1.22), cerebral microbleeds (OR, 1.71, 95% CI, 1.24-2.35), and leukoaraiosis (OR, 1.60; 95% CI, 1.14-2.25). Patients with DWIHLs had higher odds of mRS 4-6 (OR, 1.57; 95% CI, 1.24-1.99) compared to those without, after adjustment for demographics and ICH severity. In subgroup analyses, similar factors influenced DWIHLs in deep ICH. However, in lobar ICH, younger age, admission SBP, and leukoaraiosis were associated with DWIHLs. Presence of DWIHLs was independently associated with poor mRS in deep ICH but not in lobar ICH. There was no relationship between acute BP lowering and DWIHLs, regardless of location.

Conclusions: In a large, heterogeneous cohort of ICH patients, our results are consistent with the hypothesis that DWIHLs represent the effects of chronic hypertensive vasculopathy and acute blood pressure elevation. Furthermore, DWIHLs portend poor prognosis after ICH, particularly in deep hemorrhages.

Abstract TMP19: MRI Characteristics and Predictors of Diffusion Weighted Hyperintense Lesions After Spontaneous Intracerebral Hemorrhage: A Secondary Analysis of MISTIE-III

Introduction: Mechanisms of diffusion weighted hyperintense lesions (DWIHL) after spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) are controversial. We evaluated mechanism and outcome of DWIHL.

Methods: Protocolized MRI scans within 7 days from ICH were reviewed from MISTIE-III trial. Imaging analysis included DWIHL, leukoariosis (Fazekas score), enlarged perivascular space (EPVS), and cerebral microbleeds. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to assess predictors and outcomes of having DWIHLs. Favorable outcome was defined as modified Rankin Score 0-3 at 12 months.

Results: Of 499 patients, 300 underwent DWI studies (62% lobar ICH; 38% deep ICH) and 178 (59%) had acute DWIHLs (66% lobar; 34% deep). DWIHL locations were perihematomal in 140 (79%); and remote in 96 (54%). In multivariable regression analysis, DWIHLs were associated with initial mean arterial pressure [MAP] (odds ratio [OR]: 1.004; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.002-1.01), initial ICH volume (OR: 1.004; 95%CI: 1.001-1.01), NIHSS at randomization (OR: 1.01; 95%CI: 1.01-1.02), hypertension history (OR: 1.41; 95%CI: 1.04-1.93), and Fazekas score (OR: 1.04; 95%CI: 1.01-1.08). Patients with DWIHLs were less likely to have favorable outcome (66% vs. 50%; OR: 0.89; 95%CI: 0.81-0.99) after adjusting for ICH severity; however, the presence of DWIHLs did not confer an independent mortality risk at 12 months. In addition, perihematomal DWIHLs were associated with ICH volume (OR: 1.003; 95%CI: 1.00-1.01), NIHSS (OR: 1.01; 95%CI: 1.00-1.02), deep location (OR: 1.25; 95%CI: 1.10-1.42), and centrum semiovale EPVS score (OR: 0.99; 95% CI: 0.99-1.00). Remote DWIHLs were associated with Fazekas score (OR: 1.17; 95%CI: 1.06-1.29), centrum semiovale EPVS score (OR: 1.01; 95%CI: 1.00-1.01), atrial fibrillation (OR: 1.40; 95%CI: 1.04-1.90), and maximal ΔMAP on first 24 hours (OR: 1.004; 95%CI: 1.001-1.006).

Conclusions: DWIHLs were common (59%) in patients after spontaneous ICH, predominantly in lobar locations and were associated with unfavorable neurologic outcome. While perihematomal DWIHLs were associated with ICH severity, remote DWIHLs suggested different mechanisms including acute blood pressure reduction, cardiac emboli, and white matter disease severity.

Efficacy and safety of minimally invasive surgery with thrombolysis in intracerebral haemorrhage evacuation (MISTIE III): a randomised, controlled, open-label, blinded endpoint phase 3 trial

BACKGROUND

Acute stroke due to supratentorial intracerebral haemorrhage is associated with high morbidity and mortality. Open craniotomy haematoma evacuation has not been found to have any benefit in large randomised trials. We assessed whether minimally invasive catheter evacuation followed by thrombolysis (MISTIE), with the aim of decreasing clot size to 15 mL or less, would improve functional outcome in patients with intracerebral haemorrhage.

METHODS

MISTIE III was an open-label, blinded endpoint, phase 3 trial done at 78 hospitals in the USA, Canada, Europe, Australia, and Asia. We enrolled patients aged 18 years or older with spontaneous, non-traumatic, supratentorial intracerebral haemorrhage of 30 mL or more. We used a computer-generated number sequence with a block size of four or six to centrally randomise patients to image-guided MISTIE treatment (1·0 mg alteplase every 8 h for up to nine doses) or standard medical care. Primary outcome was good functional outcome, defined as the proportion of patients who achieved a modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score of 0-3 at 365 days, adjusted for group differences in prespecified baseline covariates (stability intracerebral haemorrhage size, age, Glasgow Coma Scale, stability intraventricular haemorrhage size, and clot location). Analysis of the primary efficacy outcome was done in the modified intention-to-treat (mITT) population, which included all eligible, randomly assigned patients who were exposed to treatment. All randomly assigned patients were included in the safety analysis. This study is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT01827046.

FINDINGS

Between Dec 30, 2013, and Aug 15, 2017, 506 patients were randomly allocated: 255 (50%) to the MISTIE group and 251 (50%) to standard medical care. 499 patients (n=250 in the MISTIE group; n=249 in the standard medical care group) received treatment and were included in the mITT analysis set. The mITT primary adjusted efficacy analysis estimated that 45% of patients in the MISTIE group and 41% patients in the standard medical care group had achieved an mRS score of 0-3 at 365 days (adjusted risk difference 4% [95% CI -4 to 12]; p=0·33). Sensitivity analyses of 365-day mRS using generalised ordered logistic regression models adjusted for baseline variables showed that the estimated odds ratios comparing MISTIE with standard medical care for mRS scores higher than 5 versus 5 or less, higher than 4 versus 4 or less, higher than 3 versus 3 or less, and higher than 2 versus 2 or less were 0·60 (p=0·03), 0·84 (p=0·42), 0·87 (p=0·49), and 0·82 (p=0·44), respectively. At 7 days, two (1%) of 255 patients in the MISTIE group and ten (4%) of 251 patients in the standard medical care group had died (p=0·02) and at 30 days, 24 (9%) patients in the MISTIE group and 37 (15%) patients in the standard medical care group had died (p=0·07). The number of patients with symptomatic bleeding and brain bacterial infections was similar between the MISTIE and standard medical care groups (six [2%] of 255 patients vs three [1%] of 251 patients; p=0·33 for symptomatic bleeding; two [1%] of 255 patients vs 0 [0%] of 251 patients; p=0·16 for brain bacterial infections). At 30 days, 76 (30%) of 255 patients in the MISTIE group and 84 (33%) of 251 patients in the standard medical care group had one or more serious adverse event, and the difference in number of serious adverse events between the groups was statistically significant (p=0·012).

INTERPRETATION

For moderate to large intracerebral haemorrhage, MISTIE did not improve the proportion of patients who achieved a good response 365 days after intracerebral haemorrhage. The procedure was safely adopted by our sample of surgeons.

FUNDING

National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke and Genentech.

Abstract WP556: Predicting Modified Rankin Scale Using Prior Cognition Measure: Results From CLEAR III Study

Introduction: Intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) is a subtype of intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) accounting for 50% mortality and serious survivor disability. We examined whether screening Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) scores assessed at days 30 and/or 180 could predict good functional outcome, measured by modified Rankin Scale (mRS) at days 180 and 365 post-stroke.

Methodology: CLEAR III was a multicenter, randomized, phase III trial that tested the benefits of accelerated IVH clot removal. Patients were followed for one year with MMSE and mRS collected at days 30 (D30), 180 (D180) and 365 (D365). Good functional outcome was defined as mRS 0-3. Of 500 patients randomized, 354 known survivors were analyzed. Multivariate logistic regression (MLR) was used to estimate the relationship between good D180 and D365 mRS and D30 and/or D180 MMSE adjusting for age and any ICH location.

Results: The model predicted a 15% increase in the odds of good D180 mRS for each unit increase in D30 MMSE (OR [95% CI] =1.15 [1.11, 1.20], p-value<0.001). Based on this model, a score of MMSE of 14 or higher is associated with good D180 mRS with 77% sensitivity, 75% specificity, and 76% correctly classified cases (AUC=0.84). In MLR model, D30 MMSE (AOR [95% CI]=1.14 [1.10, 1.19], p-value<0.001) and thalamus ICH location (AOR [95% CI]=0.18 [0.09, 0.38], p-value<0.001) were significant predictors of good D180 mRS, with no significant association with age (AOR [95% CI]=0.97 [0.94, 1.00], p-value=0.073). Similarly, we saw a 14% increase (AOR [95% CI]=1.14, [1.09, 1.20], p-value<0.001) in the odds of good D365 mRS for each unit increase in D30 MMSE, and 9% increase (AOR [95% CI]=1.09, [1.03, 1.15], p-value=0.002) in the odds of good D365 mRS for each unit increase in D180 MMSE (p-value <0.001, AUC=0.88). D30 MMSE (AOR [95% CI]=1.12 [1.06, 1.18], p-value<0.001), D180 MMSE (AOR [95% CI]=1.12 [1.05, 1.19], p-value=0.001), age (AOR [95% CI]=0.96 [0.92, 1.00], p-value=0.041), and thalamus ICH location (AOR [95% CI]=0.17 [0.07, 0.44], p-value<0.001) were significantly associated with good D365 mRS.

Conclusion: Cognition measurements, such as MMSE, may be helpful in predicting good functional outcomes at D180 and D365 post-stroke.

Developing a risk-based composite neurologic outcome for a trial of hydroxyurea in young children with sickle cell disease

BACKGROUND

Studies of interventions to prevent the many neurological complications of sickle cell disease must take into account multiple outcomes of variable severity, with limited sample size. The goals of the studies presented were to use investigator preferences across outcomes to determine an attitude-based weighting of relevant clinical outcomes and to establish a valid composite outcome for a clinical trial.

METHODS

In Study 1, investigators were surveyed about their practice regarding hydroxyurea therapy and opinions about outcomes for the "Hydroxyurea to Prevent the Central Nervous System Complications of Sickle Cell Disease Trial" (HU Prevent), and their minimally acceptable relative risk reduction for the two outcome components, motor and neurocognitive deficits. In Study 2, HU Prevent investigators provided overall weights for these two components. In Study 3, they provided more granular rankings, ratings, and maximum number acceptable to harm. A weighted composite outcome, the Stroke Consequences Risk Score, was constructed that incorporates the major neurologic complications of sickle cell disease. The Stroke Consequences Risk Score represents the 3-year risk of suffering the adverse consequences of stroke. In Study 4, the results of the Optimizing Primary Stroke Prevention in Sickle Cell Anemia (STOP2) and Silent Infarct Transfusion Trials were reanalyzed in light of the composite outcome.

RESULTS

In total, 22 to 27 investigators participated per study. In Study 1, across three samplings between 2009 and 2015, the average minimally acceptable relative risk reduction ranged from 0.36 to 0.50, at or below the target effect size of 0.50. In 2015, 21 (91%) reported that a placebo-controlled trial is reasonable; 23 (100%), that it is ethical; and 22 (96%), that they would change their practice, if the results of the trial were positive. In Studies 2 and 3, the weight elicited for a cognitive decline (of 10 IQ points) from the overall assessment was 0.67 (and for motor deficit, the complementary 0.33); from ranking, 0.6; from rating, 0.58; and from maximal number acceptable to harm, 0.5. Using data from two major clinical trials, Study 4 demonstrated the same conclusions as the original trials using the Stroke Consequences Risk Score, with smaller p-values for both reanalyses. An assessment of acceptability was performed as well.

CONCLUSION

This set of studies provides the rationale, justification, and validation for the use of a weighted composite outcome and confirms the need for the phase III HU Prevent study. Surveys of investigators in multi-center studies can provide the basis of clinically meaningful outcomes that foster the translation of study results into practice while increasing the efficiency of a study.

African American Screening and Enrollment in (Clot Lysis: Evaluating Accelerated Resolution of Intraventricular Hemorrhage III) CLEAR III

BACKGROUND

Under-enrolling minority patients in clinical trials reduces generalizability. CLEAR III, a randomized controlled trial, presented an opportunity to assess African American (AA) participation.

METHODS

AA enrollment was compared to U.S. population and NINDS trial data then stratified by region; census data for 42 recruitment cities were compared to screening and randomization percentages, using simple linear regression.

RESULTS

AAs were 25% of screens and 45.1% of enrollments (n=370), more than twice the 19.8% participation rate reported by the 2011 NINDS Advisory Panel on Health Disparities Research and triple the projected 13.9% 2014 U.S. population. Conversion rates were (AA vs. non-AA): overall (8.7% vs. 3.4%, p<0.001); Northeast (7.7% vs. 2.9%, p<0.001); South (8.2% vs. 4.0%, p<0.001); Midwest (10.3% vs. 3.6%, p<0.01); and West (8.9% vs. 3.8%, p=0.02). AA enrollments ranged from 0% to 100% (mean: 40.4%). AA screening ranged from 0% to 63.7% (mean: 23.2%). AA city census ranged from 1.3% to 82.7% (mean: 28.0%); higher census was associated with higher screening (p<0.0001) and enrollment (p=0.004).

CONCLUSIONS

AAs were willing to enroll in an acute stroke trial. AA city census rates should be considered when selecting enrollment centers and setting recruitment goals. Factors leading to successful AA recruitment should be further investigated, as population-based participation is a goal in all trials.

Fibrinolytic for treatment of intraventricular hemorrhage: A meta-analysis and systematic review

Background Intraventricular hemorrhage is a significant cause of mortality and morbidity worldwide. Treating intraventricular hemorrhage with intraventricular fibrinolytic therapy via a catheter is becoming an increasingly utilized intervention. Aims This meta-analysis aimed to investigate the role of intraventricular fibrinolytic treatment in hypertensive intraventricular hemorrhage patients and evaluate the effect sizes for survival as well as level of function at differing time points. Summary of review PubMed, CNKI, VIP, and Wanfang were searched using the terms "IVH" and "IVH and ICH" for human studies with adult patients published between January 1950 and July 2016. Seventeen publications were selected. Data analysis showed lower rates of mortality in the treatment group at 30 days ( P < 0.001), 180 days ( P = 0.001), 365 days ( P = 0.40), and overall ( P < 0.001). Pooling modified Rankin Scale and Glasgow outcome scale data, the treatment group had more good functional outcomes at 30 days ( P = 0.38), 90 days ( P = 0.04), 180 days ( P = 0.31), 365 days ( P = 0.76), and overall ( P = 0.02). Good functional outcome was defined as modified Rankin Scale score of 0 to 3 or a Glasgow outcome scale score of 3 to 5. Conclusions Intraventricular fibrinolytic for treatment of hypertensive intraventricular hemorrhage reduces mortality and potentially leads to an increased number of good functional outcomes. Different functional outcome scales (modified Rankin Scale or Glasgow outcome scale) produce different effect sizes. Intraventricular fibrinolytic treatment may offer intraventricular hemorrhage patients a targeted therapy that produces meaningful mortality benefit and possible functional outcome benefits.

Asynchronous vascular consultation via electronic methods: A feasibility pilot

Management of chronic disease often requires multidisciplinary clinical efforts and specialist care. With the emergence of Accountable Care Organizations (ACOs), health care systems are incentivized to evaluate methods of information exchange between generalists and specialists in order to provide value while preserving quality. Our objective was to evaluate patient and referring provider satisfaction and outcomes of asynchronous electronic consultations in vascular care in a large tertiary academic medical center. Referring providers were offered a vascular 'e-consult' option through an electronic referral management system. We conducted chart review to understand the downstream effects and surveyed patients and referring providers to assess satisfaction. From 24 March 2014 to 1 March 2015, 54 e-consults were completed. Additional testing and recommendations were made in 49/54 (90.7%) e-consults, including lower-extremity venous duplex ultrasonography with reflux testing, duplex ultrasonography of the carotid artery, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, non-invasive physiology arterial studies, laboratory tests, medications, compression stockings, and sequential lymphedema compression therapy. Referring providers were compliant with recommendations in 40/49 (81.6%) of e-consults. A total of 17/54 (31.5%) patients were surveyed with a median patient satisfaction score of 13.7/15 (91.3%) (SD ± 6.4). The program was associated with high referring provider satisfaction, with 87.0% finding the e-consult very helpful and 80.0% stating it averted the need for a traditional visit. Our experience suggests that e-consults are an effective way to provide vascular care in some patients and are associated with high patient and provider satisfaction. E-consults may therefore be an efficient method of care delivery for vascular patients within an ACO.