Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 28, 2026

Optimized Management of Endovascular Treatment for Acute Ischemic Stroke
Published on: January 18, 2018
Predictors of malignant brain edema after mechanical thrombectomy for acute ischemic stroke
Xianjun Huang1, Qian Yang1, Xiaolei Shi1
1Department of Neurology, Yijishan Hospital of Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, Anhui, China.
Background:
Malignant brain edema (MBE) is a devastating complication in ischemic stroke. Data on MBE in patients who have had mechanical thrombectomy (MT) are relatively scarce.
Objective:
To investigate the incidence, predictors, and clinical outcomes of MBE in patients after MT.
Methods:
We included 130 consecutive patients after MT caused by anterior circulation large vessel occlusion stroke, treated with MT. MBE was defined as a midline shift of ≥5 mm on the follow-up imaging within 72 hours after MT. Characteristics of patients at admission and details of treatment were collected. The 90-day modified Rankin scale score was used as a measure of functional outcomes.
Results:
Of the 130 patients (age, 68.6±10.9 years; male, 50%), 35 (26.9%) patients developed MBE. The patients with MBE had a lower rate of functional independence (OR=7.831; 95% CI 1.731 to 35.427; p=0.008) and significantly higher mortality at 90 days (OR=7.958; 95% CI 2.274 to 27.848; p=0.001) than patients without MBE. In 104 (80%) patients with successful recanalization (modified Thrombolysis in Cerebral Infarction score of 2b-3), 24 (23.1%) patients exhibited MBE. After adjustment for confounding, ICA occlusion (OR=3.746; 95% CI 1.169 to 12.006; p=0.026) and worse collateral score (grade 1 vs grade 0: OR=0.727; 95% CI 0.192 to 2.753; p=0.638; grade 2 vs grade 0: OR=0.130; 95% CI 0.021 to 0.819; p=0.030) were significantly associated with the development of MBE, despite successful recanalization.
Conclusions:
MBE after MT is not uncommon and was related to poor functional outcomes. Localization of a vessel occlusion and collateral status may play a role in the development of MBE.
Insights
Malignant brain edema (MBE) occurred in 26.9% of patients after mechanical thrombectomy (MT), leading to worse functional outcomes and higher mortality. Internal carotid artery occlusion and poor collateral status predict MBE development.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Stroke Medicine
- Interventional Neuroradiology
Background:
- Malignant brain edema (MBE) is a severe complication following ischemic stroke.
- Data regarding MBE incidence and outcomes after mechanical thrombectomy (MT) are limited.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the incidence, predictors, and clinical outcomes of MBE in patients undergoing MT.
- To identify factors associated with MBE development even after successful recanalization.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 130 patients with anterior circulation large vessel occlusion stroke treated with MT was analyzed.
- MBE was defined as a midline shift of ≥5 mm on follow-up imaging within 72 hours.
- Functional outcomes were assessed using the 90-day modified Rankin Scale score.
Main Results:
- MBE developed in 26.9% of patients, associated with significantly worse functional independence and higher 90-day mortality.
- In patients with successful recanalization, MBE occurred in 23.1%.
- Internal carotid artery occlusion and poorer collateral status were independently associated with MBE development.
Conclusions:
- MBE is a significant complication after MT, impacting functional outcomes and survival.
- Vessel occlusion location and collateral circulation are crucial factors in MBE pathogenesis post-MT.
More Related Videos
04:32Measuring Post-Stroke Cerebral Edema, Infarct Zone and Blood-Brain Barrier Breakdown in a Single Set of Rodent Brain Samples
Published on: October 23, 2020
08:44Continuous IV Infusion is the Choice Treatment Route for Arginine-vasopressin Receptor Blocker Conivaptan in Mice to Study Stroke-evoked Brain Edema
Published on: September 1, 2016
Related Concept Videos
Regulation of Stroke Volume
Preload refers to the degree of stretch on the heart before it contracts. It's analogous to the stretching of a rubber band; the more it's stretched, the more forcefully it snaps back. This concept is encapsulated in the Frank-Starling law of the...
Reaction Mechanisms
For instance, the decomposition of ozone appears to follow a mechanism with two steps:
Ischemic Heart Disease: Overview
Atherosclerosis, the primary malefactor, orchestrates this dangerous condition. It manifests as the accumulation of fatty deposits, akin to insidious plaques, within arterial walls. As time elapses, these plaques metamorphose, hardening and...
Mechanical Protein Functions
Acute Pharyngitis
Acute pharyngitis is the inflammation of the back of the throat (pharynx), commonly resulting in a sore throat. It is a frequently encountered condition that prompts individuals to seek medical advice.
Classification
Acute pharyngitis can be categorized based on its underlying cause:
Cardiac Output and Stroke Volume
In an average resting adult male, the typical cardiac...