Endovascular Therapy in Mild Ischemic Strokes Presenting Under 6 hours: An International Survey

Endovascular therapy (EVT) for patients with mild ischemic stroke (NIHSS ≤5) and visible intracranial occlusion remains controversial, including within 6 hours of symptom onset. We conducted a survey to evaluate global practice patterns of EVT in this population.

Vascular stroke clinicians and neurointerventionalists were invited to participate through professional stroke listservs. The survey consisted of six clinical vignettes of mild stroke patients with intracranial occlusion. Cases varied by NIHSS, neurological symptoms and occlusion site. All had the same risk factors, time from symptom onset (5h) and unremarkable head CT. Advanced imaging data was available upon request. We explored independent case and responder specific factors associated with advanced imaging request and EVT decision.

A total of 482/492 responders had analyzable data ([median age 44 (IQR 11.25)], 22.7% women, 77% attending, 22% interventionalist). Participants were from USA (45%), Europe (32%), Australia (12%), Canada (6%), and Latin America (5%). EVT was offered in 48% (84% M1, 29% M2 and 19% A2) and decision was made without advanced imaging in 66% of cases. In multivariable analysis, proximal occlusion (M1 vs. M2 or A2, p<0.001), higher NIHSS (p<0.001) and fellow level training (vs. attending; p=0.001) were positive predictors of EVT. Distal occlusions (M2 and A2) and higher age of responders were independently associated with increased advanced imaging requests. Compared to US and Australian responders, Canadians were less likely to offer EVT, while those in Europe and Latin America were more likely (p<0.05).

Treatment patterns of EVT in mild stroke vary globally. Our data suggest wide equipoise exists in current treatment of this important subset of mild stroke.