Mechanical Thrombectomy for M2 Segment Occlusion in Acute Ischemic Stroke: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Yuxuan Xing1, Xin Jiang2, Kangtai Su1

  • 1The First Clinical Medical School, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China.

World Neurosurgery
|June 24, 2022
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Mechanical thrombectomy for M2 occlusions in acute ischemic stroke shows similar functional outcomes to M1 occlusions. Aspiration devices offer higher recanalization rates for M2 occlusions compared to M1.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Interventional Neuroradiology
  • Stroke Medicine

Background:

  • The efficacy of mechanical thrombectomy (MT) for acute ischemic stroke (AIS) involving M2 segment middle cerebral artery occlusions requires further investigation.
  • Uncertainty exists regarding the safety and benefits of MT in this specific patient subgroup.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To compare the effectiveness of MT in patients with M2 occlusions versus M1 occlusions in AIS.
  • To evaluate functional independence, recanalization rates, mortality, and symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage.

Main Methods:

  • A systematic review and meta-analysis of 14 trials (3454 participants) from PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library (up to April 2021).
  • Analysis focused on 90-day functional independence (modified Rankin Score 0-2), successful recanalization (TICI 2b/3), mortality, and symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage.
  • Odds ratios were calculated using ReviewManager 5.3 software.

Main Results:

  • MT for M2 occlusions showed a nonsignificant trend towards higher 90-day functional independence compared to M1 occlusions (OR: 1.19).
  • Recanalization rates (TICI 2b/3) were significantly lower for M2 occlusions than M1 occlusions (OR: 0.71).
  • Mortality and symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage rates were comparable between M1 and M2 occlusion groups. Aspiration devices demonstrated higher recanalization rates (TICI 2b/3) than stent retrievers in M2 occlusions (OR: 0.77).

Conclusions:

  • MT for M2 occlusions yields similar clinical outcomes to M1 occlusions in AIS patients.
  • Functional independence at 90 days did not differ significantly between stent retriever and aspiration devices for M2 occlusions.
  • Aspiration devices achieved a significantly higher recanalization rate in M2 occlusions compared to M1 occlusions.