Resolving distal vessel occlusions caused by migrated emboli utilizing a modified stent retrieval technique

Area of Science:

• Interventional Neurology
• Cerebrovascular Diseases
• Medical Devices

Background:

• Acute large vessel occlusion stroke presents challenges, particularly with secondary distal embolus migration.
• Current stent retrieval techniques may require modification to address complex occlusions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the safety and effectiveness of a modified stent retrieval technique.
• To assess the technique's ability to resolve distal vessel occlusions caused by migrated emboli.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 24 patients with anterior circulation large vessel occlusion stroke and distal embolus migration.
• Application of a modified stent retrieval technique controlling microcatheter unsheathing level.
• Assessment of recanalization using modified Thrombolysis in Cerebral Infarction (TICI) scores.

Main Results:

• The modified technique successfully recanalized secondary distal occlusions in 23 of 24 patients (95.8%).
• A high first-pass recanalization rate of 70.8% was achieved for distal occlusions.
• 16 patients (66.7%) achieved favorable functional outcomes at 3 months (modified Rankin Scale 0-2).

Conclusions:

• The modified stent retrieval technique is safe and effective for resolving distal vessel occlusions.
• This simple technique improves recanalization rates and functional outcomes in stroke patients with migrated emboli.