Carotid Duplex Ultrasound for Selecting Patients for Endovascular Thrombectomy in Acute Stroke Patients

Emergent Carotid Ultrasound in Hyperacute Cerebral Vessel Occlusion for Selecting Patients to be Treated With Endovascular Clot Retrieval Treatment

The aim of this study is to address the usefulness of carotid duplex ultrasound as vascular imaging for selecting acute stroke patients for endovascular thrombectomy.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Endovascular treatment can be initiated within 6 hours of symptom onset.
• ASPECTS of >=6 is diagnosed by two or more stroke physicians.
• The end diastolic velocity in the common carotid arteries or internal carotid artery is evaluated by carotid duplex ultrasound
• NIHSS score of >=6.
• Age>=18 years.
• Written informed consent is obtained.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Pre-stroke modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score >=2.
• Difficulties to evaluate ASPECTS on initial CT.
• Difficulties to groin puncture.
• History of severe allergic reaction to contrast medium.
• End stage renal disease.