Predictors for recanalization after intravenous thrombolysis in acute ischemic stroke

Abstract

Objective: The purpose of this study was to evaluate clinical aspects of recanalization and to assess variables associated with early recanalization.

Methods: In all, 27 consecutive patients treated with intravenous thrombolysis were examined with the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) and transcranial Doppler ultrasound at presentation and at 2 and 24 hours after treatment.

Results: Recanalization less than 24 hours after treatment was found in 70% of patients. Patients who recanalized had lower NIHSS score on presentation (P = .01) and significant improvement in NIHSS score at 0 to 2 hours (P = .042) and 0 to 24 hours (P = .002) compared with those who did not recanalize. Atrial fibrillation (P = .04), higher serum glucose values on presentation (P = .05), and more traditional risk factors (P = .05) were associated with no recanalization.

Conclusions: Recanalization is associated with clinical improvement. High NIHSS score, atrial fibrillation, high serum glucose, and higher number of risk factors indicate a reduced probability for recanalization.