The MRI-based Evaluation of Safety and Efficacy of EVT and SMT: A Retrospective, Multicenter Study

Inclusion criteria

• Preliminary diagnosis of posterior circulation ischemic stroke based on clinical symptoms or imaging examinations.
• Confirmation through CTA/MRA/DSA that there is occlusion of the basilar artery or the V4 segment of the vertebral artery leading to functional occlusion of the basilar artery.
• Age 18 years and older.
• Symptom onset within 24 hours.
• Having a baseline MRI evaluation, including at least DWI and T2 FLAIR sequences (baseline MRI for the EVT group before the operation; baseline MRI for the SMT group within the treatment window (within 4.5 hours of onset) for thrombolytic patients before or during the thrombolysis process should initiate as early as possible; baseline MRI for the SMT group for extended treatment window patients (between 4.5 hours to 12 hours of onset) should initiate as early as possible).

Exclusion criteria

• mRS score ≥ 3 before onset;
• Significant neuroimaging changes such as cerebral hemorrhage, cerebellar mass lesion, acute hydrocephalus, etc., are present;
• Lack of follow-up results within 90 days after operation;
• Life expectancy < 3 months;
• Baseline imaging and crucial clinical data are missing;
• Special cases involving pregnancy and lactation;
• Severe systemic diseases or advanced cancer that may potentially interfere with the prognosis;
• Allergic reactions to contrast agents or nickel-titanium alloys;
• Currently participating in other clinical trials;
• Pre-existing neurological disorders or psychiatric conditions that could affect the assessment of the disease.