Introduction Fast reperfusion after large vessel occlusion (LVO) is a strong predictor of good clinical outcomes in patients with LVO. Therefore, how to improve the mechanical thrombectomy (MT) technique for the first-pass effect is paramount.

Aim of Study To evaluate safety and efficacy of combined stent retriever and contact aspiration MT technique in acute basilar artery occlusion.

Methods We have retrospectively reviewed basilar artery occlusions treated with MT and combined technique in our institution in a six months period and analyzed the angiographic and clinical outcomes, including first-pass complete recanalization, number of passes, procedure duration, 90-day modified Rankin Scale (mRS).

Results We have treated 5 patients with a combined MT technique in a selected period. In all cases complete recanalization was achieved. Mean procedure time, from punction to recanalization, was 55 (45-82) min. In all patients’ groin puncture and femoral artery was used for access. First-pass complete recanalization was achieved in 4 cases, whereas in one case 2 passes were needed for complete recanalization. All cases were performed under general anesthesia. In 2 cases 90-day mRS was 0, in 2 cases was 1, and one patient died from pulmonary complications on the day 14 (mRS 6).

Conclusion Our series suggests that MT technique with the combined stent retriever and contact aspiration yielded high recanalization rate in acute basilar artery occlusion patients and is a safe and effective method followed by favorable functional outcomes.

Disclosure of Interest no.