EVALUATING MECHANICAL THROMBECTOMY FOR ACUTE VERTEBROBASILAR EMBOLISM IN ATHLETES: A SINGLE CENTER CLINICAL STUDY

Abstract

Objective: This study assesses the efficacy of mechanical thrombectomy (MT) in treating acute vertebrobasilar artery embolism in athletes, aiming to provide clinical insights for managing this vascular emergency in a sports setting. Methods: A cohort of 40 patients was analyzed retrospectively from September 2018 to August 2020. Twenty patients undergoing MT formed the observation group, while another 20 receiving intravenous thrombolytic therapy served as the control group. Outcomes assessed included vascular recanalization rates, neurological function (measured by NIHSS scores), clinical prognosis, complications, symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage, and mortality within 90 days post-treatment. Results: Post-treatment, both groups exhibited significant improvements in NIHSS scores. However, the observation group showed notably better outcomes at 1 month (NIHSS score: 58.7±15.9) and 3 months (NIHSS score: 73.2±16.3) compared to the control group. Recanalization success (mTICI grade 2b and 3) was significantly higher in the observation group (75% and 40%, respectively) than in the control group. Similarly, functional independence (mRS score 0-2) was achieved more frequently in the observation group (75% vs. 40% in the control group). The 90-day mortality rate was also lower in the observation group (15% vs. 45%). Conclusion: MT demonstrates a high degree of safety and effectiveness in treating athletes with acute vertebrobasilar artery embolism, enhancing recanalization success, neurological recovery, and overall clinical outcomes without increasing the risk of complications or symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage. These findings support the broader application of MT in clinical settings, particularly for athletes, where rapid recovery is crucial for returning to training and competition.