Delayed phase computed tomography angiography ASPECTS predicts clinical outcome and final infarct volume

Abstract

Background and purpose: Non-contrast computed tomography (NCCT) Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score (ASPECTS) and assessment of collateral flow with multiphase computed tomography angiography (CTA) have been investigated as predictors of clinical outcome in patients with acute ischemic stroke. This study assessed the value of multiphase CTA ASPECTS in predicting final infarction core and clinical outcome in patients undergoing endovascular treatment of acute ischemic stroke.

Methods: We retrospectively studied consecutive patients who underwent multiphase CTA prior to endovascular treatment of acute stroke due to anterior circulation large artery occlusion. Multiphase CTA and final diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) scans were evaluated by two independent observers for NCCT ASPECTS, acute phase CTA (CTA-AP) ASPECTS, delayed phase CTA (CTA-DP) ASPECTS, and final DWI ASPECTS. Modified Rankin Scale score ≤2 at 3 months was considered a favorable outcome.

Results: A total of 74 patients were analyzed. We found that CTA-DP ASPECTS (r = 0.82; 95% CI, 0.73-0.91; p < 0.001) correlated with final DWI ASPECTS better than NCCT ASPECTS (r = 0.49; 95% CI, 0.39-0.59) and CTA-AP ASPECTS (r = 0.71; 95% CI, 0.64-0.78). Interobserver agreement was higher for CTA-DP ASPECTS (k = 0.84). Good CTA-DP ASPECTS was an independent predictor of favorable outcome (odds ratio, 8.71; 95% CI, 3.71-17.3; p < 0.001).

Conclusion: CTA-DP ASPECTS is a reliable predictor of final infarction core and neurological outcome.