PREDICTORS OF OUTCOMES IN ELDERLY ACUTE STROKE PATIENTS UNDERGOING ENDOVASCULAR THROMBECTOMY

Introduction: The aging population is one of the main reasons for the increase in stroke cases. The aim of this study was to evaluate the predictors of 3-month outcomes in patients aged >= 65 years who underwent mechanical thrombectomy for acute ischemic stroke and compare patients aged 65-79 years with those aged >= 80 years in terms of demographic characteristics, workflow, functional outcomes, and complication rates. Materials and Method: This retrospective cohort study included 169 consecutive patients aged >= 65 years who underwent mechanical thrombectomy for acute ischemic stroke due to large vessel occlusion between April 2020 and May 2023. Results: Recanalization was successful for 148 (87.57%) patients. According to multivariable logistic regression analysis results, low (<= 9) Alberta Stroke Program Early Computed Tomography score (odds ratio: 4.217, 95% confidence interval: 1.209-14.715, and p=0.024), high National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score at 24th hour (odds ratio: 1.192, 95% confidence interval: 1.087-1.306, and p<0.001), high Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation score (odds ratio: 1.127, 95% confidence interval: 1.016-1.250, and p=0.023), and intubation need (odds ratio: 15.055, 95% confidence interval: 2.087-108.612, and p=0.007) were independent predictors of poor outcome. Conclusion: The lack of significant differences in workflow, functional outcomes, and complications among patients >80 years of age indicates that MT is effective in this age group. Considering the aging population, identifying the predictors of 3-month outcomes after mechanical thrombectomy will help predict outcomes, better identify elderly patients who may benefit from the procedure, and guide treatment decisions.