Endovascular treatment (EVT) is recommended for acute ischemic stroke due to large-vessel occlusion (LVO) and an ASPECTs ≥ 6. Recent randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have become available on effect of EVT in patients with LVO-related large core infarct stroke (ASPECTS 0–5). We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of trials on patients with large core infarct treated with thrombectomy compared to best medical therapy (BMT).

The study followed PRISMA guidelines. Primary endpoint was functional independence at 90 days (modified Rankin Scale mRS < 3). Secondary endpoints were 3-month moderate disability (mRS < 4), excellent outcome (mRS < 2) and change in mRS (shift analysis). Safety outcomes were: symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (sICH) and 3-month mortality.

Seven RCTs were included with a total of 1964 patients. Functional independence was significantly more frequent in EVT vs BMT group (19.4% vs 8%; OR = 2.72, 95%CI = 2.06–3.61, pheterogeneity = 0.08; I2: 47%). Moderate outcome was also more prevalent in EVT group (OR = 2.00; 95%CI = 1.61 – 2.48, pheterogeneity = 0.17; I2: 46%) as well as excellent outcome (OR: 1.54, 95%CI = 1.07 – 2.22, pheterogeneity = 0.13; I2: 40%). Shift analysis was also significant with OR 1.59 (CI = 1.33–1.82 and p < 0.001). Finally sICH, that occurred in 68 patients, was more frequent in EVT (OR = 1.63, 95%CI = 0.99 – 2.69, pheterogeneity = 0.68; I2: 0%) while 3 m mortality was reduced in EVT (31% vs 37,1%, OR 0.76 CI = 0.62–0.92).

This updated pooled data show that, in LVO-stroke patients with a large core infarct, EVT plus BMT (as compared to BMT alone) increases significantly the chances of achieving a good functional outcome at 90 days and reduces the 3- month mortality despite a marginal increase in acute sICH.