Which finding defines eligibility for thrombectomy within 6 hours?

Which finding defines eligibility for thrombectomy within 6 hours?

• A. Occlusion of ICA or M1 segment of MCA
• B. Age <18
• C. MRS 4
• D. ASPECTS <6

Answer: (A)

The key idea is that within 6 hours, thrombectomy is most clearly indicated for a large vessel occlusion in the anterior circulation. An occlusion of the intracranial internal carotid artery or the proximal MCA (M1) means a substantial brain region is at risk but potentially salvageable, so removing the clot can substantially improve outcomes. Other factors like being under 18, a high pre-stroke disability (MRS 4), or extensive early ischemic changes (ASPECTS <6) influence risk and expected benefit, but the presence of a large-vessel occlusion in the ICA or M1 is the defining finding for eligibility in this time window.

The key idea is that within 6 hours, thrombectomy is most clearly indicated for a large vessel occlusion in the anterior circulation. An occlusion of the intracranial internal carotid artery or the proximal MCA (M1) means a substantial brain region is at risk but potentially salvageable, so removing the clot can substantially improve outcomes. Other factors like being under 18, a high pre-stroke disability (MRS 4), or extensive early ischemic changes (ASPECTS <6) influence risk and expected benefit, but the presence of a large-vessel occlusion in the ICA or M1 is the defining finding for eligibility in this time window.