Endovascular thrombectomy versus best medical therapy for acute vertebrobasilar artery occlusion in patients with low NIHSS scores: a meta-analysis.
Ann MedMay 16, 2026 (epub)
Yaqin Qin, Zhuo Min, Guangxin Sun et al.
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In 30 seconds
This meta-analysis evaluated the effectiveness of endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) versus best medical therapy (BMT) in patients with acute vertebrobasilar artery occlusion and mild symptoms (NIHSS score ≤10). Involving 3,107 patients across seven studies, EVT was associated with a higher rate of excellent functional outcomes (OR 2.86; 95% CI 1.89-4.31) without increased procedural risks.
Key findings
- EVT was associated with a higher rate of excellent functional outcome (OR 2.17; 95% CI 1.58-2.96) in unadjusted analyses.
- After adjustment, EVT showed an even higher rate of excellent functional outcome (OR 2.86; 95% CI 1.89-4.31).
- Functional independence rates were higher with EVT (OR 1.91; 95% CI 1.01-3.62) after adjustment.
- Safety outcomes, including symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage and mortality, did not differ significantly between EVT and BMT.
Why it matters
The findings suggest that EVT may improve functional outcomes in patients with acute vertebrobasilar artery occlusion and mild symptoms, which could influence treatment decisions in this population.