ISC 2024 | Endovascular therapy for patients with pre-existing disability

Johanna Ospel, MD, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada, shares her thoughts on the use of endovascular therapy in patients with pre-existing disability. She notes the importance of distinguishing between individuals that are good trial candidates and those that could benefit from treatment. Randomized clinical trials aim to generate the highest level of evidence possible, meaning comparable patient characteristics and a well-controlled environment are critical. Therefore, patients with pre-existing disabilities or comorbidities are often excluded and the evidence to support treatment in these populations is lacking. However, many of these patients may well benefit from treatment. For example, individuals with cancer are likely to have their survival dictated by their cancer rather than their stroke, but treatment may still improve their quality of life. This interview took place during the International Stroke Conference 2024 in Phoenix, AZ.

These works are owned by Magdalen Medical Publishing (MMP) and are protected by copyright laws and treaties around the world. All rights are reserved.