Improved functional outcome for stroke patients with low ASPECTS score large core infarctions: 1-year follow-up of three randomised trials

Several randomised controlled trials (RCTs)1–5 have established 3-month efficacy and safety of endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) in treating patients with acute ischaemic stroke (AIS) with a large infarct core and low Alberta Stroke Program Early Computed Tomographic Scores (ASPECTS), between 3 and 5. Despite EVT, these patients have a higher rate of mortality and unfavourable outcomes at 3 months, delayed recovery or secondary deterioration.6 The long-term outcomes for these patients remain largely uncertain and unexplored.