Low Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score (ASPECTS) associated with malignant middle cerebral artery infarction

Abstract

Background: Early decompressive hemicraniectomy following malignant middle cerebral artery (MCA) infarction reduces mortality and improves clinical outcome. Imaging predictors of malignant infarction may serve as 'red flags' prompting intensive neurological monitoring and timely intervention. Our objective is to investigate whether lower ASPECTS (Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score) is associated with malignant MCA infarction. Methods: A retrospective cohort study of all patients with MCA territory ischemic strokes who were admitted to the Royal Melbourne Hospital (RMH) between 1 January 2009 and 31 December 2009 (226 patients included). The main outcome measures were ASPECTS on admission ..