Prevalence of spontaneous recanalisation of complete internal carotid occlusion: protocol for a systematic scoping review

INTRODUCTION: Although previously thought to be a rare occurrence, spontaneous recanalisation is not uncommon, with a growing number of reports describing this phenomenon. However, the frequency, time course and mechanism of spontaneous recanalisation remain unknown. A better characterisation of these events is essential to ensuring adequate identification and proper future trial design for treatment. OBJECTIVE: To describe the current body of literature around spontaneous recanalisation following internal carotid occlusion. METHODS AND ANALYSIS: With the assistance of an information specialist, we will search MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Central Register for Controlled Trials and Web of Science for studies of adults with spontaneous recanalisation or transient occlusion of the internal carotid artery. Two reviewers will independently collect data on included studies pertaining to publication data, study population information, timepoints of initial presentation, recanalisation and subsequent follow-up. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION: Primary data will not be collected; therefore, formal ethics is not required. The findings of this study will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publications and presentations at academic conferences.