Y-configuration double-stent-retriever thrombectomy for refractory thrombus in middle cerebral artery bifurcation: A case report

RATIONALE: Stent retriever mechanical thrombectomy is a recommended treatment for acute ischemic stroke. However, refractory thrombus in artery bifurcation can reduce the rate of successful revascularization. PATIENT CONCERNS: A 72-year-old male, owing to the acute onset of almost complete right-sided hemiplegia and global aphasia, received bridging therapy. National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score was 16 at the time of admission. DIAGNOSES: Cerebral digital subtraction angiography revealed occlusion of the M1 segment of the left MCA. INTERVENTIONS: Thrombectomy with 3 passes of the Solitaire FR device (Medtronic, Minneapolis, MN) was unsuccessful. Two stent retrievers were inserted in parallel by one microcatheter access point to each M2 branch, and then both stents were gradually retrieved out of the catheter while continuous suction was maintained. OUTCOMES: After thrombectomy, subsequent follow-up angiograms showed mTICI 3 reperfusion of MCA. The patient has mRS 2 at discharge and the 3-month mRS score after stroke is 1 score. LESSONS: The presented Y-configuration double-stent-retriever thrombectomy technique constitutes a safe and effective rescue treatment method for refractory thrombus in MCA bifurcation.