Work

The impact of Heads Up testing on thrombectomy for acute ischemic stroke

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: The Heads Up test, initially described in 2017, offers a potential tool for assessing likelihood of collateral failure in patients with acute large vessel occlusion (LVO) but low or resolving NIH who may become candidates for mechanical thrombectomy (MT). By raising the head of bed and performing serial exams (Heads Up test), detection of early symptomatic worsening may indicate vulnerability of collateral blood supply. The present study aims to examine the practical applications and outcomes of the Heads Up test in one institution over 9 years by analyzing 15 consecutive cases of documented Heads Up testing. Our findings suggest that the Heads Up test can provide valuable guidance in treatment decisions, but further data is needed to refine its criteria and applicability in the evolving neurointerventional practice.

Source: Frontiers in Stroke

DOI: 10.3389/fstro.2025.1612019

Authors: Mallory Blackwood, Charles Beaman, Latisha Sharma, David S. Liebeskind

Institution: University of California, Los Angeles

Language: English

Topic: Acute Ischemic Stroke Management

Subfield: Epidemiology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,353