Pretransfer IV Thrombolysis in Basilar Artery Occlusion: Improved Recanalization and 3‑Month Outcomes Without Clear Safety Signals

Highlights

– In a pooled, prospective cohort of 230 patients with basilar artery occlusion transferred from primary to comprehensive stroke centers, IV thrombolysis (IVT) before transfer was independently associated with a twofold higher odds of favorable 3‑month functional outcome (mRS 0–2).

– IVT was strongly associated with basilar artery recanalization noted on arrival at the comprehensive stroke center (adjusted OR 23.7), suggesting frequent early reperfusion during transfer.