CAN-REST: Contrast-Associated Nephropathy Risk Evaluation in Acute Ischemic Stroke After Endovascular Thrombectomy

The CAN-REST study is a multicenter, observational, and retrospective study designed to evaluate the incidence and risk factors of contrast-associated acute kidney injury (CA-AKI) in patients who have suffered an acute ischemic stroke (AIS) and subsequently underwent endovascular thrombectomy (EVT). The use of contrast agents during EVT, essential for visualizing blood vessels and guiding the procedure, poses a risk for CA-AKI, particularly in patients who are already in a vulnerable state due to stroke-related comorbidities and the acute nature of their condition.

The primary objective of the study is to assess the incidence of CA-AKI in AIS patients following EVT and to identify specific risk factors that contribute to the development of CA-AKI. Secondary objectives include evaluating the impact of CA-AKI on clinical outcomes, such as the length of hospital stay, functional recovery as measured by the modified Rankin Scale (mRS) at discharge and 90 days post-procedure, and all-cause mortality at 90 days. Additionally, the study aims to develop and validate risk stratification tools that can predict the likelihood of CA-AKI based on both baseline patient characteristics and procedural variables related to EVT.

The study population consists of all consecutive AIS patients treated with EVT in participating centers from January 1, 2023, to December 31, 2023. Data collection will include detailed information on patient demographics, clinical history, stroke severity, procedural details of EVT, and subsequent renal function assessments to determine the development of CA-AKI. Two predictive models will be developed: one using only pre-EVT variables and another incorporating EVT-related variables to better stratify patients according to their risk for developing CA-AKI.

By analyzing a large cohort of patients from multiple centers worldwide, CAN-REST aims to provide valuable insights into the renal complications associated with the use of contrast media in EVT for AIS patients. The study's findings are expected to guide clinical practice by identifying high-risk patients and enabling the development of preventative strategies, ultimately improving patient outcomes and care standards in stroke treatment.