Background: Multiple randomised trials have placed mechanical recanalisation as an integral part of stroke management in large vessel occlusion (LVO). Newer techniques of thrombectomy are evolving for effective recanalisation.  

Aim: We aimed to investigate the efficacy of new DAFT (Dual Aspiration and Fluff Technique) in acute stroke with large vessel occlusion.

Materials and Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the 23 patients with acute large vessel occlusion using a new DAFT technique. We used aspiration at the 5 MAX ACE catheter and Neuron MAX 088 6F catheter along with stent retriever assisted technique. Detail analysis of medical records were done to obtain patient characteristics, site of occlusion, puncture to recanalisation time, reperfusion grade, mRS etc. Informed consent was taken in all the patients.

Results: First-pass mTICI 3 reperfusion was achieved in 18 out of 23 patients (78%) with a mean groin puncture to reperfusion time of 39.0 min ± 12  Successful reperfusion (mTICI ≥ 2b) was achieved in 21 patients (91.30%) with a mean time from groin puncture to reperfusion of 45 min ± 20.3. At presentation, the median NIHSS score was 12 and favourable clinical outcome at discharge (mRS ≤ 2) was achieved in 14 out of 23 patients (61%). Ninety days follow up was completed in 18 patients with 16 patients (88.89%) showing favourable outcome.

Conclusion: DAFT is newer and very effective technique in terms of first pass complete reperfusion in patients with LVO.

DAFT (DUAL ASPIRATION AND FLUFF TECHNIQUE) FOR STENT RETRIEVERS IN ACUTE ISCHEMIC STROKE WITH LARGE VESSEL OCCLUSION-A SUCCESSFUL NEW TECHNIQUE FOR EARLY RECANALISATION