A Comparison of Post-Stroke Seizure Rates in Patients Receiving IV Thrombolytic, Mechanical Thrombectomy, and Conventional Treatment Following Acute Ischemic Stroke

Abstract

Objective: The incidence of epileptic seizures after a stroke falls within a range of 2.3-43%. Varying opinions exist in the literature concerning the association between thrombolytic therapy, endovascular interventions, and the development of epileptic seizures post-stroke. Material and Methods: Seizure rates were compared based on the treatment method (thrombolytic therapy, endovascular intervention, or conventional therapy) in patients experiencing acute ischemic stroke within a two-year period in the neurology and neurology intensive care unit. Patients were categorized into three groups: the first group received IV thrombolytic therapy, the second group underwent mechanical thrombectomy, and the third group received conventional therapy. The occurrence of epileptic seizures from hospitalization to discharge was compared. Results: IV thrombolytics were administered to 1.5% of patients, mechanical thrombectomy to 3.6%, and 94.9% received medical treatment. Epileptic seizures were observed in 0.9% of patients. No statistically significant relationship was found between the development of epileptic seizures and the treatment method for ischemic stroke. Furthermore, no statistically significant correlation was identified between the development of epileptic seizures and the modified Rankin score at discharge. Conclusion: Our findings align with existing studies. In conclusion, this retrospective study aimed to assess how the treatment method applied in acute ischemic stroke might influence the background of epileptic seizures.