The BEST study is an academically initiated, single-center, prospective, randomized controlled clinical trial investigating the potential advantages and disadvantages of using a guide catheter with or without a balloon in the interventional treatment of acute ischemic stroke.
The study population consists of adult patients with acute ischemic stroke of the anterior circulation for whom interventional recanalization therapy via catheter is indicated following interdisciplinary consultation between the Department of Neurology and Neuroradiology at Heidelberg University Hospital.
In addition to routine clinical treatment measures and data collection, patients will be interviewed by telephone after 90 days to assess their quality of life and level of independence using standardized scoring systems.
All medical devices used or investigated in this study bear the CE mark (Conformité Européenne ) and will be used within their intended purpose. Study participants will not be subjected to any additional invasive or burdensome procedures beyond normal usage.