UCLA HotLine  310-825-6301 (ask for Dr. Vespa)

Reduction or limitation in hematoma volume to improve outcome appears to be important, but surgical trials have failed thus far to demonstrate benefit from early evacuation of the blood, with the possible exception of lobar hemorrhages adjacent to the brain surface.

To date, large scale randomized surgical trials have not tested whether a minimally invasive surgical technique improves outcome. We hypothesize that the optimal minimally invasive surgical technique would result in immediate near-total evacuation of the hematoma without causing additional trauma thereby completely avoiding prolonged exposure of the perihematomal tissue to toxic blood breakdown products.

We are now joining with the MISTIE (Minimally Invasive Surgery plus rt-PA for ICH Evacuation) investigators in order to compare the safety profiles of endoscopic surgery (immediate clot removal via a larger endoscopic technique or ICES operation) with that of stereotactic thrombolysis (slower clot removal via a the thrombolytic technique or MISTIE operation).

Main Aim: Perform minimally invasive surgery within 48 hours of onset of ICH and compare safety and efficicacy outcomes between the ICES and MISTIE procedures.

To learn more or to refer or enroll eligible patients in your area 24x7, please call UCLA HotLine at  310-825-6301 (ask for Dr. Vespa)