NCT05911568 · University of Cincinnati
Treatment With Endovascular Intervention for STroke Patients With Existing Disability
(TESTED)
What this study is about
TESTED will compare the risks and benefits of endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) to medical management (no EVT) in ischemic stroke patients who have a blockage in one of the large blood vessels in the brain and have a moderate-to-severe disability prior to their stroke.
View original scientific description
TESTED will compare the risks and benefits of endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) to medical management (no EVT) in ischemic stroke patients who have a blockage in one of the large blood vessels in the brain and have a moderate-to-severe disability prior to their stroke.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Adult patients (≥18 years)
- Moderate-to-severe pre-stroke functional disability, defined as mRS 3-4, for at least 3 months prior to stroke onset
- Presenting to study hospital within 24 hours of last known well time
- Diagnosis of acute ischemic stroke
- Intracranial causative occlusion of the internal carotid artery or the M1 or dominant M2 segments of the middle cerebral artery visualized on the baseline CT(or MR) angiogram
- Presenting CT Alberta Stroke Program Early CT (ASPECT) score ≥3 or MRI ASPECT score ≥4
- Presenting NIH Stroke Scale score ≥6
- Informed consent from patient if competent or from legally authorized representative
Exclusion criteria
- Known diagnosis of a terminal cancer or terminal illness at the time of stroke
- Assessment of pre-stroke functional status cannot be performed during the hospital stay
- Pre-stroke disability deemed temporary in the investigator's opinion (for example, recovering from a general medical illness or traumatic bodily injury)
Where
- Phoenix, Arizona
- Los Angeles, California
- Palo Alto, California
- San Diego, California
- Englewood, Colorado
- Hartford, Connecticut
- New Haven, Connecticut
- Miami, Florida
- Atlanta, Georgia
- Chicago, Illinois
- Louisville, Kentucky
- Boston, Massachusetts
And 11 more locations — see the full list below.
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Apr 15, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations