VISTA Research Kickoff Meeting

On the afternoon of 21 April 2023, the VISTA study (Drug-eluting Stenting versus Medical Therapy Alone for Patients with Extracranial Artery Stenosis: The VISTA Trial), which was co-sponsored by Xuanwu Hospital of Capital Medical University and the First Hospital of Harbin Medical University, was launched at the CFCVD Congress. Vertebral Artery Stenosis: The VISTA Trial), was launched at the CFCVD Congress.

The VISTA study is a multicentre randomised controlled study of the need for stenting for extracranial vertebral artery stenosis. The study, which is benchmarked against the European VAST and VIST studies, was co-organised and designed by Prof.Jiao Liqun of Xuanwu Hospital of Capital Medical University, Prof.Shi Huaizhang of the First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, and Prof.Hugh Stephen Markus of the University of Cambridge, U.K. It is a multicentre randomised controlled study led by Xuanwu Hospital of Capital Medical University, with the participation of 29 centres. The aim was to find clear evidence for interventional treatment of vertebral artery stenosis through randomised control of stenting and pharmacological treatment in two groups.

The kick-off meeting was attended by the heads of 31 sub-centres and their representatives and was chaired by Professor Shi Huaizhang.

(In no particular order and in alphabetical order)                                                                               (In no particular order and in alphabetical order)

Prof.Jiao Liqun and principal investigators from 28 other institutions initiated the VISTA study during the CFCVD Congress at Xuanwu Hospital of Capital Medical University. Professor Jiao Liqun extended his greeting and gratitude and provided a concise overview of the study.

Prof.Liqun Jiao   | Xuanwu Hospital Capital Medical University

Prof.Hugh Stephen Markus expressed his views on the VISTA study, acknowledging the significance of studying posterior circulation stroke as a crucial clinical domain. He also expressed disappointment regarding the premature termination of the VISTA study. Prof. Markus commended the VISTA study for its innovative nature and expressed optimism for its future success.

Prof. Hugh Stephen Markus

Prof.Shi Huaizhang extended his welcome and gratitude to the sub-center leaders who attended the meeting. He also conveyed his optimistic anticipation and commendation for this study. He expressed his optimism that involving the 29 sub-centers could contribute Chinese data and solutions to the crucial clinical inquiry regarding the superiority of vertebral artery stenting over drug therapy alone. Following Professor Shi Huaizhang's introduction, the leaders of the 29 sub-centers and their delegates sequentially appeared on stage. Amidst the enchanting melodies, the professors on the stage illuminated the lamp post with their hands, symbolizing hope and potential. The VISTA study was officially initiated with the alteration of illumination and shade.

Prof.Huaizhang Shi   | Xuanwu Hospital Capital Medical University

The highly influential VAST and VIST studies, which aimed to determine the superiority of vertebral artery stenting over drug therapy alone, have been prematurely terminated for various reasons. As a result, there currently needs to be a definitive conclusion from both domestic and international academic communities. This study represents a progression and enhancement of the VAST and VIST studies. By collaborating with sub-centers and leveraging their data support, we aim to generate substantial and influential evidence for the interventional treatment of vertebral artery stenosis. This will serve as a valuable reference for researchers and clinicians, ultimately leading to improved patient treatment outcomes and prognosis. Our efforts will also contribute to establishing China's prominence in the global field of neurological intervention.