The objectives of the pilot study are: 1) To determine feasibility of the methods and procedures for a proposed prospective randomized controlled trial. Specifically, to determine if randomization can be reliably performed in a timely fashion to facilitate inclusion in the study. Note: EVT will not be delayed beyond institutional temporal limits to allow recruitment or randomization of potential participants. 2) To determine if anesthesia for EVT can be reliably delivered according to the standardized protocol. 3) To determine if post-treatment follow-up of functional outcome can be reliably performed according to a standardized methodology. If the pilot study demonstrates feasibility, the investigators will proceed with a much larger RCT.