Preventive Suboccipital Decompressive Craniectomy for Cerebellar Infarction: A Retrospective-Matched Case-Control Study

Beyond the Limit: Salvaging the Posterior Circulation Territory via Late Endovascular Thrombectomy

Introduction

Posterior circulation infarctions, particularly basilar artery occlusions, contribute significantly to morbidity and mortality in ischemic stroke. However, literature supporting mechanical thrombectomy in the posterior circulation, especially beyond the 24-h window, is limited.

Case Presentation

We present the case of a 64-year-old male diagnosed with basilar artery occlusion who underwent a successful mechanical thrombectomy 11 days after symptom onset. Despite complications such as hemorrhagic transformation and herniation, the patient was stabilized and showed functional improvement 3 months post-stroke.

Conclusion

This case suggests that delayed thrombectomy may provide benefits for selected patients, even beyond the recommended 24-h window. Further research is essential to refine treatment strategies and potentially extend the intervention window for posterior circulation strokes.

Volumetry as a Criterion for Suboccipital Craniectomy after Cerebellar Infarction

Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the use of image-guided volumetry in cerebellar infarction during the decision-making process for surgery. Particular emphasis was placed on the ratio of the infarction volume to the cerebellar volume or cranial posterior fossa volume. Methods: A retrospective, multicenter, multidisciplinary study design was selected. Statistical methods such as regression analysis and ROC analysis included the volumetric data of the infarction, the posterior fossa and the cerebellum itself as new factors. Results: Thirty-eight patients (mean age 75 (SD: 13.93) years, 16 (42%) female patients) were included. The mean infarction volume was 37.79 (SD: 25.24) cm3. Patients treated surgically had a 2.05-fold larger infarction than those managed without surgery (p ≤ 0.001). Medical and surgical treatment revealed a significant difference in the ratio of the cranial posterior fossa volume to the infarction volume (medical 12.05, SD:9.09; surgical 5.14, SD: 5,65; p ≤ 0.001) and the ratio of the cerebellar volume to the infarction volume (medical 8.55, SD: 5.97; surgical 3.82, SD: 3.39; p ≤ 0.001). Subsequent multivariate regression analysis for surgical therapy showed significant results only for the posterior fossa volume to infarction volume ratio ≤/> 4:1 (OR: 1.162, CI: 1.007-1.341, p = 0.04). Younger (≤60 years) patients also had a significantly better outcome at discharge (p ≤ 0.017). A cut-off value for the infarction volume of 31.35 cm3 (sensitivity = 0.875, specificity = 0.2) was determined for the necessity of surgery. Conclusions: Volumetric data on the infarction, the posterior fossa and the cerebellum itself could be meaningful in decision-making towards surgery.

Neurocritical Care for Patients With Ischemic Stroke

OBJECTIVE

Management of stroke due to large vessel occlusion (LVO) has undergone unprecedented change in the past decade. Effective treatment with thrombectomy has galvanized the field and led to advancements in all aspects of care. This article provides a comprehensive examination of neurologic intensive care unit (ICU) management of patients with stroke due to LVO. The role of the neurocritical care team in stroke systems of care and the importance of prompt diagnosis, initiation of treatment, and continued monitoring of patients with stroke due to LVO is highlighted.

LATEST DEVELOPMENTS

The management of complications commonly associated with stroke due to LVO, including malignant cerebral edema and respiratory failure, are addressed, stressing the importance of early identification and aggressive treatment in mitigating negative effects on patients' prognoses. In the realm of medical management, this article discusses various medical therapies, including antithrombotic therapy, blood pressure management, and glucose control, outlining evidence-based strategies for optimizing patient outcomes. It further emphasizes the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to provide a comprehensive care model. Lastly, the critical aspect of family communication and prognostication in the neurologic ICU is addressed.

ESSENTIAL POINTS

This article emphasizes the multidimensional aspects of neurocritical care in treating patients with stroke due to LVO.

Endoscopic Cerebellar Necrosectomy for Space-occupying Cerebellar Infarction: A Case Report

Suboccipital decompressive craniectomy with or without resection of necrosis is the preferred treatment for space-occupying cerebellar infarctions with neurological deterioration due to brainstem compression and obstructive hydrocephalus. We herein present our experience with treating space-occupying cerebellar infarctions successfully using endoscopic necrosectomy. A total of 27 patients were admitted to our hospital due to cerebellar infarctions between April 2021 and November 2023. Four patients required surgical interventions due to a drop in consciousness level or compression of the fourth ventricle and brainstem with acute hydrocephalus confirmed by a computed tomography (CT) scan. Three patients were performed endoscopic necrosectomy through a burr hole in a supine-lateral position. Removing most of the necrotic tissue was possible, resulting in early decompression of the fourth ventricle and brainstem. Endoscopic necrosectomy is less invasive than suboccipital decompressive craniectomy. An endoscopic necrosectomy can be performed for patients with unstable health conditions in a supine-lateral position. Therefore, endoscopic necrosectomy might be an effective method for treating patients with space-occupying cerebellar infarctions and poor general condition, although an objective evaluation of the extent and degree of removal is needed.

Necrosectomy Versus Stand-Alone Suboccipital Decompressive Craniectomy for the Management of Space-Occupying Cerebellar Infarctions-A Retrospective Multicenter Study

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Space-occupying cerebellar stroke (SOCS) when coupled with neurological deterioration represents a neurosurgical emergency. Although current evidence supports surgical intervention in such patients with SOCS and rapid neurological deterioration, the optimal surgical methods/techniques to be applied remain a matter of debate.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective, multicenter study of patients undergoing surgery for SOCS. Patients were stratified according to the type of surgery as (1) suboccipital decompressive craniectomy (SDC) or (2) suboccipital craniotomy with concurrent necrosectomy. The primary end point examined was functional outcome using the modified Rankin Scale (mRS) at discharge and at 3 months (mRS 0-3 defined as favorable and mRS 4-6 as unfavorable outcome). Secondary end points included the analysis of in-house postoperative complications, mortality, and length of hospitalization.

RESULTS

Ninety-two patients were included in the final analysis: 49 underwent necrosectomy and 43 underwent SDC. Those with necrosectomy displayed significantly higher rate of favorable outcome at discharge as compared with those who underwent SDC alone: 65.3% vs 27.9%, respectively ( P < .001, odds ratios 4.9, 95% CI 2.0-11.8). This difference was also observed at 3 months: 65.3% vs 41.7% ( P = .030, odds ratios 2.7, 95% CI 1.1-6.7). No significant differences were observed in mortality and/or postoperative complications, such as hemorrhagic transformation, infection, and/or the development of cerebrospinal fluid leaks/fistulas.

CONCLUSION

In the setting of SOCS, patients treated with necrosectomy displayed better functional outcomes than those patients who underwent SDC alone. Ultimately, prospective, randomized studies will be needed to confirm this finding.

Safe and time-saving treatment method for acute cerebellar infarction: Navigation-guided burr-hole aspiration - 6-years single center experience

OBJECTIVE

While patients with medically intractable acute cerebellar infarction typically undergo suboccipital craniectomy and removal of the infarcted tissue, this procedure is associated with long operating times and postoperative complications. This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of minimally invasive navigationguided burr hole aspiration surgery for the treatment of acute cerebellar infarction.

METHODS

Between January 2015 and December 2021, 14 patients with acute cerebellar infarction, who underwent navigation-guided burr hole aspiration surgery, were enrolled in this study.

RESULTS

The preoperative mean Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score was 12.7, and the postoperative mean GCS score was 14.3. The mean infarction volume was 34.3 cc at admission and 23.5 cc immediately following surgery. Seven days after surgery, the mean infarction volume was 15.6 cc. There were no surgery-related complications during the 6-month follow-up period and no evidence of clinical deterioration. The mean operation time from skin incision to catheter insertion was 28 min, with approximately an additional 13 min for extra-ventricular drainage. The mean Glasgow Outcome Scale score after 6 months was 4.8.

CONCLUSIONS

Navigation-guided burr hole aspiration surgery is less time-consuming and invasive than conventional craniectomy, and is a safe and effective treatment option for acute cerebellar infarction in selected cases, with no surgery-related complication.

Surgery for Malignant Acute Ischemic Stroke: A Narrative Review of the Knowns and Unknowns

Malignant acute ischemic stroke (AIS) is characterized by acute neurological deterioration caused by progressive space-occupying brain edema, often occurring in the first hours to days after symptom onset. Without any treatment, the result is often fatal. Despite advances in treatment for AIS, up to 80% of patients with a large hemispheric stroke or cerebellar stroke are at risk of poor outcome. Decompressive surgery can be life-saving in a subgroup of patients with malignant AIS, but uncertainties exist on patient selection, predictors of malignant infarction, perioperative management, and timing of intervention. Although survivors are left disabled, most agree with the original decision to undergo surgery and would make the same decision again. In this narrative review, we focus on the clinical and radiological predictors of malignant infarction in AIS and outline the technical aspects of decompressive surgery as well as duraplasty and cranioplasty. We discuss the current evidence and recommendations for surgery in AIS, highlighting gaps in knowledge, and suggest directions for future studies. KEY POINTS: · Acute ischemic stroke from occlusion of a proximal intracranial artery can progress quickly to malignant edema, which can be fatal in 80% of patients despite medical management.. · Decompression surgery is life-saving within 48 hours of stroke onset, but the benefits beyond this time and in the elderly are unknown.. · Decompressive surgery is associated with high morbidity, particularly in the elderly. The decision to operate must be made after considering the individual's preference and expectations of quality of life in the context of the clinical condition.. · Further studies are needed to refine surgical technique including value of duraplasty and understand the role monitoring intracranial pressure during and after decompressive surgery.. · More studies are needed on the pathophysiology of malignant cerebral edema, prediction models including imaging and biomarkers to identify which subgroup of patients will benefit from decompressive surgery.. · More research is needed on factors associated with morbidity and mortality after cranioplasty, safety and efficacy of implants, and comparisons between them.. · Further studies are needed to assess the long-term effects of physical disability and quality of life of survivors after surgery, particularly those with severe neurological deficits..

Functional and Mortality Outcomes with Medical and Surgical Therapy in Malignant Posterior Circulation Infarcts: A Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

There remains uncertainty regarding optimal definitive management for malignant posterior circulation infarcts (MPCI). While guidelines recommend neurosurgery for malignant cerebellar infarcts that are refractory to medical therapy, concerns exist about the functional outcome and quality of life after decompressive surgery.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to evaluate the outcomes of surgical intervention compared to medical therapy in MPCI.

METHODS

In this systematic review, MEDLINE, Embase and Cochrane databases were searched from inception until 2 April 2021. Studies were included if they involved posterior circulation strokes treated with neurosurgical intervention and reported mortality and functional outcome data. Data were collected according to PRISMA guidelines.

RESULTS

The search yielded 6677 studies, of which 31 studies (comprising 723 patients) were included for analysis. From the included studies, we found that surgical therapy led to significant differences in mortality and functional outcomes in patients with severe disease. Neurological decline and radiological criteria were often used to decide the timing for surgical intervention, as there is currently limited evidence for preventative neurosurgery. There is also limited evidence for the superiority of one surgical modality over another.

CONCLUSION

For patients with MPCI who are clinically stable at the time of presentation, in terms of mortality and functional outcome, surgical therapy appears to be equivocal to medical therapy. Reliable evidence is lacking, and further prospective studies are rendered.

Predictors of clinical outcomes in space-occupying cerebellar infarction undergoing suboccipital decompressive craniectomy

Introduction

Despite current clinical guidelines recommending suboccipital decompressive craniectomy (SDC) in cerebellar infarction when patients present with neurological deterioration, the precise definition of neurological deterioration remains unclear and accurate timing of SDC can be challenging. The current study aimed at characterizing whether clinical outcomes can be predicted by the GCS score immediately prior to SDC and whether higher GCS scores are associated with better clinical outcomes.

Methods

In a single-center, retrospective analysis of 51 patients treated with SDC for space-occupying cerebellar infarction, clinical and imaging data were evaluated at the time points of symptom onset, hospital admission, and preoperatively. Clinical outcomes were measured by the mRS. Preoperative GCS scores were stratified into three groups (GCS, 3-8, 9-11, and 12-15). Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses were performed using clinical and radiological parameters as predictors of clinical outcomes.

Results

In cox regression analysis GCS scores of 12-15 at surgery were significant predictors of positive clinical outcomes (mRS, 1-2). For GCS scores of 3-8 and 9-11, no significant increase in proportional hazard ratios was observed. Negative clinical outcomes (mRS, 3-6) were associated with infarct volume above 6.0 cm³, tonsillar herniation, brainstem compression, and a preoperative GCS score of 3-8 [HR, 2.386 (CI, 1.160-4.906); p = 0.018].

Conclusion

Our preliminary findings suggest that SDC should be considered in patients with infarct volumes above 6.0 cm³ and with GCS between 12 and 15, as these patients may show better long-term outcomes than those in whom surgery is delayed until a GCS score below 11.

Clinical and Computerized Volumetric Analysis of Posterior Fossa Decompression for Space-Occupying Cerebellar Infarction

Background and Purpose

Surgical decompression of the posterior fossa is often performed in cases with a space-occupying cerebellar infarction to prevent coma and death. In this study, we analyzed our institutional experience with this condition. We specifically attempted to address timing issues and investigated the role of cerebellar necrosectomy using imaging data and conducting volumetric analyses.

Methods

We retrospectively studied pertinent clinical and imaging data, including computerized volumetric analyses (preoperative/postoperative infarction volume, necrosectomy volume, and posterior fossa volume), from all 49 patients who underwent posterior fossa decompression surgery for cerebellar infarction in our department from January 2012 to January 2021.

Results

Thirty-five (71%) patients had a Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) of 14–15 at admission vs. only 14 (29%) before vs. 41 (84%) following surgery. Seven (14%) patients had preventive surgery (initial GCS 14–15, preoperative GCS change ≤ 1). Only 18 (37%) patients had an mRS score of 0–3 at discharge. Estimated overall survival was 70.5% at 1 year. Interestingly, 18/20 (90%) surviving cases had a modified Rankin Scale (mRS) outcome of 0–3 (mRS 0–2: 12/20 [60%]) 1 year after surgery. Surgical timing, including preventive surgery and mass effect of the infarct, in the posterior fossa assessed semi-quantitatively (Kirollos grade) and with volumetric parameters that were not predictive of the patients' (functional) outcomes.

Conclusion

Posterior fossa decompression for cerebellar infarction is a life-saving procedure, but rapid recovery of the GCS after surgery does not necessarily translate into good functional outcome. Many patients died during follow-up, but long-term mRS outcomes of 4–5 are rare. Surgery should probably aim primarily at pressure relief, and our clinical as well as volumetric data suggest that the impact of removing an infarcted tissue may be limited. It is presumably relatively safe to initially withhold surgery in cases with a GCS of 14–15.

Posterior Circulation Ischaemic Stroke

Posterior circulation ischaemic stroke (PCIS) is a disease of high burden. They account for 20-25% of all ischaemic strokes. However, it is relatively under-researched and requires more clinical attention, since it carries worse functional outcomes. Vertigo, visual disturbances and sensory/motor disturbances are found in PCIS. Large artery atherosclerosis and embolism are main causes of PCIS, while there is growing evidence that vertebrobasilar dolichoectasia is a key association. Hypertension is the commonest risk factor, while diabetes mellitus is more specific to PCIS. PCIS is diagnosed through neuroimaging techniques, which examine structural brain abnormalities, vascular patency and perfusion. PCIS, in line with ischaemic stroke in general, requires medical treatment and lifestyle modifications. This includes smoking cessation, weight control, and dietary alterations. Aspirin use also significantly improves survival outcomes. While intravascular and intra-arterial thrombolysis improve clinical outcomes, this is not proven conclusively for stenting and angioplasty. Future research on PCIS can focus on multi-centre epidemiological studies, clinically significant anatomical variants, and collateralisation.

Rate of Infarct-Edema Growth on CT Predicts Need for Surgical Intervention and Clinical Outcome in Patients with Cerebellar Infarction

BACKGROUND

Up to 20% of patients with cerebellar infarcts will develop malignant edema and deteriorate clinically. Radiologic measures, such as initial infarct size, aid in identifying individuals at risk. Studies of anterior circulation stroke suggest that mapping early edema formation improves the ability to predict deterioration; however, the kinetics of edema in the posterior fossa have not been well characterized. We hypothesized that faster edema growth within the first hours after acute cerebellar stroke would be an indicator for individuals requiring surgical intervention and those with worse neurological outcomes.

METHODS

Consecutive patients admitted to the neurological intensive care unit with acute cerebellar infarction were retrospectively identified. Hypodense regions of infarct and associated edema, "infarct-edema", were delineated by using ABC/2 for all computed tomography (CT) scans up to 14 days from last known well. To examine how rate of infarct-edema growth varied across clinical variables and surgical intervention status, nonlinear and linear mixed-effect models were performed over 2 weeks and 2 days, respectively. In patients with at least two CT scans, multivariable logistic regression examined clinical and radiological predictors of surgical intervention (defined as extraventricular drainage and/or posterior fossa decompression) and poor clinical outcome (discharge to skilled nursing facility, long-term acute care facility, hospice, or morgue).

RESULTS

Of 150 patients with acute cerebellar infarction, 38 (25%) received surgical intervention and 45 (30%) had poor clinical outcome. Age, admission National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score, and baseline infarct-edema volume did not differ, but bilateral/multiple vascular territory involvement was more frequent (87% vs. 50%, p < 0.001) in the surgical group than that in the medical intervention group. On 410 serial CTs, infarct-edema volume progressed rapidly over the first 2 days, followed by a subsequent plateau. Of 112 patients who presented within two days, infarct-edema growth rate was greater in the surgical group (20.1 ml/day vs. 8.01 ml/day, p = 0.002). Of 67 patients with at least two scans, after adjusting for baseline infarct-edema volume, vascular territory, and NIHSS, infarct-edema growth rate over the first 2 days (odds ratio 2.55; 95% confidence interval 1.40-4.65) was an independent, and the strongest, predictor of surgical intervention. Further, early infarct-edema growth rate predicted poor clinical outcome (odds ratio 2.20; 95% confidence interval 1.30-3.71), independent of baseline infarct-edema volume, brainstem infarct, and NIHSS.

CONCLUSIONS

Early infarct-edema growth rate, measured via ABC/2, is a promising biomarker for identifying the need for surgical intervention in patients with acute cerebellar infarction. Additionally, it may be used to facilitate discussions regarding patient prognosis.

Rapid closure technique in suboccipital decompression

Objective

Suboccipital decompression has been established as standard therapeutic procedure for raised intracranial pressure caused by mass-effect associated pathologies in posterior fossa. Several different surgical techniques of dural closure have been postulated to achieve safe decompression. The aim of this study was to examine the differences between fibrin sealant patch (FSP) and dural reconstruction (DR) in suboccipital decompression for acute mass-effect lesions.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed our institutional data of patients who underwent suboccipital decompression due to spontaneous intracerebellar hemorrhage, cerebellar infarction and acute traumatic subdural hematoma between 2010 and 2019. Two different dural reconstruction techniques were performed according to the attending neurosurgeon: (1) fibrin sealant patch (FSP), and (2) dural reconstruction (DR) including the use of dural patch. Complications, operative time, functional outcome and the necessity of a ventriculoperitoneal shunt (VP Shunt) were assessed and further analyzed.

Results

Overall, 87 patients were treated at the authors’ institution (44 in FSP group, 43 in DR group). Glasgow coma scale on admission and preoperative coagulation state did not differ between the groups. Postoperatively, we found no difference in cerebrospinal fluid leakage or chronic hydrocephalus between the groups (p = 0.47). Revision rates were 2.27% (1/44 patients) in the FSP group, compared to 16.27% (7/43) in the DR group (p < 0.023). Operative time was significantly shorter in the FSP group (90.3 ± 31.0 min vs. 199.0 ± 48.8 min, p < 0.0001).

Conclusion

Rapid closure technique in suboccipital decompression is feasible and safe. Operative time is hereby reduced, without increasing complication rates.

Early space-occupying cerebellar oedema requiring decompressive craniectomy following a clinically minor stroke

We describe a patient presented with clinically a small cerebellar ischaemic stroke but required emergency decompression within 24 hours of symptoms onset after incidental finding of severe mass effect on imaging without any change in her mild clinical symptoms. Her initial multimodal acute stroke imaging, non-contrast CT of the brain and CT angiography from aortic arch to vertex were normal. CT perfusion showed a very small deficit only. The malignant mass effect was picked on an MRI scan performed routinely as part of a clinical trial, 32 hours after stroke. Our case highlights stroke evolution, and mass effect may be insidious and faster than anticipated in the posterior fossa. Cerebellar stroke of any severity diagnosed clinically and radiologically may benefit from routine follow-up imaging at 24 hours from onset.

Cerebellar Necrosectomy Instead of Suboccipital Decompression: A Suitable Alternative for Patients with Space-Occupying Cerebellar Infarction

OBJECTIVE

Space-occupying cerebellar ischemic strokes (SOCSs) often lead to neurological deterioration and require surgical intervention to release pressure from the posterior fossa. Current guidelines recommend suboccipital decompressive craniectomy (SDC) with dural expansion when medical therapy is not sufficient. However, no good-quality evidence is available to support this surgical practice, and the surgical timing and technique both remain controversial. We have described an alternative to SDC, surgical evacuation of infarcted tissue (necrosectomy) and its clinical outcomes.

METHODS

In the present retrospective, single-center study, 34 consecutive patients with SOCS undergoing necrosectomy via osteoplastic craniotomy were included. The patient characteristics and radiological findings were evaluated. To differentiate the effects of age on the functional outcomes, the patients were divided into 2 groups (group I, age ≤60 years; and group II, age >60 years). Functional outcomes were assessed using the Glasgow outcome scale, modified Rankin scale, and Barthel index at discharge and 30 days postoperatively.

RESULTS

In our cohort, we observed overall mortality of 21%, with good functional outcomes (Glasgow outcome scale score ≥4) for 76% of the patients. No statistically significant differences in mortality or functional outcomes were observed between the 2 patient groups. Comparing our data with a recent meta-analysis of SDC, the number of adverse events and unfavorable outcome showed equipoise between the 2 treatment modalities.

CONCLUSIONS

Necrosectomy appears to be a suitable alternative to SDC for SOCS, achieving comparable mortality and functional outcomes. Further trials are necessary to evaluate which surgical technique is more beneficial in the setting of SOCSs.

Predicting Surgical Intervention in Cerebellar Stroke: A Quantitative Retrospective Analysis

BACKGROUND

Debate still exists regarding whether preventive surgical decompression should be offered to high-risk patients experiencing cerebellar stroke. This study aimed to predict neurologic decline based on risk factors, volumetric analysis, and imaging characteristics.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study comprised patients ≥18 years who presented with acute cerebellar ischemic stroke (CIS) between January 2011 and December 2016. Diagnostic imaging was used to calculate metrics based on individual stroke, cerebellar, and posterior fossa volumes. Head computed tomography scans on presentation and day of peak swelling were used to tabulate a CIS score.

RESULTS

The study included 86 patients; most were male and African American. Posterior inferior communicating artery stroke was most common (50%). On initial presentation imaging, 18.6% had documented hydrocephalus, 20.9% had brainstem compression, 22.1% had brainstem stroke, and 39.5% had stroke in another vascular territory. Cardioembolic stroke was the most common etiology, followed by cryptogenic stroke. Overall, patients who underwent surgical intervention had larger stroke volumes on presentation. Patients undergoing surgical intervention also experienced faster cerebellar swelling compared with patients without intervention. Total CIS scores were statistically significant and remained significant on the peak day of swelling. CIS score was independently associated with neurosurgical intervention; patients in this group with delayed interventions (median CIS score, 6; range, 4-8) later deteriorated and required emergent surgical decompression. Eleven patients without intervention had CIS score >6; 4 patients died of stroke complications.

CONCLUSIONS

Volumetric studies and CIS score are objective measures that may help predict decline on imaging before clinical deterioration.

Posterior Fossa Surgery for Stroke: Differences in Outcomes Between Cerebellar Hemorrhage and Infarcts

BACKGROUND

Posterior fossa surgery is the established treatment for large cerebellar strokes with brainstem compression. Despite this, there is a paucity of data for long-term outcomes.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of patients who underwent posterior fossa surgery for cerebellar hemorrhages and infarcts was performed to compare their difference in 6-month outcomes and to identify factors that affect outcomes. Patients were dichotomized into groups with good outcomes (modified Rankin scale [mRS] score 0-3) or poor outcomes (mRS score 4-6). Sex, age, preoperative Glasgow Coma Scale score, Charleston comorbidity index, time to surgery, intraventricular hemorrhage, surgical complications, length of intensive care unit and hospital stay, shunt dependence, and tracheostomy rates were analyzed.

RESULTS

In total, 126 patients were recruited: 76 in hemorrhage group and 50 in infarct group. There was a greater mortality in the hemorrhage group (P = 0.0730). At 6 months, more patients in the hemorrhage group had poor outcomes (P = 0.0074, odds ratio 3.04) and greater mortality (P = 0.0730, odds ratio 2.20). More patients in the hemorrhage group required a tracheostomy (P = 0.0245). Factors predictive of poor outcome include older age (P = 0.0108), Glasgow Coma Scale score ≤8 (P = 0.0011), and tracheostomy (P = 0.0269). A total of 69.2% of patients had improvements in mRS scores at 6 months. Shorter length of stay (P = 0.0003) and discharge to a rehabilitation hospital (P = 0.0001) were predictive of functional improvement.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients who underwent posterior fossa surgery for cerebellar hemorrhage had worse outcomes compared with patients with cerebellar infarcts and were more likely to require a tracheostomy. Rehabilitation helped to improved outcomes.

Management of Stroke in the Neurocritical Care Unit

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This article provides updated information regarding the diagnosis and treatment (specifically critical care management) of acute ischemic stroke. This article also discusses the increased use of thrombolysis and thrombectomy in clinical practice.

RECENT FINDINGS

Stroke is the leading cause of disability in the United States. A significant proportion of patients with acute ischemic stroke require critical care management. Much has changed in the early evaluation and treatment of patients presenting with acute ischemic stroke. The introduction of embolectomy in large vessel occlusions for up to 24 hours post-symptom onset has resulted in one in every three eligible patients with acute ischemic stroke with the potential to lead an independent lifestyle. These patients increasingly require recognition of complications and initiation of appropriate interventions as well as earlier admission to dedicated neurocritical care units to ensure better outcomes.

SUMMARY

This article emphasizes issues related to the management of patients with acute ischemic stroke undergoing mechanical thrombectomy and thrombolysis and addresses the complex physiologic changes affecting neurologic and other organ systems.

Decompressive craniectomy for acute ischemic stroke

Malignant stroke occurs in a subgroup of patients suffering from ischemic cerebral infarction and is characterized by neurological deterioration due to progressive edema, raised intracranial pressure, and cerebral herniation. Decompressive craniectomy (DC) is a surgical technique aiming to open the “closed box” represented by the non-expandable skull in cases of refractory intracranial hypertension. It is a valuable modality in the armamentarium to treat patients with malignant stroke: the life-saving effect has been proven for both supratentorial and infratentorial DC in virtually all age groups. This leaves physicians with the difficult task to decide who will require early or preemptive surgery and who might benefit from postponing surgery until clear evidence of deterioration evolves. Together with the patient’s relatives, physicians also have to ascertain whether the patient will have acceptable disability and quality of life in his or her presumed perception, based on preoperative predictions. This complex decision-making process can only be managed with interdisciplinary efforts and should be supported by continued research in the age of personalized medicine.

Long-term functional outcome after decompressive suboccipital craniectomy for space-occupying cerebellar infarction

OBJECTIVES

Suboccipital decompressive craniectomy (SDC) is considered the best treatment option in patients with space-occupying cerebellar infarction and clinical signs of deterioration. The primary purpose of this study was to evaluate long-term functional outcome in patients one year after SDC for space-occupying cerebellar infarction, and secondly, to determine factors associated with outcome.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

All patients treated with SDC due to space-occupying cerebellar infarction between January 2009 and October 2015 were included in the study. Data was retrospectively collected from patient records, CT/MRI scans and surgical protocols. Long-term functional outcome was determined by the modified Rankin Scale (mRS) and mRS ≥ 4 was defined as unfavorable outcome.

RESULTS

Twenty-two patients (16 male, 6 female) were included in the study. Median age was 53 years. Nine patients were treated with external ventricular drainage as an initial treatment attempt prior to SDC. Median time from symptom onset (stroke ictus) to initiation of the SDC surgery was 48 h (IQR 28-99 hours) and median GCS before SDC was 8 (IQR 5-10). At follow up, median mRS was 3 (IQR 2-6). Outcome was favorable (mRS 0-3) in 12 patients and unfavorable in 10 (3 with major disability, 7 dead). Brainstem infarction and bilateral cerebellar infarction were associated with unfavorable outcome.

CONCLUSIONS

In this small study, functional long-term outcome in patients with space-occupying cerebellar infarction treated by SDC was acceptable and comparable to previously published results (favorable outcome in 54% of patients). Brainstem infarction and bilateral cerebellar infarction were associated with unfavorable outcome.