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Gkrinia E, Brotis AG, Vallianou K, Ntziovara AM, Hajiioannou J. Otogenic brain complications: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Laryngol Otol 2024:1-10. [PMID: 38440882 DOI: 10.1017/s0022215124000343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/06/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to form astute deductions regarding the presentation, treatment and mortality of otogenic brain complications. METHODS A systematic literature search of four medical databases (PubMed, Embase, Web of Science and Scopus) was conducted. Studies associated with otogenic brain complications were considered eligible. Fixed- and random-effects model meta-analysis was developed to assess the proportion estimate for each outcome individually. RESULTS Twenty-eight studies, with 1650 patients in total, were included. In 66 per cent of patients there was a known history of chronic otitis media. The most common symptoms were purulent otorrhoea (84 per cent), headache (65 per cent) and otalgia (45 per cent). A brain abscess was observed in 49 per cent of patients, followed by meningitis (34 per cent) and sinus thrombosis (22 per cent). A combination of surgical and conservative therapy was chosen in 84.3 per cent of cases and the mortality rate approached 11.1 per cent. CONCLUSION Otogenic brain complications are a possibly life-threatening condition. Prompt imaging examination may set the final diagnosis and lead to an effective treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleni Gkrinia
- ENT Department, University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
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Gkrinia E, Ntziovara AM, Brotis AG, Tzimkas-Dakis K, Saratziotis A, Korais C, Hajiioannou J. Endoscopic Versus Microscopic Tympanoplasty: A Systematic Review and Metanalysis. Laryngoscope 2024. [PMID: 38415937 DOI: 10.1002/lary.31365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2023] [Revised: 01/20/2024] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Endoscopic ear surgery is no longer a promising technique, but a well-established one. This study aims to compare endoscopic and microscopic tympanoplasty based on current literature evidence, in terms of their efficacy and safety characteristics. DATA SOURCES We conducted a systematic literature search of four medical databases (Pubmed, Cochrane Library, Scopus, ClinicalTrials.gov), focusing on randomized controlled or observational studies comparing microscopic to endoscopic tympanoplasty. REVIEW METHODS Data related to the efficacy and safety of each technique were extracted. Outcome data were summarized using pooled mean differences or pooled odds ratio along with their 95% confidence intervals. The risk of bias was estimated, by using the ROBINS-I and RoB-II assessment tools, while the overall quality of evidence was evaluated according to the GRADE working group. RESULTS Thirty-three studies, with 2646 patients in total, were included in the meta-analysis. Success rate was evaluated by estimating tympanic graft failure (pooled mean difference:-0.23; 95% CI: -0.61, 0.14, I2 = 33.42%), and air-bone gap improvement (pooled mean difference:-0.05; 95% CI:-0.23, 0.13, I2 = 52.69%), resulting in comparable outcomes for the two techniques. A statistically significant difference favoring the endoscopic technique was detected regarding postoperative wound infection (OR: -1.72; 95% CI: -3.39, -0.04, I2 = 0%), dysgeusia (OR: -1.47; 95% CI: -2.47, -0.47, I2 = 0%), otitis externa development (OR: -1.96; 95% CI: -3.23, -0.69, I2 = 0%), auricular numbness (OR: -2.56; 95% CI: -3.93, -1.19, I2 = 0%), as well as surgical duration (OR: -1.86; 95% CI: -2.70, -1.02, I2 = 43.95%), when compared to the postauricular microscopic approach. CONCLUSION Endoscopic tympanoplasty is an innovative alternative to the microscopic technique, resulting in commensurate outcomes regarding success rate. Furthermore, it offers superior results concerning postoperative complications, while it presents a significant reduction in the duration of surgery, mainly when it is compared to the postauricular microscopic approach. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE NA Laryngoscope, 2024.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleni Gkrinia
- ENT Department, University Hospital of Larissa, Larisa, Greece
| | | | | | | | | | - Christos Korais
- ENT Department, University Hospital of Larissa, Larisa, Greece
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Arvaniti CK, Brotis AG, Paschalis T, Kapsalaki EZ, Fountas KN. Localization of Vestibular Cortex Using Electrical Cortical Stimulation: A Systematic Literature Review. Brain Sci 2024; 14:75. [PMID: 38248290 PMCID: PMC10813901 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci14010075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2023] [Revised: 01/07/2024] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
The vestibular system plays a fundamental role in body orientation, posture control, and spatial and body motion perception, as well as in gaze and eye movements. We aimed to review the current knowledge regarding the location of the cortical and subcortical areas, implicated in the processing of vestibular stimuli. The search was performed in PubMed and Scopus. We focused on studies reporting on vestibular manifestations after electrical cortical stimulation. A total of 16 studies were finally included. Two main types of vestibular responses were elicited, including vertigo and perception of body movement. The latter could be either rotatory or translational. Electrical stimulation of the temporal structures elicited mainly vertigo, while stimulation of the parietal lobe was associated with perceptions of body movement. Stimulation of the occipital lobe produced vertigo with visual manifestations. There was evidence that the vestibular responses became more robust with increasing current intensity. Low-frequency stimulation proved to be more effective than high-frequency in eliciting vestibular responses. Numerous non-vestibular responses were recorded after stimulation of the vestibular cortex, including somatosensory, viscero-sensory, and emotional manifestations. Newer imaging modalities such as functional MRI (fMRI), Positron Emission Tomography (PET), SPECT, and near infra-red spectroscopy (NIRS) can provide useful information regarding localization of the vestibular cortex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina K. Arvaniti
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital of Larissa, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, 41110 Larissa, Greece; (C.K.A.); (A.G.B.)
| | - Alexandros G. Brotis
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital of Larissa, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, 41110 Larissa, Greece; (C.K.A.); (A.G.B.)
| | - Thanasis Paschalis
- Department of Neuro-Oncology, Cambridge University Hospital, Cambridge CB4 1GN, UK;
| | - Eftychia Z. Kapsalaki
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, University Hospital of Larissa, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, 41100 Larisa, Greece;
- Advanced Diagnostic Institute Euromedica-Encephalos, 15233 Athens, Greece
| | - Kostas N. Fountas
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital of Larissa, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, 41110 Larissa, Greece; (C.K.A.); (A.G.B.)
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Biopolis, 41110 Larissa, Greece
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Tasiou A, Brotis AG, Kalogeras A, Tzerefos C. Cavernous malformations of the central nervous system: An international consensus statement. Brain Spine 2023; 3:102707. [PMID: 38020995 PMCID: PMC10668094 DOI: 10.1016/j.bas.2023.102707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Revised: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 11/04/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
Introduction Cavernous malformations (CM) of the central nervous system constitute rare vascular lesions. They are usually asymptomatic, which has allowed their management to become quite debatable. Even when they become symptomatic their optimal mode and timing of treatment remains controversial. Research question A consensus may navigate neurosurgeons through the decision-making process of selecting the optimal treatment for asymptomatic and symptomatic CMs. Material and methods A 17-item questionnaire was developed to address controversial issues in relation to aspects of the treatment, surgical planning, optimal surgical strategy for specific age groups, the role of stereotactic radiosurgery, as well as a follow-up pattern. Consequently, a three-stage Delphi process was ran through 19 invited experts with the goal of reaching a consensus. The agreement rate for reaching a consensus was set at 70%. Results A consensus for surgical intervention was reached on the importance of the patient's age, symptomatology, and hemorrhagic recurrence; and the CM's location and size. The employment of advanced MRI techniques is considered of value for surgical planning. Observation for asymptomatic eloquent or deep-seated CMs represents the commonest practice among our panel. Surgical resection is considered when a deep-seated CM becomes symptomatic or after a second bleeding episode. Asymptomatic, image-proven hemorrhages constituted no indication for surgical resection for our panelists. Consensus was also reached on not resecting any developmental venous anomalies, and on resecting the associated hemosiderin rim only in epilepsy cases. Discussion and conclusion Our Delphi consensus provides an expert common practice for specific controversial issues of CM patient management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anastasia Tasiou
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital of Larissa, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Alexandros G. Brotis
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital of Larissa, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Adamantios Kalogeras
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital of Larissa, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Christos Tzerefos
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital of Larissa, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
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Nana P, Spanos K, Kouvelos G, Georgakopoulou VE, Lempesis IG, Trakas N, Sklapani P, Paterakis K, Fotakopoulos G, Brotis AG. Carotid artery stenting and endarterectomy surgery techniques: A 30‑year time‑lapse. Med Int (Lond) 2023; 3:61. [PMID: 38204583 PMCID: PMC10777268 DOI: 10.3892/mi.2023.121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
Carotid endarterectomy or carotid artery stenting (CAS), are the most important axes in carotid artery interventional management. A bibliometric analysis permits an easier access to the current literature trends and information to design future studies. The aim of the present study was to identify the knowledge routes on CAS and examine the research front on the topic. The search was interpreted in Scopus, from 1994 to 2023, and included only original articles and reviews. The BibTex format was used to download all citation and bibliographic data. The present analysis was conducted in two parts, a descriptive one and a network extraction process. Between 1994 and 2023, 34,503 references and 7,758 authors were recorded. The annual growth rate was 21.64%. The CAVATAS trial was the most cited article. As regards word trends, since 2017, trans-carotid stenting, risk factors and plaque characteristics are highlighted. CAS remains an area of high interest with a publication growth rate of >20% per year. As numerous questions remain to be answered, the need to determine the role of CAS may drive further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petroula Nana
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Larissa University Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, 41221 Larissa, Greece
| | - Konstantinos Spanos
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Larissa University Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, 41221 Larissa, Greece
| | - George Kouvelos
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Larissa University Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, 41221 Larissa, Greece
| | | | - Ioannis G. Lempesis
- Department of Pathophysiology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Nikolaos Trakas
- Department of Biochemistry, Sismanogleio Hospital, 15126 Athens, Greece
| | - Pagona Sklapani
- Department of Biochemistry, Sismanogleio Hospital, 15126 Athens, Greece
| | - Konstantinos Paterakis
- Department of Neurosurgery, General University Hospital of Larissa, 41221 Larissa, Greece
| | - George Fotakopoulos
- Department of Neurosurgery, General University Hospital of Larissa, 41221 Larissa, Greece
| | - Alexandros G. Brotis
- Department of Neurosurgery, General University Hospital of Larissa, 41221 Larissa, Greece
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Ntalouka MP, Brotis AG, Angelis FA, Peroulis M, Matsagkas M, Fountas KN, Arnaoutoglou EM. Appraisal of the Clinical Practice Guidelines for the Use of Antithrombotic Therapy in Elective Spinal Procedures: Do We AGREE (II)? Asian Spine J 2023; 17:790-802. [PMID: 37226384 PMCID: PMC10460662 DOI: 10.31616/asj.2022.0277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2022] [Revised: 09/07/2022] [Accepted: 09/15/2022] [Indexed: 05/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The perioperative management of patients medicated with antithrombotic agents who require elective spinal surgery is extremely challenging because of the increased risk of surgical bleeding and the concurrent need to minimize the thromboembolic risk. The aims of the present systematic review are to: (1) identify clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) and recommendations (CPRs) on this topic and (2) assess their methodological quality and reporting clarity. An electronic systematic search of the English Medical Literature up to January 31, 2021 was conducted using PubMed, Google Scholar, and Scopus. Two raters assessed the methodological quality and reporting clarity of the gathered CPGs and CPRs using the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation II (AGREE II) tool. The agreement between the two raters was assessed using Cohen's kappa. Of the initially gathered 38 CPGs and CPRs, 16 fulfilled our eligibility criteria and were evaluated using the AGREE II instrument. The reports published by "Narouze 2018" and "Fleisher 2014" were scored as being of "high-quality" and having an adequate interrater agreement (Cohen's kappa ≥0.60). Overall, the AGREE II domains of "clarity of presentation" and "scope and purpose" yielded the highest scores (100%), whereas the domain "stakeholder involvement" scored the lowest score (48.5%). The perioperative management of antiplatelet and anticoagulant agents in elective spine surgery may be challenging. Because of the lack of high-quality data in this field, uncertainty remains regarding the optimal practices to balance the risk of thromboembolism against that of bleeding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria P. Ntalouka
- Department of Anesthesiology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa,
Greece
| | - Alexandros G. Brotis
- Department of Neurosurgery, General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa,
Greece
| | - Fragkiskos A. Angelis
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery & Musculoskeletal Trauma, University General Hospital of Larissa, Larissa,
Greece
| | - Michail Peroulis
- Unit of Minimal Invasive Vascular Surgery, Mediterranean Hospital, Athens,
Greece
| | - Miltiadis Matsagkas
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa,
Greece
| | - Kostantinos N. Fountas
- Department of Neurosurgery, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa,
Greece
| | - Eleni M. Arnaoutoglou
- Department of Anesthesiology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa,
Greece
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Karagianni MD, Tasiou A, Brotis AG, Tzerefos C, Lambrianou X, Alkiviadis T, Kalogeras A, Spiliotopoulos T, Arvaniti C, Papageorgakopoulou M, Gatos C, Fountas KN. Critical Assessment of the Guidelines-Based Management of Severe Traumatic Brain Injury with the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation II. World Neurosurg 2023; 176:179-188. [PMID: 36682533 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2023.01.054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Severe traumatic brain injury constitutes a clinical entity with complex underlying pathophysiology. Management of patients with severe traumatic brain injury is guided by Clinical Practice Guidelines and Consensus Statements (CPG and CS). The published CPG and CS vary in quality, comprehensiveness, and clinical applicability. The value of critically assessing CPG and CS cannot be overemphasized. The aim of our study was to assess the quality of the published CPG and CS, based on the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation II instrument. METHODS A systematic search was performed in PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and Web of Science focusing on guidelines and consensi about severe traumatic brain injury . The search terms used were "traumatic brain injury," "TBI," "brain injury," "cerebral trauma," "head trauma," "closed head injury," "head injury," "guidelines," "recommendations," "consensus" in any possible combination. The search period extended from 1964 to 2021 and was limited to literature published in English. The eligible studies were scored by 4 raters, using the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation II instrument. The inter-rater agreement was assessed using the Cronbach's alpha. RESULTS Twelve CPG and CS were assessed. Overall, the study by Carney et al. was the most Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation II compliant study. In general, the domains of clarity of presentation, and scope and purpose, achieved the highest scores. The lowest inter-rater agreement in our analysis was "fair." CONCLUSIONS The purpose of our study for assessing the quality of CPG and CS was served. We present the strong and weak points of CPG and CS. Our findings support the idea of periodically updating guidelines and improving their rigor of development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria D Karagianni
- Department of Neurosurgery, General University Hospital of Larissa, Mezourlo, Larissa, Greece.
| | - Anastasia Tasiou
- Department of Neurosurgery, General University Hospital of Larissa, Mezourlo, Larissa, Greece
| | - Alexandros G Brotis
- Department of Neurosurgery, General University Hospital of Larissa, Mezourlo, Larissa, Greece
| | - Christos Tzerefos
- Department of Neurosurgery, General University Hospital of Larissa, Mezourlo, Larissa, Greece
| | - Xanthoula Lambrianou
- Department of Neurosurgery, General University Hospital of Larissa, Mezourlo, Larissa, Greece
| | - Tzannis Alkiviadis
- Department of Neurosurgery, General University Hospital of Larissa, Mezourlo, Larissa, Greece
| | - Adamantios Kalogeras
- Department of Neurosurgery, General University Hospital of Larissa, Mezourlo, Larissa, Greece
| | | | - Christina Arvaniti
- Department of Neurosurgery, General University Hospital of Larissa, Mezourlo, Larissa, Greece
| | | | - Charalambos Gatos
- Department of Neurosurgery, General University Hospital of Larissa, Mezourlo, Larissa, Greece
| | - Konstantinos N Fountas
- Department of Neurosurgery, General University Hospital of Larissa, Biopolis, Larissa, Greece; Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Biopolis, Larissa, Greece
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Tsiamalou P, Brotis AG, Vrekou E, Georgakopoulou VE, Papalexis P, Aravanatinou-Fatorou A, Tegousi M, Fotakopoulos G, Paterakis K. The nurse's role in managing gout in the modern era: A systematic review of the literature. Med Int (Lond) 2023; 3:40. [PMID: 37680197 PMCID: PMC10481098 DOI: 10.3892/mi.2023.100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023]
Abstract
The current treatment of gout is largely suboptimal, with up to 89% of hospitalizations being preventable due to inadequate care. The present study performed a systematic review in an aim to identify barriers to optimal gout treatment (Q1), understand how frequently nurses are involved in the management of gout (Q2), and examine the role of the nurse in the management of gout (Q3). A systematic review was performed, focusing on studies reporting on the nurse's role in the management of gout and the quality of the gathered items was appraised based on the risk of bias. In total, 15 records fulfilled the eligibility criteria and were used in the present systematic review. The main barriers were attributed to the patient's experiences with gout and lay beliefs, which affected seeking advice and adherence to treatment (Q1). Recently, however, several advances in patient care, including nurse-led clinics, have expanded the nurse's role, accounting for as much as 26% of the annual visits (Q2). Nurse-led interventions, such as education and lifestyle counseling, increased adherence to treatment (Q3). On the whole, nurses are key players in multidisciplinary teams and should be capable of engaging in shared decision-making processes, goal setting, providing patients with education and information, and making appropriate referrals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paraskevi Tsiamalou
- Department of Rheumatology, General University Hospital of Larissa, 41221 Larissa, Greece
| | - Alexandros G. Brotis
- Department of Neurosurgery, General University Hospital of Larissa, 41221 Larissa, Greece
| | - Eleni Vrekou
- Department of Rheumatology, General University Hospital of Larissa, 41221 Larissa, Greece
| | - Vasiliki Epameinondas Georgakopoulou
- Department of Infectious Diseases and COVID-19 Unit, Laiko General Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Petros Papalexis
- Unit of Endocrinology, First Department of Internal Medicine, Laiko General Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of West Attica, 12243 Athens, Greece
| | - Aikaterini Aravanatinou-Fatorou
- First Department of Internal Medicine, Laiko General Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Maria Tegousi
- Department of Rheumatology, General University Hospital of Larissa, 41221 Larissa, Greece
| | - George Fotakopoulos
- Department of Neurosurgery, General University Hospital of Larissa, 41221 Larissa, Greece
| | - Konstantinos Paterakis
- Department of Neurosurgery, General University Hospital of Larissa, 41221 Larissa, Greece
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Karagianni MD, Brotis AG, Tasiou A, Delev D, von Lehe M, Schijns OE, Fountas KN. Hemispherotomy Revised: A complication overview and a systematic review meta-analysis. Brain Spine 2023; 3:101766. [PMID: 38021002 PMCID: PMC10668062 DOI: 10.1016/j.bas.2023.101766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2023] [Revised: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
Introduction Hemispherectomy/hemispherotomy has been employed in the management of catastrophic epilepsy. However, initial reports on the associated mortality and morbidity raised several concerns regarding the technique's safety. Their actual, current incidence needs to be systematically examined to redefine hemispherotomy's exact role. Research question Our current study examined their incidence and evaluated the association of the various hemispherotomy surgical techniques with the reported complications. Material & methods A PRISMA-compliant systematic review and meta-analysis was performed. We searched PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science until December 2022. Fixed- and random-effects models were employed. Egger's regression test was used for estimating the publication bias, while subgroup analysis was utilized for defining the role of the different hemispherotomy techniques. Results We retrieved a total of 37 studies. The overall procedure mortality was 5%, with a reported mortality of 7% for hemispherectomy and 3% for hemispherotomy. The reported mortality has decreased over the last 30 years from 32% to 2%. Among the observed post-operative complications aseptic meningitis and/or fever occurred in 33%. Hydrocephalus requiring a shunt insertion occurred in 16%. Hematoma evacuation was necessary in 8%, while subgaleal effusion in another 8%. Infections occurred in 11%. A novel post-operative cranial nerve deficit occurred in 11%, while blood transfusion was necessary in 28% of the cases. Discussion and conclusion Our current analysis demonstrated that the evolution from hemispherectomy to hemispherotomy along with neuroanesthesia advances, had a tremendous impact on the associated mortality and morbidity. Hemispherotomy constitutes a safe surgical procedure in the management of catastrophic epilepsies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria D. Karagianni
- Department of Neurosurgery, General University Hospital of Larissa, Mezourlo, Larissa, 41110, Greece
| | - Alexandros G. Brotis
- Department of Neurosurgery, General University Hospital of Larissa, Mezourlo, Larissa, 41110, Greece
| | - Anastasia Tasiou
- Department of Neurosurgery, General University Hospital of Larissa, Mezourlo, Larissa, 41110, Greece
| | - Daniel Delev
- Department of Neurosurgery, Faculty of Medicine, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
- Neurosurgical Artificial Intelligence Laboratory Aachen (NAILA), RWTH Aachen University Hospital, Aachen, Germany
- Center for Integrated Oncology, Universities Aachen, Bonn, Cologne, Duesseldorf (CIO ABCD), Germany
| | - Marec von Lehe
- Department of Neurosurgery, Brandenburg Medical School, University Hospital Ruppin Brandenburg, Fehrbelliner Str. 38, Neuruppin, Germany
| | - Olaf E.M.G. Schijns
- Department of Neurosurgery, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maatricht, the Netherlands
- Academic Center for Epileptology, Maastricht, Kempenhaeghe, the Netherlands
- School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Konstantinos N. Fountas
- Department of Neurosurgery, General University Hospital of Larissa, Mezourlo, Larissa, 41110, Greece
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Biopolis, Larissa, 41110, Greece
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Fotakopoulos G, Georgakopoulou VE, Spandidos DA, Papalexis P, Angelopoulou E, Aravantinou-Fatorou A, Trakas N, Trakas I, Brotis AG. Role of miR‑200 family in brain metastases: A systematic review. Mol Clin Oncol 2023; 18:15. [PMID: 36798467 PMCID: PMC9926042 DOI: 10.3892/mco.2023.2611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Brain metastasis (BM) represents the single most severe neurological complication of systemic cancer. The prognosis of patients with BM is poor, irrespective of the implemented treatment. The present study performed a systematic review of the literature using three online databases (PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science). Recently, a number of small RNA molecules, the microRNAs (miRNAs/miRs), have attracted increasing scientific attention. Members of the miR-200 family, which includes five miRNAs (miR-141, miR-200a, miR-200b, miR-200c and miR-429) appear to play pivotal roles in cancer initiation and metastasis. Indeed, a systematic review of the pertinent literature revealed that miR-200 family members regulate the brain metastatic cascade, particularly by modulating epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition. That holds true for the major representatives of BM, including lung and breast cancer, as well as for other less frequent secondary lesions originating from melanoma and the gastrointestinal tract. Therefore, the miRNAs may serve as potential diagnostic and/or prognostic markers, and under specific circumstances, as invaluable therapeutic targets. However, the available clinical evidence is relatively limited. A number of studies have suggested that the miR-200 family members are accurate prognostic markers of survival and resistance to chemotherapy in patients with breast cancer. Similarly, they may prove helpful in differentiating a metastatic lesion from a malignant glioma, or a hemangioblastoma from a renal cell carcinoma in patients with von Hippel Lindau syndrome, based on a cerebrospinal fluid sample. However, currently, there is no known therapeutic role for miR-200 family members in the setting of BM.
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Affiliation(s)
- George Fotakopoulos
- Department of Neurosurgery, General University Hospital of Larissa, 41221 Larissa, Greece,Correspondence to: Dr George Fotakopoulos, Department of Neurosurgery, General University Hospital of Larissa, Mezourlo, 41221 Larissa, Greece
| | - Vasiliki Epameinondas Georgakopoulou
- Department of Infectious Diseases and COVID-19 Unit, Laiko General Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Demetrios A. Spandidos
- Laboratory of Clinical Virology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece
| | - Petros Papalexis
- Unit of Endocrinology, First Department of Internal Medicine, Laiko General Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece,Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of West Attica, 12243 Athens, Greece
| | - Efthalia Angelopoulou
- Department of Neurology, Eginitio University Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11528 Athens, Greece
| | - Aikaterini Aravantinou-Fatorou
- First Department of Internal Medicine, Laiko General Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Nikolaos Trakas
- Department of Biochemistry, Sismanogleio Hospital, 15126 Athens, Greece
| | - Ilias Trakas
- Department of Infectious Diseases and COVID-19 Unit, Laiko General Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Alexandros G. Brotis
- Department of Neurosurgery, General University Hospital of Larissa, 41221 Larissa, Greece
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11
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Anagnostopoulos V, Brotis AG, Tzerefos C, Charalambidou A, Tasiou A, Karavelis A, Paterakis KN. Valve-controlled chronic subdural hematoma drainage: A feasibility study. Brain Spine 2022; 2:101693. [PMID: 36506285 PMCID: PMC9729815 DOI: 10.1016/j.bas.2022.101693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Revised: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Pneumocephalus after chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) evacuation is a potential predictor of hematoma recurrence. RESEARCH QUESTION To study the feasibility and safety of a novel CSDH evacuation technique using a valve-controlled method to avoid pneumocephalus. MATERIAL AND METHODS In a retrospective case series, we evacuated CSDH using very low-pressure valve-controlled drains and recorded the neurological, radiological, and functional outcomes. Patients with primary CSDH, without previous neurosurgical intervention, and who did not receive antiplatelet or anticoagulant therapy the week prior to the index surgery, were included in the study. Exclusion criteria were the evacuation with other treatment techniques and incomplete data files. Patients were assessed according to the Bender grading system to record the neurological status. The hematoma volume was estimated using the formula for ellipsoid volumes. RESULTS Thirty-six patients with a mean age of 73 years (±9 years) fulfilled our eligibility criteria. Our technique was effective since it decreased the CSDH volume from 141 ml (IQR 97 ml) to 20.6 ml (IQR 26.59 ml; p < 0.001) and improved the neurological status according to the Bender grading system from two (IQR 0.25) to 1 (IQR 0). However, pneumocephalus and hematoma recurrence occurred in one case each (2.8%). At six months, all patients returned to their previous status, except for two patients (5.6%) who died due to irrelevant pathologies. CONCLUSIONS Valve-controlled CSDH evacuation aiming to decrease the postoperative pneumocephalus and hematoma recurrence constitutes an effective and safe alternative. However, larger randomized controlled studies are required to establish its role in CSDH management.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alexandros G. Brotis
- Department of Neurosurgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larisa, Greece
| | - Christos Tzerefos
- Department of Neurosurgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larisa, Greece
| | | | - Anastasia Tasiou
- Department of Neurosurgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larisa, Greece
| | - Antonios Karavelis
- Department of Neurosurgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larisa, Greece
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12
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Fotakopoulos G, Brotis AG, Paterakis K, Kapsalaki E, Fountas KN. Posterior Fossa Intra-Axial Lesion: There Are Pathologies Beyond Metastases. Asian J Neurosurg 2022; 17:680-682. [PMID: 36570746 PMCID: PMC9771626 DOI: 10.1055/s-0042-1757433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Cerebellar metastases represent the most common lesion requiring surgical treatment in the daily neurosurgical praxis. We report a rare case with Lhermitte-Duclos disease presenting to the neurosurgical outpatient department and describe our diagnostic and treatment challenges. A 57-year-old man presented with transient cerebellar manifestations, including walking difficulties, dizziness, and a persistent occipital headache. The magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated a high-intensity lesion in the right cerebellar hemisphere on T2-weighted images. We initially considered surgery to establish a histopathological diagnosis. However, the magnetic resonance spectroscopy was compatible with a dysplastic gangliocytoma of the cerebellum. Therefore, we preferred a more conservative approach. Posterior fossa contrast-enhancing lesions are much more than metastases. The role of advanced magnetic resonance in avoiding unnecessary surgical interventions is priceless.
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Affiliation(s)
- George Fotakopoulos
- Department of Neurosurgery, General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece,Address for correspondence George Fotakopoulos, MD, MSc, PhD Department of Neurosurgery, General University Hospital of LarissaVounargo, Pyrgou, Ilias, 27100Greece
| | - Alexandros G. Brotis
- Department of Neurosurgery, General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
| | | | - Eftychia Kapsalaki
- Department of Radiology, University of Thessaly, Medical School of Thessaly, Thessaly, Greece
| | - Kostas N. Fountas
- Department of Neurosurgery, General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
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13
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Tasiou A, Brotis AG, Tzerefos C, Lambrianou X, Spiliotopoulos T, Alleyne CH, Boccardi E, Karlsson B, Kitchen N, Meling TR, Spetzler RF, Tolias CM, Fountas KN. Critical Appraisal of Randomized Controlled Trials on Unruptured Brain Arteriovenous Malformations. World Neurosurg 2022; 166:e536-e545. [PMID: 35863649 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2022.07.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2022] [Accepted: 07/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Brain arteriovenous malformations management remains controversial despite the numerous, available treatment options. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) theoretically provide the strongest evidence for the assessment of any therapeutic intervention. However, poorly designed RCTs may be associated with biases, inaccuracies, and misleading conclusions. The purpose of our study is to assess reporting transparency and methodological quality of the existing RCTs. METHODS A search was performed in the PubMed, Scopus, Embase, clinicaltrials.gov, and Cochrane databases. The search was limited to English literature. We included all published RCTs reporting on the management of unruptured brain arteriovenous malformations. The eligible studies were evaluated by 5 blinded raters with the CONsolidated Standards of Reporting Trials 2010 statement and the risk-of-bias 2 tool. The inter-rater agreement was assessed with the Fleiss' Kappa. RESULTS A randomized trial of unruptured brain arteriovenous malformations (ARUBA) and treatment of brain arteriovenous malformations (TOBAS) trials were evaluated. ARUBA achieved high CONsolidated standards of reporting trials compliance, while TOBAS showed a moderate one. In ARUBA the introduction, discussion, and other information sections reached the highest compliance rate (80%-86%). The lowest rates were recorded in the results and the methods (62% and 73%, respectively). The inter-rater agreement was moderate to substantial (54.1% to 78.4%). All the examined studies demonstrated a high risk of bias, mainly related to ill-defined intended interventions, missing outcome data, and selection of the reported results. CONCLUSIONS Our study confirmed the high risk of bias mainly attributed to several protocol violations, deviations, minimal external validity and selection, attrition, and allocation biases of the ARUBA trial. Analysis of the TOBAS trial revealed a moderate overall reporting clarity and a high risk of bias.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anastasia Tasiou
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital of Larissa, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece.
| | - Alexandros G Brotis
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital of Larissa, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Christos Tzerefos
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital of Larissa, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Xanthoula Lambrianou
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital of Larissa, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Theodosios Spiliotopoulos
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital of Larissa, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | | | - Edoardo Boccardi
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Neuroradiology, Niguarda Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Bengt Karlsson
- Department of Surgery, Division of Neurosurgery, National University Hospital, Singapore
| | - Neil Kitchen
- Victor Horsley Department of Neurosurgery, National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, Queen Square, London, England, UK
| | - Torstein R Meling
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland; Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Robert F Spetzler
- Department of Neurosurgery, Barrow Neurological Institute, Phoenix, Arizona, USA
| | - Christos M Tolias
- Department of Neurovascular Surgery, Kings College Hospital, London, England, UK
| | - Kostas N Fountas
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital of Larissa, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
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14
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Brotis AG, Palassopoulou M, Kapsalaki EZ, Paschalis T, Papastergiou V, Fountas KN. Bing-Neel syndrome presenting with bilateral lumbar radiculopathy: A case report of a rare clinical entity. Neurocirugia (Astur : Engl Ed) 2022; 33:250-253. [PMID: 36084961 DOI: 10.1016/j.neucie.2021.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2021] [Accepted: 03/20/2021] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The differential diagnosis of bilateral lower extremity weakness is broad. We present a very rare case of a 48-year old male patient, with walking difficulties due to Bing-Neel syndrome. On clinical examination, there was a significant loss of muscle power in all his lower extremities key-muscle groups. The lumbar spine magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed only mild degenerative changes, whereas the MRI of the head indicated a diffuse meningeal thickening at the right temporal region, characterized by significant enhancement after contrast administration. Serum protein electrophoresis detected an IgM-kappa monoclonal protein. The patient received intrathecal chemotherapy with methotrexate and cytarabine, and was started on oral ibrutinib 420mg daily. In conclusion, a past medical history of Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia in conjunction with neurological manifestations should alert the treating physician for Bing-Neel syndrome. A complete diagnostic imaging and serologic protocol helps in setting the final diagnosis. Steroids are part of the treatment, but should be given after the diagnosis is set. Neurosurgical intervention is indicated for histologic confirmation in the case of diagnostic uncertainty.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandros G Brotis
- Department of Neurosurgery, General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece.
| | - Maria Palassopoulou
- Department of Haematology, General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
| | - Eftychia Z Kapsalaki
- Department of Radiology, General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece; School of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Thanos Paschalis
- Department of Neurosurgery, General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
| | | | - Konstantinos N Fountas
- Department of Neurosurgery, General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece; School of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
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15
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Triantafyllou T, Brotis AG, Dardiotis E, Fotakopoulos G, Fountas KN, Paterakis K. Dynamic Cervical Implants in Patients With Disc Degenerative Disease: A Single-Center Cohort From the Greek Population. Cureus 2022; 14:e27243. [PMID: 36039269 PMCID: PMC9401639 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.27243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim The aim of this study was to review the safety and feasibility, clinical and radiological outcomes, and postoperative complications associated with the use of dynamic cervical implants (DCI). Patients and methods A prospective single-cohort study was performed of all consecutive patients who underwent DCI implantation as an adjunct to anterior cervical discectomy. We measured the anterior disc space height (ADH) and posterior disc space height (PDH), as well as the ADH/PDH ratio. Results In 11 patients, the ADH/PDH ratio averaged 0.98 (range: 0.7-1.125) postoperatively, from the initial 0.96 (range: 0.72-1.106). Conclusion DCI seems to be a viable alternative to anterior cervical discectomy and fusion. However, its role in motion preservation and protection against the degeneration of the adjacent segment is questioned.
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16
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Ntalouka MP, Pantazopoulos I, Brotis AG, Pagonis A, Vatsiou I, Chatzis A, Rarras CN, Kotsi P, Gourgoulianis KI, Arnaoutoglou EM. Prognostic role of simple inflammatory biomarkers in patients with severe COVID-19: an observational study. Hippokratia 2022; 26:70-77. [PMID: 37188050 PMCID: PMC10177850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIM Simple inflammatory biomarkers, such as neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR), could serve as prognosis indicators in patients with Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The utility of on-admission inflammatory biomarkers in predicting outcomes was investigated in patients suffering from severe COVID-19 infection. METHODS We performed a retrospective study to assess the role of white blood count (WBC), neutrophils (N), lymphocyte (L), platelets (PLTs), C-reactive protein (CRP), reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), NLR (N/L), PLR (P/L), dv (derived variation of)-NLR (N/WBC-L), LNR (L/N), dv (derived variation of)-LNR (L/WBC-N), and CLR (CRP/L), in predicting the need for high-flow nasal cannula (HFNC) use, admission to Intensive Care Unit (ICU), and death in adult patients with severe COVID-19 admitted to the Department of Respiratory Medicine from April to September 2021. RESULTS One hundred and fifteen patients (60 % males) with a mean age of 57.7 ± 16.3 years were included. Thirty-seven patients (32.2 %) required escalation with HFNC, eight patients (7 %) were admitted to the ICU, and nine patients (7.8%) died. Based on univariate analysis, CRP [odds ratio (OR): 1.25, 95 % confidence interval (CI): 1.1-1.42), LNR (OR: 0.015, 95 % CI: 0.00-0.35), dv-NLR (OR: 5*106, 95 % CI: 26.7-9*109), CLR (OR: 7*1058, 95 % CI: 3*1025-2*1092), length of hospitalization (LOH; OR: 1.44, 95 % CI: 1.22-1.63), dyspnea at presentation (OR: 2.83, 95 % CI: 1.23-6.52), and ratio of arterial oxygen partial pressure to fractional inspired oxygen (PaO2/FiO2) on admission (OR: 0.967, 95 % CI: 0.952-0.983) were independent predictors for oxygen requirements. However, the multivariate analysis showed that LNR (OR: 1.686e0-4, 95 % CI: 6.441e00-8-0.441), PaO2/FiO2 on admission (OR: 0.965, 95 % CI: 0.941-0.989), and LOH (OR: 1.717, 95 % CI: 1.274-2.314) were the most important predictor for HFNC use. Nasal congestion at presentation (OR: 11.5, 95 % CI: 1.61-82.8) was a unique and independent predictor for ICU admission. As far as death is concerned, the univariate analysis identified elevated CRP (OR: 1.11, 95 % CI: 1.0-1.24), low RT-PCR (OR: 0.829, 95 % CI: 0.688-0.999), high CLR (OR: 3.2*1033, 95 % CI: 5.8-1.8*1066), age (OR: 1.08, 95 % CI: 1.02-1.14), body mass index (BMI) over 30 (OR: 5.25, 95 % CI: 1.26-21.96), the chronic use of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (OR: 5.72, 95 % CI: 1.35-24.09), nitrates (OR: 14.85, 95 % CI: 1.81-121.8), diuretics (OR: 8.21, 95 % CI: 1.97-34.32), PaO2/FiO2 on admission (OR: 0.983, 95 % CI: 0.970-0.998), and nasal congestion at presentation (OR: 9.81, 95 % CI: 1.40-68.68) as independent predictors. However, the multivariate analysis pinpointed that obesity (BMI >30) (OR: 10.498, 95 % CI: 1.107-99.572) remained the most important predictor for death. CONCLUSION LNR and PaO2/FiO2 on admission could be used to timely identify patients requiring HFNC during hospitalization, while obesity (BMI >30) could be an independent predictor of death. Nasal congestion emerges as a unique predictor for ICU admission. HIPPOKRATIA 2022, 26 (2):70-77.
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Affiliation(s)
- M P Ntalouka
- Department of Anesthesiology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University Hospital of Larissa, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - I Pantazopoulos
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University Hospital of Larissa, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University Hospital of Larissa, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - A G Brotis
- Department of Neurosurgery, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University Hospital of Larissa, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - A Pagonis
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University Hospital of Larissa, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - I Vatsiou
- Department of Anesthesiology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University Hospital of Larissa, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - A Chatzis
- Department of Anesthesiology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University Hospital of Larissa, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - C N Rarras
- Department of Anesthesiology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University Hospital of Larissa, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - P Kotsi
- Department of Transfusion Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University Hospital of Larissa, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - K I Gourgoulianis
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University Hospital of Larissa, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - E M Arnaoutoglou
- Department of Anesthesiology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University Hospital of Larissa, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
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17
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Tasiou A, Brotis AG, Tzerefos C, Lambrianou X, Fountas KN. Methodological assessment of guidelines for the diagnosis and management of cerebral vasospasm using the AGREE-II tool. Neurosurg Focus 2022; 52:E11. [PMID: 35231886 DOI: 10.3171/2021.12.focus21649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Rupture of an intracranial aneurysm is the most common cause of spontaneous subarachnoid hemorrhage. Despite the recent advances in its early detection, diagnosis, and proper treatment, the outcome of patients experiencing aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) remains poor. It is well known that cerebral vasospasm is the most troublesome complication of aSAH, while delayed cerebral ischemia related to cerebral vasospasm constitutes the major cause of unfavorable outcomes in patients with aSAH. The need for evidence-based guidelines is of great importance for the prevention, early detection, and efficient management of aSAH-induced vasospasm. Moreover, guidelines provide young physicians with a valuable tool for practicing defensible medicine. However, the methodology, clinical applicability, reporting clarity, and biases of guidelines must be periodically assessed. In this study, the authors sought to assess the reporting clarity and methodological quality of published guidelines and recommendations. METHODS A search was performed in the PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases. The search terms used were "clinical practice guidelines," "recommendations," "stroke," "subarachnoid hemorrhage," and "vasospasm" in all possible combinations. The search period extended from 1964 to September 2021 and was limited to literature published in the English language. All published guidelines and recommendations reporting on the diagnosis and management of vasospasm were included. Studies other than those reporting guidelines and recommendations were excluded. The eligible studies were evaluated by three blinded raters, employing the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research & Evaluation II (AGREE-II) analysis tool. RESULTS A total of 10 sets of guidelines were evaluated in this study. The American Heart Association/American Stroke Association issued guidelines found to have the highest methodological quality and reporting clarity, followed by the European Stroke Organization guidelines and the English edition of the Japanese guidelines issued by the Japanese Society on Surgery for Cerebral Stroke. The interrater agreement was moderate in the current analysis. CONCLUSIONS These findings support the idea that improvement of currently existing guidelines is feasible in the following domains: the rigor of guidelines and recommendations development, clinical applicability, editorial independence, and stakeholder involvement. Furthermore, periodic updating of published guidelines requires improvement in the future.
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18
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Fotakopoulos G, Brotis AG, Fountas KN. Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Cervical Spine Trauma: More Than Soft Tissue Illustration. Cureus 2022; 14:e21493. [PMID: 35223270 PMCID: PMC8860237 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.21493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
The role of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in cervical spine trauma is limited to visualizing soft tissues such as the intervertebral disc, the spinal cord, and hematomas. Herein, we present the case of a 60-year-old man who was transferred to our hospital with neck pain after a cervical spine trauma associated with a motor vehicle accident. The initial computed tomography imaging of the cervical spine showed stable linear fractures at the C2, C6, and C7 vertebral bodies, for which the patient received conservative management. The patient showed remarkable clinical improvement three months later, but the linear fractures at the subaxial spine remained unchanged on computed tomography (CT). Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scantly differentiated active from inactive bone lesions and prevented unnecessary interventions. Therefore, we suggest that the MRI is of value in cases with a clinical and radiological mismatch. A mismatch is considered in cases when there is a high level of clinical suspicion for a spinal fracture, whereas CT images fail to provide direct evidence of a bone fracture. In such cases, MRI offers indirect evidence of bony trauma, such as bone marrow edema, visualized as a high-intensity signal in T2-weighted images. Furthermore, specialized spine trauma MRI protocols could be of value in selected cases.
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Brotis AG, Karvouniaris M, Tzerefos C, Gatos C, Fountas KN. Guidelines on the use of external ventricular drain and its associated complications: do we "AGREE II"? Br J Neurosurg 2021; 35:689-695. [PMID: 34365868 DOI: 10.1080/02688697.2021.1958153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Insertion of an external ventricular drain is a common procedure used in everyday practice by neurosurgeons all around the world. It consists of the placement of an external ventricular drain (EVD) into the ventricular system providing the ability to measure intracranial pressure, and also divert the flow of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in a variety of pathological conditions. The most common complication is infection, and it may result in devastating consequences and negatively affect the outcome of these patients. The Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA), the Neurocritical Care Society (NCS), and The Society for Neuroscience in Anesthesiology & Critical Care (SNACC) have published recommendations for the management of EVD-Associated Ventriculitis. The objective of this study was to assess the methodological quality and reporting clarity of these recommendations using the AGREE-II tool. We found that the overall quality of the published clinical practice guidelines is acceptable. However, continuous updates and external validation should be implemented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandros G Brotis
- Department of Neurosurgery, General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
| | - Marios Karvouniaris
- Department of Intensive Care Unit, General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
| | - Christos Tzerefos
- Department of Neurosurgery, General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
| | - Charalambos Gatos
- Department of Neurosurgery, General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
| | - Konstantinos N Fountas
- Department of Neurosurgery, General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece.,Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
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20
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Spanos K, Nana P, Brotis AG, Kouvelos G, Behrendt CA, Tsilimparis N, Kölbel T, Matsagkas M, Giannoukas A. Clinical effect of accessory renal artery coverage after endovascular repair of aneurysms in abdominal and thoracoabdominal aorta. J Vasc Surg 2021; 74:2104-2113.e7. [PMID: 34197943 DOI: 10.1016/j.jvs.2021.06.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2020] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim of our systematic review and meta-analysis was to assess the effect of accessory renal artery (ARA) coverage on renal function in terms of acute kidney injury (AKI), renal infarction, chronic renal failure (CRF), and mortality in patients undergoing standard endovascular aortic aneurysm repair (EVAR) or endovascular repair of complex aneurysms. METHODS An electronic search of the English language medical literature from 2000 to September 2020 was conducted using the MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane databases with the PRISMA (preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses) method for studies reporting on ARA management in patients undergoing endovascular repair of aneurysms in the abdominal and thoracoabdominal aorta. The patients were divided into two groups: group 1, patients with ARA coverage; and group 2, patients without an ARA or without coverage of the ARA. Each group included two arms, one of patients who had undergone standard EVAR and one of patients who had undergone endovascular treatment of a complex aortic aneurysm. The GRADE (grading of recommendations assessment, development, evaluation) approach was used to evaluate the quality of evidence and summary of the findings. The primary outcomes included the incidence of AKI, renal infarction, CRF, and mortality. RESULTS Ten retrospective, nonrandomized, control studies were included in the systematic review reporting on 1014 patients (302 with a covered ARA vs 712 without an ARA or without ARA coverage). In six studies, the mean diameter of the covered ARA was <4 mm (range, 2.7-3.4 mm). The mean follow-up was 22.74 months (range, 1-42 months). In the standard EVAR subgroup, the risk of AKI (odds ratio [OR], 0.72; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.21-2.51; I2 = 0%] in the early period, and CRF (OR, 4.44; 95% CI, 0.46-42.61; I2 = 87%) and death (OR, 0.91; 95% CI, 0.36-2.31; I2 = 0%) during follow-up were similar between groups 1 and 2. Only the risk of renal infarction was greater in group 1 than in group 2 (OR, 93.3; 95% CI, 1.48-5869; I2 = 92%). In the complex aneurysm repair subgroup, the risk of AKI (OR, 1.85; 95% CI, 0.61-5.64; I2 = 42%) in early period and CRF (OR, 1.64; 95% CI, 0.88-3.07; I2 = not applicable) and death (OR, 3.63; 95% CI, 0.14-96.29; I2 = 56%) during follow-up were similar between groups 1 and 2. Only the risk of renal infarction was greater for group 1 compared with group 2 (OR, 8.58; 95% CI, 4.59-16.04; I2 = 0%). CONCLUSIONS ARA (<4 mm) coverage in patients undergoing standard EVAR or endovascular repair of complex aneurysms is associated with an increased risk of renal infarction. However, we found no clinical effects of ARA coverage on renal function or mortality in early postoperative and follow-up period. Preservation of an ARA >4 mm should be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstantinos Spanos
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece; German Aortic Center Hamburg, Department of Vascular Medicine, University Heart and Vascular Center UKE Hamburg, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.
| | - Petroula Nana
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Alexandros G Brotis
- Department of Neurosurgery, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - George Kouvelos
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Christian-Alexander Behrendt
- German Aortic Center Hamburg, Department of Vascular Medicine, University Heart and Vascular Center UKE Hamburg, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Nikos Tsilimparis
- Department of Vascular Surgery, University Hospital, Ludwig Maximilian University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Tilo Kölbel
- German Aortic Center Hamburg, Department of Vascular Medicine, University Heart and Vascular Center UKE Hamburg, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Miltiadis Matsagkas
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Athanasios Giannoukas
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
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Brotis AG, Palassopoulou M, Kapsalaki EZ, Paschalis T, Papastergiou V, Fountas KN. Bing-Neel syndrome presenting with bilateral lumbar radiculopathy: A case report of a rare clinical entity. Neurocirugia (Astur) 2021; 33:S1130-1473(21)00045-2. [PMID: 34045126 DOI: 10.1016/j.neucir.2021.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2021] [Revised: 03/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The differential diagnosis of bilateral lower extremity weakness is broad. We present a very rare case of a 48-year old male patient, with walking difficulties due to Bing-Neel syndrome. On clinical examination, there was a significant loss of muscle power in all his lower extremities key-muscle groups. The lumbar spine magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed only mild degenerative changes, whereas the MRI of the head indicated a diffuse meningeal thickening at the right temporal region, characterized by significant enhancement after contrast administration. Serum protein electrophoresis detected an IgM-kappa monoclonal protein. The patient received intrathecal chemotherapy with methotrexate and cytarabine, and was started on oral ibrutinib 420mg daily. In conclusion, a past medical history of Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia in conjunction with neurological manifestations should alert the treating physician for Bing-Neel syndrome. A complete diagnostic imaging and serologic protocol helps in setting the final diagnosis. Steroids are part of the treatment, but should be given after the diagnosis is set. Neurosurgical intervention is indicated for histologic confirmation in the case of diagnostic uncertainty.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandros G Brotis
- Department of Neurosurgery, General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece.
| | - Maria Palassopoulou
- Department of Haematology, General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
| | - Eftychia Z Kapsalaki
- Department of Radiology, General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece; School of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Thanos Paschalis
- Department of Neurosurgery, General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
| | | | - Konstantinos N Fountas
- Department of Neurosurgery, General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece; School of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
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22
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Tzerefos C, Koukoulis GK, Vlychou M, Brotis AG, Fountas KN, Paterakis KN. Bursitis of the coccyx in an adult with rheumatoid arthritis mimicking a sacrococcygeal meningocele. Surg Neurol Int 2021; 12:220. [PMID: 34084647 PMCID: PMC8168713 DOI: 10.25259/sni_369_2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2021] [Accepted: 04/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Bursitis is a chronic inflammatory condition characterized by the deposition of cholesterol, macrophage infiltration, and bursal wall calcification. Bursitis is, however, rarely found in the sacrococcygeal region where it may present as a space-occupying mass. Case Description A 64-year-old male with rheumatoid arthritis presented with 3 years' duration of difficulty sitting and walking due to a soft-tissue mass involving the coccyx region. Once the patient's MR demonstrated a cystic lesion with erosion of the coccyx, the patient underwent gross total resection of the lesion that proved to be pathologically consistent with bursitis. Postoperatively, the patient's complaints fully resolved. Conclusion Bursitis may present as a soft-tissue tumor-like lesion in the coccyx that favorably responds to gross total surgical excision.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christos Tzerefos
- Department of Neurosurgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - George K Koukoulis
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Marianna Vlychou
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Alexandros G Brotis
- Department of Neurosurgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Kostas N Fountas
- Department of Neurosurgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
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23
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Brotis AG, Giannis T, Paschalis T, Kapsalaki E, Dardiotis E, Fountas KN. A meta-analysis on potential modifiers of LITT efficacy for mesial temporal lobe epilepsy: Seizure-freedom seems to fade with time. Clin Neurol Neurosurg 2021; 205:106644. [PMID: 33962146 DOI: 10.1016/j.clineuro.2021.106644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2020] [Revised: 04/07/2021] [Accepted: 04/08/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The efficacy of laser interstitial thermal therapy (LITT) in mesial temporal lobe epilepsy (MTLE) has not been clearly established yet. OBJECTIVE We conducted a meta-analysis to estimate the efficacy of LITT for TLE (Q1). We also examined the effect of the patient's age (Q2), the total ablation volume (TAV) (Q3), the strength of the MRI unit (Q4), the type of the utilized stereotactic platform (Q5), and the follow up period (Q6) on the patient's outcome. METHODS Fixed- and random-effects model meta-analysis was conducted to assess the proportion estimate for each parameter individually. Kaplan-Meier survival-analysis was performed on the available individual patient time-to-first seizure data. RESULTS Sixteen studies with 575 patients fulfilled our eligibility criteria. The efficacy of LITT was 0.547 (95%CI: 0.506-0.588). Our statistical analysis had robust results after stratification according to the study population (Q2; p = 0.3418), and the type of the utilized stereotactic platform (Q5; p = 0.286), whereas the role of the TAV (Q3; p = 0.058) and strength of the magnetic field (Q4; p = 0.062) in seizure control remained unclear. The median seizure-free period (Q6) was 0.643 (0.569-0.726) and 0.467 (0.385-0.566) for the one- and the two-year follow up. CONCLUSIONS LITT seems to offer a viable alternative to resective surgery, with a moderate efficacy and enduring results. Higher ablation volumes may be associated with improved seizure control, although our current study provided no statistically significant data. More high-quality studies are required to highlight the role of LITT in epilepsy surgery, particularly in the pediatric population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandros G Brotis
- Departments of Neurosurgery, University Hospital of Larissa, School of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece.
| | - Theofanis Giannis
- Departments of Neurosurgery, University Hospital of Larissa, School of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Thanos Paschalis
- Departments of Neurosurgery, University Hospital of Larissa, School of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Eftychia Kapsalaki
- Departments of Radiology, University Hospital of Larissa, School of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Efthymios Dardiotis
- Departments of Neurology, University Hospital of Larissa, School of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Konstantinos N Fountas
- Departments of Neurosurgery, University Hospital of Larissa, School of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
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24
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Ntalouka MP, Brotis AG, Bareka MV, Stertsou ES, Fountas KN, Arnaoutoglou EM. Multimodal Analgesia in Spine Surgery: An Umbrella Review. World Neurosurg 2021; 149:129-139. [PMID: 33610874 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2021.02.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2020] [Revised: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In recent years, there has been a growing interest regarding the implementation of multimodal analgesia as an important component of the ideal perioperative patient management. The aim of the current umbrella review was to establish the role of multimodal analgesia in patients undergoing spine surgery during the immediate postoperative period. METHODS A systematic review of the pertinent literature was performed. The evaluation was based on a multitude of primary endpoints including the postoperative requirements for patient-controlled analgesia, pain intensity, back-related disability, overall functionality, patient satisfaction, complications, length of hospitalization, and costs. RESULTS The results were summarized using a meta-analysis in the presence of quantitative data or in a narrative review, otherwise. There was a large body of high-quality evidence supporting that the implementation of multimodal analgesia improves patient outcome in terms of the intensity of postoperative pain, the requirements for postoperative opioid analgesia, and the opioid-associated side effects. Similarly, limited high-quality evidence supported that multimodal analgesia improved patients' functionality and satisfaction while decreasing the length of hospitalization and overall costs of surgery. However, the results were inconclusive as far as the disability was concerned. CONCLUSIONS Multimodal analgesia seems to have an essential role for the optimal management of patients undergoing spine surgery. Future research is required to optimize the multimodal analgesia protocols in this group of patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria P Ntalouka
- Department of Anesthesiology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece.
| | - Alexandros G Brotis
- Department of Neurosurgery, General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
| | - Metaxia V Bareka
- Department of Anesthesiology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
| | - Eleonora S Stertsou
- Department of Anesthesiology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
| | - Kostantinos N Fountas
- Department of Neurosurgery, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Eleni M Arnaoutoglou
- Department of Anesthesiology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
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25
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Aloizou AM, Siokas V, Sapouni EM, Sita N, Liampas I, Brotis AG, Rakitskii VN, Burykina TI, Aschner M, Bogdanos DP, Tsatsakis A, Hadjigeorgiou GM, Dardiotis E. Parkinson's disease and pesticides: Are microRNAs the missing link? Sci Total Environ 2020; 744:140591. [PMID: 32721662 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.140591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2020] [Revised: 06/19/2020] [Accepted: 06/26/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) is a common neurodegenerative disorder that leads to significant morbidity and decline in the quality of life. It develops due to loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta, and among its pathogenic factors oxidative stress plays a critical role in disease progression. Pesticides are a broad class of chemicals widely used in agriculture and households for the protection of crops from insects and fungi. Several of them have been incriminated as risk factors for PD, but the underlying mechanisms have yet to be fully understood. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small, non-coding RNA molecules that play an important role in regulating mRNA translation and protein synthesis. miRNA levels have been shown to be affected in several diseases as well. Since the studies on the association between pesticides and PD have yet to reach definitive conclusions, here we review recent evidence on deregulated microRNAs upon pesticide exposure, and attempt to find an overlap between miRNAs deregulated in PD and pesticides, as a missing link between the two, and enhance future research in this direction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Athina-Maria Aloizou
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neurogenetics, University Hospital of Larissa, Greece, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Vasileios Siokas
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neurogenetics, University Hospital of Larissa, Greece, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece.
| | - Efstathia-Maria Sapouni
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neurogenetics, University Hospital of Larissa, Greece, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Nikoleta Sita
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neurogenetics, University Hospital of Larissa, Greece, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Ioannis Liampas
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neurogenetics, University Hospital of Larissa, Greece, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Alexandros G Brotis
- Department of Neurosurgery, School of Medicine, University Hospital of Larissa, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Valerii N Rakitskii
- The Federal Budgetary Establishment of Science "Federal Scientific Center of Hygiene named after F. F. Erisman" of the Federal Service for Surveillance on Consumer Rights Protection and Human Wellbeing, 2 Semashko street, Mytishchi, Moscow Oblast' 141014, Russian Federation
| | - Tatyana I Burykina
- Department of Analytical and Forensic Medical Toxicology, Sechenov University, 119048 Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Michael Aschner
- Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA; IM Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), Moscow, Russia
| | - Dimitrios P Bogdanos
- Department of Rheumatology and clinical Immunology, University General Hospital of Larissa, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Viopolis 40500, Larissa, Greece
| | - Aristidis Tsatsakis
- The Federal Budgetary Establishment of Science "Federal Scientific Center of Hygiene named after F. F. Erisman" of the Federal Service for Surveillance on Consumer Rights Protection and Human Wellbeing, 2 Semashko street, Mytishchi, Moscow Oblast' 141014, Russian Federation; Department of Analytical and Forensic Medical Toxicology, Sechenov University, 119048 Moscow, Russian Federation; Laboratory of Toxicology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece
| | - Georgios M Hadjigeorgiou
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neurogenetics, University Hospital of Larissa, Greece, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece; Department of Neurology, Medical School, University of Cyprus, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Efthimios Dardiotis
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neurogenetics, University Hospital of Larissa, Greece, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
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26
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Tsiamalou P, Brotis AG. Guidelines on the Role of Nursing in Patients with Chronic Inflammatory Arthritis: Do we "AGREE II"? Mediterr J Rheumatol 2020; 31:306-310. [PMID: 33163862 PMCID: PMC7641024 DOI: 10.31138/mjr.31.3.306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2020] [Accepted: 04/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
In the era of evidence-based practice, the role of the nurse in Rheumatology has broadened and became more complex, as a part of a multidisciplinary team. The European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR) has published recommendations for the role of the nurse in the management of chronic inflammatory arthritis in 2012, with an updated version in 2018. The objective of this study was to assess the methodological quality and reporting clarity of these recommendations using the AGREE II tool.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paraskevi Tsiamalou
- Department of Rheumatology, General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece.,Department of Neurosurgery, General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
| | - Alexandros G Brotis
- Department of Rheumatology, General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece.,Department of Neurosurgery, General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
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27
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Nana PN, Brotis AG, Tsolaki V, Spanos K, Mpatzalexis K, Zakynthinos E, Giannoukas AD, Kouvelos GN. Transesophageal echocardiography during endovascular procedures for thoracic aorta diseases: sensitivity and specificity analysis. J Cardiovasc Surg (Torino) 2020; 62:79-86. [PMID: 32909705 DOI: 10.23736/s0021-9509.20.11427-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The widespread use of endovascular repair in thoracic aorta (TEVAR) pathologies has ameliorated postoperative outcomes. This meta-analysis was designed to investigate the intra-operative use of transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) compared to angiography in patients undergoing TEVAR. EVIDENCE ACQUISITION The meta-analysis was conducted using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis statement (PRISMA) guidelines. A data search of the English literature was conducted, using PubMed, EMBASE and CENTRAL databases, until November 30, 2019. The Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) approach was used to evaluate the quality of evidence and the summary of findings for each of the included outcomes. EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS The final analysis included 7 articles (183 patients). All patients underwent TEVAR using intra-operative TEE and angiography. The sensitivity and specificity rates of entry points were 0.624 (95% CI: 0.145-0.97) and 0.377 (95% CI: 0.029-0.856), respectively. Regarding the detection of adequate guidewire advancement, the sensitivity was 0.778 (95% CI: 0.288-939) and specifity 0.346 (95% CI: 0.019-0.844). TEE could detect endograft incomplete deployment within acceptable rates of sensitivity and specifity, estimated at 0.616 (95% CI: 0.141-0.971) and 0.365 (95% CI: 0.028-0.845), respectively. The intra-operative detection of endoleaks presented a sensitivity estimated at 0.875 (0.51-0.998) and specificity at 0.698 (95% CI: 0.284-0.904). CONCLUSIONS Despite the limitations of this analysis, TEE may be evaluated in the current endovascular era, as a useful tool, providing adequate information, on graft deployment and early endoleaks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petroula N Nana
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, Larissa University Hospital, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece -
| | - Alexandros G Brotis
- Department of Neurosurgery, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, Larissa University Hospital, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Vassiliki Tsolaki
- Intensive Care Unit, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, Larissa University Hospital, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Konstantinos Spanos
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, Larissa University Hospital, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Konstantinos Mpatzalexis
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, Larissa University Hospital, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Epaminondas Zakynthinos
- Intensive Care Unit, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, Larissa University Hospital, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Athanasios D Giannoukas
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, Larissa University Hospital, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - George N Kouvelos
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, Larissa University Hospital, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
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28
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Tasiou A, Brotis AG, Paschalis T, Tzerefos C, Kapsalaki EZ, Giannis T, Tzannis A, Fountas KN. Intermediate surgical outcome in patients suffering poor-grade aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage. A single center experience. Int J Neurosci 2020; 132:38-50. [PMID: 32746674 DOI: 10.1080/00207454.2020.1801676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND It is known that patients suffering poor-grade aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) have a dismal prognosis. The importance of early intervention is well established in the pertinent literature. Our aim was to assess the functional outcome and overall survival of these patients undergoing surgical clipping. MATERIAL AND METHODS In the current retrospective study we included all consecutive poor-grade patients after spontaneous SAH who presented at our institution over an eight-year period. All participants suffering SAH underwent brain CT angiography (CTA) to identify the source of hemorrhage. We assessed the severity of hemorrhage according to the Fisher grade classification scale. All patients were surgically treated. The functional outcome was evaluated six months after the onset with the Glasgow Outcome Scale. Finally, we performed logistic and Cox regression analyses to identify potential prognostic risk factors. RESULTS Our study included twenty-three patients with a mean age of 53 years. Five (22%) patients presented with Hunt and Hess grade IV, and eighteen (78%) with grade V. The mean follow-up was 15.8 months, while the overall mortality rate was 48%. The six-month functional outcome was favorable in 6 (26%) patients. The vast majority of our patients died between the 15th and the 60th post-ictal days. We did not identify any statistically significant prognostic factors related to the patient's outcome and/or survival. CONCLUSIONS Poor-grade aSAH patients may have a favorable outcome with proper surgical management. Large-scale studies are necessary for accurately outlining the prognosis of this entity, and identifying parameters that could be predictive of outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anastasia Tasiou
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital of Larissa, School of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Alexandros G Brotis
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital of Larissa, School of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Thanasis Paschalis
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital of Larissa, School of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Christos Tzerefos
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital of Larissa, School of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Eftychia Z Kapsalaki
- Department of Neuroradiology, University Hospital of Larissa, School of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Theofanis Giannis
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital of Larissa, School of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Alkiviadis Tzannis
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital of Larissa, School of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Kostas N Fountas
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital of Larissa, School of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
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29
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Nana PN, Brotis AG, Spanos KT, Kouvelos GN, Matsagkas MI, Giannoukas AD. A systematic review and meta-analysis of carotid artery stenting using the transcervical approach. INT ANGIOL 2020; 39:372-380. [PMID: 32536113 DOI: 10.23736/s0392-9590.20.04434-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Carotid artery stenting (CAS) via a transcarotid revascularization (TCAR) approach has emerged as an alternative when carotid endarterectomy or conventional CAS is contraindicated. The present study was conducted to assess the feasibility and safety of TCAR in patients with carotid artery stenosis. EVIDENCE ACQUISITION A systematic review of the literature was performed, according to PRISMA guidelines (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses), using PubMed, EMBASE and CENTRAL databases. The primary outcomes included technical success, perioperative neurological event, myocardial ischemic events, death and their composite. Operational duration, flow reversal time and any local procedure related complication (carotid dissection and cranial nerve injury) were also recorded. EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS Twenty-three studies were included, reporting on 3130 patients, undergoing TCAR. Thirty-five per cent of them were symptomatic. Technical success was 98% (95% CI: 0.97-0.99; P=0.11, I<sup>2</sup>=32%). Early (30-day) new neurological event rate was estimated at 2% (95% CI: 0.01-0.02; P=1.0, I<sup>2</sup>=0%, respectively) while early death rate was 1% (95% CI: 0.00-0.01; P=1.0, I<sup>2</sup>=0%). Myocardial ischemic (MI) event rate was 1% (95% CI, 0.00-0.01, P=0.97, I<sup>2</sup>=6.6%). The composite outcome of neurological event/MI/death at 30-day follow-up was 2% (95% CI: 0.01-0.02, P=0.79, I<sup>2</sup>=14%). Carotid dissection rate during the intervention was 2% (95% CI: 0.01-0.03, P=0.58, I<sup>2</sup>=2.9%) while the post-operatively detected cranial nerve injury rate was 1% (95% CI, 0.00-0.01, P=1.0, I<sup>2</sup>=0%). Regarding the technical aspects of the procedures, operational and flow reversal time were at 73.8 min and 13.7 min, respectively (95% CI: 68.2-79.3, P=0.18, I<sup>2</sup>=37.6% and 95% CI: 11.3-16.1, P=0.48, I<sup>2</sup>=0%, respectively). CONCLUSIONS TCAR is feasible with high technical success rate. The procedure presents low incidence of local complications, neurological events, myocardial complications and mortality during the early postoperative period and should be considered an acceptable alternative for patients treated for carotid artery stenosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petroula N Nana
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University Hospital of Larissa, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece -
| | - Alexandros G Brotis
- Department of Neurosurgery, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University Hospital of Larissa, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Konstantinos T Spanos
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University Hospital of Larissa, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - George N Kouvelos
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University Hospital of Larissa, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Miltiadis I Matsagkas
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University Hospital of Larissa, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Athanasios D Giannoukas
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University Hospital of Larissa, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
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30
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Dardiotis E, Rikos D, Siokas V, Aloizou AM, Tsouris Z, Sakalakis E, Brotis AG, Bogdanos DP, Hadjigeorgiou GM. Assessment of TREM2 rs75932628 variant's association with Parkinson's disease in a Greek population and Meta-analysis of current data. Int J Neurosci 2020; 131:544-548. [PMID: 32250197 DOI: 10.1080/00207454.2020.1750388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Α number of genetic variants are considered to confer susceptibility to Parkinson's disease (PD). Rs75392628 (R47H), a rare variant of TREM2 gene, has been linked to PD, although its role on PD remains conflicting. OBJECTIVE Detection of a possible contribution of rs75392628 variant of TREM2 gene to PD risk. METHODS A total of 358 PD patients and 358 healthy controls genotyped for rs75392628. In addition, a meta-analysis was performed by merging our results with those from previous studies. RESULTS The rare variant of rs75932628 (47H) of TREM2 gene was not detected on cohort. Meta-analysis of a total of 9271 PD cases and 9777 controls across 14 independent PD data sets from 9 studies, including the present study, did not show any statistically significant effect of rs75392628 on PD risk (ORFE:1.54 95% CI:0.87-2.73. ORRE: 1.54, 95%CI: 0.71-3.32). CONCLUSIONS Rs75392628 TREM2 variant is rather unlikely to be a major genetic risk contributor of PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Efthimios Dardiotis
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neurogenetics, University of Thessaly, University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
| | - Dimitrios Rikos
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neurogenetics, University of Thessaly, University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
| | - Vasileios Siokas
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neurogenetics, University of Thessaly, University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
| | - Athina-Maria Aloizou
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neurogenetics, University of Thessaly, University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
| | - Zisis Tsouris
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neurogenetics, University of Thessaly, University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
| | - Evagelos Sakalakis
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neurogenetics, University of Thessaly, University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
| | - Alexandros G Brotis
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Thessaly, University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
| | - Dimitrios P Bogdanos
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University General Hospital of Larissa, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece.,Cellular Immunotherapy & Molecular Immunodiagnostics, Biomedical Section, Centre for Research and Technology-Hellas (CERTH), Institute for Research and Technology-Thessaly (IRETETH), Larissa, Greece
| | - Georgios M Hadjigeorgiou
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neurogenetics, University of Thessaly, University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece.,Department of Neurology, Medical School, University of Cyprus, Nicosia, Cyprus
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Mavropoulos A, Zafiriou E, Simopoulou T, Brotis AG, Liaskos C, Roussaki-Schulze A, Katsiari CG, Bogdanos DP, Sakkas LI. Apremilast increases IL-10-producing regulatory B cells and decreases proinflammatory T cells and innate cells in psoriatic arthritis and psoriasis. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2020; 58:2240-2250. [PMID: 31209492 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/kez204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2018] [Revised: 03/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) and psoriasis are immune-mediated inflammatory diseases sharing common immunological mechanisms. Regulatory B cells (Breg cells) producing IL-10 (B10 cells), a critical anti-inflammatory B-cell subset, were found to be decreased in both PsA and psoriasis. Apremilast, a phosphodiesterase-4(PDE4) inhibitor, increases IL-10 and therefore, we examined the effect of apremilast on Breg cells. METHODS Fifty patients, including 20 with PsA and 30 with psoriasis, were included in the study. The effect of apremilast on Breg cells at 3, 6 and 12 months post-treatment, was examined by flow cytometry in ODN2006 (TLR9)-stimulated peripheral blood mononuclear cells and magnetically-isolated cells. Th1 cells, Th17 cells and NKT were also measured. RESULTS Ex vivo stimulated cell analysis identified that post-apremilast (IL-10+CD19+) B10 cells were increased in all PsA and psoriasis patients and correlated with psoriatic skin and joint clinical improvement. Apremilast decreased IFNγ(+) T and NKT cells and IL-17(+)NKT cells. B10 cells also inversely correlated with Th1 cells, and IFNγ(+)NKT cells. CONCLUSION These results suggest that Breg cells are a major target of apremilast in PsA and psoriasis and that apremilast-induced increase of Breg cells is associated with a decrease of Th1 cells, IFNγ-producing NKT cells and IL-17-producing NKT cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Athanasios Mavropoulos
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Efterpi Zafiriou
- Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Theodora Simopoulou
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Alexandros G Brotis
- Department of Neurosurgery, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Christos Liaskos
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Aggeliki Roussaki-Schulze
- Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Christina G Katsiari
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Dimitrios P Bogdanos
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Lazaros I Sakkas
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
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Ntalouka MP, Bareka M, Brotis AG, Chalkias A, Stamoulis K, Flossos A, Tzimas P, Arnaoutoglou E. Translation and cultural adaptation of the Greek version of the confusion assessment method diagnostic algorithm and the nursing delirium screening scale and their inter-rater reliability: A prospective cohort study. Hippokratia 2020; 24:8-14. [PMID: 33364733 PMCID: PMC7733361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
AIM The lack of standardized tools limits the diagnosis οf postoperative delirium (POD) in the Greek population. Our aim was the translation and the cultural adaptation of the confusion assessment method (CAM) diagnostic algorithm and the nursing delirium screening scale (nu-DESC) in the Greek surgical population, and the determination of their inter-rater reliability. METHODS After Ethical approval and registration as a clinical trial (NCT04154176), a prospective cohort study was conducted in the Department of Anesthesiology, University Hospital of Larissa, Greece. Patients at least 60 years old, undergoing elective non-cardiac surgery, under general anesthesia were included. RESULTS Data from 60 patients, 180 records in total, were analyzed. There was an "almost perfect agreement" between the raters with the use of CAM (Cohen's Kappa estimate: 0.960; 95 % CI: 0.905-1.000) and nu-DESC (Cohen's Kappa estimate: 0.981; 95 % CI: 0.944-1.000). The agreement on each specific question of CAM and nu-DESC ranged from "substantial" to "almost perfect agreement". Based on the CAM, the sensitivity and specificity of nu-DESC were 0.97 (95 % CI: 0.82-1.00) and 0.99 (95 % CI: 0.96-1.00), respectively. The Greek versions of CAM and nu-DESC showed a high inter-rater agreement. CONCLUSION With the translation, the cultural adaptation, and the determination of their inter-rater agreement, the CAM diagnostic algorithm and the nu-DESC may serve as reliable instruments for the detection of POD in the Greek population. HIPPOKRATIA 2020, 24(1): 8-14.
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Affiliation(s)
- M P Ntalouka
- Department of Anesthesiology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - M Bareka
- Department of Anesthesiology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - A G Brotis
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital of Larissa, Thessaly, Greece
| | - A Chalkias
- Department of Anesthesiology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - K Stamoulis
- Department of Anesthesiology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - A Flossos
- Department of Anesthesiology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - P Tzimas
- Department of Anesthesiology and Postoperative Intensive Care, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, Epirus, Greece
| | - E Arnaoutoglou
- Department of Anesthesiology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
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Brotis AG, Churis I, Karvouniaris M. Local complications of adjunct intrathecal antibiotics for nosocomial meningitis associated with gram-negative pathogens: a meta-analysis. Neurosurg Rev 2019; 44:139-152. [PMID: 31875280 DOI: 10.1007/s10143-019-01226-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2019] [Revised: 11/21/2019] [Accepted: 12/11/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Direct delivery of antibiotics to the ventricular system offers an alternative for the management of nosocomial meningitis. However, the available literature frequently results in controversial findings regarding its safety. The present meta-analysis aimed at summarizing the risk of local complications after the administration of intraventricular/intrathecal (IVT/IT) antibiotics for the treatment of ventriculitis/meningitis (VM) associated with gram-negative pathogens. We systematically searched the medical literature from 1964 until July 2018, for clinical studies reporting on complications after the index treatment. The quality of the eligible studies was classified as "high," "moderated," and "low" for randomized controlled trials, observational studies, and case series, respectively. The results were summarized as pooled frequencies, estimated by the random- or fixed-effects models, according to the inter-study heterogeneity. The publication bias was visualized in trim-and-fill funnel plots. Τhe analysis included twenty-three primary studies with 229 patients. The overall complication rate was as high as 0.13 (95% CI 0.08; 0.19, I2 = 9%); chemical meningitis and seizures represented the majority of the complications, with an occurrence rate of 0.11 (95% CI 0.07; 0.17, I2 = 0%) and 0.07 (95% CI 0.04; 0.12; I2 = 0%), respectively. The meta-analysis was based on studies of "moderate" and "low" reporting quality, while the publication bias after inspecting of the funnel plots revealed significant asymmetry. The present review denotes the absence of large, high-quality studies in the field. Nevertheless, IVT/IT was associated with moderate morbidity, mainly attributed to chemical meningitis and seizures. Further high-quality studies are still required before this therapeutic modality becomes broadly established.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandros G Brotis
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital of Larissa, Biopolis, Larissa, Greece.
| | - Isaac Churis
- Intensive Care Unit, General Hospital of Giannitsa, Giannitsa, Greece
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Brotis AG, Tasiou A, Paterakis K, Tzerefos C, Fountas KN. Complications Associated with Surgery for Thoracic Disc Herniation: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis. World Neurosurg 2019; 132:334-342. [PMID: 31493617 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2019.08.202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2019] [Revised: 08/23/2019] [Accepted: 08/24/2019] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A systematic review and network meta-analysis (Prospero ID CRD42018106936) were performed. OBJECTIVE The selection of the appropriate surgical approach for the management of thoracic disc herniation (TDH) is often challenging because of the frequency and variability of the associated complications. We evaluated the safety of the surgical approaches for TDH by estimating the mortality (Q1) and morbidity (Q2), and frequency of the most common complications (Q3). METHODS We searched the medical literature for randomized controlled trials and observational studies reporting on the management of TDH. Postoperative complications were the outcome of interest. The absolute and relative risk estimates, along with the rank probability scores, were estimated for each approach, through a network meta-analysis. The results were read in the light of the quality of the available evidence. RESULTS Fifteen studies with a total of 1036 patients fulfilled our eligibility criteria. Three deaths were reported. The overall morbidity was as high as 29%, largely attributed to medical (21%; 95% confidence interval [CI], 10%-38%), surgical site (11%; 95% CI, 5%-22%), cerebrospinal fluid-related (8%; 95% CI, 3%-8%), and neurologic complications (5%; 95% CI, 1%-24%). The anterior and lateral approaches were associated with a higher risk for medical and surgical complications compared with the posterolateral approach. CONCLUSIONS Surgery for TDH is associated with minimal mortality but significant morbidity, with large variations among the available approaches. An understanding of the perioperative complications rates is important to develop complication avoidance strategies and to aid accurate patient-to-doctor communication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandros G Brotis
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Thessaly, Greece.
| | - Anastasia Tasiou
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Thessaly, Greece
| | - Kostantinos Paterakis
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Thessaly, Greece; Medical School, University of Thessaly, Thessaly, Greece
| | - Christos Tzerefos
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Thessaly, Greece
| | - Kostas N Fountas
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Thessaly, Greece; Medical School, University of Thessaly, Thessaly, Greece
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Brotis AG, Hajiioannou J, Tzerefos C, Korais C, Dardiotis E, Fountas KN, Paterakis K. Bilateral Tapia's syndrome secondary to cervical spine injury: a case report and literature review. Br J Neurosurg 2019:1-5. [PMID: 31096793 DOI: 10.1080/02688697.2019.1617408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
A 24-year-old man presented with bilateral Tapia's syndrome (TS) after a traumatic cervical spine injury, manifested by apraxia of the hypoglossal and recurrent laryngeal nerves. The initial presentation was a profound inability to maintain upper respiratory airway patency due to bilateral vocal cord paralysis, accompanied by impairment of swallowing and loss of speech. The diagnosis was based on clinical grounds and verified by endoscopic laryngoscopy. A C7 corpectomy was performed for stabilizing the cervical spine, while conservative treatment with steroids was reserved for the TS. Over the following six months, there was complete resolution of the symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandros G Brotis
- a Department of Neurosurgery , University Hospital of Larissa , Larissa , Greece
| | - Jiannis Hajiioannou
- b Department of Head and Neck Surgery , University Hospital of Larissa , Larissa , Greece.,d Faculty of Medicine , University of Thessaly , Volos , Greece
| | - Christos Tzerefos
- a Department of Neurosurgery , University Hospital of Larissa , Larissa , Greece
| | - Christos Korais
- b Department of Head and Neck Surgery , University Hospital of Larissa , Larissa , Greece
| | - Efthymios Dardiotis
- c Department of Neurology , University Hospital of Larissa.,d Faculty of Medicine , University of Thessaly , Volos , Greece
| | - Kostas N Fountas
- a Department of Neurosurgery , University Hospital of Larissa , Larissa , Greece.,d Faculty of Medicine , University of Thessaly , Volos , Greece
| | - Kostantinos Paterakis
- a Department of Neurosurgery , University Hospital of Larissa , Larissa , Greece.,d Faculty of Medicine , University of Thessaly , Volos , Greece
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Dardiotis E, Siokas V, Aloizou AM, Karampinis E, Brotis AG, Grigoriadis S, Paterakis K, Dardioti M, Komnos A, Kapsalaki E, Fountas K, Hadjigeorgiou GM. Effect of integrin AV and B8 gene polymorphisms in patients with traumatic brain injury. Brain Inj 2019; 33:836-845. [PMID: 31033358 DOI: 10.1080/02699052.2019.1606444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Background: Α few genetic variants are associated with the outcome after traumatic brain injury (TBI). Integrins are glycoprotein receptors that play an important role in the integrity of microvasculature of the brain. Objective: To examine the role of integrin-AV (ITGAV) and integrin-B8 (ITGB8) tag single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) on the outcome of patients with TBI. Methods: 363 participants were included and genotyped for 11 SNPs for ITGAV and 11 for ITGB8 gene. SNPs were tested for associations with the 6-month outcome after TBI, the presence of a hemorrhagic event after TBI, and the initial TBI severity after adjustment for TBI's main predictors. Results: The ITGAV rs3911239 CC and rs7596996 GG genotypes were associated with an unfavorable outcome after TBI, compared to the TT and AA genotypes, respectively. The ITGB8 rs10239099 CC and rs3757727 CC genotypes were associated with increased risk of any cerebral hemorrhagic event after TBI compared to GG and TT respectively. The ITGAV rs7589470 and rs7565633 were associated with the TBI's initial severity. Conclusions: ITGAV gene SNPs may be implicated in the outcome after TBI, as well as in the initial TBI severity, and also of ITGB8 gene SNPs in the risk of hemorrhagic event after a TBI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Efthimios Dardiotis
- a Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neurogenetics , University of Thessaly, University Hospital of Larissa , Larissa , Greece
| | - Vasileios Siokas
- a Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neurogenetics , University of Thessaly, University Hospital of Larissa , Larissa , Greece
| | - Athina-Maria Aloizou
- a Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neurogenetics , University of Thessaly, University Hospital of Larissa , Larissa , Greece
| | - Emmanouil Karampinis
- a Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neurogenetics , University of Thessaly, University Hospital of Larissa , Larissa , Greece
| | - Alexandros G Brotis
- b Department of Neurosurgery , University of Thessaly, University Hospital of Larissa , Larissa , Greece
| | - Savas Grigoriadis
- c Second Department of Neurosurgery , Hippokration University Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki , Thessaloniki , Greece
| | - Konstantinos Paterakis
- b Department of Neurosurgery , University of Thessaly, University Hospital of Larissa , Larissa , Greece
| | - Maria Dardioti
- a Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neurogenetics , University of Thessaly, University Hospital of Larissa , Larissa , Greece
| | - Apostolos Komnos
- d Intensive Care Unit , General Hospital of Larissa , Larissa , Greece
| | - Eftychia Kapsalaki
- e Department of Radiology , University of Thessaly, School of Medicine , Larissa , Greece
| | - Kostas Fountas
- b Department of Neurosurgery , University of Thessaly, University Hospital of Larissa , Larissa , Greece
| | - Georgios M Hadjigeorgiou
- a Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neurogenetics , University of Thessaly, University Hospital of Larissa , Larissa , Greece.,f Department of Neurology , Medical School, University of Cyprus , Nicosia , USA
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Dardiotis E, Aloizou AM, Markoula S, Siokas V, Tsarouhas K, Tzanakakis G, Libra M, Kyritsis AP, Brotis AG, Aschner M, Gozes I, Bogdanos DP, Spandidos DA, Mitsias PD, Tsatsakis A. Cancer-associated stroke: Pathophysiology, detection and management (Review). Int J Oncol 2019; 54:779-796. [PMID: 30628661 PMCID: PMC6365034 DOI: 10.3892/ijo.2019.4669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2018] [Accepted: 12/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Numerous types of cancer have been shown to be associated with either ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke. In this review, the epidemiology and pathophysiology of stroke in cancer patients is discussed, while providing vital information on the diagnosis and management of patients with cancer and stroke. Cancer may mediate stroke pathophysiology either directly or via coagulation disorders that establish a state of hypercoagulation, as well as via infections. Cancer treatment options, such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy and surgery have all been shown to aggravate the risk of stroke as well. The clinical manifestation varies greatly depending upon the underlying cause; however, in general, cancer‑associated strokes tend to appear as multifocal in neuroimaging. Furthermore, several serum markers have been identified, such as high D‑Dimer levels and fibrin degradation products. Managing cancer patients with stroke is a delicate matter. The cancer should not be considered a contraindication in applying thrombolysis and recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (rTPA) administration, since the risk of hemorrhage in cancer patients has not been reported to be higher than that in the general population. Anticoagulation, on the contrary, should be carefully examined. Clinicians should weigh the benefits and risks of anticoagulation treatment for each patient individually; the new oral anticoagulants appear promising; however, low‑molecular‑weight heparin remains the first choice. On the whole, stroke is a serious and not a rare complication of malignancy. Clinicians should be adequately trained to handle these patients efficiently.
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Affiliation(s)
- Efthimios Dardiotis
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neurogenetics, University of Thessaly, University Hospital of Larissa, 41100 Larissa
| | - Athina-Maria Aloizou
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neurogenetics, University of Thessaly, University Hospital of Larissa, 41100 Larissa
| | - Sofia Markoula
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina
| | - Vasileios Siokas
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neurogenetics, University of Thessaly, University Hospital of Larissa, 41100 Larissa
| | | | - Georgios Tzanakakis
- Laboratory of Anatomy-Histology-Embryology, Medical School, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece
| | - Massimo Libra
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Pathology and Oncology Section, University of Catania, 95124 Catania, Italy
| | | | - Alexandros G. Brotis
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Thessaly, University Hospital of Larissa, 41100 Larissa, Greece
| | - Michael Aschner
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
| | - Illana Gozes
- The Lily and Avraham Gildor Chair for the Investigation of Growth Factors, The Elton Laboratory for Molecular Neuroendocrinology, Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Sagol School of Neuroscience and Adams Super Center for Brain Studies, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
| | - Dimitrios P. Bogdanos
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University General Hospital of Larissa, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, 40500 Larissa
- Cellular Immunotherapy and Molecular Immunodiagnostics, Biomedical Section, Centre for Research and Technology-Hellas (CERTH) - Institute for Research and Technology-Thessaly (IRETETH), 41222 Larissa
| | | | - Panayiotis D. Mitsias
- Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece
- Comprehensive Stroke Center and Department of Neurology, Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, MI 48202, USA
| | - Aristidis Tsatsakis
- Laboratory of Toxicology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece
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Brotis AG, Gatos C, Fountas KN. Letter to the editor regarding "Dexamethasone for chronic subdural haematoma: a systematic review and meta-analysis". Acta Neurochir (Wien) 2018; 160:2145-2147. [PMID: 30151558 DOI: 10.1007/s00701-018-3661-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2018] [Accepted: 08/13/2018] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Alexandros G Brotis
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece.
| | - Charalambos Gatos
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
| | - Kostas N Fountas
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical School of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
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Brotis AG, Paterakis K. Letter to the Editor Regarding "Operative Approaches for Lumbar Disc Herniation: A Systematic Review and Multiple Treatment Meta-Analysis of Conventional and Minimally Invasive Surgeries". World Neurosurg 2018; 119:456-459. [PMID: 30347577 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2018.07.186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2018] [Accepted: 07/21/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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Dardiotis E, Siokas V, Sokratous M, Tsouris Z, Aloizou AM, Florou D, Dastamani M, Mentis AFA, Brotis AG. Body mass index and survival from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: A meta-analysis. Neurol Clin Pract 2018; 8:437-444. [PMID: 30564498 DOI: 10.1212/cpj.0000000000000521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2018] [Accepted: 06/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Background Several studies have examined the relationship between body mass index (BMI) and survival from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Many indicate that low BMI at diagnosis or during follow-up may be associated with accelerated progression and shortened survival. This study systematically evaluated the relationship between BMI and survival in patients with ALS. Methods The PubMed database was searched to identify all available studies reporting time-to-event data. Eight studies with 6,098 patients fulfilled the eligibility criteria. BMI was considered a continuous and ordered variable. Interstudy heterogeneity was assessed by the Cochran Q test and quantified by the I2 metric. Fixed- or random-effects odds ratios summarized pooled effects after taking interstudy variability into account. Significance was set at p < 0.05. Results The ALS survival hazard ratio (HR) decreased approximately by 3% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 2%-5%) for each additional BMI unit when BMI was considered a continuous variable. When BMI was considered a categorical variable, the HRs for "normal" BMI vs "overweight" BMI and "obese" BMI were estimated to be as high as 0.91 (95% CI: 0.79-1.04) and 0.78 (95% CI: 0.60-1.01), respectively. The HR for the comparison of the "normal" BMI vs "underweight" BMI was estimated to be as high as 1.94 (95% CI: 1.42-2.65). Conclusions BMI is significantly and inversely associated with ALS survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Efthimios Dardiotis
- Department of Neurology (ED, VS, MS, ZT, A-MA, DF, MD), Laboratory of Neurogenetics, University of Thessaly, University Hospital of Larissa, Greece; Department of Microbiology (A-FAM), University of Thessaly, University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece; Public Health Laboratories (A-FAM), Hellenic Pasteur Institute, Athens, Greece; and Department of Neurosurgery (AGB), University of Thessaly, University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
| | - Vasileios Siokas
- Department of Neurology (ED, VS, MS, ZT, A-MA, DF, MD), Laboratory of Neurogenetics, University of Thessaly, University Hospital of Larissa, Greece; Department of Microbiology (A-FAM), University of Thessaly, University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece; Public Health Laboratories (A-FAM), Hellenic Pasteur Institute, Athens, Greece; and Department of Neurosurgery (AGB), University of Thessaly, University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
| | - Maria Sokratous
- Department of Neurology (ED, VS, MS, ZT, A-MA, DF, MD), Laboratory of Neurogenetics, University of Thessaly, University Hospital of Larissa, Greece; Department of Microbiology (A-FAM), University of Thessaly, University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece; Public Health Laboratories (A-FAM), Hellenic Pasteur Institute, Athens, Greece; and Department of Neurosurgery (AGB), University of Thessaly, University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
| | - Zisis Tsouris
- Department of Neurology (ED, VS, MS, ZT, A-MA, DF, MD), Laboratory of Neurogenetics, University of Thessaly, University Hospital of Larissa, Greece; Department of Microbiology (A-FAM), University of Thessaly, University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece; Public Health Laboratories (A-FAM), Hellenic Pasteur Institute, Athens, Greece; and Department of Neurosurgery (AGB), University of Thessaly, University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
| | - Athina-Maria Aloizou
- Department of Neurology (ED, VS, MS, ZT, A-MA, DF, MD), Laboratory of Neurogenetics, University of Thessaly, University Hospital of Larissa, Greece; Department of Microbiology (A-FAM), University of Thessaly, University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece; Public Health Laboratories (A-FAM), Hellenic Pasteur Institute, Athens, Greece; and Department of Neurosurgery (AGB), University of Thessaly, University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
| | - Desponia Florou
- Department of Neurology (ED, VS, MS, ZT, A-MA, DF, MD), Laboratory of Neurogenetics, University of Thessaly, University Hospital of Larissa, Greece; Department of Microbiology (A-FAM), University of Thessaly, University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece; Public Health Laboratories (A-FAM), Hellenic Pasteur Institute, Athens, Greece; and Department of Neurosurgery (AGB), University of Thessaly, University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
| | - Metaxia Dastamani
- Department of Neurology (ED, VS, MS, ZT, A-MA, DF, MD), Laboratory of Neurogenetics, University of Thessaly, University Hospital of Larissa, Greece; Department of Microbiology (A-FAM), University of Thessaly, University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece; Public Health Laboratories (A-FAM), Hellenic Pasteur Institute, Athens, Greece; and Department of Neurosurgery (AGB), University of Thessaly, University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
| | - Alexios-Fotios A Mentis
- Department of Neurology (ED, VS, MS, ZT, A-MA, DF, MD), Laboratory of Neurogenetics, University of Thessaly, University Hospital of Larissa, Greece; Department of Microbiology (A-FAM), University of Thessaly, University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece; Public Health Laboratories (A-FAM), Hellenic Pasteur Institute, Athens, Greece; and Department of Neurosurgery (AGB), University of Thessaly, University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
| | - Alexandros G Brotis
- Department of Neurology (ED, VS, MS, ZT, A-MA, DF, MD), Laboratory of Neurogenetics, University of Thessaly, University Hospital of Larissa, Greece; Department of Microbiology (A-FAM), University of Thessaly, University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece; Public Health Laboratories (A-FAM), Hellenic Pasteur Institute, Athens, Greece; and Department of Neurosurgery (AGB), University of Thessaly, University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
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Paterakis KN, Brotis AG, Paschalis A, Tzannis A, Fountas KN. Extreme lateral lumbar interbody fusion (XLIF) in the management of degenerative scoliosis: a retrospective case series. J Spine Surg 2018; 4:610-615. [PMID: 30547126 DOI: 10.21037/jss.2018.07.11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Background Surgical treatment of adult degenerative scoliosis (DS) always remains a challenge and often necessitates complex multilevel surgery via traditional open approaches. However, the severity of the procedure, in association with the fact that many of these patients are at an advanced age with several comorbidities, results in high rate of complications. Therefore, during the last decade, minimally invasive procedures have gained a place in the treatment of this pathology. Our aim is to determine the safety and efficacy of extra lateral lumbar interbody fusion (XLIF) with or without supplemented instrumentation in the treatment of DS. Methods In a retrospective case series study, we reviewed the files of patients who underwent XLIF in our Hospital between 2008 and 2017. We recorded the patients' demographic characteristics, clinical parameters such as back-pain [visual analogue scale (VAS)] and back-related disability [Oswestry Disability Index (ODI)], as well as radiological parameters including the Cobb angle. Comparison of the before and after results were performed with the t-test and Chi-square test, where appropriate. Results Twelve patients fulfilled the eligibility criteria of our study. All patients were female, with a mean age of 64.5 years (SD =7.8 years) and 28 months (SD =13 months) follow-up. The XLIF decreased the pain intensity by 4.66 cm (SD =1.23 cm), and improved the back-related disability by 26% (SD =8.35%) in the ODI scale at the 6-month follow-up. Similarly, scoliosis improved by an average of 11.5° (SD =7°) and lordosis changed by an average of 13.5° (SD =10.86°). All changes were statistically significant. There were three complications, two patients presented meralgia paresthetica, which resolved spontaneously in 3 months, and in one patient occurred an intraoperative bowel perforation treated with bowel anastomosis. Conclusions XLIF is a feasible and efficient alternative in the treatment of DS. It can be the treatment of choice in elderly patients in whom comorbidities increase the perioperative risk of complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstantinos N Paterakis
- Department of Neurosurgery, School of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece.,Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
| | | | | | - Alkiviadis Tzannis
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
| | - Konstantinos N Fountas
- Department of Neurosurgery, School of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece.,Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
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Brotis AG, Karagiorgas G, Tasiou A, Gatos C, Kapsalaki E, Fountas KN. Hemorrhagic transformation of posterior fossa ischemia after antithrombotic therapy for a blunt vertebral artery injury: a case report. AME Case Rep 2018; 2:30. [DOI: 10.21037/acr.2018.06.03] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2018] [Accepted: 06/04/2018] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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Brotis AG, Tasiou A, Giannis T, Paschalis A, Fountas KN. Collagen type-I A2 gene polymorphisms and susceptibility to intracranial aneurysms: a meta-analysis of genetic association studies. Int J Neurosci 2017; 128:640-653. [PMID: 29164999 DOI: 10.1080/00207454.2017.1408616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The development, evolution and rupture of intracranial aneurysms are in part related to genetic factors. The role of collagen type-I a2 genetic polymorphisms has not been clarified yet. MATERIAL AND METHODS A meta-analysis was realized by means of a genotype model-fitting process (allele contrast, recessive, dominant, additive and co-dominant), and a model-free approach using the generalized odds ratio. The latter was assessed in association to the degree of dominance (h-index). RESULTS No statistically significant association was documented between EX28 G>C collagen type-I a2 variant and intracranial aneurysms (generalized odds ratio = 1.23, 95% confidence interval = 0.57, 2.63). Significant associations between INT46 T>G collagen type I a2 variant and intracranial aneurysms were documented in three models, the dominant [0.52 (0.38, 069)], the co-dominant [0.50 (0.32, 0.78)] and the allele contrast models [0.63 (0.49, 0.82)]. The generalized odds ratio was estimated to be as high as 1.94 (1.23, 3.06). The degree of dominance (h-index = -1.54) indicated that the TG genotype was characterized by lower risk of developing intracranial aneurysms compared to the TT genotype. CONCLUSIONS The available literature data demonstrated that there is no association of collagen type-(2a) and intracranial aneurysms, through EX28 G>C (rs42524) polymorphism according to the model-fitting process and the model-free approach. Regarding the INT46 T>G (rs2621215) polymorphisms, the latter models indicated that there could be a protective effect of the G-allele against the development of intracranial aneurysms. However, the majority of studies are from East Asia, therefore the results are applicable primarily to that patient population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandros G Brotis
- a Department of Neurosurgery , University Hospital of Larissa , Larissa , Greece
| | - Anastasia Tasiou
- a Department of Neurosurgery , University Hospital of Larissa , Larissa , Greece
| | - Theofanis Giannis
- a Department of Neurosurgery , University Hospital of Larissa , Larissa , Greece
| | - Athanasios Paschalis
- a Department of Neurosurgery , University Hospital of Larissa , Larissa , Greece
| | - Kostas N Fountas
- a Department of Neurosurgery , University Hospital of Larissa , Larissa , Greece
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Karagiorgas GP, Brotis AG, Giannis T, Rountas CD, Vassiou KG, Fountas KN, Kapsalaki EZ. The diagnostic accuracy of magnetic resonance angiography for blunt vertebral artery injury detection in trauma patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Clin Neurol Neurosurg 2017; 160:152-163. [PMID: 28759887 DOI: 10.1016/j.clineuro.2017.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2017] [Revised: 06/26/2017] [Accepted: 07/04/2017] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
The role of magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) in the evaluation of patients with blunt vertebral artery has not been fully established. Our aim is to define the diagnostic accuracy of MRA in comparison to digital subtraction angiography (DSA) for the detection of blunt vertebral artery injury in trauma patients. A computer-assisted literature search of the PubMed, Scopus, Highwire, Web of Science, and LILACS was conducted, in order to identify studies reporting on the sensitivity and specificity of MRA in comparison to DSA for the detection of blunt vertebral artery injury in trauma patients. The Database search retrieved 91 studies. Five studies fulfilled our eligibility criteria. Two authors assessed the risk of bias and applicability concerns using QUADAS-2. Two-by-two contingency tables were constructed on a per-vessel level. Heterogeneity was tested by the statistical significance of Cochran's Q, and was quantified by the Higgins's I2 metric. The pooled estimates of sensitivity and specificity for blunt vertebral artery injury detection with MRA in comparison to DSA were calculated based on the bivariate model. The meta-analysis was supplemented by subgroup and sensitivity analysis, as well as analysis for publication bias. There was significant clinical heterogeneity in the targeted population, inclusion criteria, and MRA related parameters. The reporting bias and applicability concerns were moderate and low, respectively. In the overall analysis, the sensitivity ranged from 25% to 85%, while the specificity varied from 65% to 99%, across studies. According to the bivariate model, the pooled sensitivity and specificity of MRA in the evaluation of patients with blunt vertebral artery was as high as 55% (95% CI 32.1%-76.7%), and 91% (95% CI 66.3%-98.2%), respectively. Subgroup analysis in terms of MRA sequence sensitivity of phase, the contrasted MRA (75% [95% CI 43%-92%]) seemed to be superior to the TOF MRA (46% [95%CI 20%-74%]). The addition of contrast enhancement did not seem to improve the diagnostic yield of MRA. The Egger's test did not identify any significant publication bias (p=0.2). An important limitation of the current meta-analysis is the small number of eligible studies, as well as the lack of studies on newer, high-field MR scanners. We concluded that MRA has a moderate diagnostic accuracy in the diagnosis of blunt vertebral artery injuries. Further studies on high-field magnetic resonance scanners are recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgios P Karagiorgas
- Department of Radiology, University Hospital of Larissa, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Alexandros G Brotis
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital of Larissa, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece.
| | - Theofanis Giannis
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital of Larissa, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Christos D Rountas
- Department of Radiology, University Hospital of Larissa, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Katerina G Vassiou
- Department of Radiology, University Hospital of Larissa, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Kostas N Fountas
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital of Larissa, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Eftychia Z Kapsalaki
- Department of Radiology, University Hospital of Larissa, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
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Tasiou A, Giannis T, Brotis AG, Siasios I, Georgiadis I, Gatos H, Tsianaka E, Vagkopoulos K, Paterakis K, Fountas KN. Anterior cervical spine surgery-associated complications in a retrospective case-control study. J Spine Surg 2017; 3:444-459. [PMID: 29057356 DOI: 10.21037/jss.2017.08.03] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Anterior cervical spine procedures have been associated with satisfactory outcomes. However, the occurrence of troublesome complications, although uncommon, needs to be taken into consideration. The purpose of our study was to assess the actual incidence of anterior cervical spine procedure-associated complications and identify any predisposing factors. A total of 114 patients undergoing anterior cervical procedures over a 6-year period were included in our retrospective, case-control study. The diagnosis was cervical radiculopathy, and/or myelopathy due to degenerative disc disease, cervical spondylosis, or traumatic cervical spine injury. All our participants underwent surgical treatment, and complications were recorded. The most commonly performed procedure (79%) was anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF). Fourteen patients (12.3%) underwent anterior cervical corpectomy and interbody fusion, seven (6.1%) ACDF with plating, two (1.7%) odontoid screw fixation, and one anterior removal of osteophytes for severe Forestier's disease. Mean follow-up time was 42.5 months (range, 6-78 months). The overall complication rate was 13.2%. Specifically, we encountered adjacent intervertebral disc degeneration in 2.7% of our cases, dysphagia in 1.7%, postoperative soft tissue swelling and hematoma in 1.7%, and dural penetration in 1.7%. Additionally, esophageal perforation was observed in 0.9%, aggravation of preexisting myelopathy in 0.9%, symptomatic recurrent laryngeal nerve palsy in 0.9%, mechanical failure in 0.9%, and superficial wound infection in 0.9%. In the vast majority anterior cervical spine surgery-associated complications are minor, requiring no further intervention. Awareness, early recognition, and appropriate management, are of paramount importance for improving the patients' overall functional outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anastasia Tasiou
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital of Larissa, School of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Theofanis Giannis
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital of Larissa, School of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Alexandros G Brotis
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital of Larissa, School of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Ioannis Siasios
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital of Larissa, School of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Iordanis Georgiadis
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital of Larissa, School of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Haralampos Gatos
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital of Larissa, School of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Eleni Tsianaka
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital of Larissa, School of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Konstantinos Vagkopoulos
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital of Larissa, School of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Konstantinos Paterakis
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital of Larissa, School of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Kostas N Fountas
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital of Larissa, School of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
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Paterakis K, Koutsias S, Doxani C, Xanthopoulou P, Kokkali C, Mpoulimari I, Tziastoudi M, Karampelas I, Dardiotis E, Hadjigeorgiou G, Brotis AG, Zintzaras E. Variants of the elastin (ELN) gene and susceptibility to intracranial aneurysm: a synthesis of genetic association studies using a genetic model-free approach. Int J Neurosci 2016; 127:567-572. [DOI: 10.1080/00207454.2016.1212027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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Brotis AG, Paraskevi TM, Tsitsopoulos P, Tasiou A, Fotakopoulos G, Fountas KN. An evidence-based approach towards the cranio-cervical junction injury classifications. Eur Spine J 2015; 24:931-9. [DOI: 10.1007/s00586-015-3877-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2014] [Revised: 02/07/2015] [Accepted: 03/11/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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Papadopoulos EK, Fountas KN, Brotis AG, Paterakis KN. A supratentorial primitive neuroectodermal tumor presenting with intracranial hemorrhage in a 42-year-old man: a case report and review of the literature. J Med Case Rep 2013; 7:86. [PMID: 23537064 PMCID: PMC3623814 DOI: 10.1186/1752-1947-7-86] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2012] [Accepted: 01/28/2013] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction We report on a very rare case of a supratentorial primitive neuroectodermal tumor in an adult, which presented with intracerebral hemorrhage, and review the relevant medical literature. Case presentation A 42-year-old Caucasian man complained of a sudden headache and nausea-vomiting. The patient rapidly deteriorated to coma. An emergency computed tomography scan showed an extensive intraparenchymal hemorrhage that caused significant mass effect and tonsilar herniation. During surgery, an increased intracranial pressure was recorded and extensive bilateral decompressive craniectomies were performed. A cherry-like intraparenchymal lesion was found in his right frontal lobe and resected. The patient died in the intensive care unit after approximately 48 hours. The resected lesion was identified as a central nervous system primitive neuroectodermal tumor. Conclusion Supratentorial primitive neuroectodermal tumors must be considered in the differential diagnosis of space-occupying lesions in adults. Spontaneous supratentorial hemorrhage due to primitive neuroectodermal tumors is an extremely rare but potentially lethal event.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evangelos K Papadopoulos
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital of Larissa, School of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Building A, 3rd Floor, Biopolis, Larisa, 41110, Greece.
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Paterakis KN, Brotis AG, Dardiotis E, Hadjigeorgiou GM, Karachalios T, Fountas KN, Karantanas A. Acute Schmorl's Node during Strenuous Monofin Swimming: A Case Report and Review of the Literature. Global Spine J 2012; 2:159-68. [PMID: 24353963 PMCID: PMC3864465 DOI: 10.1055/s-0032-1307262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2011] [Accepted: 01/31/2012] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Study Design This case report describes an acute Schmorl's node (SN) in an elite monofin athlete during exercise. The patient presented with severe back pain and leg numbness and was managed successfully with conservative treatment. Objective The aim of our communication was to describe a rare presentation of a common pathological condition during an intense sport. Background Swimming is not generally considered to be a sport activity that leads to spinal injuries. SNs are usually asymptomatic lesions, incidentally found on imaging studies. There is no correlation between swimming and symptomatic SN formation. Case Report A 16-year-old monofin elite athlete suffered from an acute nonradiating back pain during extreme exercise. His back pain was associated with a fracture of the superior L5 end plate and an acute SN at the L5 vertebral body with perilesional bone marrow edema. The pain resolved with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and bed rest. The athlete had an excellent outcome and returned to his training activities 6 months after his incident. Conclusion SN should be considered in the differential diagnosis of severe back pain, especially in sport-related injuries. SNs present with characteristic imaging findings. Due to the benign nature of these lesions, surveillance-only management may be the best course of action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstantinos N. Paterakis
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital of Larissa, University of Thessaly, School of Medicine, Larissa, Greece,Address for correspondence and reprint requests Konstantinos N. Paterakis, M.D., Ph.D. Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital of LarissaBiopolis, Larissa 41110Greece
| | - Alexandros G. Brotis
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital of Larissa, University of Thessaly, School of Medicine, Larissa, Greece
| | - Efthimios Dardiotis
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Larissa, University of Thessaly, School of Medicine, Larissa, Greece
| | - Georgios M. Hadjigeorgiou
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Larissa, University of Thessaly, School of Medicine, Larissa, Greece
| | - Theofilos Karachalios
- Department of Orthopedics, University Hospital of Larissa, University of Thessaly, School of Medicine, Larissa, Greece
| | - Kostas N. Fountas
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital of Larissa, University of Thessaly, School of Medicine, Larissa, Greece
| | - Apostolos Karantanas
- Department of Medical Imaging, University Hospital of Heraklion, Medical School of Crete, Heraklion, Greece
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Brotis AG, Kapsalaki EZ, Papadopoulos EK, Fountas KN. A cervical ligamentum flavum cyst in an 82-year-old woman presenting with spinal cord compression: a case report and review of the literature. J Med Case Rep 2012; 6:92. [PMID: 22458344 PMCID: PMC3325862 DOI: 10.1186/1752-1947-6-92] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2011] [Accepted: 03/29/2012] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction We report on a very rare case of a cervical ligamentum flavum cyst, which presented with progressive myelopathy and radiculopathy. The cyst was radically extirpated and our patient showed significant recovery. A review of the relevant literature yielded seven cases. Case presentation An 82-year-old Greek woman presented with progressive bilateral weakness of her upper extremities and causalgia, cervical pain, episodes of upper extremity numbness and significant walking difficulties. Her neurological examination showed diffusely decreased motor strength in both her upper and lower extremities. Magnetic resonance imaging of her cervical spine demonstrated a large, well-demarcated cystic lesion on the dorsal aspect of her spinal cord at the C3 to C4 level, significantly compressing the spinal cord at this level, in close proximity to the yellow ligament and the C3 left lamina. The largest diameter of this lesion was 1.4 cm, and there was no lesion enhancement after the intravenous administration of a paramagnetic contrast. The lesion was surgically removed after a bilateral C3 laminectomy. The thick cystic wall was yellow and fibro-elastic in consistency, while its content was gelatinous and yellow-brownish. A postoperative cervical-spine magnetic resonance image was obtained before her discharge, demonstrating decompression of her spinal cord and dural expansion. Her six-month follow-up evaluation revealed complete resolution of her walking difficulties, improvement in the muscle strength of her arms (4+/5 in all the affected muscle groups), no causalgia and a significant decrease in her preoperative upper extremity numbness. Conclusion Cervical ligamentum flavum cysts are rare benign lesions, which should be included in the list of differential diagnosis of spinal cystic lesions. They can be differentiated from other intracanalicular lesions by their hypointense appearance on T1-weighted and hyperintense appearance on T2-weighted magnetic resonance images, with contrast enhancement of the cystic wall. Surgical extirpation of the cyst is required for symptom alleviation and decompression of the spinal cord. The outcome of these cysts is excellent with no risk of recurrence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandros G Brotis
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital of Larissa, School of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece.
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