A novel SMARCC1 BAFopathy implicates neural progenitor epigenetic dysregulation in human hydrocephalus

Hydrocephalus, characterized by cerebral ventriculomegaly, is the most common disorder requiring brain surgery in children. Recent studies have implicated SMARCC1, a component of the BRG1-associated factor (BAF) chromatin remodelling complex, as a candidate congenital hydrocephalus gene. However, SMARCC1 variants have not been systematically examined in a large patient cohort or conclusively linked with a human syndrome. Moreover, congenital hydrocephalus-associated SMARCC1 variants have not been functionally validated or mechanistically studied in vivo. Here, we aimed to assess the prevalence of SMARCC1 variants in an expanded patient cohort, describe associated clinical and radiographic phenotypes, and assess the impact of Smarcc1 depletion in a novel Xenopus tropicalis model of congenital hydrocephalus. To do this, we performed a genetic association study using whole-exome sequencing from a cohort consisting of 2697 total ventriculomegalic trios, including patients with neurosurgically-treated congenital hydrocephalus, that total 8091 exomes collected over 7 years (2016-23). A comparison control cohort consisted of 1798 exomes from unaffected siblings of patients with autism spectrum disorder and their unaffected parents were sourced from the Simons Simplex Collection. Enrichment and impact on protein structure were assessed in identified variants. Effects on the human fetal brain transcriptome were examined with RNA-sequencing and Smarcc1 knockdowns were generated in Xenopus and studied using optical coherence tomography imaging, in situ hybridization and immunofluorescence. SMARCC1 surpassed genome-wide significance thresholds, yielding six rare, protein-altering de novo variants localized to highly conserved residues in key functional domains. Patients exhibited hydrocephalus with aqueductal stenosis; corpus callosum abnormalities, developmental delay, and cardiac defects were also common. Xenopus knockdowns recapitulated both aqueductal stenosis and cardiac defects and were rescued by wild-type but not patient-specific variant SMARCC1. Hydrocephalic SMARCC1-variant human fetal brain and Smarcc1-variant Xenopus brain exhibited a similarly altered expression of key genes linked to midgestational neurogenesis, including the transcription factors NEUROD2 and MAB21L2. These results suggest de novo variants in SMARCC1 cause a novel human BAFopathy we term 'SMARCC1-associated developmental dysgenesis syndrome', characterized by variable presence of cerebral ventriculomegaly, aqueductal stenosis, developmental delay and a variety of structural brain or cardiac defects. These data underscore the importance of SMARCC1 and the BAF chromatin remodelling complex for human brain morphogenesis and provide evidence for a 'neural stem cell' paradigm of congenital hydrocephalus pathogenesis. These results highlight utility of trio-based whole-exome sequencing for identifying pathogenic variants in sporadic congenital structural brain disorders and suggest whole-exome sequencing may be a valuable adjunct in clinical management of congenital hydrocephalus patients.

Isolated unilateral alar ligamentous injury: illustrative cases

BACKGROUND

Isolated unilateral alar ligament injury (IUALI) is a rare and likely underreported occurrence after upper cervical trauma, with only 16 cases documented in the literature to date. Patients generally present with neck pain, and definitive diagnosis is typically made by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Unfortunately, likely due in part to its rarity, there are no formal guidelines for the treatment of an IUALI. Furthermore, there is a limited understanding of the long-term consequences associated with its inadequate treatment.

OBSERVATIONS

Here, the authors report on three pediatric patients, each found to have an IUALI after significant trauma. All patients presented with neck tenderness, and two of the three had associated pain-limited range of neck motion. Imaging revealed either a laterally deviated odontoid process on cervical radiographs and/or MRI evidence of ligamentous strain or discontinuity. Each patient was placed in a hard cervical collar for 1 to 2 months with excellent resolution of symptoms. A comprehensive review of the literature showed that all patients with IUALI who had undergone external immobilization with either rigid cervical collar or halo fixation had favorable outcomes at follow-up.

LESSONS

For patients with IUALI, a moderate course of nonsurgical management with rigid external immobilization appears to be an adequate first-line treatment.

Reduced racial disparities among newborns with intraventricular hemorrhage

INTRODUCTION

Intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) can ensue permanent neurologic dysfunction, morbidity, and mortality. While previous reports have identified disparities based on patient gender or weight, no prior study has assessed how race may influence in neonatal or infantile IVH patients. The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of race on adverse event (AE) rates, length of stay (LOS), and total cost of admission among newborns with IVH.

METHODS

Using the 2016-2019 National Inpatient Sample database, newborns diagnosed with IVH were identified using ICD-10-CM codes. Patients were stratified based on race. Patient characteristics and inpatient outcomes were assessed. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to identify the impact of race on extended LOS and exorbitant cost.

RESULTS

Of 1435 patients, 650 were White (45.3%), 270 African American (AA) (18.8%), 300 Hispanic (20.9%), and 215 Other (15.0%). A higher percentage of AA and Other patients than Hispanic and White patients were < 28 days old (p = 0.008). Each of the cohorts had largely similar presenting comorbidities and symptoms, although AA patients did have significantly higher rates of NEC (p < 0.001). There were no observed differences in rates of AEs, rates of mortality, mean LOS, or mean total cost of admission. Similarly, on multivariate analysis, no race was identified as a significant independent predictor of extended LOS or exorbitant cost.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study found that in newborns with IVH, race is not associated with proxies of poor healthcare outcomes like prolonged LOS or excessive cost. Further studies are needed to validate these findings.

Impact of a quality improvement initiative and monthly multidisciplinary meetings on outcomes after posterior spinal fusion for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis

INTRODUCTION

Several studies have demonstrated the benefits of enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocols for patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) undergoing posterior spinal instrumented fusion (PSIF). However, there are relatively few studies investigating the effect of regular multidisciplinary team meetings on level selection, surgical performance parameters, and patient outcomes after PSIF for AIS. The aim of this study was to assess changes in intra- and postoperative outcomes following multidisciplinary team meeting implementation for patients undergoing PSIF for AIS.

METHODS

The medical records of 96 adolescents (10 to 18 years old) diagnosed with AIS and undergoing PSIF at a major academic institution from 2017 to 2022 were retrospectively reviewed. A quality improvement (QI) initiative was implemented in February 2020, including institution of monthly multidisciplinary conferences focusing on preoperative indications, level selection, postoperative review of surgical performance parameters for previous cases, and discussion and optimization of postoperative ambulation and pain control protocols. Patients were placed into "Pre-QI" (treated pre-February 2020) and "Post-QI" (treated post-February 2020) cohorts. Patient demographics, comorbidities, deformity characteristics, intraoperative variables, ambulation status, postoperative complications, length of stay (LOS), and unplanned readmission rates were assessed.

RESULTS

Of the 96 study patients, 44 (45.8%) were in the Pre-QI cohort, and 52 (54.2%) were in the Post-QI cohort. Mean major curve was not significantly different between the two cohorts (Pre-QI: 58.0 ± 7.3° vs Post-QI: 57.9 ± 14.5°, p = 0.169). The Pre-QI cohort had a greater mean minor curve degree (Pre-QI: 42.7 ± 11.8° vs Post-QI: 36.8 ± 12.4, p = 0.008). The Pre-QI cohort had significantly greater mean spinal levels fused (Pre-QI: 11.7 ± 1.7 vs Post-QI: 10.4 ± 2.6, p = 0.009), significantly greater mean estimated blood loss (Pre-QI: 1063.6 ± 631.5 ml vs. Post-QI: 415.8 ± 189.9 ml, p < 0.001), significantly greater mean operative time normalized to levels fused (Pre-QI: 0.6 ± 0.1 h/level fused vs Post-QI: 0.4 ± 0.1 h/level fused, p < 0.001), and a significantly greater proportion of patients with intraoperative drain placement (Pre-QI: 93.2% vs Post-QI: 5.8%, p < 0.001). The Post-QI cohort had significantly shorter time to postoperative ambulation (Pre-QI: 2.1 ± 0.9 days vs Post-QI: 1.3 ± 0.5 days, p < 0.001). A significantly greater proportion of patients in the Pre-QI cohort developed any postoperative complication (Pre-QI: 72.7% vs Post-QI: 34.6%, p < 0.001), and mean LOS was significantly greater among Pre-QI patients (Pre-QI: 4.5 ± 1.1 days vs Post-QI: 3.2 ± 0.8 days, p < 0.001). Discharge disposition (p = 0.758) and 30-day unplanned readmissions (p = 0.207) were similar between the cohorts.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that monthly multidisciplinary pediatric spine team meetings may improve patient care. Further studies exploring the incorporation of QI implementation with frequent multidisciplinary team meetings into existing ERAS protocols are merited.

Impact of Procedure Time on First Pass Effect in Mechanical Thrombectomy for Anterior Circulation Acute Ischemic Stroke

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

First pass effect (FPE) is a metric increasingly used to determine the success of mechanical thrombectomy (MT) procedures. However, few studies have investigated whether the duration of the procedure can modify the clinical benefit of FPE. We sought to determine whether FPE after MT for anterior circulation large vessel occlusion acute ischemic stroke is modified by procedural time (PT).

METHODS

A multicenter, international data set was retrospectively analyzed for anterior circulation large vessel occlusion acute ischemic stroke treated by MT who achieved excellent reperfusion (thrombolysis in cerebral infarction 2c/3). The primary outcome was good functional outcome defined by 90-day modified Rankin scale scores of 0-2. The primary study exposure was first pass success (FPS, 1 pass vs ≥2 passes) and the secondary exposure was PT. We fit-adjusted logistic regression models and used marginal effects to assess the interaction between PT (≤30 vs >30 minutes) and FPS, adjusting for potential confounders including time from stroke presentation.

RESULTS

A total of 1310 patients had excellent reperfusion. These patients were divided into 2 cohorts based on PT: ≤30 minutes (777 patients, 59.3%) and >30 minutes (533 patients, 40.7%). Good functional outcome was observed in 658 patients (50.2%). The interaction term between FPS and PT was significant ( P = .018). Individuals with FPS in ≤30 minutes had 11.5% higher adjusted predicted probability of good outcome compared with those who required ≥2 passes (58.2% vs 46.7%, P = .001). However, there was no significant difference in the adjusted predicted probability of good outcome in individuals with PT >30 minutes. This relationship appeared identical in models with PT treated as a continuous variable.

CONCLUSION

FPE is modified by PT, with the added clinical benefit lost in longer procedures greater than 30 minutes. A comprehensive metric for MT procedures, namely, FPE 30 , may better represent the ideal of fast, complete reperfusion with a single pass of a thrombectomy device.

Racial/Ethnic Disparities Among Patients Undergoing Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion or Posterior Cervical Decompression and Fusion for Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy: A National Administrative Database Analysis

INTRODUCTION

The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of racial disparities on surgical outcomes for cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM).

METHODS

Adult patients undergoing anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) or posterior cervical decompression and fusion (PCDF) for CSM were identified from the 2016 to 019 National Inpatient Sample Database using the International Classification of Diseases codes. Patients were categorized based on approach (ACDF or PCDF) and race/ethnicity (White, Black, Hispanic). Patient demographics, comorbidities, operative characteristics, adverse events, and health care resource utilization were assessed. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to identify independent predictors of extended length of stay (LOS), nonroutine discharge (NRD), and exorbitant costs.

RESULTS

A total of 46,500 patients were identified, of which 36,015 (77.5%) were White, 7465 (16.0%) were Black, and 3020 (6.5%) were Hispanic. Black and Hispanic patients had a greater comorbidity burden compared to White patients (P = 0.001) and a greater incidence of any postoperative complication (P = 0.001). Healthcare resource utilization were greater in the PCDF cohort than the ACDF cohort and greater in Black and Hispanic patients compared to White patients (P < 0.001). Black and Hispanic patient race were significantly associated with extended hospital LOS ([Black] odds ratio [OR]: 2.24, P < 0.001; [Hispanic] OR: 1.64, P < 0.001) and NRD ([Black] OR: 2.33, P < 0.001; [Hispanic] OR: 1.49, P = 0.016). Among patients who underwent PCDF, Black race was independently associated with extended hospital LOS ([Black] OR: 1.77, P < 0.001; [Hispanic] OR: 1.47, P = 0.167) and NRD ([Black] OR: 1.82, P < 0.001; [Hispanic] OR: 1.38, P = 0.052).

CONCLUSIONS

Our study suggests that patient race may influence patient outcomes and healthcare resource utilization following ACDF or PCDF for CSM.

Implications of Frailty on Postoperative Health Care Resource Utilization in Ankylosing Spondylitis Patients Undergoing Spine Surgery for Spinal Fractures

OBJECTIVE

The rise of spinal surgery for ankylosing spondylitis (AS) necessitates balancing health care costs with quality patient care. Frailty has been independently associated with adverse outcomes and increased costs. This study investigates whether frailty is an independent predictor of poor outcomes after elective surgery for AS.

METHODS

Using the National Inpatient Sample (NIS) database, a retrospective study was conducted on adult patients with AS who underwent posterior spinal fusion for fracture between 2016 and 2019. Each patient was assigned a modified frailty index (mFI) score and categorized as prefrail (mFI = 0 or 1), moderately frail (mFI = 2), and highly frail (mFI≥3). Multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to identify independent predictors of extended length of stay, non-routine discharge (NRD), and exorbitant admission costs.

RESULTS

Of the 1910 patients, 35.3% were prefrail, 31.2% moderately frail, and 33.5% highly frail. Age was significantly different across groups (P < 0.001), and frailty was associated with increased comorbidities (P < 0.001). Mean length of stay (P = 0.007), NRD rate (P < 0.001), and mean cost of admission (P = 0.002) all significantly increased with increasing frailty. However, frailty was not an independent predictor of extended hospital stay, NRD, or higher costs on multivariate analysis. Instead, predictors included multiple adverse events, number of comorbidities, and race.

CONCLUSIONS

While frailty in patients with AS is associated with older age, greater comorbidities, and increased adverse events, it was not an independent predictor of extended hospital stay, NRD, or higher hospital costs. Further research is required to understand the full impact of frailty on surgical outcomes and develop effective interventions.

Influence of affective disorders on outcomes after suboccipital decompression for adult Chiari I malformation

INTRODUCTION

Affective disorders (AD) have been shown to influence patient outcomes and healthcare resource utilization across several pathologies, though this relationship has not been described in patients with Chiari I malformations (CM-I). The aim of this study was to determine the impact of comorbid AD on postoperative events and healthcare resource utilization in adults following suboccipital decompression for CM-I.

METHODS

A retrospective study was performed using the 2016-2019 National Inpatient Sample database. Adults who underwent suboccipital decompression for CM-I were identified using ICD-10-CM codes. Patients were stratified into two cohorts, those with AD and those without (No AD). Patient demographics, comorbidities, operative characteristics, perioperative adverse events (AEs), and healthcare resource utilization were assessed. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to identify independent predictors of prolonged length of stay (LOS), exorbitant admission costs, and non-routine discharge (NRD).

RESULTS

A total of 3985 patients were identified, of which 2780 (69.8%) were in the No AD cohort and 1205 (30.2%) were in the AD cohort. Patient demographics were similar, except for a greater proportion of Female patients than the No AD cohort (p = 0.004). Prevalence of some comorbidities varied between cohorts, including obesity (p = 0.030), ADHD (p < 0.001), GERD (p < 0.001), smoking (p < 0.001), and chronic pulmonary disease (p < 0.001). The AD cohort had a greater proportion of patients with 1-2 (p < 0.001) or ≥ 3 comorbidities (p < 0.001) compared to the No AD cohort. A greater proportion of patients in the AD cohort presented with headache compared to the No AD cohort (p = 0.003). Incidence of syringomyelia was greater in the No AD cohort (p = 0.002). A greater proportion of patients in the No AD cohort underwent duraplasty only (without cervical laminectomy) compared to the AD cohort (p = 0.021). Healthcare resource utilization was similar between cohorts, with no significant differences in mean LOS (No AD: 3.78 ± 3.51 days vs. 3.68 ± 2.71 days, p = 0.659), NRD (No AD: 3.8% vs. AD: 5.4%, p = 0.260), or mean admission costs (No AD: $20,254 ± 14,023 vs. AD: $29,897 ± 22,586, p = 0.284). On multivariate analysis, AD was not independently associated with extended LOS [OR (95%CI): 1.09 (0.72-1.65), p = 0.669], increased hospital costs [OR (95%CI): 0.98 (0.63-1.52), p = 0.930], or NRD [OR (95%CI): 1.39 (0.65-2.96), p = 0.302].

CONCLUSION

Our study suggests that the presence of an AD may not have as much of an impact on postoperative events and healthcare resource utilization in adult patients undergoing Chiari decompression. Additional studies may be warranted to identify other potential implications that AD may have in other aspects of healthcare in this patient population.

Impact of Preoperative Frailty on Outcomes in Patients with Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy Undergoing Anterior vs. Posterior Cervical Surgery

Introduction: Frailty has been shown to negatively influence patient outcomes across many disease processes, including in the cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM) population. The aim of this study was to assess the impact that frailty has on patients with CSM who undergo anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) or posterior cervical decompression and fusion (PCDF). Materials and Methods: A retrospective cohort study was performed using the 2016-2019 national inpatient sample. Adult patients (≥18 years old) undergoing ACDF only or PCDF only for CSM were identified using ICD codes. The patients were categorized based on receipt of ACDF or PCDF and pre-operative frailty status using the 11-item modified frailty index (mFI-11): pre-Frail (mFI = 1), frail (mFI = 2), or severely frail (mFI ≥ 3). Patient demographics, comorbidities, operative characteristics, perioperative adverse events (AEs), and healthcare resource utilization were assessed. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to identify independent predictors of extended length of stay (LOS) and non-routine discharge (NRD). Results: A total of 37,990 patients were identified, of which 16,665 (43.9%) were in the pre-frail cohort, 12,985 (34.2%) were in the frail cohort, and 8340 (22.0%) were in the severely frail cohort. The prevalence of many comorbidities varied significantly between frailty cohorts. Across all three frailty cohorts, the incidence of AEs was greater in patients who underwent PCDF, with dysphagia being significantly more common in patients who underwent ACDF. Additionally, the rate of adverse events significantly increased between ACDF and PCDF with respect to increasing frailty (p < 0.001). Regarding healthcare resource utilization, LOS and rate of NRD were significantly greater in patients who underwent PCDF in all three frailty cohorts, with these metrics increasing with frailty in both ACDF and PCDF cohorts (LOS: p < 0.001); NRD: p < 0.001). On a multivariate analysis of patients who underwent ACDF, frailty and severe frailty were found to be independent predictors of extended LOS [(frail) OR: 1.39, p < 0.001; (severely frail) OR: 2.25, p < 0.001] and NRD [(frail) OR: 1.49, p < 0.001; (severely frail) OR: 2.22, p < 0.001]. Similarly, in patients who underwent PCDF, frailty and severe frailty were found to be independent predictors of extended LOS [(frail) OR: 1.58, p < 0.001; (severely frail) OR: 2.45, p < 0.001] and NRD [(frail) OR: 1.55, p < 0.001; (severely frail) OR: 1.63, p < 0.001]. Conclusions: Our study suggests that preoperative frailty may impact outcomes after surgical treatment for CSM, with more frail patients having greater health care utilization and a higher rate of adverse events. The patients undergoing PCDF ensued increased health care utilization, compared to ACDF, whereas severely frail patients undergoing PCDF tended to have the longest length of stay and highest rate of non-routine discharge. Additional prospective studies are necessary to directly compare ACDF and PCDF in frail patients with CSM.

Mutation of key signaling regulators of cerebrovascular development in vein of Galen malformations

To elucidate the pathogenesis of vein of Galen malformations (VOGMs), the most common and most severe of congenital brain arteriovenous malformations, we performed an integrated analysis of 310 VOGM proband-family exomes and 336,326 human cerebrovasculature single-cell transcriptomes. We found the Ras suppressor p120 RasGAP (RASA1) harbored a genome-wide significant burden of loss-of-function de novo variants (2042.5-fold, p = 4.79 x 10-7). Rare, damaging transmitted variants were enriched in Ephrin receptor-B4 (EPHB4) (17.5-fold, p = 1.22 x 10-5), which cooperates with p120 RasGAP to regulate vascular development. Additional probands had damaging variants in ACVRL1, NOTCH1, ITGB1, and PTPN11. ACVRL1 variants were also identified in a multi-generational VOGM pedigree. Integrative genomic analysis defined developing endothelial cells as a likely spatio-temporal locus of VOGM pathophysiology. Mice expressing a VOGM-specific EPHB4 kinase-domain missense variant (Phe867Leu) exhibited disrupted developmental angiogenesis and impaired hierarchical development of arterial-capillary-venous networks, but only in the presence of a "second-hit" allele. These results illuminate human arterio-venous development and VOGM pathobiology and have implications for patients and their families.

Impact of insurance status on healthcare resource utilization and outcomes in adolescent patients presenting with spinal cord injuries

OBJECTIVE

Insurance disparities have been suggested to influence the medical and surgical outcomes of adult patients with spinal cord injury (SCI), with a paucity of studies demonstrating their impact on the outcomes of pediatric and adolescent SCI patients. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of insurance status on healthcare utilization and outcomes in adolescent patients presenting with SCI.

METHODS

An administrative database study was performed using the 2017 admission year from 753 facilities using the National Trauma Data Bank. Adolescent patients (11-17 years old) with cervical/thoracic SCIs were identified using International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision, Clinical Modification coding. Patients were categorized by governmental insurance versus private insurance/self-pay. Patient demographics, comorbidities, imaging, procedures, hospital adverse events (AEs), and length of stay (LOS) data were collected. Multivariate regression analyses were used to determine the effect of insurance status on LOS, any imaging or procedure, or any AE.

RESULTS

Of the 488 patients identified, 220 (45.1%) held governmental insurance while 268 (54.9%) were privately insured. Age was similar between the cohorts (p = 0.616), with the governmental insurance cohort (GI cohort) having a significantly lower proportion of non-Hispanic White patients than the private insurance cohort (PI cohort) (GI: 43.2% vs PI: 72.4%, p < 0.001). While transportation accident was the most common mechanism of injury for both cohorts, assault was significantly greater in the GI cohort (GI: 21.8% vs PI: 3.0%, p < 0.001). A significantly greater proportion of patients in the PI cohort received any imaging (GI: 65.9% vs PI: 75.0%, p = 0.028), while there were no significant differences in procedures performed (p = 0.069) or hospital AEs (p = 0.386) between the cohorts. The median (IQR) LOS (p = 0.186) and discharge disposition (p = 0.302) were similar between the cohorts. On multivariate analysis, with respect to governmental insurance, private insurance was not independently associated with obtaining any imaging (OR 1.38, p = 0.139), undergoing any procedure (OR 1.09, p = 0.721), hospital AEs (OR 1.11, p = 0.709), or LOS (adjusted risk ratio -2.56, p = 0.203).

CONCLUSIONS

This study suggests that insurance status may not independently influence healthcare resource utilization and outcomes in adolescent patients presenting with SCIs. Further studies are needed to corroborate these findings.

Hospital Frailty Risk Score and Healthcare Resource Utilization After Surgery for Primary Spinal Intradural/Cord Tumors

OBJECTIVE

The Hospital Frailty Risk Score (HFRS) is a metric that measures frailty among patients in large national datasets using ICD-10 codes. While other metrics have been utilized to demonstrate the association between frailty and poor outcomes in spine oncology, none have examined the HFRS. The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of frailty using the HFRS on complications, length of stay, cost of admission, and discharge disposition in patients undergoing surgery for primary tumors of the spinal cord and meninges.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study was performed using the Nationwide Inpatient Sample database from 2016 to 2018. Adult patients undergoing surgery for primary tumors of the spinal cord and meninges were identified using ICD-10-CM codes. Patients were categorized into 2 cohorts based on HFRS score: Non-Frail (HFRS<5) and Frail (HFRS≥5). Patient characteristics, treatment, perioperative complications, LOS, discharge disposition, and cost of admission were assessed.

RESULTS

Of the 5955 patients identified, 1260 (21.2%) were Frail. On average, the Frail cohort was nearly 8 years older (P < .001) and experienced more postoperative complications (P = .001). The Frail cohort experienced longer LOS (P < .001), a higher rate of non-routine discharge (P = .001), and a greater mean cost of admission (P < .001). Frailty was found to be an independent predictor of extended LOS (P < .001) and non-routine discharge (P < .001).

CONCLUSION

Our study is the first to use the HFRS to assess the impact of frailty on patients with primary spinal tumors. We found that frailty was associated with prolonged LOS, non-routine discharge, and increased hospital costs.

Effects of delayed ambulation following posterior spinal fusion for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: a single institutional study

OBJECTIVE

Mobilizing out of bed and ambulation are key components of recovery following posterior spinal fusion (PSF) for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). However, there remains a paucity of studies identifying risk factors associated with delayed ambulation and its impact on postoperative outcomes. The aim of this study was to investigate patient- and surgical-level risk factors associated with delayed ambulation and the ramifications of delayed ambulation on healthcare utilization for patients undergoing PSF for AIS.

METHODS

The medical records of 129 adolescent (10-18 years) patients diagnosed with AIS undergoing posterior spinal fusion at a major academic institution between 2013 and 2020 were reviewed. Patients were categorized based on days from surgery to ambulation: early (≤ 1 day), intermediate (2 days), or late (≥ 3 days). Patient demographics, comorbidities, spinal deformity characteristics, intraoperative variables, postoperative complications, LOS, and unplanned readmissions were assessed. The odds ratios for risk-adjusted delayed ambulation and extended LOS were determined via multivariate stepwise logistic regressions.

RESULTS

One Hundred and Twenty Nine patients were included in this study, of which 10.8% (n = 14) were classified as Early ambulators, 41.9% (n = 54) Intermediate ambulators, and 47.3% (n = 61) were Late ambulators. Late ambulators were significantly younger than early and intermediate ambulators (Early: 15.7 ± 1.9 years vs. Intermediate: 14.8 ± 1.7 years vs. Late: 14.1 ± 1.9 years, p = 0.010). The primary and secondary spinal curves were significantly worse among Late ambulators (p < 0.001 and p = 0.002 respectively). Fusion levels (p < 0.01), EBL (p = 0.014), and the rate of RBC transfusions (p < 0.001) increased as time to ambulation increased. Transition time from IV to oral pain medications (Early: 1.6 ± 0.8 days vs. Intermediate: 2.2 ± 0.6 days vs. Late: 2.4 ± 0.6 days, p < 0.001) and total hospital length of stay (Early: 3.9 ± 1.4 days vs. Intermediate: 4.7 ± 0.9 days vs. Late: 5.1 ± 1.2 days, p < 0.001) were longer in Late ambulators. On multivariate analysis, significant predictors of delayed ambulation included primary curve degree ≥ 70° [aOR: 5.67 (1.29‒31.97), p = 0.030] and procedure time [aOR: 1.66 (1.1‒2.59), p = 0.019].

CONCLUSIONS

Our study suggests that there may be patient- and surgical-level factors that are independently associated with late ambulation following PSF for AIS, including extent of major curve and length of operative time. Additionally, delayed ambulation has implications to length of hospital stay and postoperative complications.

Association Between Intravenous to Oral Opioid Transition Time and Length of Hospital Stay After Posterior Spinal Fusion for Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis

BACKGROUND

Transitioning from intravenous (IV) to oral opioids after posterior spinal fusion (PSF) for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) is necessary during the postoperative course. However, few studies have assessed the effects of longer transition times on hospital length of stay (LOS). This study investigated the impact of longer IV to oral opioid transition times on LOS after PSF for AIS.

METHODS

The medical records of 129 adolescents (10-18 years old) with AIS undergoing multilevel PSF at a major academic institution from 2013 to 2020 were reviewed. Patients were categorized by IV to oral opioid transition time: normal (≤2 days) vs prolonged (≥3 days). Patient demographics, comorbidities, deformity characteristics, intraoperative variables, postoperative complications, and LOS were assessed. Multivariate analyses were used to determine odds ratios for risk-adjusted extended LOS.

RESULTS

Of the 129 study patients, 29.5% (n = 38) had prolonged IV to oral transitions. Demographics and comorbidities were similar between the cohorts. The major curve degree (P = 0.762) and median (interquartile range) levels fused (P = 0.447) were similar between cohorts, but procedure time was significantly longer in the prolonged cohort (normal: 6.6 ± 1.2 hours vs prolonged: 7.2 ± 1.3 hours, P = 0.009). Postoperative complication rates were similar between the cohorts. Patients with prolonged transitions had significantly longer LOS (normal: 4.6 ± 1.3 days vs prolonged: 5.1 ± 0.8 days, P < 0.001) but similar discharge disposition (P = 0.722) and 30-day readmission rates (P > 0.99). On univariate analysis, transition time was significantly associated with extended LOS (OR: 2.0, 95% CI [0.9, 4.6], P = 0.014), but this assocation was not significant on multivariate analysis (adjusted OR: 2.1, 95% CI [1.3, 4.8], P = 0.062).

CONCLUSIONS

Longer postoperative IV to oral opioid transitions after PSF for AIS may have implications for hospital LOS.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 3

Impact of Racial Disparities on All-Cause Mortality in Patients With Tumors of the Spinal Cord or Spinal Meninges: A Propensity-Score Analysis

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

OBJECTIVE

The influence that race has on mortality rates in patients with spinal cord tumors is relatively unknown. The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of race on the outcomes of patients with primary malignant or nonmalignant tumors of the spinal cord or spinal meninges.

METHODS

The Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) Registry was used to identify all patients with a code for primary malignant or nonmalignant tumor of the spinal cord (C72.0) or spinal meninges (C70.1) from 1973 through 2016. Racial groups (African-American/Black vs. White) were balanced using propensity-score (PS) matching using a non-parsimonious 1:1 nearest neighbor matching algorithm. Overall survival (OS) estimates were obtained using the Kaplan-Meier method and compared across non-PS-matched and PS-matched groups using log-rank tests. Associations of survival with clinical variables was assessed using doubly robust Cox proportional-hazards (CPH) regression analysis.

RESULTS

There were a total of 7,498 patients identified with 648 (6.8%) being African American. African-American patients with primary intradural spine tumors were more likely to die of all causes than were White patients in both the non-PS-matched [HR: 1.26, 95% CI: (1.04, 1.51), P = 0.01] and PS-matched cohorts [HR: 1.64, 95% CI: (1.28, 2.11), P < 0.0001]. On multivariate CPH regression analysis age at diagnosis [HR: 1.03, 95% CI: (1.02, 1.05), P < 0.0001], race [HR: 1.82, 95% CI: (1.22, 2.74), P = 0.004), and receipt of RT [HR: 2.62, 95% CI: (1.56, 4.37), P = 0.0002) were all significantly associated with all-cause mortality, when controlling for other demographic, tumor, and treatment variables.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study provides population-based estimates of the prognosis for patients with primary malignant or nonmalignant tumors of the spinal cord or spinal meninges and suggests that race may impact all-cause mortality.

Differences in Outcomes and Health Care Resource Utilization After Surgical Intervention for Metastatic Spinal Column Tumor in Safety-Net Hospitals

STUDY DESIGN

Observational cohort study.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to investigate the association between safety-net hospital (SNH) status and hospital length of stay (LOS), cost, and discharge disposition in patients undergoing surgery for metastatic spinal column tumors.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

SNHs serve a high proportion of Medicaid and uninsured patients. However, few studies have assessed the effects of SNH status on outcomes after surgery for metastatic spinal column tumors.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This study was performed using the 2016-2019 Nationwide Inpatient Sample database. All adult patients undergoing metastatic spinal column tumor surgeries, identified using ICD-10-CM coding, were stratified by SNH status, defined as hospitals in the top quartile of Medicaid/uninsured coverage burden. Hospital characteristics, demographics, comorbidities, intraoperative variables, postoperative complications, and outcomes were assessed. Multivariable analyses identified independent predictors of prolonged LOS (>75th percentile of cohort), nonroutine discharge, and increased cost (>75th percentile of cohort).

RESULTS

Of the 11,505 study patients, 24.0% (n = 2760) were treated at an SNH. Patients treated at SNHs were more likely to be Black-identifying, male, and lower income quartile. A significantly greater proportion of patients in the non-SNH (N-SNH) cohort experienced any postoperative complication [SNH: 965 (35.0%) vs . N-SNH: 3535 (40.4%), P = 0.021]. SNH patients had significantly longer LOS (SNH: 12.3 ± 11.3 d vs . N-SNH: 10.1 ± 9.5 d, P < 0.001), yet mean total costs (SNH: $58,804 ± 39,088 vs . N-SNH: $54,569 ± 36,781, P = 0.055) and nonroutine discharge rates [SNH: 1330 (48.2%) vs . N-SNH: 4230 (48.4%), P = 0.715) were similar. On multivariable analysis, SNH status was significantly associated with extended LOS [odds ratio (OR): 1.41, P = 0.009], but not nonroutine discharge disposition (OR: 0.97, P = 0.773) or increased cost (OR: 0.93, P = 0.655).

CONCLUSIONS

Our study suggests that SNHs and N-SNHs provide largely similar care for patients undergoing metastatic spinal tumor surgeries. Patients treated at SNHs may have an increased risk of prolonged hospitalizations, but comorbidities and complications likely contribute greater to adverse outcomes than SNH status alone.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

3.

Socioeconomic and Racial/Ethnic Disparities in Perception of Health Status and Literacy in Spine Oncological Patients: Insights from the All of Us Research Program

STUDY DESIGN

A cross-sectional study was performed using the National Institutes of Health All of Us survey database.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to assess socioeconomic and racial disparities in the perception of personal health, health literacy, and healthcare access among spine oncology patients.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

Racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic disparities in health literacy and perception of health status have been described for many disease processes. However, few studies have assessed the prevalence of these disparities among spine oncology patients.

METHODS

Adult spine oncology patients, identified using ICD-9/10-CM codes, were categorized by race/ethnicity: White/Caucasian (WC), Black/African-American (BAA), and Non-White Hispanic (NWH). Demographics and socioeconomic status were assessed. Questionnaire responses regarding baseline health status, perception of health status, health literacy, and barriers to healthcare were compared.

RESULTS

Of the 1,175 patients identified, 207 (17.6%) were BAA, 267 (22.7%) were NWH, and 701 (59.7%) were WC. Socioeconomic status varied among cohorts, with WC patients reporting higher levels of education (P<0.001), annual income greater than $50K (P<0.001), and home ownership (P<0.001). BAA and NWH patients reported greater rates of 7-day "Severe fatigue" (P<0.001) and "10/10 pain" (P<0.001) and lower rates of "Completely" able to perform everyday activities (P<0.001). WC patients had a higher response rate for "Excellent/Very Good" regarding their own general health (P<0.001) and quality (P<0.001). The WC cohort had a significantly higher proportion of patients responding "Never" when assessing difficulty understanding (P<0.001) and needing assistance with health materials (P<0.001). BAA and NWH were significantly less likely to report feeling "Extremely" confident with medical forms (P<0.001). BAA and NWH had significantly higher response rates to feeling "Somewhat Worried" about healthcare costs (P<0.001) and with delaying medical care given "Can't Afford Co-pay" (P<0.001).

CONCLUSION

We identified disparities in perception of health status, literacy, and access among spine oncology patients.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

4.

Association of frailty with healthcare resource utilization after open thoracic/thoracolumbar posterior spinal fusion for adult spinal deformity

PURPOSE

The Hospital Frailty Risk Score (HFRS) is a frailty-identifying metric developed using ICD-10-CM codes. While other studies have examined frailty in adult spinal deformity (ASD), the HFRS has not been assessed in this population. The aim of this study was to utilize the HFRS to investigate the impact of frailty on outcomes in ASD patients undergoing posterior spinal fusion (PSF).

METHODS

A retrospective study was performed using the 2016-2019 National Inpatient Sample database. Adults with ASD undergoing elective PSF were identified using ICD-10-CM codes. Patients were categorized into HFRS-based frailty cohorts: Low (HFRS < 5) and Intermediate-High (HFRS ≥ 5). Patient demographics, comorbidities, intraoperative variables, and outcomes were assessed. Multivariate regression analyses were used to determine whether HFRS independently predicted extended length of stay (LOS), non-routine discharge, and increased cost.

RESULTS

Of the 7500 patients identified, 4000 (53.3%) were in the Low HFRS cohort and 3500 (46.7%) were in the Intermediate-High HFRS cohort. On average, age increased progressively with increasing HFRS scores (p < 0.001). The frail cohort experienced more postoperative adverse events (p < 0.001), greater LOS (p < 0.001), accrued greater admission costs (p < 0.001), and had a higher rate of non-routine discharge (p < 0.001). On multivariate analysis, Intermediate-High HFRS was independently associated with extended LOS (OR: 2.58, p < 0.001) and non-routine discharge (OR: 1.63, p < 0.001), though not increased admission cost (OR: 1.01, p = 0.929).

CONCLUSION

Our study identified HFRS to be significantly associated with prolonged hospitalizations and non-routine discharge. Other factors that were found to be associated with increased healthcare resource utilization include age, Hispanic race, West hospital region, large hospital size, and increasing number of AEs.

Genetic dysregulation of an endothelial Ras signaling network in vein of Galen malformations

To elucidate the pathogenesis of vein of Galen malformations (VOGMs), the most common and severe congenital brain arteriovenous malformation, we performed an integrated analysis of 310 VOGM proband-family exomes and 336,326 human cerebrovasculature single-cell transcriptomes. We found the Ras suppressor p120 RasGAP ( RASA1 ) harbored a genome-wide significant burden of loss-of-function de novo variants (p=4.79×10 ^-7 ). Rare, damaging transmitted variants were enriched in Ephrin receptor-B4 ( EPHB4 ) (p=1.22×10 ^-5 ), which cooperates with p120 RasGAP to limit Ras activation. Other probands had pathogenic variants in ACVRL1 , NOTCH1 , ITGB1 , and PTPN11 . ACVRL1 variants were also identified in a multi-generational VOGM pedigree. Integrative genomics defined developing endothelial cells as a key spatio-temporal locus of VOGM pathophysiology. Mice expressing a VOGM-specific EPHB4 kinase-domain missense variant exhibited constitutive endothelial Ras/ERK/MAPK activation and impaired hierarchical development of angiogenesis-regulated arterial-capillary-venous networks, but only when carrying a "second-hit" allele. These results illuminate human arterio-venous development and VOGM pathobiology and have clinical implications.

A novel SMARCC1 -mutant BAFopathy implicates epigenetic dysregulation of neural progenitors in hydrocephalus

Importance

Hydrocephalus, characterized by cerebral ventriculomegaly, is the most common disorder requiring brain surgery. A few familial forms of congenital hydrocephalus (CH) have been identified, but the cause of most sporadic cases of CH remains elusive. Recent studies have implicated SMARCC1 , a component of the B RG1- a ssociated factor (BAF) chromatin remodeling complex, as a candidate CH gene. However, SMARCC1 variants have not been systematically examined in a large patient cohort or conclusively linked with a human syndrome. Moreover, CH-associated SMARCC1 variants have not been functionally validated or mechanistically studied in vivo .

Objectives

The aims of this study are to (i) assess the extent to which rare, damaging de novo mutations (DNMs) in SMARCC1 are associated with cerebral ventriculomegaly; (ii) describe the clinical and radiographic phenotypes of SMARCC1 -mutated patients; and (iii) assess the pathogenicity and mechanisms of CH-associated SMARCC1 mutations in vivo .

Design setting and participants

A genetic association study was conducted using whole-exome sequencing from a cohort consisting of 2,697 ventriculomegalic trios, including patients with neurosurgically-treated CH, totaling 8,091 exomes collected over 5 years (2016-2021). Data were analyzed in 2023. A comparison control cohort consisted of 1,798 exomes from unaffected siblings of patients with autism spectrum disorder and their unaffected parents sourced from the Simons simplex consortium.

Main outcomes and measures

Gene variants were identified and filtered using stringent, validated criteria. Enrichment tests assessed gene-level variant burden. In silico biophysical modeling estimated the likelihood and extent of the variant impact on protein structure. The effect of a CH-associated SMARCC1 mutation on the human fetal brain transcriptome was assessed by analyzing RNA-sequencing data. Smarcc1 knockdowns and a patient-specific Smarcc1 variant were tested in Xenopus and studied using optical coherence tomography imaging, in situ hybridization, and immunofluorescence microscopy.

Results

SMARCC1 surpassed genome-wide significance thresholds in DNM enrichment tests. Six rare protein-altering DNMs, including four loss-of-function mutations and one recurrent canonical splice site mutation (c.1571+1G>A) were detected in unrelated patients. DNMs localized to the highly conserved DNA-interacting SWIRM, Myb-DNA binding, Glu-rich, and Chromo domains of SMARCC1 . Patients exhibited developmental delay (DD), aqueductal stenosis, and other structural brain and heart defects. G0 and G1 Smarcc1 Xenopus mutants exhibited aqueductal stenosis and cardiac defects and were rescued by human wild-type SMARCC1 but not a patient-specific SMARCC1 mutant. Hydrocephalic SMARCC1 -mutant human fetal brain and Smarcc1 -mutant Xenopus brain exhibited a similarly altered expression of key genes linked to midgestational neurogenesis, including the transcription factors NEUROD2 and MAB21L2 .

Conclusions

SMARCC1 is a bona fide CH risk gene. DNMs in SMARCC1 cause a novel human BAFopathy we term " S MARCC1- a ssociated D evelopmental D ysgenesis S yndrome (SaDDS)", characterized by cerebral ventriculomegaly, aqueductal stenosis, DD, and a variety of structural brain or cardiac defects. These data underscore the importance of SMARCC1 and the BAF chromatin remodeling complex for human brain morphogenesis and provide evidence for a "neural stem cell" paradigm of human CH pathogenesis. These results highlight the utility of trio-based WES for identifying risk genes for congenital structural brain disorders and suggest WES may be a valuable adjunct in the clinical management of CH patients.

KEY POINTS

Question: What is the role of SMARCC1 , a core component of the B RG1- a ssociated factor (BAF) chromatin remodeling complex, in brain morphogenesis and congenital hydrocephalus (CH)? Findings: SMARCC1 harbored an exome-wide significant burden of rare, protein-damaging de novo mutations (DNMs) (p = 5.83 × 10 -9 ) in the largest ascertained cohort to date of patients with cerebral ventriculomegaly, including treated CH (2,697 parent-proband trios). SMARCC1 contained four loss-of-function DNMs and two identical canonical splice site DNMs in a total of six unrelated patients. Patients exhibited developmental delay, aqueductal stenosis, and other structural brain and cardiac defects. Xenopus Smarcc1 mutants recapitulated core human phenotypes and were rescued by the expression of human wild-type but not patient-mutant SMARCC1 . Hydrocephalic SMARCC1 -mutant human brain and Smarcc1 -mutant Xenopus brain exhibited similar alterationsin the expression of key transcription factors that regulate neural progenitor cell proliferation. Meaning: SMARCC1 is essential for human brain morphogenesis and is a bona fide CH risk gene. SMARCC1 mutations cause a novel human BAFopathy we term " S MARCC1- a ssociated D evelopmental D ysgenesis S yndrome (SaDDS)". These data implicate epigenetic dysregulation of fetal neural progenitors in the pathogenesis of hydrocephalus, with diagnostic and prognostic implications for patients and caregivers.

Management of dynamic cervical kyphosis with dorsal epidural lipomatosis: a Hirayama disease variant? Illustrative case

BACKGROUND

Hirayama disease, a cervical myelopathy characterized most commonly by a self-limiting atrophic weakness of the upper extremities, is a rare entity, scarcely reported in the literature. Diagnosis is made by spinal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), which typically shows loss of normal cervical lordosis, anterior displacement of the cord during flexion, and a large epidural cervical fat pad. Treatment options include observation or cervical immobilization by collar or surgical decompression and fusion.

OBSERVATIONS

Here, the authors report an unusual case of a Hirayama-like disease in a young White male athlete who presented with rapidly progressive paresthesia in all 4 extremities and no weakness. Imaging showed characteristic findings of Hirayama disease as well as worsened cervical kyphosis and spinal cord compression in cervical neck extension, which has not previously been reported. Two-level anterior cervical discectomy and fusion and posterior spinal fusion improved both cervical kyphosis on extension and symptoms.

LESSONS

Given the disease's self-limiting nature, and a lack of current reporting, there remains no consensus on how to manage these patients. Such findings presented here demonstrate the potentially heterogeneous MRI findings that can be observed in Hirayama disease and emphasize the utility of aggressive surgical management in young, active patients whereby a cervical collar may not be tolerated.

Association of inpatient opioid consumption on postoperative outcomes after open posterior spinal fusion for adult spine deformity

INTRODUCTION

Opioids are the most commonly used analgesic in the postoperative setting. However, few studies have analyzed the impact of high inpatient opioid use on outcomes following surgery, with no current studies assessing its effect on patients undergoing spinal fusion for an adult spinal deformity (ASD). Thus, the aim of this study was to investigate risk factors for high inpatient opioid use, as well as to determine the impact of high opioid use on outcomes such as adverse events (AEs), hospital length of stay (LOS), cost of hospital admission, discharge disposition, and readmission rates in patients undergoing spinal fusion for ASD.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study was performed using the Premier healthcare database from the years 2016 and 2017. All adult patients > 40 years old who underwent thoracic or thoracolumbar fusion for ASD were identified using the ICD-10-CM diagnostic and procedural coding system. Patients were then categorized into three cohorts based on inpatient opioid use: Low MME (morphine milligram equivalents), Medium MME, and High MME. Patient demographics, comorbidities, treating hospital characteristics, intraoperative variables, postoperative AEs, LOS, discharge disposition, and total cost of hospital admission were assessed in the analysis. Multivariate regression analysis was done to determine independent predictors of high inpatient MME, prolonged LOS, and increased hospital cost.

RESULTS

Of 1673 patients included, 417 (24.9%) were classified as Low MME, 840 (50.2%) as Medium MME, and 416 (24.9%) as High MME. Age significantly decreased with increasing MME (Low: 71.0% 65 + years vs Medium: 62.0% 65 + years vs High: 47.4% 65 + years, p < 0.001), while the proportions of patients presenting with three or more comorbidities were similar across the cohorts (Low: 20.1% with 3 + comorbidities vs Medium: 18.0% with 3 + comorbidities vs High: 24.3% with 3 + comorbidities, p = 0.070). With respect to postoperative outcomes, the proportion of patients who experienced any AE (Low: 60.2% vs Medium: 68.8% vs High: 70.9%, p = 0.002), extended LOS (Low: 6.7% vs Medium: 20.7% vs High: 45.4%, p < 0.001), or non-routine discharge (Low: 66.6% vs Medium: 73.5% vs High: 80.1%, p = 0.003) each increased along with total MME. In addition, rates of 30-day readmission were greatest among the High MME cohort (Low: 8.4% vs Medium: 7.9% vs High: 12.5%, p = 0.022). On multivariate analysis, medium and high MME were associated with prolonged LOS [Medium: OR 4.41, CI (2.90, 6.97); High: OR 13.99, CI (8.99, 22.51), p < 0.001] and increased hospital cost [Medium: OR 1.69, CI (1.21, 2.39), p = 0.002; High: OR 1.66, CI (1.12, 2.46), p = 0.011]. Preadmission long-term opioid use [OR 1.71, CI (1.07, 2.7), p = 0.022], a prior opioid-related disorder [OR 11.32, CI (5.92, 23.49), p < 0.001], and chronic pulmonary disease [OR 1.39, CI (1.06, 1.82), p = 0.018] were each associated with a high inpatient MME on multivariate analysis.

CONCLUSION

Our study demonstrated that increasing inpatient MME consumption was associated with extended LOS and increased hospital cost in patients undergoing spinal fusion for ASD. Further studies identifying risk factors for increased MME consumption may provide better risk stratification for postoperative opioid use and healthcare resource utilization.

Emergent external ventricular drain placement in patients with factor Xa inhibitor-associated intracerebral hemorrhage after reversal with andexanet alfa

BACKGROUND

Andexanet alfa (AA), a factor Xa-inhibitor (FXi) reversal agent, is given as a bolus followed by a 2-hour infusion. This long administration time can delay EVD placement in intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) patients. We sought to evaluate the safety of EVD placement immediately post-AA bolus compared to post-AA infusion.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective study that included adult patients admitted with FXi-associated ICH who received AA and underwent EVD placement The primary outcome was the occurrence of a new hemorrhage (tract, extra-axial, or intraventricular hemorrhage). Secondary outcomes included mortality, intensive care unit and hospital length of stay, and discharge modified Rankin Score. The primary safety outcome was documented thrombotic events.

RESULTS

Twelve patients with FXi related ICH were included (EVD placement post-AA bolus, N = 8; EVD placement post-AA infusion, N = 4). Each arm included one patient with bilateral EVD placed. There was no difference in the incidence of new hemorrhages, with one post-AA bolus patient had small, focal, nonoperative extra-axial hemorrhage. Morbidity and mortality were higher in post-AA infusion patients (mRS, post-AA bolus, 4 [4-6] vs. post-AA infusion 6 [5,6], p = 0.24 and post-AA bolus, 3 (37.5 %) vs. post-AA infusion, 3 (75 %), p = 0.54, respectively). One patient in the post-AA bolus group had thrombotic event. There was no difference in hospital LOS (post-AA bolus, 19 days [12-26] vs. post-AA infusion, 14 days [9-22], p = 0.55) and ICU LOS (post-AA bolus, 10 days [6-13] vs. post-AA infusion, 11 days [5-21], p = 0.86).

CONCLUSION

We report no differences in the incidence of tract hemorrhage, extra-axial hemorrhage, or intraventricular hemorrhage post-AA bolus versus post-AA infusion. Larger prospective studies to validate these results are warranted.

Higher Hospital Frailty Risk Score is associated with increased complications and healthcare resource utilization after endovascular treatment of ruptured intracranial aneurysms

AIM

To use the Hospital Frailty Risk Score (HFRS) to investigate the impact of frailty on complication rates and healthcare resource utilization in patients who underwent endovascular treatment of ruptured intracranial aneurysms (IAs).

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study was performed using the 2016-2019 National Inpatient Sample database. All adult patients (≥18 years) undergoing endovascular treatment for IAs after subarachnoid hemorrhage were identified using ICD-10-CM codes. Patients were categorized into frailty cohorts: low (HFRS <5), intermediate (HFRS 5-15) and high (HFRS >15). Patient demographics, adverse events, length of stay (LOS), discharge disposition, and total cost of admission were assessed. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to identify independent predictors of prolonged LOS, increased cost, and non-routine discharge.

RESULTS

Of the 33 840 patients identified, 7940 (23.5%) were found to be low, 20 075 (59.3%) intermediate and 5825 (17.2%) high frailty by HFRS criteria. The rate of encountering any adverse event was significantly greater in the higher frailty cohorts (low: 59.9%; intermediate: 92.4%; high: 99.2%, p<0.001). There was a stepwise increase in mean LOS (low: 11.7±8.2 days; intermediate: 18.7±14.1 days; high: 26.6±20.1 days, p<0.001), mean total hospital cost (low: $62 888±37 757; intermediate: $99 670±63 446; high: $134 937±80 331, p<0.001), and non-routine discharge (low: 17.3%; intermediate: 44.4%; high: 69.4%, p<0.001) with increasing frailty. On multivariate regression analysis, a similar stepwise impact was found in prolonged LOS (intermediate: OR 2.38, p<0.001; high: OR 4.49, p<0.001)], total hospital cost (intermediate: OR 2.15, p<0.001; high: OR 3.62, p<0.001), and non-routine discharge (intermediate: OR 2.13, p<0.001; high: OR 4.17, p<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Our study found that greater frailty as defined by the HFRS was associated with increased complications, LOS, total costs, and non-routine discharge.

The choroid plexus links innate immunity to CSF dysregulation in hydrocephalus

The choroid plexus (ChP) is the blood-cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) barrier and the primary source of CSF. Acquired hydrocephalus, caused by brain infection or hemorrhage, lacks drug treatments due to obscure pathobiology. Our integrated, multi-omic investigation of post-infectious hydrocephalus (PIH) and post-hemorrhagic hydrocephalus (PHH) models revealed that lipopolysaccharide and blood breakdown products trigger highly similar TLR4-dependent immune responses at the ChP-CSF interface. The resulting CSF "cytokine storm", elicited from peripherally derived and border-associated ChP macrophages, causes increased CSF production from ChP epithelial cells via phospho-activation of the TNF-receptor-associated kinase SPAK, which serves as a regulatory scaffold of a multi-ion transporter protein complex. Genetic or pharmacological immunomodulation prevents PIH and PHH by antagonizing SPAK-dependent CSF hypersecretion. These results reveal the ChP as a dynamic, cellularly heterogeneous tissue with highly regulated immune-secretory capacity, expand our understanding of ChP immune-epithelial cell cross talk, and reframe PIH and PHH as related neuroimmune disorders vulnerable to small molecule pharmacotherapy.

Prevalence and Influence of Frailty on Hospital Outcomes After Surgical Resection of Spinal Meningiomas

OBJECTIVE

Frailty has been shown to affect patient outcomes after medical and surgical interventions. The Hospital Frailty Risk Score (HFRS) is a growing metric used to assess patient frailty using International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision codes. The goal of this study was to investigate the impact of frailty, assessed by HFRS, on health care resource utilization and outcomes in patients undergoing surgery for spinal meningiomas.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study was performed using the 2016-2019 National Inpatient Sample database. Adult patients with benign or malignant spinal meningiomas, identified using International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision, Clinical Modification codes, were stratified by HFRS: low frailty (HFRS <5) and intermediate-high frailty (HFRS ≥5). Patient demographics, hospital characteristics, comorbidities, procedural variables, adverse events, length of stay (LOS), discharge disposition, and cost of admission were assessed. Multivariate regression analysis was used to identify predictors of increased LOS, discharge disposition, and cost.

RESULTS

Of the 3345 patients, 530 (15.8%) had intermediate-high frailty. The intermediate-high cohort was significantly older (P < 0.001). More patients in the intermediate-high cohort had ≥3 comorbidities (P < 0.001). In addition, a greater proportion of patients in the intermediate-high cohort experienced ≥1 perioperative adverse events (P < 0.001). Intermediate-high patients experienced greater mean LOS (P < 0.001) and accrued greater costs (P < 0.001). A greater proportion of intermediate-high patients had nonroutine discharges (P < 0.001). On multivariate analysis, increased HFRS (≥5) was independently associated with extended LOS (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 3.04; P < 0.001), nonroutine discharge (aOR, 1.98; P = 0.006), and increased costs (aOR, 2.39; P = 0.004).

CONCLUSIONS

Frailty may be associated with increased health care resource utilization in patients undergoing surgery for spinal meningiomas.

Hospital Frailty Risk Score Predicts Adverse Events and Readmission Following a Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt Surgery for Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of a Hospital Frailty Risk Score (HFRS) on unplanned readmission and health care resource utilization in normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH) patients undergoing a ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt surgery.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study was performed using the 2016-2019 Nationwide Readmission Database. All NPH patients (≥60 years) undergoing a VP shunt surgery were identified using ICD-10-CM diagnostic and procedural codes. Patients were dichotomized into 2 cohorts as follows: Low HFRS (<5) and Intermediate-High HFRS (≥5). A multivariate logistic regression analysis was then used to identify independent predictors of adverse event (AE) and 30- and 90-day readmission.

RESULTS

Of 13,262 patients, 4386 (33.1%) had an Intermediate-High HFRS score. A greater proportion of the Intermediate-High HFRS cohort experienced at least one AE (1.9 vs. 22.1, P < 0.001). The Intermediate-High HFRS cohort also had a longer length of stay (2.3 ± 2.4 days vs. 7.0 ± 7.7 days, P < 0.001), higher non-routine discharge rate (19.9% vs. 39.9%, P < 0.001), and greater admission cost ($14,634 ± 5703 vs. $21,749 ± 15,234, P < 0.001). The Intermediate-High HFRS cohort had higher rates of 30- (7.6% vs. 11.0%, P < 0.001) and 90-day (6.8% vs. 8.3%, P < 0.001) readmissions. On a multivariate regression analysis, Intermediate-High HFRS compared to Low HFRS was an independent predictor of any AE (odds ratio, 16.6; 95% confidence interval, [12.9-21.5]; P < 0.001) and 30-day readmission (odds ratio, 1.4; 95% confidence interval, [1.2-1.7]; P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Our study suggests that frailty, as defined by HFRS, is associated with increased resource utilization in NPH patients undergoing VP shunt surgery. Furthermore, HFRS was an independent predictor of adverse events and 30-day hospital readmission.

Impact of Affective Disorders on Inpatient Opioid Consumption and Hospital Outcomes Following Open Posterior Spinal Fusion for Adult Spine Deformity

OBJECTIVE

Affective disorders (ADs) are common and have a profound impact on surgical recovery, though few have studied the impact of ADs on inpatient narcotic consumption. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of ADs on inpatient narcotic consumption and healthcare resource utilization in patients undergoing spinal fusion for adult spinal deformity.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study was performed using the 2016-2017 Premier Healthcare Database. Adults who underwent adult spinal deformity surgery were identified using International Classification of Disease, Tenth Revision, codes. Patients were grouped based on comorbid diagnosis of an AD. Demographics, comorbidities, intraoperative variables, complications, length of stay, admission costs, and nonroutine discharge rates were assessed. Increased inpatient opioid use was categorized by morphine milligram equivalents consumption greater than the 75th percentile. Multivariate regression analysis was used to identify predictors of increased healthcare recourse utilization.

RESULTS

Of the 1831 study patients, 674 (36.8%) had an AD. A smaller proportion of patients in the AD cohort were 65+ years of age (P = 0.001), while a greater proportion of patients in the AD cohort identified as non-Hispanic White (P < 0.001). A greater proportion of patients in the AD cohort had increased morphine milligram equivalents consumption (P < 0.001). The AD cohort also had a longer mean length of stay (P < 0.001). A greater proportion of patients in the AD cohort had nonroutine discharges (P = 0.039) and unplanned 30-day readmission (P = 0.041). On multivariate analysis, AD was significantly associated with increased cost (odds ratio: 1.61, P < 0.001) and nonroutine discharge (odds ratio: 1.36, P = 0.035).

CONCLUSIONS

ADs may be associated with increased inpatient opioid consumption and healthcare resource utilization.

Leveraging HFRS to assess how frailty affects healthcare resource utilization after elective ACDF for CSM

BACKGROUND CONTEXT

Frailty is a common comorbidity associated with worsening outcomes in various medical and surgical fields. The Hospital Frailty Risk Score (HFRS) is a recently developed tool which assesses frailty using 109 International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision, Clinical Modification (ICD-10-CM) comorbidity codes to assess severity of frailty. However, there is a paucity of studies utilizing the HFRS with patients undergoing anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) for cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM).

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of HFRS on health care resource utilization following ACDF for CSM.

STUDY DESIGN

A retrospective cohort study was performed using the Nationwide Inpatient Sample (NIS) database from 2016-2019.

PATIENT SAMPLE

All adult (≥18 years old) patients undergoing primary, ACDF for CSM were identified using the ICD-10 CM codes.

OUTCOME MEASURES

Weighted patient demographics, comorbidities, perioperative complications, LOS, discharge disposition, and total admission costs were assessed.

METHODS

The 109 ICD-10 codes with pre-assigned values from 0.1 to 7.1 pertaining to frailty were queried in each patient, with a cumulative HFRS ≥5 indicating a frail patient. Patients were then categorized as either Low HFRS (HFRS<5) or Moderate to High HFRS (HFRS≥5). A multivariate stepwise logistic regression was used to determine the odds ratio for risk-adjusted extended LOS, non-routine discharge disposition, and increased hospital cost.

RESULTS

A total of 29,305 patients were identified, of which 3,135 (10.7%) had a Moderate to High HFRS. Patients with a Moderate to High HFRS had higher rates of 1 or more postoperative complications (Low HFRS: 9.5% vs. Moderate-High HFRS: 38.6%, p≤.001), significantly longer hospital stays (Low HFRS: 1.8±1.7 days vs. Moderate-High HFRS: 4.4 ± 6.0, p≤.001), higher rates of non-routine discharge (Low HFRS: 5.8% vs. Moderate-High HFRS: 28.2%, p≤.001), and increased total cost of admission (Low HFRS: $19,691±9,740 vs. Moderate-High HFRS: $26,935±22,824, p≤.001) than patients in the Low HFRS cohort. On multivariate analysis, Moderate to High HFRS was found to be a significant independent predictor for extended LOS [OR: 3.19, 95% CI: (2.60, 3.91), p≤.001] and non-routine discharge disposition [OR: 3.88, 95% CI: (3.05, 4.95), p≤.001] but not increased cost [OR: 1.10, 95% CI: (0.87, 1.40), p=.418].

CONCLUSIONS

Our study suggests that patients with a higher HFRS have increased total hospital costs, a longer LOS, higher complication rates, and more frequent nonroutine discharge compared with patients with a low HFRS following elective ACDF for CSM. Although frail patients should not be precluded from surgical management of cervical spine pathology, these findings highlight the need for peri-operative protocols to medically optimize patients to improve health care quality and decrease costs.

A current review of spinal meningiomas: epidemiology, clinical presentation and management

PURPOSE

To provide an up-to-date review of the epidemiology, histopathology, molecular biology, and etiology of spinal meningiomas, as well as discuss the clinical presentation, clinical evaluation, and most recent treatment recommendations for these lesions.

METHODS

PubMed and Google Scholar search was performed for studies related to meningiomas of the spine. The terms "meningioma," "spinal meningioma," "spine meningioma," "meningioma of the spine," "benign spinal tumors," and "benign spine tumors," were used to identify relevant studies. All studies, including primary data papers, meta-analyses, systematic reviews, general reviews, case reports, and clinical trials were considered for review.

RESULTS

Eighty-four studies were identified in the review. There were 22 studies discussing adverse postoperative outcomes, 21 studies discussing tumor genetics, 19 studies discussing epidemiology and current literature, 9 studies discussing radiation modalities and impact on subsequent tumor development, 5 studies on characteristic imaging findings, 5 studies discussing hormone use/receptor status on tumor development, 2 discussing operative techniques and 1 discussing tumor identification.

CONCLUSION

Investigations into spinal meningiomas generally lag behind that of intracranial meningiomas. Recent advancements in the molecular profiling of spinal meningiomas has expanded our understanding of these tumors, increasing our appreciation for their heterogeneity. Continued investigation into the defining characteristics of different spinal meningiomas will aid in treatment planning and prognostication.

Geriatric relationship with inpatient opioid consumption and hospital outcomes after open posterior spinal fusion for adult spine deformity

OBJECTIVE

As the population ages, increasing attention has been placed on identifying risk factors for poor surgical outcomes in the elderly. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of geriatric status on inpatient narcotic consumption and healthcare resource utilization in patients undergoing spinal fusion for adult spinal deformity.

METHODS

A retrospective study was performed using the Premier Healthcare Database (2016-2017). All adult patients who underwent thoracic/thoracolumbar fusion for spine deformity were identified using ICD-10-CM codes. Patients were categorized by age: 18-49 years-old (Young), 50-64 years-old (Older), and 65 + years-old (Geriatric). Patient demographics, comorbidities, hospital characteristics, intraoperative variables, adverse events (AEs), and healthcare resource utilization were assessed. Increased inpatient opioid use was categorized by MME (morphine milligram equivalents) admission consumption greater than the 75th percentile of the cohort. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to identify independent predictors of increased opioid usage, increased cost, and non-routine discharge (NRD).

RESULTS

Of the 1831 patients identified, 199 (10.9 %) were in the Young cohort, 599 (32.7 %) were in the Older cohort, and 1033 (56.4 %) were in the Geriatric cohort. The Geriatric cohort had a greater proportion of patients who were Non-Hispanic White (p < 0.001) and government-insured (p < 0.001). Comorbidities [CCI (p < 0.001)] and frailty [mFI-5 (p < 0.001)] increased with age. AEs occurred at similar rates between cohorts. A greater proportion of Older patients consumed an increased amount of MMEs during their hospital stay (Young: 24.9 % vs. Older: 33.1 % vs. Geriatric: 20.2 %, p < 0.001). A greater proportion of Geriatric patients experienced high costs (p = 0.018), longer LOS (p = 0.011), and 30-day readmission (p = 0.004) compared to other cohorts. A significantly greater proportion of the Geriatric cohort experienced NRD (Young: 25.3 % vs. Older: 58.8 % vs. Geriatric: 83.0 %, p < 0.001) On multivariate analysis, Geriatric age was independently associated with NRD (OR: 11.59, p < 0.001), and inversely associated with increased MME use (OR: 0.66, p = 0.038). However, Older age was independently associated with increased MME use (OR: 1.58, p = 0.026) and NRD (OR: 4.27, p < 0.001), though not increased cost (OR: 1.49, p = 0.077).

CONCLUSION

Our study demonstrates that geriatric patients may require fewer opioids than younger patients but require greater resource utilization on discharge. Additional studies investigating the impact of aging are necessary to improve patient risk stratification, healthcare delivery, and patient outcomes.

Utilization of Machine Learning to Model Important Features of 30-day Readmissions following Surgery for Metastatic Spinal Column Tumors: The Influence of Frailty

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to determine the relative importance and predicative power of the Hospital Frailty Risk Score (HFRS) on unplanned 30-day readmission after surgical intervention for metastatic spinal column tumors.

METHODS

All adult patients undergoing surgery for metastatic spinal column tumor were identified in the Nationwide Readmission Database from the years 2016 to 2018. Patients were categorized into 3 cohorts based on the criteria of the HFRS: Low(<5), Intermediate(5-14.9), and High(≥ 15). Random Forest (RF) classification was used to construct predictive models for 30-day patient readmission. Model performance was examined using the area under the receiver operating curve (AUC), and the Mean Decrease Gini (MDG) metric was used to quantify and rank features by relative importance.

RESULTS

There were 4346 patients included. The proportion of patients who required any readmission were higher among the Intermediate and High frailty cohorts when compared to the Low frailty cohort (Low:33.9% vs. Intermediate:39.3% vs. High:39.2%, P < .001). An RF classifier was trained to predict 30-day readmission on all features (AUC = .60) and architecturally equivalent model trained using only ten features with highest MDG (AUC = .59). Both models found frailty to have the highest importance in predicting risk of readmission. On multivariate regression analysis, Intermediate frailty [OR:1.32, CI(1.06,1.64), P = .012] was found to be an independent predictor of unplanned 30-day readmission.

CONCLUSION

Our study utilizes machine learning approaches and predictive modeling to identify frailty as a significant risk-factor that contributes to unplanned 30-day readmission after spine surgery for metastatic spinal column metastases.

Octogenarians Are Independently Associated With Extended LOS and Non-Routine Discharge After Elective ACDF for CSM

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to determine the impact age has on LOS and discharge disposition following elective ACDF for cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM).

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study was performed using the National Inpatient Sample (NIS) database from 2016 and 2017. All adult patients >50 years old undergoing ACDF for CSM were identified using the ICD-10-CM diagnosis and procedural coding system. Patients were then stratified by age: 50 to 64 years-old, 65 to 79 years-old, and greater than or equal to 80 years-old. Weighted patient demographics, comorbidities, perioperative complications, LOS, discharge disposition, and total cost of admission were assessed.

RESULTS

A total of 14 865 patients were identified. Compared to the 50-64 and 65-79 year-old cohorts, the 80+ years cohort had a significantly higher rate of postoperative complication (50-64 yo:10.2% vs. 65-79 yo:12.6% vs. 80+ yo:18.9%, P = 0.048). The 80+ years cohort experienced significantly longer hospital stays (50-64 yo: 2.0 ± 2.4 days vs. 65-79 yo: 2.2 ± 2.8 days vs. 80+ yo: 2.3 ± 2.1 days, P = 0.028), higher proportion of patients with extended LOS (50-64 yo:18.3% vs. 65-79 yo:21.9% vs. 80+ yo:28.4%, P = 0.009), and increased rates of non-routine discharges (50-64 yo:15.1% vs. 65-79 yo:23.0% vs. 80+ yo:35.8%, P < 0.001). On multivariate analysis, age 80+ years was found to be a significant independent predictor of extended LOS [OR:1.97, 95% CI:(1.10,3.55), P = 0.023] and non-routine discharge [OR:2.46, 95% CI:(1.44,4.21), P = 0.001].

CONCLUSIONS

Our study demonstrates that octogenarian age status is a significant independent risk factor for extended LOS and non-routine discharge after elective ACDF for CSM.

Ramifications of Postoperative Dysphagia on Health Care Resource Utilization Following Elective Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Interbody Fusion for Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy

STUDY DESIGN

This is a retrospective cohort study.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to investigate patient risk factors and health care resource utilization associated with postoperative dysphagia following elective anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) for cervical spondylotic myelopathy.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

There is a paucity of data on factors predisposing patients to dysphagia and the burden this complication has on health care resource utilization following ACDF.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study was performed using the Nationwide Inpatient Sample (NIS) database from 2016 to 2017. All adult (above 18 y old) patients undergoing ACDF for cervical spondylotic myelopathy were identified using the ICD-10-CM diagnosis and procedural coding system. Patients were then categorized by whether they had a recorded postoperative dysphagia or no dysphagia. Weighted patient demographics, comorbidities, perioperative complications, length of hospital stay (LOS), discharge disposition, and total cost of admission were assessed. A multivariate stepwise logistic regression was used to determine both the odds ratio for risk-adjusted postoperative dysphagia as well as extended LOS.

RESULTS

A total of 17,385 patients were identified, of which 1400 (8.1%) experienced postoperative dysphagia. Compared with the No-Dysphagia cohort, the Dysphagia cohort had a greater proportion of patients experiencing a complication (P=0.004), including 1 complication (No-Dysphagia: 2.9% vs. Dysphagia: 6.8%), and >1 complication (No-Dysphagia: 0.3% vs. Dysphagia: 0.4%). The Dysphagia cohort experienced significantly longer hospital stays (No-Dysphagia: 1.9±2.1 d vs. Dysphagia: 4.2±4.3 d, P<0.001), higher total cost of admission (No-Dysphagia: $19,441±10,495 vs. Dysphagia: $25,529±18,641, P<0.001), and increased rates of nonroutine discharge (No-Dysphagia: 16.5% vs. Dysphagia: 34.3%, P<0.001). Postoperative dysphagia was found to be a significant independent risk factor for extended LOS on multivariate analysis, with an odds ratio of 5.37 (95% confidence interval: 4.09, 7.05, P<0.001).

CONCLUSION

Patients experiencing postoperative dysphagia were found to have significantly longer hospital LOS, higher total cost of admission, and increased nonroutine discharge when compared with the patients who did not.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III.

Impaired neurogenesis alters brain biomechanics in a neuroprogenitor-based genetic subtype of congenital hydrocephalus

Hydrocephalus, characterized by cerebral ventricular dilatation, is routinely attributed to primary defects in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) homeostasis. This fosters CSF shunting as the leading reason for brain surgery in children despite considerable disease heterogeneity. In this study, by integrating human brain transcriptomics with whole-exome sequencing of 483 patients with congenital hydrocephalus (CH), we found convergence of CH risk genes in embryonic neuroepithelial stem cells. Of all CH risk genes, TRIM71/lin-41 harbors the most de novo mutations and is most specifically expressed in neuroepithelial cells. Mice harboring neuroepithelial cell-specific Trim71 deletion or CH-specific Trim71 mutation exhibit prenatal hydrocephalus. CH mutations disrupt TRIM71 binding to its RNA targets, causing premature neuroepithelial cell differentiation and reduced neurogenesis. Cortical hypoplasia leads to a hypercompliant cortex and secondary ventricular enlargement without primary defects in CSF circulation. These data highlight the importance of precisely regulated neuroepithelial cell fate for normal brain-CSF biomechanics and support a clinically relevant neuroprogenitor-based paradigm of CH.

Geographic variations in health care resource utilization following elective ACDF for cervical spondylotic myelopathy: A national trend analysis

BACKGROUND

As health care expenditures continue to increase, standardizing health care delivery across geographic regions has been identified as a method to reduce costs. However, few studies have demonstrated how the practice of elective spine surgery varies by geographic location. The aim of this study was to assess the geographic variations in management, complications, and total cost of elective anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) for cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM).

METHODS

The National Inpatient Sample database (2016-2017) was queried using the ICD-10-CM procedural and diagnostic coding systems to identify all adult (≥18 years) patients with a primary diagnosis of CSM undergoing an elective ACDF. Patients were divided into regional cohorts as defined by the U.S. Census Bureau: Northeast, Midwest, South, and West. Weighted patient demographics, Elixhauser comorbidities, perioperative complications, length of stay (LOS), discharge disposition, and total cost of admission were assessed.

RESULTS

A total of 17,385 adult patients were identified. While the age (p=0.116) and proportion of female patients (p=0.447) were similar among the cohorts, race (p<0.001) and healthcare coverage (p<0.001) varied significantly. The Northeast had the largest proportion of patients in the 76-100th household income quartile (Northeast: 32.1%; Midwest: 16.9%; South: 15.7%; West: 27.5%, p<0.001). Complication rates were similar between regional cohorts (Northeast: 10.1%; Midwest: 12.2%; South: 10.3%; West: 11.9%, p=0.503), as was LOS (Northeast: 2.2±2.4 days; Midwest: 2.1±2.4 days; South: 2.0±2.5 days; West: 2.1±2.4 days, p=0.678). The West incurred the greatest mean total cost of admission (Northeast: $19,167±10,267; Midwest: $18,903±9,114; South: $18,566±10,152; West: $24,322±15,126, p<0.001). The Northeast had the lowest proportion of patients with a routine discharge (Northeast: 72.0%; Midwest: 84.8%; South: 82.3%; West: 83.3%, p<0.001). The odds ratio for Western hospital region was 3.46 [95% CI: (2.41, 4.96), p<0.001] compared to the Northeast for increased cost.

CONCLUSION

Our study suggests that regional variations exist in elective ACDF for CSM, including patient demographics, hospital costs, and nonroutine discharges, while complication rates and LOS were similar between regions.

Hospital Frailty Risk Score and healthcare resource utilization after surgery for metastatic spinal column tumors

OBJECTIVE

The Hospital Frailty Risk Score (HFRS) was developed utilizing ICD-10 diagnostic codes to identify frailty and predict adverse outcomes in large national databases. While other studies have examined frailty in spine oncology, the HFRS has not been assessed in this patient population. The aim of this study was to examine the association of HFRS-defined frailty with complication rates, length of stay (LOS), total cost of hospital admission, and discharge disposition in patients undergoing spine surgery for metastatic spinal column tumors.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study was performed using the years 2016 to 2019 of the National Inpatient Sample (NIS) database. All adult patients (≥ 18 years old) undergoing surgical intervention for metastatic spinal column tumors were identified using the ICD-10-CM diagnostic codes and Procedural Coding System. Patients were categorized into the following three cohorts based on their HFRS: low frailty (HFRS < 5), intermediate frailty (HFRS 5-15), and high frailty (HFRS > 15). Patient demographics, comorbidities, treatment modality, perioperative complications, LOS, discharge disposition, and total cost of hospital admission were assessed. A multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to identify independent predictors of prolonged LOS, nonroutine discharge, and increased cost.

RESULTS

Of the 11,480 patients identified, 7085 (61.7%) were found to have low frailty, 4160 (36.2%) had intermediate frailty, and 235 (2.0%) had high frailty according to HFRS criteria. On average, age increased along with progressively worsening frailty scores (p ≤ 0.001). The proportion of patients in each cohort who experienced ≥ 1 postoperative complication significantly increased along with increasing frailty (low frailty: 29.2%; intermediate frailty: 53.8%; high frailty: 76.6%; p < 0.001). In addition, the mean LOS (low frailty: 7.9 ± 5.0 days; intermediate frailty: 14.4 ± 13.4 days; high frailty: 24.1 ± 18.6 days; p < 0.001), rate of nonroutine discharge (low frailty: 40.4%; intermediate frailty: 60.6%; high frailty: 70.2%; p < 0.001), and mean total cost of hospital admission (low frailty: $48,603 ± $29,979; intermediate frailty: $65,271 ± $43,110; high frailty: $96,116 ± $60,815; p < 0.001) each increased along with progressing frailty. On multivariate regression analysis, intermediate and high frailty were each found to be significant predictors of both prolonged LOS (intermediate: OR 3.75 [95% CI 2.96-4.75], p < 0.001; high: OR 7.33 [95% CI 3.47-15.51]; p < 0.001) and nonroutine discharge (intermediate: OR 2.05 [95% CI 1.68-2.51], p < 0.001; high: OR 5.06 [95% CI 1.93-13.30], p = 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

This study is the first to use the HFRS to assess the impact of frailty on perioperative outcomes in patients with metastatic bony spinal tumors. Among patients with metastatic bony spinal tumors, frailty assessed using the HFRS was associated with longer hospitalizations, more nonroutine discharges, and higher total hospital costs.

Differences in Healthcare Resource Utilization After Surgery for Metastatic Spinal Column Tumors in Patients with a Concurrent Affective Disorder in the United States

BACKGROUND

Affective disorders, such as depression and anxiety, are exceedingly common among patients with metastatic cancer. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between affective disorders and healthcare resource utilization in patients undergoing surgery for a spinal column metastasis.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study was performed using the 2016-2018 National Inpatient Sample database. All adult patients (≥18 years) undergoing surgery for a metastatic spinal tumor were identified using the ICD-10-CM coding systems. Patients were categorized into two cohorts: No Affective Disorder (No-AD) and Affective Disorder (AD). Patient demographics, comorbidities, hospital characteristics, intraoperative variables, postoperative adverse events (AEs), LOS, discharge disposition, and total cost of hospital admission were assessed. A multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to identify independent predictors of increased cost, non-routine discharge, and prolonged LOS.

RESULTS

Of the 8,360 patients identified, 1,710 (20.5%) had a diagnosis of AD. While no difference was observed in the rates of postoperative AEs between the cohorts (p=0.912), the AD cohort had a significantly longer mean LOS (No-AD:10.1±8.3 days vs AD:11.6±9.8 days, p=0.012) and greater total cost (No-AD:$53,165±35,512 vs AD:$59,282±36,917, p=0.011). No significant differences in non-routine discharge were observed between the cohorts (p=0.265). On multivariate regression analysis, having an affective disorder was a significant predictor of increased costs [OR:1.45, CI(1.03,2.05), p=0.034] and non-routine discharge [OR:1.40, CI(1.06,1.85), p=0.017], but not prolonged LOS (p=0.067).

CONCLUSIONS

Our study found that affective disorders were significantly associated with greater hospital expenditures and non-routine discharge, but not prolonged LOS, for patients undergoing surgery for spinal metastases.

Racial Disparities in Health Care Resource Utilization After Pediatric Cervical and/or Thoracic Spinal Injuries

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to investigate the impact of race on hospital length of stay (LOS) and hospital complications among pediatric patients with cervical/thoracic injury.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort was performed using the 2017 admission year from 753 facilities utilizing the National Trauma Data Bank. All pediatric patients with cervical/thoracic spine injuries were identified using the ICD-10-CM diagnosis coding system. These patients were segregated by their race, non-Hispanic white (NHW), non-Hispanic black (NHB), non-Hispanic Asian (NHA), and Hispanic (H). Demographic, hospital variable, hospital complications, and LOS data were collected. A linear and logistic multivariate regression analysis was performed to determine the risk ratio for hospital LOS as well as complication rate, respectively.

RESULTS

A total of 4,125 pediatric patients were identified. NHB cohort had a greater prevalence of cervical-only injuries (NHW: 37.39% vs. NHB: 49.93% vs. NHA: 34.29% vs. H: 38.71%, P < 0.001). While transport accident was most common injury etiology for both cohorts, NHB cohort had a greater prevalence of assault (NHW: 1.53% vs. NHB: 17.40% vs. NHA: 2.86% vs. H: 6.58%, P < 0.001) than the other cohorts. Overall complication rates were significantly higher among NHB patients (NHW: 9.39% vs. NHB: 15.12% vs. NHA: 14.29% vs. H: 13.60%, P < 0.001). Compared with the NHW cohort, NHB, NHA, and H had significantly longer hospital LOS (NHW: 6.15 ± 9.03 days vs. NHB: 9.24 ± 20.78 days vs. NHA: 9.09 ± 13.28 days vs. H: 8.05 ± 11.45 days, P < 0.001). NHB race was identified as a significant predictor of increased LOS on multivariate regression analysis (risk ratio: 1.14, 95% confidence interval: 0.46, 1.82; P = 0.001) but not hospital complications (P = 0.345).

CONCLUSIONS

Race may significantly impact health care resource utilization following pediatric cervical/thoracic spinal trauma.

Patient- and hospital-related risk factors for non-routine discharge after lumbar decompression and fusion for spondylolisthesis

OBJECTIVE

In various spinal surgeries, non-routine discharges have been associated with inferior outcomes. However, there exists a paucity of data regarding the relationship between non-routine discharge and quality of care among patients with spondylolisthesis. The aim of this study was to identify independent predictors for non-routine discharge following spinal decompression and fusion for lumbar spondylolisthesis.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study was performed using the American College of Surgeons (ACS) National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) database from 2010 through 2016. Adult patients (≥18 years old) who underwent spinal decompression and fusion for lumbar spondylolisthesis were identified using ICD-9-CM diagnosis and CPT procedural coding systems. The study population was divided into two cohorts based on discharge disposition: routine (RD) and non-routine discharge (NRD). Patient demographics, comorbidities, adverse events, LOS, reoperation, and readmission were assessed. A multivariate logistic regression model was used to identify the independent predictors of non-home discharge and 30-day unplanned readmission.

RESULTS

A total of 5252 patients were identified, of which 4316 (82.2%) had a RD and 936 (18.8%) had a NRD. The NRD cohort tended to be older (p < 0.001) and have a higher BMI (p < 0.001). Patients who experienced a NRD had a longer LOS (NRD: 4.7 ± 3.7 days vs RD: 3.1 ± 2.0 days, p < 0.001), a higher proportion of adverse events (p < 0.001), higher rates of reoperation (p = 0.005) and unplanned 30-day readmission rates (p < 0.001). On multivariate regression analysis, age [OR: 1.08, 95% CI (1.06-1.10), p < 0.001], female sex [OR: 2.01, 95% (1.51-2.69), p < 0.001], non-Hispanic Black race/ethnicity [OR: 2.10, 95% CI (1.36-3.24), p = 0.001], BMI [OR: 1.03, 95% CI (1.01-1.05), p = 0.007], dependent functional status [OR: 3.33, 95% CI (1.59 - 6.99), p = 0.001], malnourishment [OR: 2.14, 95% CI (1.27-3.62), p = 0.005], and LOS [OR: 1.26, 95% CI (1.18-1.33), p < 0.001] were all independent predictors for NRD. However, NRD did not independently predict an unplanned 30-day readmission on multivariate analysis.

CONCLUSION

In our study we found that on univariate analysis NRD was associated with increased adverse events, length of stay and 30-day unplanned readmission. When controlling for patient- and hospital-related factors, we found that female sex, non-Hispanic Black race, BMI, dependent functional status, malnourishment and longer LOS were independently associated with NRD. However, NRD did not independently predict an unplanned 30-day readmission.

DIAPH1 Variants in Non-East Asian Patients With Sporadic Moyamoya Disease

Importance

Moyamoya disease (MMD), a progressive vasculopathy leading to narrowing and ultimate occlusion of the intracranial internal carotid arteries, is a cause of childhood stroke. The cause of MMD is poorly understood, but genetic factors play a role. Several familial forms of MMD have been identified, but the cause of most cases remains elusive, especially among non-East Asian individuals.

Objective

To assess whether ultrarare de novo and rare, damaging transmitted variants with large effect sizes are associated with MMD risk.

Design, Setting, and Participants

A genetic association study was conducted using whole-exome sequencing case-parent MMD trios in a small discovery cohort collected over 3.5 years (2016-2019); data were analyzed in 2020. Medical records from US hospitals spanning a range of 1 month to 1.5 years were reviewed for phenotyping. Exomes from a larger validation cohort were analyzed to identify additional rare, large-effect variants in the top candidate gene. Participants included patients with MMD and, when available, their parents. All participants who met criteria and were presented with the option to join the study agreed to do so; none were excluded. Twenty-four probands (22 trios and 2 singletons) composed the discovery cohort, and 84 probands (29 trios and 55 singletons) composed the validation cohort.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Gene variants were identified and filtered using stringent criteria. Enrichment and case-control tests assessed gene-level variant burden. In silico modeling estimated the probability of variant association with protein structure. Integrative genomics assessed expression patterns of MMD risk genes derived from single-cell RNA sequencing data of human and mouse brain tissue.

Results

Of the 24 patients in the discovery cohort, 14 (58.3%) were men and 18 (75.0%) were of European ancestry. Three of 24 discovery cohort probands contained 2 do novo (1-tailed Poisson P = 1.1 × 10-6) and 1 rare, transmitted damaging variant (12.5% of cases) in DIAPH1 (mammalian diaphanous-1), a key regulator of actin remodeling in vascular cells and platelets. Four additional ultrarare damaging heterozygous DIAPH1 variants (3 unphased) were identified in 3 other patients in an 84-proband validation cohort (73.8% female, 77.4% European). All 6 patients were non-East Asian. Compound heterozygous variants were identified in ena/vasodilator-stimulated phosphoproteinlike protein EVL, a mammalian diaphanous-1 interactor that regulates actin polymerization. DIAPH1 and EVL mutant probands had severe, bilateral MMD associated with transfusion-dependent thrombocytopenia. DIAPH1 and other MMD risk genes are enriched in mural cells of midgestational human brain. The DIAPH1 coexpression network converges in vascular cell actin cytoskeleton regulatory pathways.

Conclusions and Relevance

These findings provide the largest collection to date of non-East Asian individuals with sporadic MMD harboring pathogenic variants in the same gene. The results suggest that DIAPH1 is a novel MMD risk gene and impaired vascular cell actin remodeling in MMD pathogenesis, with diagnostic and therapeutic ramifications.

Impact of Frailty on Morbidity and Mortality in Adult Patients Presenting with an Acute Traumatic Cervical Spinal Cord Injury

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to determine if baseline frailty was an independent predictor of adverse events (AEs) and in-hospital mortality in patients being treated for acute cervical spinal cord injury (SCI).

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study was performed using the National Trauma Database (NTDB) from 2017. Adult patients (>18 years old) with acute cervical SCI were identified using the International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision, Clinical Modification diagnostic and procedural coding systems. Patients were categorized into 3 cohorts based on the criteria of the 5-item modified frailty index (mFI-5): mFI = 0, mFI = 1, or mFI≥2. Patient demographics, comorbidities, type of injury, diagnostic and treatment modality, AEs, and in-patient mortality were assessed. A multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to identify independent predictors of in-hospital AEs and mortality.

RESULTS

Of 8986 patients identified, 4990 (55.5%) were classified as mFI = 0, 2328 (26%) as mFI = 1, and 1668 (18.5%) as mFI≥2. On average, the mFI≥2 cohort was 5 years older than the mFI = 1 cohort and 22 years older than the mFI = 0 cohort (P < 0.001). Most patients in each cohort sustained either complete SCI or central cord syndrome after a fall or transport accident (mFI = 0, 77.31% vs. mFI = 1, 89.5% vs. mFI≥2, 93.65%). With respect to in-hospital events, the proportion of patients who experienced any AE increased significantly along with frailty score (mFI = 0, 30.42% vs. mFI = 1, 31.74% vs. mFI≥2, 34.95%; P < 0.001). In-hospital mortality followed a similar trend, increasing with frailty score (mFI = 0, 10.53% vs. mFI = 1, 11.33% vs. mFI≥2, 16.23%; P < 0.001). On multivariate regression analysis, both mFI = 1 1.21 (odds ratio [OR], 1.21; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.05-1.4; P = 0.008) and mFI≥2 (OR, 1.23; 95% CI, 1.05-1.45; P = 0.012) predicted AEs, whereas only mFI≥2 was found to be a predictor for in-hospital mortality (OR, 1.45; 95% CI, 1.14-1.83; P = 0.002).

CONCLUSIONS

Increasing frailty is associated with an increased risk of AEs and in-hospital mortality in patients undergoing treatment for cervical SCI.

Independent Association of Obesity and Nonroutine Discharge Disposition After Elective Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion for Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy

OBJECTIVE

The prevalence of obesity continues to rise in the United States at a disparaging rate. Although previous studies have attempted to identify the influence obesity has on short-term outcomes following elective spine surgery, few studies have assessed the impact on discharge disposition following anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) for cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM). The aim of this study was to determine whether obesity impacts the hospital management, cost, and discharge disposition after elective ACDF for adult CSM.

METHODS

The National Inpatient Sample database was queried using the International Classification of Diseases, 10th revision, Clinical Modification, coding system to identify all (≥18 years) patients with a primary diagnosis of CSM undergoing an elective ACDF for the years 2016 and 2017. Discharge weights were used to estimate national demographics, Elixhauser comorbidities, complications, length of stay, total cost of admission, and discharge disposition.

RESULTS

There were 17,385 patients included in the study, of whom 3035 (17.4%) had obesity (no obesity: 14,350; obesity: 3035). The cohort with obesity had a significantly greater proportion of patients with 3 or more comorbidities compared with the cohort with no obesity (no obesity: 28.1% vs. obesity: 43.5%, P < 0.001). The overall complication rates were greater in the cohort with obesity (no obesity: 10.3% vs. obesity: 14.3%, P = 0.003). On average, the cohort with obesity incurred a total cost of admission $1154 greater than the cost of the cohort with no obesity (no obesity: $19,732 ± 11,605 vs. obesity: $20,886 ± 10,883, P = 0.034) and a significantly greater proportion of nonroutine discharges (no obesity: 16.6% vs. obesity: 24.2%, P < 0.001). In multivariate regression analysis, obesity, age, race, health care coverage, hospital bed size, region, comorbidity, and complication rates all were independently associated with nonroutine discharge disposition.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study demonstrates that obesity is an independent predictor for nonroutine discharge disposition following elective anterior cervical discectomy and fusion for cervical spondylotic myelopathy.

Race Is an Independent Predictor for Nonroutine Discharges After Spine Surgery for Spinal Intradural/Cord Tumors

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to determine if race was an independent predictor of extended length of stay (LOS), nonroutine discharge, and increased health care costs after surgery for spinal intradural/cord tumors.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study was performed using the National Inpatient Sample database from 2016 to 2017. All adult (>18 years old) inpatients who underwent surgical intervention for a benign or malignant spinal intradural/cord tumor were identified using International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision, Clinical Modification diagnosis and procedural coding systems. Patients were then categorized based on race: White, African American (AA), Hispanic, and other. Postoperative complications, LOS, discharge disposition, and total cost of hospitalization were assessed. A backward stepwise multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to identify independent predictors of extended LOS and nonroutine discharge disposition.

RESULTS

Of 3595 patients identified, there were 2620 (72.9%) whites (W), 310 (8.6%) AAs/blacks, 275 (7.6%) Hispanic (H), and 390 (10.8%) other (O). Postoperative complication rates were similar among the cohorts (P = 0.887). AAs had longer mean (W, 5.4 ± 4.2 days vs. AA, 8.9 ± 9.5 days vs. H, 5.9 ± 3.9 days vs. O, 6.1 ± 3.9 days; P = 0.014) length of hospitalizations than the other cohorts. The overall incidence of nonroutine discharge was 55% (n = 1979), with AA race having the highest rate of nonroutine discharges (W, 53.8% vs. AA, 74.2% vs. H, 45.5% vs. O, 43.6%; P = 0.016). On multivariate regression analysis, AA race was the only significant racial independent predictor of nonroutine discharge disposition (odds ratio, 3.32; confidence interval, 1.67-6.60; P < 0.001), but not extended LOS (P = 0.209).

CONCLUSIONS

Our study indicates that AA race is an independent predictor of nonroutine discharge disposition in patients undergoing surgical intervention for a spinal intradural/cord tumor.

Patient Risk Factors Associated With 30- and 90-Day Readmission After Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt Placement for Idiopathic Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus in Elderly Patients: A Nationwide Readmission Study

OBJECTIVE

For idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus (iNPH), risk stratifying patients and identifying those who are likely to fare well after ventriculoperitoneal shunt (VP) surgery may help improve quality of care and reduce unplanned readmissions. The aim of this study was to investigate the drivers of 30- and 90-day readmissions after VP shunt surgery for iNPH in elderly patients.

METHODS

The Nationwide Readmission Database, years 2013 to 2015, was queried. Elderly patients (≥65 years old) undergoing VP shunt surgery were identified using the International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification coding system. Unique patient linkage numbers were used to follow patients and identify 30- and 31- to 90-day readmission rates. Patients were grouped by no readmission (Non-R), readmission within 30 days (30-R), and readmission within 31 to 90 days (90-R).

RESULTS

We identified 7199 elderly patients undergoing VP shunt surgery for iNPH. A total of 1413 (19.6%) patients were readmitted (30-R: n = 812 [11.3%] vs. 90-R: n = 601 [8.3%] vs. Non-R: n = 5786). The most prevalent 30- and 90-day complications seen among the readmitted cohort were mechanical complication of nervous system device implant (30-R: 16.1%, 90-R: 12.4%), extracranial postoperative infection (30-R: 10.4%, 90-R: 7.0%), and subdural hemorrhage (30-R: 6.0%, 90-R: 16.4%). On multivariate regression analysis, age, diabetes, and renal failure were independently associated with 30-day readmission; female sex, and 26th to 50th household income percentile were independently associated with reduced likelihood of 90-day readmission. Having any complication during the index admission independently associated with both 30- and 90-day readmission.

CONCLUSIONS

In this study, we identify the most common drivers for readmission for elderly patients with iNPH undergoing VP shunt surgery.

Exome Sequencing as a Potential Diagnostic Adjunct in Sporadic Congenital Hydrocephalus

This study evaluates whole-exome sequencing as a diagnostic tool in a cohort of neurosurgically treated congenital hydrocephalus probands.

Post-traumatic seizures following pediatric traumatic brain injury

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to investigate the national impact of demographic, hospital, and inpatient risk factors on post-traumatic seizure (PTS) development in pediatric patients who presented to the ED following a traumatic brain injury (TBI).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The Nationwide Emergency Department Sample database years 2010-2014 was queried. Patients (<21 years old) with a primary diagnosis of TBI and subsequent secondary diagnosis of PTS were identified using the International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification coding system. We identified demographic variables, hospital characteristics, pre-existing medical comorbidities, etiology of injuries, and type of injury. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to identify the factors associated with post-traumatic seizures.

RESULTS

We identified 1,244,087 patients who sustained TBI, of which 10,340 (0.83%) developed PTS. Of the patients who had seizures, the youngest cohort aged 0-5 years had the greatest proportion of seizure development (p < 0.001). Compared to those TBI patients with loss of consciousness (LOC), patients encountering no LOC after TBI had the smallest proportion of seizures while Prolonged LOC with baseline return had the greatest proportion. On univariate analysis of the effect of in-hospital complication on rate of seizures, respiratory, renal and urinary, hematoma, septicemia, and other neurological complications were all significantly associated with seizure development. On multivariate regression, age 6-10 years (OR: 0.48, p < 0.001) 11-15 years (OR: 0.41, p < 0.001), and 16-20 years (OR: 0.51, p < 0.001) were independently associated with decreased risk of developing seizures. Extended LOC with baseline return (OR: 6.33, p < 0.001), extended LOC without baseline return (OR: 1.95, p = 0.009), and Other LOC (OR: 3.02, p < 0.001) were independently associated with increased risk of developing seizures. Subarachnoid hemorrhage (OR: 4.14, p < 0.001), subdural hemorrhage [OR: 7.72, p < 0.001), and extradural hemorrhage (OR: 3.13, p < 0.001) were all independently associated with increased risk of developing seizures.

CONCLUSION

Out study demonstrates that various demographic, hospital, and clinical risk factors are associated with the development of seizures following traumatic brain injury. Enhancing awareness of these drivers may help provide greater awareness of patients likely to develop post-traumatic seizures such that this complication can be decreased in incidence so as to improve quality of care and decrease healthcare costs.

Dual activating FGFR1 mutations in pediatric pilomyxoid astrocytoma

Background

Pilomyxoid astrocytomas are an aggressive subtype of astrocytoma, not graded by WHO, frequently located in hypothalamic/chiasmatic region, affecting diencephalic structures, and characterized by shorter survival and high recurrence rates. Pilomyxoid astrocytoma management remains controversial, with pathologic tissue diagnosis and relief of mass effect being the main goals of surgery while avoiding treatment‐related morbidity, including vision loss, panhypopituitarism, and hypothalamic dysfunction. Chemotherapy (typically vincristine and carboplatin) in all pediatric patients and radiation therapy in pediatric patients over 5 years of age are used for treatment.

Methods

We report clinical presentation, surgical management, and whole exome sequencing results in a pediatric patient with the subtotally resected pilomyxoid astrocytoma.

Results

We identified two somatic activating missense mutations affecting FGFR1, including FGFR1 p.K656E and FGFR1 p.V561M. While the former is a known hotspot mutation that is both activating and transforming, the latter has been described as a gatekeeper mutation imparting resistance to FGFR inhibitors. Interestingly, both mutations were present with similar variant allele frequency within the tumor.

Conclusion

Similar variant allele frequencies of FGFR1 p.K656E and FGFR1 p.V561M mutations in our patient's tumor suggest that these mutations may have occurred at similar time points. Use of FGFR inhibitors in addition to STAT3 or PI3K/mTOR inhibition may prove a useful strategy in targeting our patient's pilomyxoid astrocytoma.

Macrophage-derived netrin-1 drives adrenergic nerve-associated lung fibrosis

Fibrosis is a macrophage-driven process of uncontrolled extracellular matrix accumulation. Neuronal guidance proteins such as netrin-1 promote inflammatory scarring. We found that macrophage-derived netrin-1 stimulates fibrosis through its neuronal guidance functions. In mice, fibrosis due to inhaled bleomycin engendered netrin-1-expressing macrophages and fibroblasts, remodeled adrenergic nerves, and augmented noradrenaline. Cell-specific knockout mice showed that collagen accumulation, fibrotic histology, and nerve-associated endpoints required netrin-1 of macrophage but not fibroblast origin. Adrenergic denervation; haploinsufficiency of netrin-1's receptor, deleted in colorectal carcinoma; and therapeutic α1 adrenoreceptor antagonism improved collagen content and histology. An idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) lung microarray data set showed increased netrin-1 expression. IPF lung tissues were enriched for netrin-1+ macrophages and noradrenaline. A longitudinal IPF cohort showed improved survival in patients prescribed α1 adrenoreceptor blockade. This work showed that macrophages stimulate lung fibrosis via netrin-1-driven adrenergic processes and introduced α1 blockers as a potentially new fibrotic therapy.

Bioactive Plasma Mitochondrial DNA Is Associated With Disease Progression in Scleroderma-Associated Interstitial Lung Disease

OBJECTIVE

Systemic sclerosis-associated interstitial lung disease (SSc-ILD) is characterized by variable clinical outcomes, activation of innate immune pattern-recognition receptors (PRRs), and accumulation of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA)-expressing myofibroblasts. The aim of this study was to identify an association between these entities and mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA), an endogenous ligand for the intracellular DNA-sensing PRRs Toll-like receptor 9 (TLR-9) and cyclic GMP-AMP synthase/stimulator of interferon genes (cGAS/STING), which has yet to be determined.

METHODS

Human lung fibroblasts (HLFs) from normal donors and SSc-ILD explants were treated with synthetic CpG DNA and assayed for α-SMA expression and extracellular mtDNA using quantitative polymerase chain reaction for the human MT-ATP6 gene. Plasma MT-ATP6 concentrations were evaluated in 2 independent SSc-ILD cohorts and demographically matched controls. The ability of SSc-ILD and control plasma to induce TLR-9 and cGAS/STING activation was evaluated with commercially available HEK 293 reporter cells. Plasma concentrations of type I interferons (IFNs), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and oxidized DNA were measured using electrochemiluminescence and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay-based methods. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) precipitated from plasma were evaluated for MT-ATP6 concentrations and proteomics via liquid chromatography mass spectrometry.

RESULTS

Normal HLFs and SSc-ILD fibroblasts developed increased α-SMA expression and MT-ATP6 release following CpG stimulation. Plasma mtDNA concentrations were increased in the 2 SSc-ILD cohorts, reflective of ventilatory decline, and were positively associated with both TLR-9 and cGAS/STING activation as well as type I IFN and IL-6 expression. Plasma mtDNA was not oxidized and was conveyed by EVs displaying a proteomics profile consistent with a multicellular origin.

CONCLUSION

These findings demonstrate a previously unrecognized connection between EV-encapsulated mtDNA, clinical outcomes, and intracellular DNA-sensing PRR activation in SSc-ILD. Further study of these interactions could catalyze novel mechanistic and therapeutic insights into SSc-ILD and related disorders.