Olivary body exposure through far lateral and lower retrosigmoid approaches. Comparative analysis of the exposed surface and angle of attack

OBJECTIVES

Throughout neurosurgical history, the treatment of intrinsic lesions located in the brainstem has been subject of much controversy. The brainstem is the anatomical structure of the central nervous system (CNS) that presents the highest concentration of nuclei and fibers, and its simple manipulation can lead to significant morbidity and mortality. Once one of the safe entry points at the medulla oblongata has been established, we wanted to evaluate the safest approach to the olivary body (the most used safe entry zone on the anterolateral surface of the medulla oblongata). The proposed objective was to evaluate the working channel from the surface of each of the far lateral and retrosigmoid approaches to the olivary body: distances, angles of attack and channel content.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

To complete this work, a total of 10 heads injected with red/blue silicone were used. A total of 40 approaches were made in the 10 heads used (20 retrosigmoid and 20 far lateral). After completing the anatomical study and obtaining the data referring to all the approaches performed, it was decided to expand the sample of this research study by using 30 high-definition magnetic resonance imaging of anonymous patients without cranial or cerebral pathology. The reference points used were the same ones defined in the anatomical study. After defining the working channels in each of the approaches, the working distances, angle of attack, exposed surface, and the number of neurovascular structures present in the central trajectory were analyzed.

RESULTS

The distances to the cranial and medial region of the olivary body were 52.71 mm (SD 3.59) from the retrosigmoid approach and 27.94 mm (SD 3.99) from the far lateral; to the most basal region of the olivary body, the distances were 49.93 (SD 3.72) from the retrosigmoid approach and 18.1 mm (SD 2.5) from the far lateral. The angle of attack to the caudal region was 19.44° (SD 1.3) for the retrosigmoid approach and 50.97° (SD 8.01) for the far lateral approach; the angle of attack to the cranial region was 20.3° (SD 1.22) for the retrosigmoid and 39.9° (SD 5.12) for the far lateral. Regarding neurovascular structures, the probability of finding an arterial structure is higher for the lateral far, whereas a neural structure will be more likely from a retrosigmoid approach.

CONCLUSIONS

As conclusions of this work, we can say that far lateral approach presents more favorable conditions for the microsurgical treatment of intrinsic bulbar and bulbomedullary lesions approached through the caudal half of the olivary body. In those cases of bulbar and pontine-bulbar lesions approached through the cranial half of the olivary body, the retrosigmoid approach can be considered for selected cases.

Stereotactic radiosurgery for intracranial cavernous malformations of the deep-seated locations: systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

To determine the outcomes of stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) for deep-seated (brainstem, basal ganglia, thalamus, cerebellar peduncle) intracranial cavernous malformations (ICMs).

METHODS

A systematic review and meta-analysis was performed according to PRISMA and MOOSE guidelines. The main outcomes were comparing pre- and post-SRS hemorrhage rates, using the pooled risk ratios (RR) as the measure of effect. Additionally, the study assessed lesion volume changes and radiation-injury incidence.

RESULTS

Data of 850 patients across 14 studies were included in the meta-analysis. The pooled RR of all deep-seated ICMs show a decrease in hemorrhage rate after SRS compared to pre-SRS over the total follow-up period (RR =0.13), initial 2 years (RR =0.22), and after 2 years (RR =0.07). For 9 studies that reported hemorrhage rate of the brainstem only, the pooled RR shows a decrease of hemorrhage rate after SRS compared to pre-SRS over the total follow-up period (RR =0.13), initial 2 years (RR =0.19), and after 2 years (RR =0.07). Volumetric regression was achieved in 44.25% and stability in 56.1%. The pooled incidence of symptomatic and permanent radiation injury was 9% (95% CI, 7-11) and 3% (95% CI, 0-1.9%), respectively.

CONCLUSION

SRS appears effective in reducing hemorrhage rates for deep-seated ICMs. The risk of symptomatic radiation injury is low. Given the high risk of surgical morbidity, SRS is a reasonable treatment option for patients with deep-seated ICMs with at least one prior hemorrhage.

Endoscopic Endonasal Approach to the Orbit: A Case Series and Clinical Experience Emphasizing the Advantages of the Ipsilateral Mononostril Technique

BACKGROUND

Lesions situated within the orbit pose significant challenges in management due to the confined space they occupy and their proximity to critical anatomical structures. The objective of our study is to assess the feasibility of the ipsilateral endoscopic endonasal approach for orbital cavernous hemangiomas and to comprehend the surgical anatomy of the orbital apex and inferomedial orbital structures.

METHODS

Thirteen patients (8 women, 5 men), with ages ranging from 25 to 54 years (mean 35.2 ± 8.3 years), with orbital cavernous hemangioma who underwent surgery via the ipsilateral mononostril endoscopic endonasal approach between August 2018 and August 2023 were retrospectively evaluated. Demographic characteristics, clinical data, radiographic images, and clinical outcomes of the patients were collected from digital medical records.

RESULTS

The left orbit was more commonly affected (9 left, 4 right). The average postoperative follow-up duration was 22.2 months (range: 6-50 months). Among the 13 cases of orbital cavernous hemangioma, 1 (7.7%) was located in the extraconal compartment, and 12 (92.3%) were situated in the intraconal compartment. Complete surgical resection of the tumor was successfully achieved in all patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study highlights the potential advantages of employing a purely ipsilateral mononostril endoscopic endonasal approach for orbital surgery, particularly for accessing the orbital apex and managing medial and inferomedial orbital lesions. This technique holds promise for reducing morbidity and enhancing outcomes, especially when combined with careful patient selection, preoperative planning, and advanced endoscopic skills.

Microsurgical Resection for Cavernous Malformation of the Uncus: 3D-Operative Video

Cavernous malformations (CMs) are rare and often oligosymptomatic vascular lesions. The main symptoms include seizure and focal neurologic deficits.1-3 Depending on the symptomatology, location, size, and risk factors for bleeding, like the presence of a developmental venous anomaly, CMs can be highly morbid. Thus surgical resection may be considered. Deep-seated and eloquent CMs, like those in the uncus, can be challenging.4,5 In Video 1, we present a 23-year-old male adult who developed focal seizures (i.e., oral automatisms) after an episode of sudden intense headache 1 year ago. His neurologic examination was unremarkable. The patient consented to the procedure and publication of his image. Nevertheless, his magnetic resonance images showed an uncal 2-cm Zabramski type I CM. We exposed the insula and its limen through a right pterional craniotomy and transsylvian corridor. During the video, we discuss the surgical nuances to access and resect this CM lesion en bloc while preserving important vascular structures and white matter tracts. Postoperative neuroimaging demonstrated total resection. In postoperative day 1, the patient had 1 episode of generalized seizure and evolved with contralateral hemiparesis. The patient had a good recovery and was discharged on postoperative day 21. At the 6-month follow-up, the patient had no new epileptic events and presented complete weakness improvement. Through this minimally invasive and well-known surgical corridor, we preserve the mesial and lateral portion of the temporal lobe, reducing the risk of lesions to the Meyer loop and limbic association area.

Giant brainstem cavernoma in pediatrics: diagnosis and treatment-case report

INTRODUCTION

Brain cavernomas or cavernous angiomas are a rare vascular malformation in the general population, even more so in pediatric patients. Their incidence in this group is less than 5% of all vascular malformations. They are typically found in the cerebral hemispheres in cortico-subcortical locations and, more rarely, in the brainstem.

OBJECTIVE

To describe the diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up of a case involving a pediatric patient with a giant cavernoma in the brainstem at J.P. Garrahan Hospital.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The clinical history of the case was retrieved from the database of J.P. Garrahan Pediatric Hospital. Additionally, a literature search was conducted in high-impact factor journals using the PubMed database.

CONCLUSION

Both the authors of this study and experts consulted through the literature agree that, given the eloquence of the affected area and its challenging accessibility, close monitoring and an expectant approach are advisable for such patients. Nevertheless, when the onset of the case warrants it, surgical intervention is deemed necessary in emergency situations and following the acute phase for complete resolution of the pathology.

Axial Sections of Brainstem Safe Entry Zones and Clinical Importance of Intrinsic Structures: A Review

Brainstem surgery is more difficult and riskier than surgeries in other parts of the brain due to the high density of critical tracts and cranial nerves nuclei in this region. For this reason, some safe entry zones into the brainstem have been described. The main purpose of this article is to bring on the agenda the significance of the intrinsic structures of the safe entry zones to the brainstem. Having detailed information about anatomic localization of these sensitive structures is important to predict and avoid possible surgical complications. In order to better understand this complex anatomy, we schematically drew the axial sections of the brainstem showing the intrinsic structures at the level of 9 safe entry zones that we used, taking into account basic neuroanatomy books and atlases. Some illustrations are also supported with intraoperative pictures to provide better surgical orientation. The second purpose is to remind surgeons of clinical syndromes that may occur in case of surgical injury to these delicate structures. Advanced techniques such as tractography, neuronavigation, and neuromonitorization should be used in brainstem surgery, but detailed neuroanatomic knowledge about safe entry zones and a meticulous surgery are more important. The axial brainstem sections we have drawn can help young neurosurgeons better understand this complex anatomy.

Optochiasmatic Cavernomas: Updated systematic review and proposal of a novel classification with surgical approaches

Cavernomas are histologically benign vascular malformations found at different sites in the brain. A rare site for such cavernomas, however, is the anterior optic pathway, comprising the optic nerve, chiasma, and optic tract-called optochiasmatic cavernomas (OCC). These lesions usually present with sudden onset or progressive vision loss, headache, and features mimicking pituitary apoplexy. In this paper, we describe a case of OCC operated at our center. We carry out an updated review of literature depicting cases of OCC, their clinical presentation, management, and postoperative complications. We also propose a novel classification system based on lesion location and further analyze these cavernoma types with respect to the surgical approach used and visual outcome. A 30-year-old lady had presented with a 3-week history of progressive bilateral vision loss and headache. Based on imaging, she was suspected to have a cavernous angioma of the chiasma and left optic tract. Due to progressive vision deterioration, the lesion was surgically excised using pterional craniotomy. Postoperatively, her visual symptoms improved, but she developed diabetes insipidus. Clinical and radiological follow-up has been done for 18 months after surgery. A total of 81 cases have been described in the literature, including the present case. Chiasmal apoplexy is the most common presentation. Surgical excision is the standard of care. Our analysis based on lesion location shows the most appropriate surgical approach to be used for each cavernoma type. Visual outcome correlates with the preoperative visual status. Visual outcome is good in patients presenting with acute chiasmal apoplexy, and when complete surgical excision is performed. The endonasal endoscopic approach was found to provide the best visual outcome. In addition to preoperative visual status, complete surgical excision predicts favorable visual outcomes in OCC. Our proposed classification system guides the appropriate surgical approach required for a particular location of the cavernoma.

Campylobacter fetus seeding of a cavernous malformation resulting in brain abscess: case report and literature review

Microbial seeding of a cerebral cavernous malformation is an extremely rare occurrence with only 3 cases reported in the literature thus far. Campylobacter fetus is an opportunistic pathogen that rarely causes neurological infection with only 3 cases of C. fetus cerebral abscesses and 38 cases of C. fetus meningitis reported in the literature. There have been no cases of cerebral cavernous malformation seeding by C. fetus reported to date. We report the first case of cerebral cavernous malformation seeding by C. fetus, a case occurring in a previously healthy 16-year-old female who presented with suspected left cerebellar cavernous malformation with subacute hemorrhage. She underwent a suboccipital craniectomy for the resection of the cavernous malformation with additional intraoperative findings suggestive of cerebral abscess. Following positive blood and CSF cultures and surgical pathology results, the patient was diagnosed with C. fetus meningoencephalitis with co-infected left cerebellar cavernous malformation. This is the fourth reported case of microbial seeding of a cerebral cavernous malformation, and to our knowledge, the first case of a C. fetus-infected cavernous malformation. Compared to previous reports, the clinical events of this case strongly support the presence of a preexisting lesion that was secondarily seeded versus de novo formation as a result of prior infection.

Recurrent haemorrhagic pontine cavernoma resection via a retrosigmoid microsurgical approach

BACKGROUND

Brainstem cavernomas occasionally require surgical treatment. Appropriate patient selection and thorough understanding of the anatomy and technical nuances involved in microsurgical resection is a pre-requisite in undertaking these challenging cases.

CASE DESCRIPTION

We present a video case of a patient with a recurrent haemorrhagic pontine cavernoma. A step-by-step commentary of surgical footage is provided along with clinical, anatomical and technical learning points pertinent to the safe surgical management of these lesions.

Radiation-Induced Cerebral Cavernous Malformations: A Single-Center Experience and Systematic Literature Review

OBJECTIVE

Radiation was first demonstrated to be associated with cavernomagenesis in 1992. Since then, a growing body of literature has shown the unique course and presentation of radiation-induced cavernous malformations (RICMs). This study summarizes the literature on RICMs and presents a single-center experience.

METHODS

A prospectively maintained single institution vascular malformation database was searched for all cases of intracranial cavernous malformation (January 1, 1997-December 31, 2021). For patients with a diagnosis of RICM, information on demographic characteristics, surgical treatments, radiation, and surgical outcomes was obtained and analyzed. A comprehensive literature search was conducted using PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, and Web of Science databases for all reported cases of RICM.

RESULTS

A retrospective review of 1662 patients treated at a single institution yielded 10 patients with prior radiation treatment in the neck or head region and a subsequent diagnosis of intracranial RICM. The median (interquartile range) latency between radiation and presentation was 144 (108-192) months. Nine of 10 patients underwent surgery; symptoms improved for 5 patients, worsened for 3, and were stable for 1. The systematic literature review yielded 64 publications describing 248 patients with RICMs. Of the 248 literature review cases, 71 (28.6%) involved surgical resection. Of 39 patients with reported surgical outcomes, 32 (82%) experienced improvement.

CONCLUSIONS

RICMs have a unique course and epidemiology. RICMs should be considered when patients with a history of radiation present with neurologic impairment. When RICMs are identified, symptomatic patients can be treated effectively with surgical excision and close follow-up.

Propranolol or Beta-Blockers for Cerebral Cavernous Malformation: a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Literature in Both Preclinical and Clinical Studies

Cerebral cavernous malformation (CCM), either sporadic or familial, is a devastating vascular malformation affecting the central nervous system that can present with intracerebral hemorrhage, seizure, and new focal neurologic deficits resulting in substantial morbidity and mortality. To date, there is no effective evidence-based preventive regimen. There have been several preclinical and clinical studies investigating the potential mechanisms and benefits of beta-blockers, especially on propranolol. We aimed to conduct a systematic review on the published literature investigating the use of beta-blockers in the treatment of CCM, including both preclinical and clinical studies between 2008 and 2023 using public databases. A total of 2 preclinical studies and 6 clinical studies met the inclusion/exclusion criteria and were included. Data was extracted and synthesized from 5 clinical studies for meta-analysis. The meta-analysis failed to demonstrate a statistically significant protective effect of beta-blockers in preventing intracerebral hemorrhage or developing focal neurologic deficits in subjects with CCM (overall effect = 0.78 (0.20, 3.11), p = 0.73). Overall, there was a paucity of high quality clinical trials, partially due to limited cases of CCM. Addressing this gap may require collaborative efforts at a national or international level. In this review, we summarized all barriers and opportunities on this topic. Additionally, we proposed establishing an evidence-based approach on the use of beta-blockers in preventing recurrent hemorrhage and focal neurological deficits in patients with CCM.

Natural History and Outcomes of Cavernous Transformation of the Portal Vein in Cirrhosis

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Cavernous transformation of the portal vein can occur after portal vein thrombosis (PVT). In this study, we investigated clinical complications associated with cavernous transformation in the context of cirrhosis and PVT.

METHODS

In this retrospective cohort analysis, 204 patients with cirrhosis and PVT with or without cavernous transformation were identified using MUSC's Clinical Data Warehouse between January 1, 2013, through December 31, 2019. Complete demographic data, clinical history, and laboratory tests were abstracted from the electronic medical record.

RESULTS

Of 204 patients, 41 (20%) had cavernous transformation. MELD, Child-Pugh, and Charlson Comorbidity Index scores were similar among groups. There were no significant differences in the prevalence of esophageal varices (with or without bleeding), splenomegaly, or hepatic encephalopathy in patients with and without cavernous transformation, although ascites tended to be lower in patients with cavernous transformation (31/41 (76%) vs 142/163 (87%), p = 0.06). Patients with cavernous transformation were significantly less likely to have hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) (13/41 (32%) vs 81/163 (50%), p < 0.05) and had significantly lower APRI (1.4 vs 2.0, p < 0.05) and Fib-4 (4.7 vs 6.5, p < 0.05). Patients with cavernous transformation had lower 5-year mortality (12/41 (29%) vs 81/163 (49%) died, p = 0.06). The 10-year mortality of patients with cavernous transformation without HCC was significantly lower than in those without cavernous transformation (8/28 (29%) vs 46/82 (56%), respectively, p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with cavernous transformation appeared to have better outcomes than those without cavernous transformation.

[Secondary tumors following radiation therapy and chemotherapy : Incidence of cavernous hemangiomas]

PROBLEM

There is a risk of developing secondary central nervous system (CNS) tumors after cranial radiation therapy. Meningiomas and pituitary tumors are also increasingly treated with radiation therapy, which means that the risk of secondary tumors from radiation in children and adults must be communicated.

METHODS

Studies in children show that radiation causes a 7- to 10-fold increase in subsequent CNS tumors with a cumulative incidence over 20 years ranging from 1.03 to 28.9. The latency period for the occurrence of secondary tumors ranged from 5.5 to 30 years, with gliomas developing after 5-10 years and meningiomas around 15 years after irradiation. The latency period for secondary CNS tumors in adults ranged from 5 to 34 years.

CONCLUSION

After radiation treatment, tumors can rarely occur as secondary sequelae, mostly meningiomas and gliomas, but also cavernomas. The treatment and long-term results of radiation-induced CNS tumors showed no worse results than primary CNS tumors over the course of time.

A rare case of rebleeding brainstem cavernoma in a 5-month-old-girl

Background

Brainstem cavernomas (BSCs) are relatively rare intracranial vascular lesions that, if left untreated, can be devastating to the patient. The lesions are associated with a myriad of symptoms, depending on their size and location. However, medullary lesions present acutely with cardiorespiratory dysfunction. We present the case of a 5-month-old child with a BSC.

Case Description

A 5-month-old child presented for the 2^nd time with sudden respiratory distress and excessive salivation. On the first presentation, brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed a 13 × 12 × 14 mm cavernoma at the pontomedullary junction. She was managed conservatively but presented 3 months later with tetraparesis, bulbar palsy, and severe respiratory distress. A repeat MRI showed enlargement of the cavernoma to 27 × 28 × 26 mm with hemorrhage in different stages. After hemodynamic stabilization, complete cavernoma resection was performed through the telovelar approach with neuromonitoring. Postoperatively, the child recovered motor function, but the bulbar syndrome persisted with hypersalivation. She was discharged on day 55 with a tracheostomy.

Conclusion

BSCs are rare lesions that are associated with severe neurological deficits due to the compactness of important cranial nerve nuclei and other tracts in the brainstem. Early surgical excision and hematoma evacuation for superficially presenting lesions can be lifesaving. However, the risk of postoperative neurological deficits is still a major concern in these patients.

How to combine the use of intraoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and awake craniotomy for microsurgical resection of hemorrhagic cavernous malformation in eloquent area: a case report

BACKGROUND

Cavernous malformations are clusters of abnormal and hyalinized capillaries without interfering brain tissue. Here, we present a cavernous malformation operated under awake conditions, due to location, in an eloquent area and using intraoperative magnetic resonance imaging due to patient's movement upon the awake phase.

CASE PRESENTATION

We present the pre-, per-, and postoperative course of an inferior parietal cavernous malformation, located in eloquent area, in a 27-year-old right-handed Caucasian male, presenting with intralesional hemorrhage and epilepsy. Preoperative diffusion tensor imaging has shown the cavernous malformation at the interface between the arcuate fasciculus and the inferior fronto-occipital fasciculus. We describe the microsurgical approach, combining preoperative diffusion tensor imaging, neuronavigation, awake microsurgical resection, and intraoperative magnetic resonance imaging.

CONCLUSION

Complete microsurgical en bloc resection has been performed and is feasible even in eloquent locations. Intraoperative magnetic resonance imaging was considered an important adjunct, particularly used in this case as the patient moved during the "awake" phase of the surgery and thus neuronavigation was not accurate anymore. Postoperative course was marked by a unique, generalized seizure without any adverse event. Immediate and 3 months postoperative magnetic resonance imaging confirmed the absence of any residue. Pre- and postoperative neuropsychological exams were unremarkable.

Management of splanchnic vein thrombosis

The expression splanchnic vein thrombosis encompasses Budd-Chiari syndrome and portal vein thrombosis. These disorders have common characteristics: they are both rare diseases which can cause portal hypertension and its complications. Budd-Chiari syndrome and portal vein thrombosis in the absence of underlying liver disease share many risk factors, among which myeloproliferative neoplasms represent the most common; a rapid comprehensive work-up for risk factors of thrombosis is needed in these patients. Long-term anticoagulation is indicated in most patients. Portal vein thrombosis can also develop in patients with cirrhosis and in those with porto-sinusoidal vascular liver disease. The presence and nature of underlying liver disease impacts the management of portal vein thrombosis. Indications for anticoagulation in patients with cirrhosis are growing, while transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt is now a second-line option. Due to the rarity of these diseases, studies yielding high-grade evidence are scarce. However, collaborative studies have provided new insight into the management of these patients. This article focuses on the causes, diagnosis, and management of patients with Budd-Chiari syndrome, portal vein thrombosis without underlying liver disease, or cirrhosis with non-malignant portal vein thrombosis.

Clinical presentation, natural history, and outcomes for infantile intracranial cavernous malformations: case series and systematic review of the literature

INTRODUCTION

Intracranial cavernous malformations (CMs) are rare vascular malformations of the central nervous system in children. Infantile patients, being a developmentally vulnerable age group, pose a special challenge for management of these lesions. We pooled data from infantile patients diagnosed at our institution and individual cases published in the literature to provide input towards therapeutic decision-making.

METHODS

A systematic search of PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase, and Scopus was performed in accordance with PRISMA guidelines to identify all reported cases of intracranial CMs in the literature for infantile patients aged ≤ 2 years. In addition, cases from our institution diagnosed between 2010 and 2020 were also included. Individual cases were pooled and analyzed for clinical presentation, natural history, and outcomes from conservative and surgical management.

RESULTS

A total of 36 cases were included, of which 32 were identified from the literature. Median age at presentation was 14 months (range: 2 days to 24 months) months; 53% (n = 19) were females. Most cavernomas (64%, 23/36) were supratentorial, while 30% (n = 11) were located in brainstem and 5.5% (n = 2) in the cerebellum. With the exception of one patient, all cases were reported to be symptomatic; seizures (n = 15/31, 48.3%) and motor deficits (n = 13/31, 42%) were the most common symptom modalities. A total of 13 patients were managed conservatively upon initial presentation. No symptomatic hemorrhages were observed during 26 total person-years of follow-up. A total of 77% (28/36) underwent surgery; either upfront (23/28, 82%) at initial presentation or following conservative management. Among 12 patients who had preoperative seizures, 11/12 (91.6%) achieved seizure freedom post-resection. Among 7 patients who presented with hemiparesis preoperatively, 5 (71%) demonstrated some improvement, while 1 remained unchanged, and another patient with a brainstem cavernous malformation had worsening of motor function postoperatively. Postoperative recurrence was noted in 3 cases (3/27, 11%).

CONCLUSION

Annual risk of repeat hemorrhage may be low for infantile patients with intracranial cavernous malformations; however, better follow-up rates and higher number of cases are needed to make a definitive assertion. Surgical resection may be associated with high rates of epilepsy cure and provide improvement in neurological function in a select number of cases.

Predictors of future haemorrhage from cerebral cavernous malformations: a retrospective cohort study

Cerebral cavernous malformations (CCMs) are commonly diagnosed, with a low reported rate of haemorrhage on long-term follow-up. The identification of factors predictive of future haemorrhage risk would assist in guiding the management of patients with CCM. The aim of this study was to identify variables associated with haemorrhage, and calculate haemorrhage risk in CCM. We conducted a retrospective study of patients diagnosed with a CCM, managed at a specialist tertiary neuroscience centre (2007-2019). The primary outcome was symptomatic haemorrhage, and secondary outcomes were variables associated with increased risk of haemorrhage, using multivariable Cox regression analysis. Included were 545 patients, with 734 confirmed cavernomas. Median age at diagnosis was 47 (interquartile range [IQR] 35-60), with a median follow-up duration after diagnosis of 46 months (IQR 19-85). Of the patients, 15.0% had multiple lesions (N = 82/545). Symptomatic presentation was observed in 52.5% of patients (N = 286/545). The annual haemorrhage rate was 1.00% per lesion-year (25 events in 2512 lesion-years), and higher in those with symptoms at presentation (1.50% per lesion-year, 22 events vs 0.29%, 3 events, P < 0.001). The variables associated with symptomatic haemorrhage were increased size (hazard ratio [HR] 1.04, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.01-1.07, P = 0.004), eloquent location (HR 2.63, 95% CI 1.12-6.16, P = 0.026), and symptomatic haemorrhage at presentation (HR 5.37, 95% CI 2.40-11.99, P < 0.001). This study demonstrated that CCMs have a low haemorrhage rate. Increased size, eloquent location, and haemorrhage at presentation appear to be predictive of a higher risk of haemorrhage, and could be used to stratify management protocols.

The use of stereotactic MRI-guided laser interstitial thermal therapy for the treatment of pediatric cavernous malformations: the SUNY Upstate Golisano Children's Hospital experience

PURPOSE

Cavernous malformations (CM) are central nervous system lesions characterized by interlaced vascular sinusoids coated with endothelial cells without intervening parenchyma. Magnetic resonance imaging-guided laser interstitial thermal therapy (MRIgLITT) is a minimally invasive treatment modality that can precisely treat pathologic cerebral tissue, making it an effective alternative for the management of cavernomas. We describe the outcomes of a series of pediatric patients with cavernous brain malformations treated with MRIgLITT between 2014 and 2018 at our institution.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed 11 cavernomas in 6 pediatric patients treated with MRIgLITT. Both the Visualase System^® and/or Neuroblate^® systems were used. A variation of the surgical technique on the application of the laser was developed. Post-ablation MRIs were obtained to assess ablated areas.

RESULTS

A total of 11 cavernomas in 6 patients were treated with MRIgLITT. Median age was 15 years (12 to 17 years); 75% were males. Presenting symptoms were headache (75%) and seizures (25%). Two patients presented with multiple CMs. All lesions in this study were supratentorial (cerebral hemispheres 81.8%, corpus callosum 9.1%, basal ganglia 9.1%). Our surgical technique was well-tolerated, with no significant adverse events observed. Hospital stay for all patients was less than 48 hours.

CONCLUSION

MRIgLITT is an effective minimally invasive technique for the treatment of pediatric CMs. It represents a useful and safe tool, when other therapeutic alternatives may represent a greater risk of surgical morbidity.

Cerebral cavernous malformation: Management, outcomes, and surveillance strategies - A single centre retrospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

Cerebral cavernous malformations (CCM) may undergo a period of clinical and/or radiographical surveillance that precedes or follows definitive treatment. There are no international guidelines on the optimal surveillance strategy. This study describes the surveillance strategies at our centre and explore the related clinical outcomes.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective study of adult patients with CCMs referred to a neurovascular service over an 8-year period, to determine the frequency and type of surveillance, intervention, and explore the associated outcomes. We report our findings adhering to STROBE guidelines.

RESULTS

133 patients (Male:Female 73:60; men age 42 years; range 12-82) were included. CCMs were identified in patients first presenting with symptomatic intracerebral haemorrhage (42.11%); headache, focal neurological deficit, or seizure without haemorrhage (41.35%); or, as an incidental finding (16.54%). The most common CCM location was supratentorial (59.40%), followed by brain stem (21.80%), cerebellum (10.53%) and basal ganglia (6.02%). Of the 133 patients, 77 patients (57.89%) were managed conservatively, 49 patients (36.84%) were managed by surgical resection alone, and seven patients (5.26%) were managed with stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS). Patients follow-up had a mean duration of 65.94 months, and varied widely (SD = 52.59; range 0-265), for a total of 730.83 person-years of follow up. During surveillance, 16 patients suffered an ICH equating to a bleeding rate of 2.19 per 100 patient years. CCMs that increased in size had a higher bleeding rate (p = 8.58 ×10^-4). There were 8 (6.02%) cases where routine clinic review or MRI resulted in a change in management.

CONCLUSIONS

Our single centre retrospective study supports existing literature relating to presentation and sequalae of CCM, with an increase in CCM size being associated with higher rates of detected bleeding. There remains heterogeneity, even within a single centre, on the frequency and modality of surveillance. Further, there are no international guidelines or high-quality data that recommends the optimal duration and frequency of surveillance, and its effect on clinical outcomes. This is a future research direction.

Giant cavernous malformation of the posterior fossa with lymphangiomatous phenotype, associated with orbital venolymphatic anomaly in an 11-month-old patient: case report and literature review

The synchronous presentation of venolymphatic anomalies of the orbit and noncontiguous intracranial cavernous malformations is uncommon. Herein, we present a case of an 11-month-old female patient diagnosed with orbital venolymphatic anomaly associated with a large cavernous malformation in the posterior fossa, who underwent complete surgical resection of the latter. The immunohistochemical analysis was positive for podoplanin, a marker expressed by lymphatic endothelial cells, but not vascular endothelium. This exceptional finding suggests lymphatic involvement in the etiology of the lesion. In our review of the literature, we did not find similar cases in patients under 1 year of age.

Resection of Quadrigeminal Midbrain Cavernous Malformation Using the Supracollicular Safe Entry Zone

Brainstem cavernous malformations (BSCMs) are rare and challenging neurosurgical lesions that demand a sophisticated and nuanced strategy for resection. A key element of surgical planning for BSCM resection is brainstem safe entry zones, a set of neuroanatomically defined locations where a pial resection can be executed with minimal risk to the adjacent central nervous system tracts and nuclei.^1-5 Quadrigeminal BSCMs are particularly unusual and can be accessed via the supra-, inter-, or infracollicular safe entry zones.^2,4,5 We report a unique demonstration of the supracollicular safe entry zone for the resection of a symptomatic hemorrhagic quadrigeminal plate BSCM. A man in his early 60s presented with transient hearing loss and visual dysfunction. A right quadrigeminal midbrain cavernous malformation was identified on magnetic resonance imaging. Surgical resection was performed with the patient in the sitting position. A bipedicular suboccipital flap, torcular craniotomy, and midline supracerebellar infratentorial approach were used. The lesion itself was accessed via the supracollicular safe entry zone, where pial hemosiderin staining was also encountered, using a linear transverse incision just above the right superior colliculus. Gross total resection was achieved, and the patient recovered from surgery with no new neurologic deficits (Video 1).

Cerebellar hemorrhage in a healthy young adult: a case report

Background

Cavernous venous malformation is an uncommon entity that occurs in around 0.5% of the general population. Cerebellar cavernous venous malformation accounts for 1.2–11.8% of intracranial cavernous venous malformation cases. Patients are commonly asymptomatic until a hemorrhage occurs. In approximately 20% of the cases, cavernous venous malformation and developmental venous anomalies occur together, called mixed vascular malformation. Our case report reveals the imaging features of the mixed vascular malformation and highlights the appropriate imaging modality and sequence to detect the abnormalities.

Case presentation

We report the case of a 15-year-old Malay male, a healthy young male who presented with dizziness, vomiting, and mild headache for 1 month. Computed tomography brain imaging at presentation revealed cerebellar hemorrhage with multiple cavernous venous malformation and coexisting developmental venous anomalies, which was then confirmed by magnetic resonance imaging. The patient was started on dexamethasone 4 mg four times a day, observed in the ward, and discharged well without neurological sequelae.

Conclusion

A cavernous malformation with concurrent developmental venous anomalies requires accurate diagnosis. Our case report contributes to the literature on the imaging diagnosis of this disease, which is beneficial for current and future reference.

Cavernous hemangioma of the peripherical nerve: A case report

Cavernous hemangiomas, also known as deep hemangiomas are benign tumors of blood vessels, including normal and abnormal vascular structures, that develop in skin tissue and sometimes even in deep tissues. Its intraneural development in the peripheral nerve is very rare with less than 50 cases reported in the literature. We present a case of a cavernous hemangioma of the medial sural nerve in a patient with symptoms of severe pain and allodynia with complete resolution of symptoms with microsurgery.

Infratentorial developmental venous anomaly concurrent with a cavernoma and dural arteriovenous fistula

OBJECTIVES

While developmental venous anomaly (DVA) may be associated with cavernous malformation, mixed vascular malformation associated with dural arteriovenous fistula (dAVF) has not been previously reported. We observed a case with rare association of infratentorial DVA, cavernous malformation, and dAVF that presented with cerebellar ataxia. We report our endovascular treatment for this complex cerebrovascular condition.

CASE PRESENTATION

A 32-year-old woman with ataxia had an infratentorial DVA associated with a cavernoma and dAVF. The dAVF had two shunting points. The dAVF was fed by the posterior meningeal arteries and drained through the sigmoid sinus into the transverse sinus. The dAVF was also fed by the occipital artery and retrogradely drained through the left jugular bulb into the dilated collecting vein of the DVA. Endovascular embolization was performed for the dAVF and dilated collecting vein of the DVA. Postoperative complications did not occur after embolization with no recurrence for three years.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first reported case of infratentorial DVA associated with a cavernoma and dAVF. Endovascular treatment was effective in treating this symptomatic complex cerebrovascular disorder.

Anatomo-functional evaluation for management and surgical treatment of insular cavernous malformation: a case series

BACKGROUND

Insular cavernous malformations (iCMs) are very rare vascular lesions. Their surgical management is challenging, due to their complex functional and vascular relationship. The continuous improvement of intra-operative tools and neuroimaging techniques has progressively enhanced the safety of iCM surgery. Nevertheless, the best surgical approach remains controversial.

OBJECTIVE

To analyze the potential role of an anatomo-functional classification to guide the iCMs' management.

METHODS

The study included patients affected by iCMs and referred to the Senior Author (FA). All cases were divided in 2 groups, according to a mainly pial growth pattern (exophytic group) or a subcortical one (endophytic group). Endophytic iCM was further subdivided in 3 subgroups, based on the insular gyri involved. According to this classification, each patient underwent a specific additional neuroimaging investigation and surgical evaluation.

RESULTS

A total of 24 patients were included. In the surgical group, trans-sylvian (TS) approach was used in 6 patients with exophytic or Zone I endophytic iCMs. The transcortical (TC) approach with awake monitoring was used in 6 cases of Zone II endophytic vascular lesions. Both TS and trans-intraparietal sulcal (TIS) approach were used for 3 cases of Zone III endophytic iCM. At follow-up, 3 patients were fully recovered from a transient speech impairment while a permanent morbidity was observed in one case.

CONCLUSIONS

ICMs represent a single entity with peculiar clinical and surgical aspects. The proposed iCM classification focuses on anatomical and functional concerns, aiming to suggest the best pre-operative work-up and the surgical evaluation.

Five-year symptomatic hemorrhage risk of untreated brainstem cavernous malformations in a prospective cohort

Hemorrhage of brainstem cavernous malformation (CM) would cause various symptoms and severe disability. The study aimed to elaborate on the 5-year actuarial cumulative hazard of symptomatic hemorrhage. Patients diagnosed in our institute between 2009 and 2013 were prospectively registered. All clinical data were obtained, follow-up was performed, and risk factors were evaluated. Four hundred sixty-eight patients (217 female, 46.4%) were included in the study with a median follow-up duration of 79.0 months. A total of 137 prospective hemorrhages occurred in 107 patients (22.9%) during 1854.0 patient-years. Multivariate Cox analysis found age ≥ 55 years (hazard ratio (HR) 2.166, p = 0.002), DVA (HR 1.576, p = 0.026), superficial-seated location (HR 1.530, p = 0.047), and hemorrhage on admission (HR 2.419, p = 0.026) as independent risk factors for hemorrhage. The 5-year cumulative hazard of hemorrhage was 30.8% for the overall cohort, 47.8% for 60 patients with age ≥ 55 years, 43.7% for 146 patients with DVA, 37.9% for 272 patients with superficial-seated lesions, and 37.2% for 341 patients with hemorrhage on admission. As a stratified analysis, within subcohort of 341 patients with a hemorrhagic presentation, age ≥ 55 years (HR 3.005, p < 0.001), DVA (HR 1.801, p = 0.010), and superficial-seated location (HR 2.276, p = 0.001) remained independently significant. The 5-year cumulative hazard of hemorrhage was 52.0% for 119 patients with both DVA and hemorrhagic presentation. The 5-year cumulative hemorrhagic risk was 30.8% and was higher in subgroups if harboring risk factors that helped to predict potential hemorrhagic candidates and were useful for treatment decision-making.Clinical Trial Registration-URL: http://www.chictr.org.cn Unique identifier: ChiCTR-POC-17011575.

Giant, symptomatic mixed vascular malformation containing a cavernoma, developmental venous anomaly, and capillary telangiectasia in a 19-month-old infant

Intracranial mixed vascular malformations (MVMs) are defined as any combination of a developmental venous anomaly (DVA), cerebral cavernous malformation (CCM), capillary telangiectasia (CTG), or arteriovenous malformation (AVM) within a single, contiguous lesion. However, most MVMs described in the literature contain only 2 pathologically discrete malformations; juxtaposition of 3 or more abnormalities in a single lesion remains exceedingly rare. We present the case of a 19-month-old female with new onset focal seizures and a 4-cm right basal ganglia lesion initially believed to be an embryonal neoplasm. She subsequently underwent gross total resection (GTR) of the lesion via a transsylvian-transinsular approach. Intraoperatively, the lesion appeared to be heterogenous and highly vascular, with areas of purplish-gray friable tissue. Pathology confirmed the lesion to be a MVM containing a CCM, CTG, and a DVA. This appears to be the first reported case of such a lesion confirmed on pathology in the literature.

Management of pediatric cerebral cavernous malformations with gamma knife radiosurgery: a report of 46 cases

INTRODUCTION

Pediatric cerebral cavernous malformations (CCMs) are commonly treated vascular anomalies with different clinical characteristics than their adult counterparts. Outcomes of Gamma Knife Radiosurgery (GKRS) for pediatric CCMs have not explicitly been reported. This paper reports our experience in managing pediatric CCMs with GKRS.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed the clinical features, GKRS parameters, and clinical and radiological outcomes of 46 children with 64 CCMs.

RESULTS

A total of 46 children, including 19 girls and 27 boys, with a median age of 16 years (3-17 years), were enrolled in the study. The median age at first CCM diagnosis was 13 years (range, 2-17 years). Twenty-two patients (47.8%) had more than one neurological symptom at the time of diagnosis, and the most common presenting symptom was seizure (28.3%). The most common location was supratentorial superficial (53.1%), and 17.4% of patients had multiple CCMs. A developmental venous anomaly was detected in 5 patients (10.9%). During a total of 52.4 retrospective patient-years in patients with > 1 hemorrhage episode, the calculated annual hemorrhage rate was 40.1%. The median post-GKRS follow-up was 79 months (range, 19-175 months), with an overall 306.2 prospective patient years. The annual hemorrhage rate (AHR) during the first 2 years after GKRS and after the initial 2 years was 1.11% and 0.46%, respectively. Regarding clinical factors and GKRS parameters, univariate analysis revealed a significant association with post-GKRS AHR and volume (p = 0.023) only. Patients with pre-GKRS seizures showed favorable seizure control (Engel class I and II) in 8 children (61.5%). There was no mortality in our series.

CONCLUSION

Low AHR following GKRS with no radiation-induced toxicity makes GKRS a therapeutic alternative for pediatric CCMs.

Role of i-CT, i-US, and Neuromonitoring in Surgical Management of Brain Cavernous Malformations and Arteriovenous Malformations: A Case Series

OBJECTIVE

We retrospectively reviewed the institutional experience in patients who underwent microsurgical resection of cavernous malformations (CMs) or arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) using a multimodal intraoperative protocol including neuronavigation, intraoperative ultrasound (i-US), computed tomography (i-CT), and neuromonitoring.

METHODS

Twenty-four patients (14 male), with a mean age of 47.5 years (range 27-73), have been included: 20 of them suffered from CMs and 4 suffered from AVMs. Neuromonitoring was used in 18 cases, when lesions were located in eloquent areas; 2 patients underwent awake craniotomy. First, an i-CT scan with and without contrast was acquired after patient positioning. Navigated B-mode ultrasound acquisition was carried out after dural opening to identify the lesion (CMs or AVMs nidus). Following identification and resection of vascular lesions, postcontrast i-CT (or CT-angio) was performed to detect and localize any small or calcified remnant (in cases of CMs) or residual vessels feeding the nidus (in cases of AVMs).

RESULTS

In 5 cases of CMs and in 1 case of AVM, i-CT identified small residual lesions. In these cases, new i-CT images were uploaded into the navigation system and used for further resection. i-US was useful before starting transsulcal or transcortical approach to identify the lesions and guide the trajectory of the approach. However, several artifacts were observed during subsequent steps of dissection, making image interpretation difficult.

CONCLUSIONS

The combination of different intraoperative real-time imaging modalities (i-CT and i-US), coupled with neuromonitoring, in the surgical management of vascular lesions, particularly if located in eloquent areas, has a positive impact on clinical outcome.

Surgical management of simultaneous supra- and infratentorial hemorrhages in a pediatric patient with multiple cavernomas

Multiple intracranial cavernomas are rare and occur mostly in familial cases. Clinical presentation with simultaneous rupture of two or more lesions has only been reported in four cases to date. A 15-year-old boy presented with simultaneous right frontal and superior vermian hematomas with hydrocephalus. The patient underwent a ventriculoperitoneal shunt, and his magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed multiple cavernomas with bleed in the above-mentioned locations. The patient underwent a midline suboccipital craniotomy and excision of the cavernoma. The supratentorial lesions were left in situ in lieu of small size, no history of seizures, mass effect, or other neurological deficits. The patient recovered well from surgery with significant improvement in truncal ataxia. He remained asymptomatic for supratentorial lesions at follow-up. Cavernomas should be considered as differential diagnoses in cases of multiple intraparenchymal hemorrhages, especially in pediatric patients. The surgical management should be rationalized based on the lesion location, the eloquence of the surrounding parenchyma, mass effect, and the risks of re-rupture. Due to the rarity of multiple simultaneous hemorrhages, the management of multiple cavernomas remains controversial. The patient’s relatives can be screened with MRI to rule out the familial form of the disease. Strict clinical and radiological follow-up is a must in such patients.

Paediatric Cavernous Malformation of the Trigeminal Nerve: Case Report and Review of the Literature

INTRODUCTION

Intradural, extra-axial cerebral cavernous malformations (CCMs) are rare entities and are mostly reported in relation to the optic apparatus or the facial/vestibulocochlear complex. Cranial nerve CCMs tend to follow a clinically aggressive course, with a tendency to progressive neurological dysfunction following intra-lesional haemorrhage or less commonly due to the effects of subarachnoid haemorrhage.

CASE PRESENTATION

We report the first case of a trigeminal CCM presenting in a child with otalgia and left-sided headaches. The patient was initially managed with radiological surveillance but required surgical management following deterioration. We describe the successful treatment of the lesion with microsurgical resection.

CONCLUSION

A CCM should be considered in the differential diagnosis of mass lesions arising in the region of the trigeminal nerve. Surgical resection is recommended to prevent neurological deterioration and may result in significant symptomatic improvement.

Virtual endoscopy assisted pure ventriculoscopic resection of cavernomas occluding foramen of Monroe: Technical note and literature review

OBJECTIVE

Cavernomas at Foramen of Monroe (FoM) are rare cases among the intracranial cavernomas. Pure ventriculoscopic removal of cavernoma at FoM through a single burr hole is challenging and rarely reported.

METHODS

We herein introduced the virtual endoscopy (VE) assisted ventriculoscopic resection to treat the cavernomas at FoM. Two cases diagnosed with cavernomas at FoM, a 31-year-old male patient (case 1) and a 26-year-old male patient (case 2), were included. Both of them suffered from headache, nausea and vomiting. The pre-operative MRI revealed masses at the FoM. We reconstructed the VE on a free and open-source platform (3D Slicer) for the pre-surgical evaluation. And then ventriculoscopic operation through a single burr hole was made to remove the cavernomas at FoM.

RESULTS

The VE displayed a 14×19×16 mm lesion in case 1 and an 18×20×29 mm lesion in case 2 and both cases revealed some attachment between the lesions and the periventricular tissue. The ventriculoscopic operations indicated by VE were performed to achieve total resection of the cavernomas without neurological deficit.

CONCLUSIONS

Although the neuroendoscopic treatment to cavernoma at FoM through a single burr hole was rarely reported among the previous literatures, it was a quite effective and useful method in our cases. And the application of VE before ventriculoscopic operation could help to provide a three-dimensional and panorama view of the intraventricular lesions.

Neurovascular Syndromes

Patients with cerebrovascular syndromes are at risk for additional concerns associated with their syndrome. A wide variety of syndromes are associated with cerebrovascular diseases. Multidisciplinary care is helpful to ensure comprehensive evaluation and management. Precise diagnosis and appreciation for the underlying syndrome is critical for effective cerebrovascular and broader care. This text focuses on these conditions with a focus on underlying pathophysiology and associated genetics, presentation, diagnosis, and management of each disease.

Impacting the Treatment of Highly Eloquent Supratentorial Cerebral Cavernous Malformations by Noninvasive Functional Mapping-An Observational Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

Cerebral cavernous malformations (CCM) may cause cavernoma-related epilepsy (CRE) and intracranial hemorrhage (ICH). Functional mapping has shown its usefulness during the resection of eloquent lesions including the treatment of brain arteriovenous malformations.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the impact of noninvasive functional mapping on decision-making and resection of eloquently located CCM.

METHODS

Of 126 patients with intracranial cavernomas, we prospectively included 40 consecutive patients (31.7%) with highly eloquent CCM between 2012 and 2020. We performed functional mapping via navigated transcranial magnetic stimulation (nTMS) motor mapping in 30 cases and nTMS language mapping in 20 cases. Twenty patients suffered from CRE. CCM caused ICH in 18 cases.

RESULTS

We used functional mapping data including function-based tractography in all cases. Indication toward (31 cases) or against (9 cases) CCM resection was influenced by noninvasive functional mapping in 36 cases (90%). We resected CCMs in 24 cases, and 7 patients refused the recommendation for surgery. In 19 and 4 cases, we used additional intraoperative neuromonitoring and awake craniotomy, respectively. Patients suffered from transient postoperative motor or language deficits in 2 and 2 cases, respectively. No patient suffered from permanent deficits. After 1 yr of follow-up, anti-epileptic drugs could be discontinued in all patients who underwent surgery but 1 patient.

CONCLUSION

Surgery-related deficit rates are low even for highly eloquent CCM and seizure outcome is excellent. The present results show that noninvasive functional mapping and function-based tractography is a useful tool for the decision-making process and during microsurgical resection of eloquently located CCM.

Middle Transclival Endoscopic Endonasal Resection of a Ventral Pontine Cavernous Malformation

The surgical management of lesions within or around the brainstem is usually associated with significant morbidity. Even though several safe entry zones have been described for brainstem lesions, especially cavernous malformations (CMs), their resection remains a challenge due to the convergence of highly functional nerve tracts and nuclei in this rather small structure. Moreover, the ventral location of some of these lesions usually calls for complex surgical approaches involving extensive bone drilling and significant manipulation of neurovascular structures. The expanded endoscopic endonasal approach has been subject to considerable advancements, widening the range of lesions accessible through this route. In this operative video, we describe the surgical nuances of an endoscopic endonasal transclival resection of a ventral pontine CM (Figures 1 and 2). A pedicled nasoseptal flap was harvested for reconstruction, gaining access to the sphenoid rostrum, which was resected. The sellar floor was removed to expose the middle third of the clivus, which was drilled out until posterior fossa dura mater was identified. A centered dural incision was performed to expose the ventral pons and basilar artery. Using image guidance, a limited pial incision over the most superficial aspect of the lesion allowed a prompt drainage of the hematoma and resection of the CM. The surgical cavity was directly inspected through the endoscope, confirming a complete resection. Reconstruction was carried out in a multilayered fashion. The patient presented a postoperative cerebrospinal fluid leak, which resolved with a lumbar drain. Neurologic status remained unchanged after surgery, with the patient displaying a favorable clinical outcome (Video 1).

Natural History of Brainstem Cavernous Malformations: On the Variation in Hemorrhage Rates

BACKGROUND

Hemorrhage rates of conservatively managed brainstem cavernous malformations (BSCMs) vary widely in the literature. We aimed to elucidate the reason for the variation and to add the results of our experience of BSCMs management over the past decade.

METHODS

We performed a review of consecutive patients with BSCMs referred to our department in the period 2006-2018. A hemorrhagic event was defined as a radiographically verified intralesional and extralesional hemorrhage. Both retrospective and prospective hemorrhage rates were calculated based on the patient age in years, counted either from birth or from the time of initial presentation until the last contact (or until surgical resection). In addition, we retrieved and reviewed publications with a clear definition of hemorrhagic event and a detailed description of BSCM hemorrhage rate.

RESULTS

In total, 118 patients with BSCMs were reviewed, and 78 patients (mean age on admission 45.9 years) were included in the final analysis. The retrospective and prospective hemorrhage rates were 1.9% (95% confidence interval 1.6%-2.3%) per year and 11.9% (95% confidence interval 7.5%-17.8%), respectively. The retrospective hemorrhage rate in the literature review ranged from 1.9% to 6.8% per year with a median value of 3.8%, whereas the prospective hemorrhage rate ranged between 4.1% and 21.5%, with a median value of 10.2%.

CONCLUSIONS

The reported hemorrhage rates are calculated in 2 different ways. In our patient cohort, both the retrospective and prospective hemorrhage rates were in accordance with those in the literature. The long-term hemorrhage rate lies between the prospective and retrospective rate.

Paramedian Supracerebellar Infratentorial Approach for Pontine Cavernoma: 2-Dimensional Operative Video

We describe the case of a 26-yr-old male who presented with headaches, dizziness, and left hemi-hypoesthesia in addition to being COVID-19 positive. The patient was found to have a large hemorrhage in the right dorsolateral pons that was found to be due to a pontine cavernous malformation. The patient underwent a right-sided paramedian supracerebellar infratentorial approach for resection of this lesion with preservation of the developmental venous anomaly. We present the operative video with a specific focus on approach selection, anatomic illustrations, and technical nuances. The literature on the timing of brainstem cavernoma surgery is reviewed.1-4 The patient's postoperative clinical course and postoperative imaging are reviewed. The patient gave informed consent for the procedure and verbal consent for being part of this submission and the publication of their image.

Cavernous Malformations of the Optic Nerve and Optic Pathway: A Case Series and Systematic Review of the Literature

BACKGROUND

Although rare, cavernous malformations (CMs) of the optic nerve and anterior optic pathway (optic pathway cavernous malformations [OPCMs]) can occur, as described in several single case reports in the literature.

OBJECTIVE

To describe the technical aspects of microsurgical management of CMs of the optic pathway on the basis of an extensive single-center experience and review of the literature.

METHODS

A systematic literature review was performed to augment an earlier review, using PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. In addition, an institutional database was searched for all patients undergoing surgical resection of OPCMs. Patient information, surgical technique, and clinical and radiographic outcomes were assessed.

RESULTS

Since the previous report, 14 CMs were resected at this institution or by the senior author at another institution. In addition, 34 cases were identified in the literature since the systematic review in 2015, including some earlier cases that were not discussed in the previous report. Most OPCMs were resected via pterional, orbital-pterional, and orbitozygomatic craniotomies. Visual outcomes were similar to those in earlier reports, with 70% of patients reporting stable to normal vision postoperatively.

CONCLUSION

OPCMs can occur throughout the anterior visual pathway and may cause significant symptoms. Surgery is feasible and should be considered for OPCMs presenting to a surface of the nerve. Favorable results can be obtained with resection, although optimal results are obtained with patients who present with milder symptoms without longstanding damage to the optic apparatus.

Description of Two Families with New Mutations in Familial Cerebral Cavernous Malformations Genes

Cerebral cavernous malformations (CCMs) are dilated aberrant leaky capillaries located in the Central Nervous System. Familial CCM is an autosomal dominant inherited disorder related to mutations in KRIT1, Malcavernin or PDCD10. We show two unrelated families presenting familial CCM due to two new mutations in KRIT1 and PDCD10, producing truncated proteins. Clinical phenotype was highly variable among patients from asymptomatic individuals to diplopia, seizures or severe intracranial hemorrhage. PDCD10 patients usually show a more aggressive course and they frequently showed multiple meningiomas. This work provides evidence for the pathogenicity of two new mutations in CCM genes and supports previous findings regarding familial CCM and multiple meningiomas.

Symptomatic peduncular, cavernous bleeding following SARS-CoV-2 vaccination induced immune thrombocytopenia

Therapy-responsive immune thrombocytopenia and anemia shortly after the second dose of an mRNA-based SARS-CoV-2 vaccine, which was complicated by symptomatic bleeding within a pre-existing brainstem cavernoma, has not been reported.

The patient is a 68yo male who experienced gait disturbance and hypoesthesia of the left face and left upper extremity two days after the second dose of the mRNA-based SARS-CoV-2 vaccine BNT162b2 (Tozinameran). Clinical neurologic exam revealed hypoesthesia of the left face and the left upper extremity and ataxic gait. Blood tests revealed macrocytic anemia and marked thrombocytopenia, interpreted as vaccination induced immune thrombocytopenia (ITP). Cerebral MRI revealed subacute bleeding within a pre-existing solitary cavernoma located in the right cerebellar peduncle. With proceeding resorption of the bleeding, symptoms gradually regressed.

This case shows that SARS-CoV-2 vaccinations may be followed by ITP and bleeding in pre-existing vascular malformations. In order to avoid cavernoma bleeding in patients with SARS-CoV-2 vaccination associated ITP and thrombocyte dysfunction, urgent treatment of ITP is warranted. In order to identify patients at risk for experiencing SARS-CoV-2 vaccination induced ITP, further studies are urgently warranted.

Microsurgical Treatment for Posthemorrhagic Cavernoma of Frontal Lobe Coexisting with Unruptured Ipsilateral Middle Cerebral Artery Aneurysm

Cerebral cavernous malformations, also known as cavernomas, are vascular abnormalities of the brain that are clinically associated with a variety of neurologic symptoms that may include hemorrhagic strokes. They are the most common vascular abnormality, representing 10%-25% of all vascular malformations.¹ Lesions associated with cavernomas include developmental venous anomalies, capillary telangiectasias, and other vascular malformations² but not intracranial aneurysms. The latter association is extremely rare; in fact, there is only 1 case reported in the literature, in which the cavernoma was obscured by the presence of a cerebral hemorrhage and an unruptured aneurysm, which was presumed to be the primary cause of the bleeding, thereby misleading the surgeons to treat only the aneurysm.² There are different alternatives for the management of different types of lesions.^3-5 In this 3-dimensional operative video (Video 1), we present a case of a cavernoma associated with hemorrhage coexisting with an unruptured aneurysm in which we achieved complete resolution of both with microsurgical treatment through a pterional approach.⁶ The patient consented to publication of images.

Long-term morbidity and mortality in 2-year hepatoblastoma survivors treated with SIOPEL risk-adapted strategies

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Prognosis of hepatoblastoma patients has increased with cisplatin-based chemotherapy and high-quality resection including liver transplant. Consequently current risk-adapted therapeutic strategy aims to reduce long-term side effects in patients with standard risk disease.

METHODS

We report long-term mortality and morbidity data concerning 151 2-year hepatoblastoma survivors treated with SIOPEL risk-adapted strategies (sex-ratio M/F = 1.6, median age at diagnosis = 2.6 years [range 0-17.7], median year at diagnosis = 2008 [1994-2017]). Fifty-three patients had loco-regional risk factors VPEFR, 12 were PRETEXT-IV and 30 were metastatic. All received cisplatin and 84 anthracyclines. Twelve had liver transplant. To assess hearing, renal and cardiac functions, audiograms were performed in 116/151 patients (76.8%), glomerular filtration rate in 113/151 (74.8%) and cardiac ultrasound in 65/84 (77.4%) anthracycline-exposed patients.

RESULTS

With a median follow-up of 9.4 years (range 2.1-25.8), four late relapses, one second malignancy (Acute Myeloid Leukemia AML-M5) and two deaths (one from hepatoblastoma, one from AML) occurred. The 10-years event free survival and overall survival probabilities were 95.5% (95% CI 91.9-99.1) and 98.7% (95% CI 96.8-100), respectively. Sixty-eight non-oncologic health-events included 57 cases of hearing loss (including 25 Brock 3-4), three liver cirrhosis, three pre-operative portal cavernoma, two focal nodular hyperplasia, two grade-1 chronic kidney diseases and one asymptomatic cardiac dysfunction were reported. Ototoxicity was significantly associated with cisplatin cumulative dose (OR = 2.07, 95% CI 1.32-3.24, p = 0.001) and carboplatin exposure (OR = 3.14, 95% CI 1.30-7.58, p = 0.01) in multivariable analysis adjusted for sex and age at diagnosis.

CONCLUSIONS

With current risk-adapted strategies, hepatoblastoma is a highly curable disease, with very rare relapses, and few late effects except hearing loss which remains a serious condition in these very young patients.

Intraoperative brain mapping during awake surgery in symptomatic supratentorial cavernomas

BACKGROUND

Complete resection of symptomatic supratentorial cavernoma (SCA) and removal of the surrounding gliotic area is recommended to minimize the risk of persistent seizures or (re)bleeding. Surgery of SCA located in an eloquent area, can carry out severe postoperative neurological morbidity. We report a study aimed to assess feasibility, extent of resection and outcome after surgical removal of CA by cortico-subcortical intraoperative brain stimulation (ioBS) in the awake patient.

METHODS

Six patients diagnosed of symptomatic SCA located on an eloquent area and operated on while awake under local anaesthesia ioBS, were included. Preoperative planning included neuropsychologic assessment of language-related functions, sociocognitive functions and executive functions. Intraoperatively, we recorded the results achieved in the planned neuropsychological tasks when stimulation was applied (cortical and subcortical). Postoperative control 3D MRI was scheduled at 1 month after surgery to calculate extent of resection. Neuropsychological assessment at 6 months after surgery was performed in all cases.

RESULTS

Six patients (5 females, 1 male) aged 24-48 years were included in our study. Locations of the lesions were right insular (n=1), left insular (n=1), left temporo-insular (n=1), left temporal (n=2) and left frontal (n=1). In all patients, positive findings were obtained during ioBS. In 5 patients, complete surgical resection was achieved. Two patients had postoperative transient neurological deficits, one case of hemiparesis, one case of dysnomia, both cleared over a 6-month period. Clinical follow-up revealed that all patients experienced complete recovery from preoperative symptoms within a year and five patients with seizures showed marked improvement and eventually quit antiepileptic drugs. Neuropsychological assessment at 6 months provided normal results compared to preoperative baseline in all domains.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study suggests that ioBS in the awake surgery of symptomatic SCA located in eloquent areas, allows to increase the rate of complete resection, minimizing postoperative neurological and neuropsychological deficit, and improving postoperative seizures control.

Unique enlarging cavernous malformation secondary to abnormal arteriovenous shunting through an associated developmental venous anomaly

Cavernous malformations are angiographically occult vascular malformations. They are often associated with a developmental venous anomaly through poorly understood mechanisms. We present an unusual case of a gradually enlarging cavernous malformation associated with a developmental venous anomaly with arteriovenous shunting, suggesting venous hypertension or reflux as a potential cause of progressive growth.

An analysis of lesions associated with developmental venous anomalies

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to describe different lesions and features associated with developmental venous anomalies (DVAs).

METHODS

The records and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) images of 1,722 patients who underwent cranial MRI between 2010 and 2017 were retrospectively reviewed. It was found that 124 (7.2%) patients had DVAs, and 48 of these patients (38.7%) had additional anomalies accompanying DVAs. Of the patients with DVAs, 25 were female and 23 were male, with a mean age of 39.3 years (range, 3-77 years). MRI was performed in all the patients.

RESULTS

In addition to DVAs, cavernomas were present in 30 patients (62.5%), haematomas in 7 (14.5%), gliosis in 6 (12.5%), demyelinating plaques in 4 (8.3%) and a glioblastoma in 1 (2.2%). The mean diameter of the DVAs was 1.1mm and the mean diameter of the lesions was 17.4mm. The susceptibility weighted imaging (SWI) sequence was also applied to 12 patients with cavernomas. The relevant sequence in all of these patients contributed to the diagnosis.

CONCLUSION

Our study shows that DVAs can accompany a wide spectrum of lesions, especially cavernomas. Although their pathophysiology has not yet been clearly established, these lesions may have a common aetiology.

Migraine-Like Positive Visual Phenomena Related to Focal Cortical Lesions with Undetectable Visual Field Defects

Migraines are commonly associated with a visual aura that has a characteristic clinical presentation. Cortical lesions within or in close proximity to the retrochiasmal visual pathways may also present in a manner that mimics migrainous visual phenomena and, in some cases, may be too small to manifest with a visual field defect on formal testing. We present 4 patients (3 females and 1 male) with an average age of 48.5 (range 28-67) years who had migraine-like visual disturbances related to a right temporal meningioma, occipital cavernoma, occipital lobe infarction, and demyelination in the optic radiations, which was the presenting sign of multiple sclerosis. No patient underwent neurosurgical intervention, and 1 patient (occipital lobe infarct) had complete resolution of the symptom after initial presentation. All patients had normal visual fields at follow-up and no thinning evident on optical coherence tomography. Our cases emphasize the importance of a history in assessing patients with transient positive visual phenomena and identify pathology that may present without visual field defects. Clinical features that should raise a doubt about a diagnosis of migraine visual aura include the absence of headache, brief visual disturbance lasting <5 min or those lasting >60 min, and age >40, especially with no past medical history of migraine.

Microsurgical Resection of Dorsal Pontine Cavernous Malformation: The Telovelar Approach Augmented by the Tonsillouvular Fissure Exposure: 2-Dimensional Operative Video

Surgical approaches to lesions of the fourth ventricle (FV) have been modified over the years to reduce the complications associated with splitting the inferior cerebellar vermis (ICV) and disrupting the brainstem and critical surrounding structures.1-4 Two common approaches to lesions of this region include the transvermian approach (TVA) and telovelar approach (TeVA).2 The TVA was initially considered the conventional route of access to lesions of the FV1 but has been associated with significant risks, including possible gait ataxia and dysarthria.3 The TeVA is advantageous, as it involves dissection along natural clefts and division of non-neural tissue and provides good exposure of the superolateral recess with modest exposure of the rostral FV. The TeVA approach can be augmented by opening the tonsilouvular fissures (TUFs). This added dissection allows greater lateral and superior exposure with less need for retraction. In this operative video, we demonstrate a case in which we augmented the TeVA with a TUF dissection to access a dorsal pontine cavernous malformation. We performed a midline suboccipital craniotomy with a C1 posterior laminectomy. TUF dissection was followed by division of the tela choroidea (TC), which allowed for more lateral exposure of the FV and excellent visualization of the cavernous malformation without the need to traverse neural tissue. TeVA augmented by TUF dissection provided adequate access to the dorsal pons for complete resection of the cavernous malformation. The patient consented to the procedure as shown in this operative video and gave informed written consent for use of her images in publication. Anatomic images provided by courtesy of © The Rhoton Collection. http://rhoton.ineurodb.org/. Video © Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 2021. Used with permission.