A systematic review on the assessment of cerebral autoregulation in patients with Large Vessel Occlusion

As the majority of large vessel occlusion (LVO) patients are not treated with revascularization therapies or efficiently revascularized, complementary management strategies are needed. In this article we explore the importance of cerebral autoregulation (CA) assessment in the prediction and/or modification of infarct growth and hemorrhagic transformation. In patients with LVO, these are important factors that affect prognosis. A systematic search of the PubMed, EMBASE databases and a targeted Google search was conducted, resulting in the inclusion of 34 relevant articles. There is an agreement that CA is impaired in patients with LVO; several factors have been identified such as time course, revascularization status, laterality, disease subtype and location, some of which may be potentially modifiable and affect outcomes. The personalized CA assessment of these patients suggests potential for better understanding of the inter-individual variability. Further research is needed for the development of more accurate, noninvasive techniques for continuous monitoring and personalized thresholds for CA.

Ischemic Stroke at a Tertiary Academic Hospital in Tanzania: A Prospective Cohort Study With a Focus on Presumed Large Vessel Occlusion

Background

Large vessel ischemic strokes account for more than one-third of all strokes associated with substantial morbidity and mortality without early intervention. The incidence of large vessel occlusion (LVO) is not known in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Definitive vessel imaging is not routinely available in resource-limited settings.

Aims

We aimed to investigate the burden and outcomes of presumed LVO among patients with ischemic stroke admitted to a large tertiary academic hospital in Tanzania.

Methods

This cohort study recruited all consenting first-ever ischemic stroke participants admitted at a tertiary hospital in Tanzania. Demographic data were recorded, and participants were followed up to 1 year using the modified Rankin Scale (mRS). A diagnosis of presumed LVO was made by a diagnostic neuroradiologist and interventional neurologist based on contiguous ischemic changes in a pattern consistent with proximal LVO on a non-contrast computed tomography head. We examined factors associated with presumed LVO using logistic regression analysis. Inter-observer Kappa was calculated.

Results

We enrolled 158 first-ever ischemic strokes over 8 months with a mean age of 59.7 years. Presumed LVO accounted for 39.2% [95% confidence interval (CI) 31.6–47.3%] and an overall meantime from the onset of stroke symptoms to hospital arrival was 1.74 days. Participants with presumed LVO were more likely to involve the middle cerebral artery (MCA) territory (70.9%), p < 0.0001. Independent factors on multivariate analysis associated with presumed LVO were hypertension [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 5.74 (95% CI: 1.74–18.9)] and increased waist-hip ratio [aOR 7.20 (95% CI: 1.83–28.2)]. One-year mortality in presumed LVO was 80% when compared with 73.1% in participants without presumed LVO. The Cohen's Kappa inter-observer reliability between the diagnostic neuroradiologist and interventional neurologist was 0.847.

Conclusion

There is a high burden of presumed LVO associated with high rates of 1-year morbidity and mortality at a tertiary academic hospital in Tanzania. Efforts are needed to confirm these findings with definitive vessel imaging, promoting cost-effective preventive strategies to reduce the burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), and a call for adopting endovascular therapies to reduce morbidity and mortality.

Dual-center study comparing transradial and transfemoral approaches for flow diversion treatment of intracranial aneurysms

BACKGROUND

The transfemoral approach (TFA) has been the traditional approach for neurointerventional cases. While the TFA allows for triaxial support in flow diverting stent cases, it is associated with access site complications. Recently, the transradial approach (TRA) has emerged as a safer alternative to the TFA. To the best of our knowledge, there have only been single-center studies comparing outcomes in flow diverter cases for these approaches. We demonstrate the safety and feasibility of the TRA for placement of flow diverting stents in the treatment of unruptured intracranial aneurysms at two high-volume centers.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We performed a retrospective review of prospectively collected institutional databases at two high-volume neuroendovascular centers. Cases from 2016 to 2018 of unruptured intracranial aneurysms treated by flow diverting stenting accessed through either the TRA or the TFA were compared. Patient demographics, procedural and radiographic metrics including location and size of the aneurysm, size, and length of the flow diverter implant, and fluoroscopic time were recorded. Puncture site complications and length of hospital stay were also included in the data analysis.

RESULTS

There were three out of 29 TRA cases which were converted to the TFA. None of the TRA patients experienced site complications, whereas three TFA patients experienced site complications. While TRA and TFA patients did not differ significantly in their exposure to radiation, TRA patients experienced shorter hospital stays.

CONCLUSIONS

While long-term studies are still lacking regarding this approach, we demonstrate that the TRA is a safe and feasible approach for flow diverter stent placement.

Abstract P399: Do Not Resuscitate Orders in Subarachnoid Hemorrhage Patients. Impact on Mortality

Introduction/background: Do not resuscitate (DNR) orders have been associated with higher mortality in hospitalized patients which the question if they these patients are victims of the self-fulfilling prophecy; that the odds of their survival is made worse by withholding aggressive treatment. In addition, previous reports show that racial and ethnic minorities tend to opt for more aggressive and lifesaving procedures as compared to Whites.

Methods: We analyzed the data from Nationwide Inpatient Sample (2005-2014) for all subarachnoid hemorrhage (ICH) patients. DNR code status was identified using the International Classification of Disease, 9th Revision, Clinical Modification codes. Baseline characteristics, discharge outcomes (mortality, length of stay) were compared between the two groups. DNR code status was compared between different racial groups.

Results: Of the 325923 patients with SAH, 20127 (6.17%%) had DNR order. SAH patients with DNR order had higher proportion of females (61.7% versus 59.4%, P=0.0048) and were older (70.9 years versus 58.4 years, P <.0001) compared to SAH patients without DNR. The in-hospital mortality was also higher (66.4% versus 22.4%, p≤.0001) among patients with DNR both univariate and multivariate analysis (OR = 5.05 (4.58 -5.56), p<.0001) after adjusting for potential confounders. Whites have a higher rate (7.59% versus 5.84%, P <.0001) of DNR order as compared to other racial/ethnic groups

Conclusions: While there may be other explanations at play, the higher mortality and shorter LOS suggest that early DNR orders do lead to the self-fulfilling prophecy. The lower proportion of DNR orders among minorities suggest a sociocultural aspect in accepting the concept of DNR. These two facts raise concerns about what the real vs perceived meaning of DNR orders.

Abstract P456: Myocardial Infarction in Patients With Intracerebral Hemorrhage. Prevalence and Impact on Outcome

Introduction/background: Comorbidities can potentially affect outcome of patients with intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). It is unclear what the prevalence of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and its impact on outcome are in patients with intracerebral hemorrhage.

Methods: We analyzed the data from Nationwide Inpatient Sample (2005-2014) for all intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) patients. AMI was identified using the International Classification of Disease, 9th Revision, Clinical Modification codes. Baseline characteristics, discharge outcomes (mortality, discharge disposition, length of stay and in-hospital charges) were compared between the two groups.

Results: Of the 884379 patients with ICH, 27692 (3.13%) had in-hospital myocardial infraction. ICH patients with AMI order had lower proportion of females (47.8% versus 49.7%, P= 0.0028) and were older (69.7 years versus 67.2 years, P <.0001) compared to ICH patients without MI. The in-hospital mortality was higher (40.9% versus 25.5%, p≤.0001) among ICH patients with AMI in both univariate and multivariate analysis (OR = 1.22 (1.14 -1.31), P<.0001) after adjusting for potential confounders. ICH patients with MI had higher (72.4% versus 58.8%, P <.0001) proportion of moderate to severe disability at discharge compared to ones without. Similarly, mean length of in-hospital stay (12.4 days versus 8.94 days, P <.0001) and mean hospital charges ($129328 versus $ 81984.0, P <.0001) were also higher in ICH patients with MI

Conclusions: While only 3.13% of patients with ICH have an AMI, there is a 22% increase in worse outcome among those patients with AMI and ICH.

Abstract P437: Trends in Outcomes, and Length and Costs of Hospitalization in Patients With Intracerebral Hemorrhage in United States

Background: It remains unclear whether there is any improvement in outcomes of patients with intracerebral hemorrhage over the last decade.

Objective: To determine trends pertaining in-hospital outcomes in patients with intracerebral hemorrhage using nationally representative data.

Methods: We determined the national estimates of intracerebral hemorrhage admissions from 2005 to 2014 and associated in-hospital outcomes, length of stay, mortality, and cost incurred using the Nationwide Inpatient Survey (NIS) data. The NIS is the largest all-payer inpatient care database in the US and contains data from 986 hospitals approximating a 20% stratified sample of US hospitals. Outcome was classified as none to minimal disability, moderate to severe disability, and death based on discharge destination.

Results: In the 10-year period, there were 70,637 admissions for intracerebral hemorrhage (annual estimate 80804 in 2005 to 109930 in 2014). There was a significant reduction in in-hospital mortality in patients with intracerebral hemorrhage from 30% to 23% (trend test, p < 0.0001). There was a trend towards increase in proportion of patients with moderate to severe disability (trend test, p < 0.097). The mean length of hospitalization increased from 8.58 days to 9.23 days (trend test, p < 0.0001) and cost of hospitalization increased from $50532.1 to $110932.1 (trend test, p < 0.0001).

Conclusions: The mortality in patients with intracerebral hemorrhage has decreased but there is increased rates of moderate to severe disability, length of hospitalization, and hospitalization cost over the last decade.

IAT-TiMeS: Intra-Arterial Thrombectomy Transfer Metric Study in Texas

OBJECTIVE

We aim to report intra-arterial thrombectomy transfer metrics for ischemic stroke patients that were transferred to hub hospitals for possible intra-arterial thrombectomy in multiple geographic regions throughout the state of Texas and to identify potential barriers and delays in the intra-arterial thrombectomy transfer process.

METHOD

We prospectively collected data from 8 participating Texas comprehensive stroke/thrombectomy capable centers from 7 major regions in the State of Texas. We collected baseline clinical and imaging data related to the pre-transfer evaluation, transfer metrics, and post-transfer clinical and imaging data.

RESULTS

A total of 103 acute ischemic stroke patients suspected/confirmed to have large vessel occlusions between December 2016 to May 2019 that were transferred to hubs as possible intra-arterial thrombectomy candidates were enrolled. A total of 56 (54%) patients were sent from the spoke to the hub via ground ambulance with 47 (46%) patients traveling via air ambulance. The median spoke arrival to hub arrival time was 174 min, median spoke arrival to departure from spoke was 131 min, and median travel time was 39 min. The spoke arrival time to transfer initiation was 68 min. CT-perfusion obtained at the spoke and earlier initiation of transfer were statistically associated with shorter transfer times.

CONCLUSION

Transfer of intra-arterial thrombectomy patients in Texas may take over 4 h from spoke arrival to hub arrival. This time may be shortened by earlier transfer initiation and acceptance.

Changes in Neuroendovascular Procedural Volume During the COVID-19 Pandemic: An International Multicenter Study

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

The effect of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic on performance of neuroendovascular procedures has not been quantified.

METHODS

We performed an audit of performance of neuroendovascular procedures at 18 institutions (seven countries) for two periods; January‐April 2019 and 2020, to identify changes in various core procedures. We divided the region where the hospital was located based on the median value of total number of COVID‐19 cases per 100,00 population‐into high and low prevalent regions.

RESULTS

Between 2019 and 2020, there was a reduction in number of cerebral angiograms (30.9% reduction), mechanical thrombectomy (8% reduction), carotid artery stent placement for symptomatic (22.7% reduction) and asymptomatic (43.4% reduction) stenoses, intracranial angioplasty and/or stent placement (45% reduction), and endovascular treatment of unruptured intracranial aneurysms (44.6% reduction) and ruptured (22.9% reduction) and unruptured brain arteriovenous malformations (66.4% reduction). There was an increase in the treatment of ruptured intracranial aneurysms (10% increase) and other neuroendovascular procedures (34.9% increase). There was no relationship between procedural volume change and intuitional location in high or low COVID‐19 prevalent regions. The procedural volume reduction was mainly observed in March‐April 2020.

CONCLUSIONS

We provided an international multicenter view of changes in neuroendovascular practices to better understand the gaps in provision of care and identify individual procedures, which are susceptible to change.

Prolonged Microcatheter-Based Local Thrombolytic Infusion as a Salvage Treatment After Failed Endovascular Treatment for Cerebral Venous Thrombosis: A Multicenter Experience

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

To determine the effectiveness of prolonged microcatheter-based local thrombolytic infusion in treatment of patients with cerebral venous thrombosis who achieved no or suboptimal recanalization with transvenous endovascular treatment.

METHODS

Data collection: Prospectively registries supplemented by retrospective review.

SETTINGS

Three hospitals with tertiary referral base.

PATIENTS

Patients who underwent transvenous endovascular treatment for cerebral venous thrombosis.

INTERVENTION

Prolonged microcatheter-based local thrombolytic infusion of alteplase at the rate of 0.5-1 mg/h in patients in whom initial angiographic outcome was deemed suboptimal, either due to incomplete or no recanalization.

RESULTS

Serial angiograms were performed to assess treatment response as follows: grade I, partial recanalization of one or more occluded dural sinuses with improved flow or visualization of branches; grade II, complete recanalization of one sinus but persistent occlusion of the other sinuses (A-no residual flow, B-nonocclusive flow); grade III, complete recanalization. Clinical outcome was determined at 1-3 months using modified Rankin scale. A total of 14 patients underwent 15 transvenous endovascular treatments. Initial treatment was considered suboptimal in 12/15 procedures due to no recanalization in five (grade 0), partial recanalization (grade I) in four, complete recanalization of one sinus but persistent occlusion of the other sinuses (grade 2A in two and 2B in one). A prolonged microcatheter-based local recombinant tissue plasminogen activator infusion was used following ten of the 15 procedures for a median duration of 18 h (range 13-22 h). Follow-up angiography demonstrated complete recanalization in four procedures and improvement in grades of partial recanalization in six procedures (final grades 2A in three and 2B in three procedures). None of the patients developed new symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage associated with local thrombolytic infusion. At follow-up, patients in five of ten procedures had achieved a modified Rankin scale of 0 and one patient had achieved a score of 1 (no neurological deficits but had residual headaches).

CONCLUSION

Prolonged microcatheter-based local thrombolytic infusion appeared to be effective treatment in patients who have suboptimal response to acute transvenous endovascular treatment without any additional adverse events.

Comparative Outcomes of Respiratory Failure Associated with Common Neuromuscular Emergencies: Myasthenia Gravis versus Guillain-Barré Syndrome

Background and objectives: Myasthenia gravis (MG) and Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) are autoimmune neuromuscular disorders that may present as neuromuscular emergencies requiring mechanical ventilation and critical care. Comparative outcomes of these disease processes, once severe enough to require mechanical ventilation, are not known. In this study, we compared the patients requiring mechanical ventilation in terms of in-hospital complications, length of stay, disability, and mortality between these two disease entities at a national level. Materials and Methods: Mechanically ventilated patients with primary diagnosis of MG (n = 6684) and GBS (n = 5834) were identified through retrospective analysis of Nationwide Inpatient Sample (NIS) database for the years 2006 to 2014. Results: Even though mechanically ventilated MG patients were older (61.0 ± 19.1 versus 54.9 ± 20.1 years) and presented with more medical comorbidities, they had lower disease severity on admission, as well as lower in-hospital complications sepsis, pneumonia, and urinary tract infections as compared with GBS patients. In the multivariate analysis, after adjusting for confounders including treatment, GBS patients had significantly higher disability (odds ratio (OR) 15.6, 95% confidence interval (CI) 10.9-22.2) and a longer length of stay (OR 3.48, 95% CI 2.22-5.48). There was no significant difference in mortality between the groups (8.45% MG vs. 10.0% GBS, p = 0.16). Conclusion: Mechanically ventilated GBS patients have higher disease severity at admission along with more in-hospital complications, length of stay, and disability compared with MG patients. Potential explanations for these findings include delay in the diagnosis, poor response to immunotherapy particularly in patients with axonal GBS variant, or longer recovery time after nerve damage.

Racial/ethnic disparities in hospital utilization in intracerebral hemorrhage

Background and purpose

There is evidence that racial and ethnic differences among intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) patients exist. We sought to establish the occurrence of disparities in hospital utilization in the United States.

Methods

We identified ICH patients from United States Nationwide Inpatient Sample database for years 2006–2014 using codes (DX1 = 431, 432.0) from the International Classification of Diseases, 9th edition. We compared five race/ethnic categories: White, Black, Hispanic, Asian or Pacific Islander, and Others ( Native American and other) with regard to demographics, comorbidities, disease severity, in-hospital complications, in-hospital procedures, length of stay (LOS), total hospital charges, in-hospital mortality, palliative care, (PC) and do not resuscitate (DNR). We categorized procedures as lifesaving (i.e. ventriculostomy, craniotomy, craniectomy, and ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt), life sustaining (i.e. mechanical ventilation, tracheostomy, transfusions, and gastrostomy). White race/ethnicity was set as the reference group.

Results

Out of 710,293 hospitalized patients with ICH 470,539 (66.2%), 114,821 (16.2%), 66,451 (9.3%), 30,297 (4.3%) and 28,185 (3.9%) were White, Black, Hispanic, Asian or Pacific Islander, and Others, respectively. Minorities (Black, Hispanic, Asian or Pacific Islander, and Others) had a higher rate of in-hospital complications, in-hospital procedures, mean LOS, and hospital charges compared to Whites. In contrast, Whites had a higher rate of in-hospital mortality, PC, and DNR. In multivariable analysis, all minorities had higher rate of MV, tracheostomy, transfusions, and gastrostomy compared to Whites, while Hispanics had higher rate of craniectomy and VP shunt; and Asian or Pacific Islander and Others had higher rate of craniectomy. Whites had a higher rate of in-hospital mortality, palliative care, and DNR compared to minorities. In mediation analysis, in-hospital mortality for whites remained high after adjusting with PC and DNR.

Conclusion

Minorities had greater utilization of lifesaving and life sustaining procedures, and longer LOS. Whites had greater utilization of palliative care, hospice, and higher in-hospital mortality. These results may reflect differences in culture or access to care and deserve further study.

Abstract WP212: Trends in Acute Ischemic Stroke Hospitalizations by Age Groups, Length of Stay, Mortality and Hospital Costs in the United States From 2000-2014

Background and Purpose: Acute Ischemic Stroke (AIS) is a significant cause of long term disability. The primary objective of our study was to analyze the trends in AIS hospitalizations by age groups, Length of Stay (LOS), Mortality and hospital costs in the United States over a 15-year period from the years 2000 to 2014.

Methods: Nationwide inpatient sample (NIS) database was used to identify AIS admissions in all patients from 2000 to 2014 using ICD-9-CM codes 433.01, 433.11, 433.21, 433.31, 433.81, 433.91, 434.01, 434.11, 434.91, and 436 as the principal discharge diagnosis. NIS is the largest all-payer inpatient care database in the United States, containing data on more than 7 million hospital stays. It has a large sample size which is ideal for developing national and regional estimates.

Results: A total of 554,226,249 discharges with a diagnosis of AIS were analyzed from 2000 to 2014 from the NIS database. Hospitalization rates for AIS increased significantly from years 2000 to 2014 for ages 18-44 (relative percentage change (RPC): +33.75%) and ages 45-64(RPC: +41.21%). Hospitalization rates for AIS have significantly decreased in the age group 65-84 (RPC: -16.69%). In-hospital mortality decreased from 6.97% in 2000 to 4.4% in 2014. Mean LOS has decreased from 6.19 days to 4.2 days during the same period. Mean hospital costs have gone up from $6,975 to $12,322.

Conclusion: Overall in-hospital mortality and LOS associated with AIS has decreased over the years. AIS US hospitalizations have significantly increased in the age groups from 18-64 while there was a significant decrease in the rate of hospitalizations in the age groups 65-84. Further research needs to be done to identify the risk factors contributing to a substantial rise in AIS hospitalizations in young to middle age adults.

Abstract TP166: Frequency of Brain Death in Acute Cerebrovascular Disease Related Mortality

Background: Despite the frequent occurrence of brain death in intensive care unit, the prevalence rate of brain death in ischemic stroke (IS), intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) and subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) is not known at national level. In addition the prevalence of cardiac arrest in these patients is not established.

Methods: From 2012, ICD-9-CM includes a specific code for brain death (348.82). Brain death patients were identified from the nationwide in-patient sample database for the years 2012 to 2014. Associated in-hospital cardiac arrest patients were also identified under each category. Demographics, medical comorbidities, in-hospital complications, procedures, length of stay and hospital charges were compared.

Results: Rate of brain death was highest in SAH related mortality (22%, 3255 brain deaths/ 14620 in-hospital mortality), followed by ICH, (12.5%, 5760 brain deaths/ 45945 in-hospital mortality) and ischemic stroke (3%, 1840 brain death/62285 in-hospital mortality). Majority of the patients had brain death secondary to neurological insult (ICH n=5260, 91.3%; SAH n= 2625 (80.6%) and IS n=1640, 89.1%) without any secondary diagnosis of in-hospital cardiac arrest. Length of stay was shorter in patients with SAH and ICH (mean 2.92±4.13 days and 2.53±3.56 days respectively) compared to IS patients (mean 4.93 ± 10.2 days, p < 0.001) suggesting brain death is an early event in hemorrhagic stroke.

Conclusion: Brain death in the majority of cerebrovascular patients occurs as a result of primary neurological insult without associated cardiac arrest. It occurs much earlier in hemorrhagic stroke compared to ischemic stroke.

Abstract WP319: Continued Nationwide Decline in Stroke Related In-hospital Mortality in United States

Background and Purpose: Previously a downward trend in stroke related in-hospital mortality was noted from 1996 to 2006 reflecting advancements in acute stroke care. Given ongoing improvement in acute stroke care models and therapies, our study assessed nationwide patterns in in-hospital mortality related to acute stroke for next decade.

Methods: Patients with acute stroke were identified from the nationwide in-patient sample database for the years 2007 to 2014 using International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision procedure codes. Time trends in the proportion of stroke hospitalizations that resulted in death were assessed.

Results: Between 2007 and 2014, overall stroke hospitalizations increased from 1017 414 in 2007 to 2008 to 1114 960 in 2013 to 2014, whereas percentage stroke hospitalizations that resulted in death decreased from 8.98% in 2007-2008 to 7.34% in 2013-2014 (P<0.0001). Unadjusted Odds of mortality decreased regardless of stroke type: ischemic stroke (IS) (OR 0.798, 95% CI 0.762 to 0.835), subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) (OR 0.885, 95% CI 0.810 to 0.968), and intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) (OR 0.865, 95% CI 0.824 to 0.908). In multivariate analysis these odds remained significant (IS: OR 0.813, 95% CI 0.770 to 0.859), SAH: OR 0.680, 95% CI 0.611 to 0.757, ICH: OR 0.707, 95% CI 0.664to 0.754) after adjusting with age, gender, race, medical comorbidities, in-hospital complications, insurance status and APRDRG Severity scale).

Conclusions: There is continued decline in Nationwide In-Hospital Mortality among hospitalized acute stroke patients. This reflects ongoing improvement in stroke care models and advancement in therapies.

Aggressive blood pressure treatment of hypertensive intracerebral hemorrhage may lead to global cerebral hypoperfusion: Case report and imaging perspective

Hypoperfusion injury related to blood pressure decrease in acute hypertensive intracerebral hemorrhage continues to be a controversial topic. Aggressive treatment is provided with the intent to stop the ongoing bleeding. However, there may be additional factors, including autoregulation and increased intracranial pressure, that may limit this approach. We present here a case of acute hypertensive intracerebral hemorrhage, in which aggressive blood pressure management to levels within the normal range led to global cerebral ischemia within multiple border zones. Global cerebral ischemia may be of concern in the management of hypertensive hemorrhage in the presence of premorbid poorly controlled blood pressure and increased intracranial pressure.

Cervical Arterial Fibromuscular Dysplasia in a Biethnic Population: A Retrospective Study in the U.S.-Mexican Border

Background  There have been studies trying to characterize Fibromuscular Dysplasia (FMD); however, most of them are based in mainly non-Hispanic sample. The objective of this study is to better understand the epidemiology and clinical characteristics of craniocervical FMD in the Hispanic population. Methods  We retrospectively reviewed the cerebral angiograms performed in our center in a period of 3.5 years under any indication looking for angiographic patterns of FMD. Exclusion criteria consisted of cases in which the first angiogram was done when the patients were younger than 18 years. Patients were subdivided based on those with FMD and those without it for baseline characteristics and were looked for any associations. We further compared the same baseline characteristics among Hispanic FMD and non-Hispanic FMD population. A chart review was conducted looking for clinical features and vascular events. Results  We analyzed 448 angiograms among patients younger than 18 years. We identified 47 patients with evidence of FMD involving the cervical arteries and 401 patients without FMD. Of the 47 patients with FMD in our neuroendovascular registry, we found that 76.6% were women and 57.4% were Hispanics. There was no statistical significant difference when comparing the variables across ethnicities, except history of cigarette smoking and dyslipidemia. The most common associated supra-aortic arterial lesions seen in the FMD group were intracranial aneurysm and arterial dissections. We then used same variables to compare Hispanic FMD with non-Hispanic FMD. We have found that there has been a positive association of cigarette smoking and dyslipidemia with FMD ( p ≤ 0.05). Conclusion  Our study suggests that FMD affecting the carotid and vertebral arteries has similar demographic pattern across ethnicities in the United States. In Hispanics, the disease appears to have a predilection for women and history of cigarette smoking. Intracranial aneurysm and arterial dissection were the most commonly associated arterial lesions.

Possible Reversible Cerebral Vasoconstriction Syndrome Associated with Eucalyptus: Case Report

BACKGROUND

Reversible cerebral vasoconstrictive syndrome (RCVS) has characteristic clinical features, brain imaging and Angiographic features. The majority of RCVS cases are associated with the use of antidepressants, polysubstance abuse, and nasal decongestants. We here present a case that highlights the use of eucalyptus herbs as a possible precipitant factor for RCVS formation.

CASE PRESENTATION

A 42-year-old woman presented to the emergency department with a tingling sensation on the right-hand side of her body and a two-week progressive throbbing severe holocranial headache radiating to the neck, with associated nausea, photophobia, and phonophobia. She denied any seizures and recent trauma or fevers. She was not taking scheduled medications, but she had used inhaling vapors obtained from boiling eucalyptus leaves to alleviate sinus congestion. Initial imaging revealed subarachnoid hemorrhage at bilateral posterior parietal convexity leading to her admission into the intensive care unit. Further work up disclosed the presence of findings consistent with RCVS.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, we hereby postulate that some herbal remedies used in alternative medicine, including eucalyptus, could play a role in causing serotonergic symptoms including dizziness, diarrhea, and cerebral vasoconstriction. Understanding that eucalyptus has the potential to contribute to RCVS due to its serotoninergic activity may be of importance in the diagnosis and management of these patients.

Open-Label Phase I Clinical Study to Assess the Safety and Efficacy of Cilostazol in Patients Undergoing Internal Carotid Artery Stent Placement

BACKGROUND

One-month dual antiplatelet treatment, with aspirin and clopidogrel, following internal carotid artery stent placement is the current standard of care to prevent in-stent thrombosis. Cilostazol, an antiplatelet drug, has been demonstrated to have a safety profile comparable to aspirin and clopidogrel.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the safety and clinical efficacy of cilostazol and aspirin therapy following internal carotid artery stent placement up to 1 month postprocedure.

METHODS

A phase I open-label, nonrandomized two-center prospective study was conducted. All subjects received aspirin (325 mg/day) and cilostazol (200 mg/day) 3 days before extracranial stent placement. Two antiplatelet agents were continued for 1 month postprocedure followed by aspirin daily monotherapy. The primary efficacy end point was the 30-day composite occurrence of death, cerebral infarction, transient ischemic attack, and in-stent thrombosis. The primary safety end point was bleeding.

RESULTS

Twelve subjects (mean age ± SD, 66 ± 12 years; 9 males) were enrolled and underwent internal carotid artery angioplasty and stent placement. None of the subjects who successfully followed the study protocol experienced any complications at the 1- and 3-month follow-ups. One patient had a protocol deviation due to concurrent use of enoxaparin (1 mg/kg twice daily) in addition to aspirin and cilostazol, resulting in a fatal symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage following successful stent placement on postprocedure day 1. One patient discontinued cilostazol after the first dose secondary to dizziness.

CONCLUSION

The use of cilostazol and aspirin for internal carotid artery stent placement appears to be safe, but protocol compliance needs to be emphasized.

Are We Overlooking Stroke Chameleons? A Retrospective Study on the Delayed Recognition of Stroke Patients

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

New effective recanalization therapies are currently available for acute ischemic stroke; yet a vast majority of stroke patients are left untreated. The lack of early recognition may be because often times, stroke patients present with atypical manifestations that resemble other conditions (which are referred to as "stroke chameleons"). We set to study the proportion of patients with delayed stroke recognition in a single center.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective analysis of a prospectively collected data over a 9-year period. All adult patients discharged with the diagnosis of ischemic stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA) were identified and traced for their diagnosis on admission. Those cases with a diagnosis other than ischemic stroke or TIA on admission were identified as possible stroke chameleons and categorized into different groups according to the occurrence of neurological or non-neurological manifestations at presentation.

RESULTS

Of 2,303 cases with discharge diagnosis of ischemic stroke or TIA, 919 (39.9%) were found to be possible stroke chameleons. More than half of these patients (58.4%) presented with neurological manifestations including disorders of the somatic sensation (33%), alteration of consciousness (30%), and disorders of speech/language (11%). The remaining possible stroke chameleons had manifestations pertaining to other organ systems such as cardiopulmonary, gastrointestinal, systemic infection, trauma, and thromboembolic events elsewhere.

CONCLUSIONS

In our cohort, a surprisingly large percentage of possible stroke chameleons was observed. It is important to confirm our findings, study the impact on clinical outcome, and develop strategies for early stroke patient recognition.

β2-Adrenergic receptor activation mobilizes intracellular calcium via a non-canonical cAMP-independent signaling pathway

Beta adrenergic receptors (βARs) are G-protein-coupled receptors essential for physiological responses to the hormones/neurotransmitters epinephrine and norepinephrine which are found in the nervous system and throughout the body. They are the targets of numerous widely used drugs, especially in the case of the most extensively studied βAR, β₂AR, whose ligands are used for asthma and cardiovascular disease. βARs signal through Gα_s G-proteins and via activation of adenylyl cyclase and cAMP-dependent protein kinase, but some alternative downstream pathways have also been proposed that could be important for understanding normal physiological functioning of βAR signaling and its disruption in disease. Using fluorescence-based Ca²⁺ flux assays combined with pharmacology and gene knock-out methods, we discovered a previously unrecognized endogenous pathway in HEK-293 cells whereby β₂AR activation leads to robust Ca²⁺ mobilization from intracellular stores via activation of phospholipase C and opening of inositol trisphosphate (InsP₃) receptors. This pathway did not involve cAMP, Gα_s, or Gα_i or the participation of the other members of the canonical β₂AR signaling cascade and, therefore, constitutes a novel signaling mechanism for this receptor. This newly uncovered mechanism for Ca²⁺ mobilization by β₂AR has broad implications for adrenergic signaling, cross-talk with other signaling pathways, and the effects of βAR-directed drugs.

Abstract WP24: The Middle Cerebral Artery Occlusion, Anatomy Study and Pitfalls in the Design and Classification of Its Segment Occlusions in the Clinical Trials

Objective: The middle cerebral artery (MCA) occlusion is the most commonly treated vessel with mechanical thrombectomy. The MCA is defined in segments. The M1 segment is classically defined as the horizontal segment extending from the internal carotid artery bifurcation to the Sylvian fissure. It is assumed that the MCA bifurcation occurs in the M1-2 junction, and terms M2 occlusion and division occlusion are used indistinctly, however it is not known how often the MCA bifurcation occurs within the M1 segment.

Methodology: Consecutive patients undergoing cerebral angiograms were selected between 2011 and 2015. The anatomy of the MCA was classified as classical, when the bifurcation occurs at the M1-2 junction and non-classical when the bifurcation occurs within the M1 segment, having the M1 segment a pre-bifurcation (main trunk) and a post-bifurcation (division) occlusion. Demographics and vascular risk factors were also collected.

Results: A total of 500 patients underwent a cerebral angiogram and were studied. The classical pattern was found in 47.5% patients on the left and 53.5% patients on the right. There were no differences between the classical and non-classical anatomical pattern when demographics or vascular risk factors were compared.

Conclusion: In our series of patients the non-classical pattern was found in almost 50.0% of the patients undergoing a cerebral angiogram. In the endovascular treatment of acute ischemic stroke, it is necessary to develop a new classification as an M1 occlusion could relate to a post-bifurcation (division) or a pre-bifurcation (main trunk) occlusion and comparison of these groups may lead to confounding results.

Abstract WP10: Prolonged Microcatheter-based Local Thrombolytic Infusion as a Salvage Treatment for Failed Endovascular Treatment for Cerebral Venous Thrombosis: A Multicenter Registry

Background: Transvenous endovascular treatment including combination pharmacological and mechanical modalities is reserved for patients with cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT) not responsive to standard anticoagulation. However, transvenous endovascular treatment may not always be successful in achieving recanalization.

Objective: To determine the effectiveness of prolonged microcatheter based local thrombolytic infusion in treatment of patients with CVT who achieved no or suboptimal recanalization with endovascular treatment.

Methods: Patients who underwent transvenous endovascular treatment for cerebral venous thrombosis at three hospitals were identified through local registries. The final response to treatment was assessed and prolonged microcatheter based local thrombolytic infusion was instituted in selected patients as second line treatment. Serial angiograms were performed to assess treatment response and determine the duration of infusion.

Results: Of the 85 patients admitted with CVT, 13 patients underwent 14 transvenous endovascular treatments. Initial treatment was considered suboptimal in 10/14 procedures due to no recanalization in 6, partial recanalization in 3, and re-occlusion in 1 patient. A prolonged microcatheter-based local recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (rt-PA) infusion was used in 9 of the 10 procedures for a median duration of 16 hours (range 15-22 hours). Follow up angiography demonstrated complete recanalization in 4 procedures and improvement of the partial recanalization in 5 additional procedures. One patient died before the follow up imaging could be acquired. None of the patients developed intracranial hemorrhage associated with local thrombolytic infusion. The microcatheter position had shifted during the infusion in one procedure.

Conclusion: Prolonged microcatheter based local thrombolytic infusion appears to effective treatment in patients who have suboptimal response to acute transvenous endovascular treatment without any additional adverse events.

Abstract WP22: Endovascular Treatment for Distal Middle cerebral Artery Occlusions in Patients with Acute Ischemic Stroke From Interventional Management of Stroke Trial (IMS III)

Background: Currently, endovascular treatment is advocated for middle cerebral artery (MCA) occlusions, however not much is known about the natural history of an M1 compared to an M2 occlusion.

Objective: To compare the clinical outcome in endovascularly treated patients with proximal vessel occlusion (M1) versus a more distal occlusion (M2) among patients with ischemic stokes in a negative trial.

Methods: Data from Interventional Management of Stroke trial (IMS-III) for patients with acute ischemic stroke with distal MCA (mainly M2 and beyond) occlusions diagnosed by either computed tomographic angiography (CTA) or catheter angiography were analyzed. NIHSS at admission, baseline characteristics, infarct volume at baseline and outcome at 90 days (mRS score) were compared between the two groups. Favorable outcome was defined by discharge modified Rankin scale (mRS) score of 0-2, at 3 months. Multivariate logistical regression was performed to compare the outcomes after adjusting for potential confounders.

Results: Of the 434 from the endovascular therapy group, 215 (49.5%) and 98 (22.5%) patients had M1 and M2 occlusion respectively. Patients with M1 occlusion had higher mean NIHSS at admission (18.76± 4.94 versus 17.37± 5.72, P-value = 0.029) and higher infarct volume (105.92 ± 113.23 versus 49.67 ± 63.42, P-value = 0.000) . Rate of favorable outcome defined by mRS at discharge was lower among patients with M1 (31.53%vs.46.67%p-value = 0.0128) . After adjusting for age, sex, total NIHSS score at admission, hepato-biliary disorders, anticoagulants, antiplatelet, NSAIDS, patients with M1 occlusion had higher rates of poor outcomes; odds ratio (OR) 1.819 (confidence interval [CI] 1.032- 3.205, P=0.03860).

Conclusions: In patients enrolled in IMS-III trial, an M1 occlusion demonstrated a larger tissue infarct size and a lower rate of favorable outcome than an M2 occlusion, given the negative results of the trial, these findings reflect the natural history of these two occlusion sites.

Abstract WP363: Outcomes for Intracerebral Hemorrhage Patients with Renal Failure as Comorbidity in the United States

Background: Clinical characteristics and outcomes for patients with intracerebral hemorrhage and underlying chronic kidney disease (CKD) are not well determined. We hypothesized rate adverse events and in-hospital mortality is higher in patients with intracerebral hemorrhage and underlying renal disease.

Objective: To determine the Outcomes for intracerebral hemorrhage stroke patients with renal failure as comorbidity in the United States

Methods: We analyzed the data from Nationwide Inpatient Sample (2009-2011) for all intracerebral hemorrhage stroke patients with or without renal failure as comorbidity. Patients were identified using the International Classification of Disease, Ninth Revision. Baseline characteristics, in-hospital complications including myocardial infarction), sepsis, pneumonia, deep venous thrombosis, urinary tract infections, and discharge outcomes (mortality, minimal disability, and moderate-to-severe disability) were compared between the two groups. All in-hospital outcomes were analyzed after adjusting for potential confounders using multivariate analysis.

Results: Of the 33521 patients with intracerebral hemorrhage stroke, 3899 (11.6%) had renal failure as comorbidity. Patients with underlying renal disease were higher rates for in hospital complications like myocardial infarction (3.64% versus 2.03%, P≤.0001) , sepsis (5.82% versus 3.14%, P≤.0001) , pneumonia (6.92% versus 5.18%, P≤.0001) , deep venous thrombosis (1.67 % versus 1.17%, P≤ .0.0078) , urinary tract infections (16.41% versus 15.08%, P≤ 0.0293) and hypernatremia (8.62% versus 4.98%, P≤ <.0001). In multivariate analysis adjusted for baseline cormorbitdities and in hospital complications, intracerebral hemorrhage patients with underlying renal disease had higher in hospital mortality (OR 1.146 (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.058- 1.240p-value=0.0008) , while there is no statistically significant difference for minimal/moderate disability between two groups ( OR = 0.980 (95% CI 0.896- 1.072 p-value=0.6571).

Conclusions: Intracerebral hemorrhage patients with underlying renal disease have higher rate of in hospital complications and mortality. Future prospective studies are indicated to study this finding.

Spanish Version of the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale: Awareness and Use in United States. A Survey Study

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the awareness and the use of Spanish version of National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) throughout the United States (US) by regions using a web-based survey.

METHODS

A survey targeting physicians from two specialties that regularly manage acute stroke patients was conducted from February to August of 2015. Academic centers from the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education online directory belonging to emergency medicine (EM) and neurology residency programs were identified. The questionnaire was composed of ten questions separated into three different groups. The responses received from the programs were separated by specialty and grouped into different regions in the US for comparison.

RESULTS

Out of 230 residency-invited programs, we received a total of 73 responses, 35 from EM and 26 responses from neurology residency programs. In addition, 12 respondents were categorized as unknown recipients. The South region had the highest response rate with 30.3%. There was no significant difference in the responses by region if Puerto Rico was not analyzed. Interviewees reported a substantial percentage of Spanish-speaking patients reported across the regions and more than 75% of the programs report lack of knowledge of the Spanish version of the NIHSS and/or the use of it.

CONCLUSION

There may be a need to increase awareness and to promote the use of the Spanish version of the NIHSS. Spanish-speaking population in the US may be inaccurately assessed for acute stroke and could impact the outcomes. Larger population studies should be conducted to confirm our findings.

AUTHOR CONTRIBUTIONS

Dr. Villalobos and Dr. Barnes are involved in formulating the study concept and design; Dr. Rodriguez and Dr. Maud are involved in manuscript writing; Dr. Qureshi is involved in statistical analysis of the data; Dr. Cruz-Flores is involved in critical revision of the manuscript.

DISCLOSURES

Dr. Villalobos reports no disclosure; Dr. Barnes reports no disclosure; Dr. Qureshi reports no disclosure; Dr. Cruz-Flores reports no disclosure; Dr. Maud reports no disclosure; Dr. Rodriguez reports no disclosure.

Mycotic Intracranial Aneurysm Secondary to Left Ventricular Assist Device Infection

BACKGROUND

Mycotic aneurysms are a complication of infective endocarditis. Infection of left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) may lead to bacteremia and fever causing complications similar to those seen in patients with prosthetic valve endocarditis. Intracranial mycotic aneurysms are rare, and their presence is signaled by the development of subarachnoid hemorrhage in the setting of bacteremia and aneurysms located distal to the circle of Willis.

CASE PRESENTATION

We present the case of a patient with a LVAD presenting with headache who is found to have an intracranial mycotic aneurysm through computed tomography angiography of the head. The patient was successfully treated with endovascular intervention.

CONCLUSION

In patients with LVADs, mycotic aneurysms have been reported, however not intracranially. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first intracranial mycotic aneurysm secondary to LVAD infection that was successfully treated with endovascular repair. Intracranial mycotic aneurysms associated with LVADs are a rare phenomenon. The diagnosis of mycotic aneurysms requires a high index of suspicion in patients who present with bacteremia with or without headache and other neurological symptoms.

DISCLOSURE

None.

Combined surgical and endovascular treatment of complex high-flow conus medullaris arteriovenous fistula associated with Parkes Weber syndrome: case report

Parkes Weber syndrome (PWS) is a congenital overgrowth disorder characterized by unilateral limb and axial hypertrophy, capillary malformations of the skin, and high-flow arteriovenous fistulas (AVFs). Spinal AVFs in the setting of PWS are challenging vascular lesions that often contain multiple arteriovenous (AV) shunts. The present case report highlights an adolescent girl with PWS who presented with a ruptured complex high-flow conus medullaris AVF. She was successfully treated with endovascular embolization and microsurgery. At the 2-year follow-up, the patient remained free of neurological symptoms and had no recurrence of the vascular malformation.

Topsy‐turvy by the Belly Dancer

In our patient presenting with abdominal myoclonus, it is important to understand its pathophysiology. Various etiologies need to be taken into consideration before coming to a conclusion. The finding on Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)‐Spine disclosing cervical lesion may just be an incidental finding.

Main Trunk and Division Middle Cerebral Artery Occlusions: Differences in Recanalization Times, Number of Stent Retriever Passes and Clinical Outcomes: A Single-Center Experience

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

In this article, we present our experience with the recanalization of the middle cerebral artery (MCA), we hypothesize that there are higher rates of recanalization with fewer stent retriever passes and better clinical outcomes in patients with division MCA occlusions. A more complex anatomy at the bifurcation may prevent a faster recanalization in main trunk MCA occlusions.

METHODS

We retrospectively identified consecutive patients admitted with MCA occlusions who underwent mechanical thrombectomy using stent retrievers. We categorized patients into division MCA and main trunk MCA occlusions based on angiography. Variables were compared between the groups. We further analyzed patients with trunk MCA occlusions to identify reasons for delays in recanalization.

RESULTS

There were 32 MCA occlusions that underwent mechanical thrombectomy and eligible for the analysis during the study period. Of those, 11 were main trunk MCA occlusions. Univariate analysis disclosed a trend toward a lower GP-to-recanalization time (p = 0.05) and a lower number of passes required for recanalization in division MCA occlusions. However, there was a significantly better outcome in patients with division MCA occlusion after multivariate analysis. Analyzing main trunk MCA occlusion data, we found that the need for more than one pass to achieve recanalization led to a trend toward a longer GP-to-recanalization time and a worse outcome. When the stent was placed in the dominant division, the chances of recanalization were significantly higher.

CONCLUSIONS

Division MCA occlusions have higher recanalization rates with fewer stent retriever passes and better clinical outcomes than main trunk MCA occlusions, likely due to a more favorable anatomy. Measures like placing the stent retriever in the dominant division may decrease recanalization times and improve clinical outcomes in main trunk MCA occlusions.

Abstract TP133: Should Early Identification of Stroke Patients be Focused on Stroke Mimics or Chameleons? A Retrospective Study on the Hospital Stroke Chameleon Prevalence

Background and Purpose: Although we count with effective recanalization therapies for acute stroke treatment, the vast majority of ischemic stroke patients who present within 4.5 hours of symptom onset are still left untreated. We hypothesized that lack of early stroke recognition, mainly due to stroke symptoms disguising as “stroke chameleons”, is a possible explanation.

Methods: Retrospective cross-sectional analysis was performed on 9-year hospital chart records. Patients with discharge diagnoses of ischemic stroke were traced back to their admitting diagnoses. Cases with non-cerebrovascular events admitting diagnoses were identified as possible stroke chameleons and sorted into groups according to the occurrence of presenting neurological or non-neurological manifestations.

Results: Of 1,754 ischemic stroke cases, 678 (38.7%) were found to be possible stroke chameleons. More than half of the chameleons (58.6%) presented with neurological manifestations. The four most common ones were disorders of somatic sensation (31.7%), alteration of consciousness (31.5%), disorders of speech/language (10.8%), and disorder of motility (10.1%). The rest of possible stroke chameleons camouflaged themselves with presenting manifestations pertaining to conditions of other organ systems such as cardiopulmonary, gastrointestinal, systemic infection, trauma, and vascular events elsewhere.

Conclusions: We found a large percentage of possible stroke chameleons. In this new era of effective recanalization therapies for ischemic stroke, more attention should be placed on stroke chameleons. More studies should confirm our results and the proper efforts should be taken to increase the number of patients treated for acute ischemic stroke that arrive within the therapeutic window.

Abstract WP393: Cervical Arterial Fibromuscular Dysplasia in a Bi-ethnic Population: a Retrospective Study in U.S.-Mexican Border

Background: There have been studies trying to characterize Fibromuscular Dysplasia (FMD), however most of them are based in mainly non-Hispanic samples. The objective of this study is to describe the epidemiology, clinical characteristics, angiographic findings, and associated vascular conditions of cervical arterial fibromuscular dysplasia in Hispanics in the US-Mexican border.

Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the cerebral angiograms performed in our center in a period of 3.5 years under different indications (cervical and intracranial steno-occlusive arterial disease, intracranial vascular malformation, cranial and facial tumor embolization, and subarachnoid hemorrhage) looking for angiographic patterns of FMD involving the cervical (internal carotid and vertebral) arteries. Exclusion criteria included subjects younger than 18 years old. Patients were subdivided by their self-reported ethnicity in Hispanics and non Hispanics. Of those patients found to have FMD, we looked for the association with the demographics, co-morbidities and related supra-aortic vascular abnormalities.

Results: We analyzed 467 angiograms among patients >18 years of 323 (69.1%) were Hispanics and 144 (30.8%) were non-Hispanics. We found that 27 (8.3%) Hispanics patients with FMD involving the cervical arteries (internal carotid, vertebral artery isolated and in different combinations), while 20 (13.8%) cases of FMD among the non-Hispanics. There was no significant difference between the two groups regarding the frequency of FMD. In the Hispanic FMD group the mean age was 57.5 ± 15.76 years and 77.7% were females (p-value=0.007). The most common intracranial and cervical arterial conditions associated with FMD in the Hispanic group were aneurysms and arterial dissections that account for 60% and 25.9% respectively. There was a significant association between Hispanic with Female FMD and intracranial aneurysm (p=0.03).

Conclusion: Our study suggests that FMD might follow the same demographic and clinical characteristics in Hispanics and non Hispanic populations in North-America. FMD in Hispanics has a clear predilection for women and intracranial aneurysm and supra-aortic arterial dissection are most commonly associated conditions.

Ketamine for rapid reduction of suicidal ideation: a randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Suicide is a devastating public health problem and very few biological treatments have been found to be effective for quickly reducing the intensity of suicidal ideation (SI). We have previously shown that a single dose of ketamine, a glutamate N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonist, is associated with a rapid reduction in depressive symptom severity and SI in patients with treatment-resistant depression.

METHOD

We conducted a randomized, controlled trial of ketamine in patients with mood and anxiety spectrum disorders who presented with clinically significant SI (n = 24). Patients received a single infusion of ketamine or midazolam (as an active placebo) in addition to standard of care. SI measured using the Beck Scale for Suicidal Ideation (BSI) 24 h post-treatment represented the primary outcome. Secondary outcomes included the Montgomery-Asberg Depression Rating Scale--Suicidal Ideation (MADRS-SI) score at 24 h and additional measures beyond the 24-h time-point.

RESULTS

The intervention was well tolerated and no dropouts occurred during the primary 7-day assessment period. BSI score was not different between the treatment groups at 24 h (p = 0.32); however, a significant difference emerged at 48 h (p = 0.047). MADRS-SI score was lower in the ketamine group compared to midazolam group at 24 h (p = 0.05). The treatment effect was no longer significant at the end of the 7-day assessment period.

CONCLUSIONS

The current findings provide initial support for the safety and tolerability of ketamine as an intervention for SI in patients who are at elevated risk for suicidal behavior. Larger, well-powered studies are warranted.

Higher Rate of Intracerebral Hemorrhage in Hispanic Patients with Cerebral Cavernous Malformation

Cerebral cavernous malformations (CCM) are vascular malformations prone to intracerebral hemorrhage and epilepsy. Studies about the natural history and clinical presentation in the Hispanic population are lacking [7]. Retrospectively, we identified demographics and clinical features of Hispanic patients with CCM in our neurology clinic. Comparison with studies in the non-Hispanic White population with CCM was conducted.

RESULTS

A total of 15 Hispanic patients diagnosed with CCM were identified in our neurology clinic. The majority of our patients presented with symptomatic hemorrhage (27%, n = 4) or seizure(s) (47%, n = 7). Of 15 patients, there were a total of four patients (27%) that had recurrent hemorrhages with an annual rate of recurrent hemorrhage of 8.04%. Our cohort had a higher rate of intracerebral hemorrhage after any initial mode of presentation (47%, n = 7) compared with non-Hispanic White population studies: 11% (n = 32) and 4% (n = 5). (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Hispanic patients with CCM have a higher rate of hemorrhage during follow-up after any presentation of CCM (p<0.05) when compared to CCM in the non-Hispanic White population.

Human Immunodeficiency Viral Infection and Status Epilepticus in United States (2002-2009)

OBJECTIVE

To determine the association between human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection and status epilepticus and compare the outcomes of patients with status epilepticus with or without underlying HIV infection.

METHODS

Patients with primary diagnosis of status epilepticus (cases) and status asthmaticus (controls) were identified from the 2002-2009 Nationwide Inpatient Sample (NIS) which is representative of all admissions in the United States. We performed logistic regression analysis adjusting for age, gender, co-morbid conditions, including hypertension, diabetes mellitus (DM), renal failure, alcohol use, and opportunistic infections. We compared the in hospital outcomes among patients admitted with status epilepticus in strata defined by underlying HIV infection.

RESULTS

The rate of concurrent status epilepticus and HIV has increased over the last 7 years in hospitalized patients with status epilepticus in United States (0.14%-0.27% p<0.0001). The HIV infection was significantly associated with status epilepticus (odds ratio [OR]: 2.2; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.8-2.6; p<0.0001)) after adjusting for age, gender, opportunistic infections, and cardiovascular risk factors. The in-hospital mortality was significantly higher while discharge with none or minimal disability was significantly lower in status epilepticus patients with underlying HIV infection (17.5% vs. 9.9%, p<0.0001) and (50.4% vs. 63.3%, p<0.0001), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study suggests that there is a direct association between HIV infection and status epilepticus. The proportion of patients admitted with concurrent status epilepticus and HIV infections is increasing and such patients have higher rates of poor discharge outcomes.

Endovascular retrieval of a prematurely deployed covered stent

Several techniques have been reported to address different endovascular device failures. We report the case of a premature deployment of a covered balloon mounted stent during endovascular repair of a post-traumatic carotid-cavernous fistula (CCF). A 50-year-old male suffered a fall resulting in loss of consciousness and multiple facial fractures. Five weeks later, he developed decreased left visual acuity, proptosis, chemosis, limited eye movements and cranial/orbit bruit. Cerebral angiography demonstrated a direct left CCF and endovascular repair with a 5.0 mm × 19 mm covered stent was planned. Once in the lacerum segment, increased resistance was encountered and the stent was withdrawn resulting in premature deployment. A 3 mm × 9 mm balloon was advanced over an exchange length microwire and through the stent lumen. Once distal to the stent, the balloon was inflated and slowly pulled back in contact with the stent. All devices were successfully withdrawn as a unit. The use of a balloon to retrieve a prematurely deployed balloon mounted stent is a potential rescue option if leaving the stent in situ carries risks.

Incident Cancer in a Cohort of 3,247 Cancer Diagnosis Free Ischemic Stroke Patients

Background: Subclinical cancer can manifest as a thromboembolic event and may be detected at a later interval in ischemic stroke survivors. We determined the rate of incident cancer and effect on cardiovascular endpoints in a large cohort of ischemic stroke survivors. Methods: An analysis of 3,680 adults with nondisabling cerebral infarction who were followed for two years within the randomized, double-blinded VISP trial was performed. The primary intervention was best medical/surgical management plus a daily supplementation of vitamin B6, vitamin B12, and folic acid. We calculated age-adjusted rates of incidence of cancer among ischemic stroke survivors and standardized incidence ratios (SIR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) based on comparison with age-adjusted rates in the general population. The significant variables from univariate analysis were entered in a Cox Proportional Hazards analysis to identify the association between various baseline factors and incident cancer after adjusting age, gender, and race/ethnicity. A logistic regression analysis evaluated the association between incident cancer and various endpoints including stroke, coronary heart disease, myocardial infarction, and death after adjusting age, gender, and race/ethnicity. Results: A total of 3,247 patients (mean age ± SD of 66 ± 11; 2,013 were men) were cancer free at the time of enrollment. The incidence of new cancer was 0.15, 0.80, 1.2, and 2.0 per 100 patients at 1 month, 6 months, 1 year, and 2 years, respectively. The age-adjusted annual rate of cancer in patients with ischemic stroke was higher than in persons in the general population at 1 year (581.8/100,000 persons vs. 486.5/100,000 persons, SIR 1.2, 95% CI 1.16-1.24) and 2 years (1,301.7/100,000 vs. 911.5/100,000, SIR 1.4, 95% CI 1.2-1.6) after recruitment. There was a higher risk for death (odds ratio (OR) 3.1, 95% CI 1.8-5.4), and composite endpoint of stroke, coronary heart disease, and/or death (OR 1.4, 95% CI 1.0-2.2) among participants who developed incident cancer compared with those who were cancer free after adjusting for potential confounders. Conclusions: The annual rate of age-adjusted cancer incidence was higher among ischemic stroke patients compared with those in the general population. The odds of mortality were three folds higher among stroke survivors who developed incident cancer.

Trans-arterial Onyx Embolization of a Functional Thoracic Paraganglioma

Paragangliomas are rare tumors of the endocrine system. They are highly vascular and in some cases hormonally active, making their management challenging. Although there is strong evidence of the safety and effectiveness of preoperative embolization in the management of spinal tumors, only five cases have been reported in the setting of thoracic paragangliomas. We present the case of a 19-year-old man with a large, primary, functional, malignant paraganglioma of the thoracic spine causing a vertebral fracture and spinal cord compression. To our knowledge this is the first report of preoperative trans-arterial balloon augmented Onyx embolization of a thoracic paraganglioma.

High risk of new episode of symptomatic vasospasm in unaffected arteries in subarachnoid hemorrhage patients receiving targeted endovascular treatment for symptomatic focal vasospasm

BACKGROUND

There is controversy whether asymptomatic vasospasm in other arteries should be concurrently treated (global treatment) in patients receiving targeted endovascular treatment [percutaneous-transluminal-angioplasty (PTA) and/or intra-arterial (IA) vasodilators] for focal symptomatic vasospasm.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the rates of occurrence of new symptomatic vasospasm in previously asymptomatic arterial distributions among patients with aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) who underwent targeted endovascular treatment for focal symptomatic vasospasm.

METHODS

We identified all patients with SAH who had received targeted endovascular treatment during a 4-year period. We ascertained any new occurrence of symptomatic vasosopasm requiring endovascular treatment in previously unaffected (and untreated) arterial distributions within the same hospitalization. Blinded reviewers quantitatively graded angiographic vasospasm (<25, 26-49, ≥50 %) in all major arteries for each patient at the time of targeted treatment.

RESULTS

Of the 41 patients who received targeted endovascular treatment (PTA in 41 % and vasodilators in 59 %), 11 (27 %) developed new symptomatic vasospasm in previously asymptomatic vascular distributions requiring endovascular treatment. Moderate severity of angiographic vasospasm in asymptomatic arteries at the time of targeted treatment tended to predict the occurrence of new symptomatic vasospasm. The rate of death and disability at discharge [modified Rankin scale (mRS) of 3-6] was 82 % (9/11) among those who developed a new episode of symptomatic vasospasm compared with 70 % (21/30) in those who did not (P = 0.58).

CONCLUSIONS

High risk of new occurrence of ischemic symptoms in previously asymptomatic (and untreated) arterial distributions among patients receiving targeted treatment should be recognized. Further studies should evaluate the benefit of performing global endovascular treatment during the initial targeted endovascular treatment session.

Reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome and nonaneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage

BACKGROUND

Reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome was first described by Call, Fleming, and colleagues. Clinically this entity presents acutely, with severe waxing and waning headaches ("thunderclap"), and occasional fluctuating neurological signs.

CASE PRESENTATION

We present four subsequent cases of patients with severe thunderclap headache and brain tomography with evidence of subarachnoid hemorrhage. The brain angiogram showed no aneurysm but intracranial vasculopathy consistent with multiple areas of stenosis and dilatation (angiographic beading) in different territories.

CONCLUSION

Neurologists should be aware of Call Fleming syndrome presenting with severe headache and associated convexity subarachnoid hemorrhage. After other diagnoses are excluded, patients can be reassured about favorable prognosis with symptomatic management.

ABBREVIATIONS

RCVSReversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndromeCTComputed tomographySAHSubarachnoid hemorrhageMRMagnetic resonanceCTAComputed tomography angiographyMRAMagnetic resonance angiography.

Pattern of informed consent acquisition in patients undergoing emergent endovascular treatment for acute ischemic stroke

BACKGROUND

Telephone consent and two physician consents based on medical necessity are alternate strategies for time sensitive medical decisions but are not uniformly accepted for clinical practice or recruitment into clinical trials. We determined the rate of and associated outcomes with alternate consenting strategies in consecutive acute ischemic stroke patients receiving emergent endovascular treatment.

METHODS

We divided patients into those treated based on in-person consent and those based on alternate strategies. We identified clinical and procedural differences and differences in hospital outcomes: symptomatic ICH and favorable outcome (defined by modified Rankin Scale of 0-2 at discharge) based on consenting methodology.

RESULTS

Of a total of 159 patients treated, 119 were treated based on in-person consent (by the patient in 27 and legally authorized representative in 92 procedures). Another 40 patients were treated using alternate strategies (20 telephone consents and 20 two physician consents based on medical necessity). There was no difference in the mean ages and proportion of men among the two groups based on consenting methodology. There was a significantly greater time interval incurred between CT scan and initiation of endovascular procedure in those in whom in-person consent was obtained (117 ± 65 min versus 101 ± 45 min, p = 0.01). There was no significant difference in rates of ICH (9% versus 8%, p = 0.9), or favorable outcome at discharge (28% versus 30%, p = 0.8).

CONCLUSIONS

Consent through alternate strategies does not adversely affect procedural characteristics or outcome of patients and may be more time efficient than in-person consenting process.

Endovascular treatment of intracranial aneurysms by interventional neurologists: first year single-center experience

BACKGROUND

Endovascular embolization of ruptured intracranial aneurysms provides an adequate treatment and long-term results with less morbidity and mortality (M&M) compared with surgical treatment. Since the last decade more and more ruptured and unruptured intracranial aneurysms (IA) undergo endovascular embolization in the United States. We present our experience of the initial one year periprocedural M&M at Paul L. Foster School of Medicine (PLFSM), Texas Tech Health Science Center (TTUHSC) in El Paso, Texas.

METHODS

Demographics, technical aspects of the endovascular procedure and clinical assessment, including several commonly used scales to assess the severity in case of subarachnoid hemorrhage were collected. Perioperative complications were classified as minor and major. All data is prospectively collected in a local database. Only endovascular treated aneurysms were included in the study.

RESULTS

During the first year of opening of the interventional neurology program at our school of medicine (March 2011 and March 2012), a total 45 ruptured and unruptured intracranial aneurysms were treated with endovascular embolization. Two thirds of the patients (n = 27) presented with a ruptured IA. Within those with a ruptured aneurysm, the most median Hunt and Hess grade was 3. By large the vast majority of treated IA were in the anterior circulation and more than half measured 7-12 mm. Only three unruptured IA were <7 mm (average 5.5 mm). Complications occurred in seven patients (15%), four of them were minor without any clinical sequelae. The remaining three included; intracranial dissection and aneurysmal rupture resulting in both hemorrhagic or ischemic stroke and death in only one patient.

CONCLUSION

The first year experience of interventional neurology services at Paul L. Foster School of Medicine in El Paso, Texas demonstrates successful treatments with comparable national rates of morbidity and mortality.

ABBREVIATIONS

ACAAnterior cerebral arteryAcommAnterior communicating arteryESNEndovascular surgical neuroradiologyH&HHunt and Hess scaleIAIntracranial aneurysmICAInternal carotid arteryMCAMiddle cerebral arteryM&MMorbidity and mortalitySAHSubarachnoid hemorrhagePcommPosterior communicating arteryPLFSMPaul L. Foster School of MedicineTTUHSCTexas Tech University Health Science CenterVAVertebral artery.