Factors predicting outcomes of endoscopic endonasal approach in craniopharyngioma patients

Objectives

Endoscopic endonasal approach (EEA) is commonly used for resection of craniopharyngioma (CP). Treatment outcomes of EEA for CP were related to numerous factors; however, they have been evaluated in few studies. The objective of this study is to investigate factors associated with the outcomes of CP following this operation.

Materials and Methods

The records of patients with CP, who underwent EEA at our institution from January 2014 to June 2022, were retrospectively reviewed. Surgical outcomes, including the extent of resection, visual recovery, and endocrinological outcomes, were reported. Clinical and radiographic factors were analyzed for their associations with treatment outcomes using logistic regression analyzes.

Results

This study cohort consisted of 28 patients with CP. Gross total resection (GTR) was achieved in 12 patients (43%). Post-operative visual status improved, stabilized, and deteriorated in 89%, 6%, and 6% of the patients, respectively. There were no patients recovered from pre-operative pituitary dysfunctions, while post-operative hypoadrenalism, hypothyroidism, and hypogonadism were found in 9 (36%), 11 (42%), and 4 (22%) patients, respectively. Post-operative permanent diabetic insipidus was found in 13 patients (50%). Greater suprasellar extension of the tumor was associated with a lower rate of GTR (P = 0.011). Diabetes mellitus (DM) was associated with poor visual recovery (P = 0.022). Larger tumor size and Puget grade 2 were associated with postoperative hypoadrenalism (P = 0.01 and 0.023, respectively). In addition, Puget grade 2 was associated with post-operative hypothyroidism (P = 0.017).

Conclusion

For EEA in CP, the extent of resection could be determined by suprasellar extension of the tumor. DM was a poor predicting factor for visual recovery, while larger tumors and Puget grade 2 had a higher risk of post-operative hypopituitarism.

Efficacy and predicting factors of multimodal treatment for ruptured intracranial vertebral artery dissecting aneurysms

We aimed to investigate the efficacy of our multimodal strategies and propose a treatment algorithm for ruptured vertebral artery dissecting aneurysms (VADAs). This study included 41 patients treated at a single institution between 2015 and 2022. The treatment modalities were justified based on the collateral circulation and aneurysm location related to the posterior inferior cerebellar artery (PICA). Treatment outcomes and complications of each treatment group were analyzed. The association between the collateral blood flow and the postoperative vertebrobasilar ischemia (VBI) was also investigated. There were 17 post-PICA, 10 PICA-involved, 7 pre-PICA, and 7 non-PICA types. Reconstruction techniques included flow diversion devices (n = 11) and stent-assisted coiling (n = 3). Deconstruction techniques included coil trapping (n=17) and microsurgical parent artery occlusion with (n = 8) or without PICA revascularization (n = 2). Five (18.5%) of the deconstruction group had postoperative VBI. Overall favorable outcomes in both groups were observed in 70.7% of patients with a mean follow-up time of 21.5 months. Poor World Federation of Neurosurgical Societies grade (IV-V) was identified as a predictor of unfavorable outcomes (p = 0.003). In addition, the VA4/BA4 ratio > 0.22, the presence of collateral blood flow from the posterior communicating artery (PcomA), and a contralateral VA diameter > 2.5 mm were associated with a lower risk of postoperative VBI. In summary, the proposed strategic treatment in this study is pragmatic, yielding satisfactory results where a deconstructive technique should be used with caution, particularly when there is a flow mismatch or the absence of collateral PcomA in the vertebrobasilar circulation.

Safety and efficacy of continuous intravenous labetalol for blood pressure control in neurosurgical patients

OBJECTIVES

Current evidence supporting the use of continuous intravenous labetalol for blood pressure (BP) control in neurosurgical patients is limited. This study aims to assess the efficacy and safety of labetalol in neurosurgical patients and identify potential contributing factors to these outcomes.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of neurosurgical patients who received continuous labetalol infusion for BP control. Efficacy was assessed based on the time needed to achieve the target BP (systolic BP ≤ 140 mmHg or diastolic BP ≤ 90 mmHg). Safety was assessed according to adverse events that occurred during labetalol administration. Factors associated with efficacy and safety were analyzed using a logistic regression model.

RESULTS

Among 79 patients enrolled in this study, 47 (59.49%) achieved the target BP within 1 hour (early response). No factors were significantly associated with an early response. Hypotension was observed in 11 patients (13.9%), and bradycardia was observed in 8 patients (10.1%). Hypotension was significantly associated with patient age and motor impairment, while bradycardia was significantly associated with diabetes mellitus.

CONCLUSION

The efficacy and safety profiles of labetalol infusion suggest this treatment as a promising option for BP control in neurosurgical patients.

Prediction of Permanent Shunt Dependency in Patients with Intraventricular Hemorrhage: Outcomes of Early External Ventricular Drainage Weaning Protocol

BACKGROUND

Hydrocephalus remains a common sequela of intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) despite adequate drainage of the hematoma, including endoscopic surgery, intraventricular fibrinolysis, and external ventricular drainage (EVD). Moreover, the appropriate timing for conversion from EVD to ventriculoperitoneal shunt (VPS) is uncertain. This study aimed to evaluate the predictors of shunt dependency in patients with IVH based on the early EVD weaning protocol in our institution.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed medical records of patients who were diagnosed with primary IVH and secondary IVH from spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage during the period 2018-2021. Predictors associated with shunt dependency were identified using a logistic regression model. The cutoff point of each variable was selected by receiver operating characteristic curve analysis. Furthermore, shunt complications were reported as a safety measure of our early EVD weaning protocol.

RESULTS

The analysis included 106 patients. After IVH treatment, 15 (14%) patients required ventriculoperitoneal shunt, whereas 91 (86%) patients were shunt-free. The diameter of posttreatment temporal horn and the degree of IVH reduction were the significant predictors of shunt dependency. Moreover, patients with IVH reduction of >45% and temporal horn diameter of <9 mm had a lower probability of shunt dependency. Shunt failure was found in 2 (13.3%) patients.

CONCLUSIONS

This study showed that a large temporal horn diameter and a lower degree of IVH removal were predictors of shunt dependency in patients with IVH. In addition, early conversion from EVD to ventriculoperitoneal shunt is safe and feasible.

Bleeding pediatric AVM with negative pre-operative angiography: the first case report

INTRODUCTION

Pediatric arteriovenous malformation (pAVM) is one of the most common vascular entities in non-traumatic intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) in children. To diagnose arteriovenous malformation (AVM), digital subtraction angiography (DSA) is the gold standard investigation because it can provide sufficient dynamic information about the AVM. In extremely rare occasions, angiography is unable to detect an AVM because the AVM is spontaneously occluded. All reported cases found by authors in the literature had already been diagnosed with AVM by angiography or other vascular studies before the AVM occlusion.

CASE PRESENTATION

We present a case of a 4-year-old girl who presented with left occipital ICH with atypical calcification. Based on history and investigation, pAVM was the most likely diagnosis. However, preoperative angiography was negative for pAVM and for shunting. Bleeding tumor was then suspected instead. After resection, pathological diagnosis confirmed pAVM.

CONCLUSION

Our case demonstrates that DSA, despite being considered the gold standard, cannot always diagnose pAVM. The mechanism of spontaneous AVM occlusion remains unknown.

Treatment outcomes between endoscopic surgery and conventional craniotomy for spontaneous supratentorial intracerebral hemorrhage: a randomized controlled trial

Minimally invasive surgery (MIS) has been repeatedly evaluated in patients with ICH as a promising procedure for improved survival and functional outcome. Among MIS techniques, endoscopic surgery (ES) has shown superior efficacy for ICH removal due to rapid clot evacuation and immediate bleeding control. However, the results of ES are still uncertain due to insufficient data. In this study, participants with spontaneous supratentorial ICH who were indicated for surgery were randomly assigned (1:1) to undergo ES or conventional craniotomy (CC) between March 2019 and June 2022. The primary outcome was a difference in favorable modified Rankin Scale (mRS) outcome (0 to 3) at 180-day follow-up evaluated by blind assessors. There were 188 participants, 95 in the ES group and 93 in the CC group, who completed the trial. At 180-day follow-up, 46 (48.4%) participants in the ES group achieved favorable outcomes, compared to 33 (35.5%) in the CC group (risk difference [RD] 12.9, 95% CI - 1.1-27.0, p = 0.07). After covariate adjustment, the difference was slightly higher and significant (adjusted RD 17.3, 95% CI [4.6-30.0], p = 0.01). Moreover, the ES group had less operative duration and less intraoperative blood loss than the CC group. Clot evacuation rate and complications were similar between the two groups. Subgroup analyses showed a potential benefit of ES in age < 60 years, time to surgery ≥ 6 h, and deep ICH. This study showed that ES was safe and effective in ICH removal and provided a better functional outcome compared to CC.

Endoscopic Approaches to the Paramedian Skull Base: An Anatomic Comparison of Contralateral Endonasal and Transmaxillary Strategies

BACKGROUND

The expanded endoscopic endonasal approach (EEA) is limited laterally by the internal carotid artery (ICA). The EEA to the paramedian skull base often requires complex maneuvers such as dissection of the Eustachian tube (ET) and foramen lacerum (FL), and ICA manipulation. An endoscopic contralateral transmaxillary approach (CTMA) has the potential to provide adequate exposure of the paramedian skull base while bypassing manipulation of the aforementioned anatomic structures.

OBJECTIVE

To quantify and compare the surgical nuances of a CTMA and a contralateral EEA when approaching the paramedian skull base in cadaveric specimens.

METHODS

Five adult cadaveric heads were dissected bilaterally (10 sides) using a contralateral EEA and a CTMA to expose targets of interest at the paramedian skull base. For each target in both approaches, the surgical freedom, angle of attack, the corridor's "perspective angle," and "turning angle" to circumvent the ICA, ET, and FL were obtained.

RESULTS

The CTMA achieved superior surgical freedom at all targets ( P < .05) except at the root entry point of cranial nerve XII. The CTMA provided superior vertical and horizontal angles of " attack " to the majority of targets of interest. Except when approaching the root entry point of cranial nerve XII, the CTMA " turning angle " around the ICA, ET, and FL were wider with CTMA for all targets.

CONCLUSION

A CTMA complements the EEA to access the paramedian skull base. A CTMA may limit the need for complex maneuvers such as ICA mobilization and dissection of the ET and FL when approaching the paramedian skull base.

Applications of machine learning model for prediction of outcomes in primary pontine hemorrhage

BACKGROUND

Primary pontine hemorrhage (PPH) is a rare intracranial hemorrhage with a wide range of mortality rate. Predicting the prognosis of PPH is still challenging. Previous prognostic scoring tests have not been widely used due to limited external validation. This study applied machine learning (ML) algorithms to develop predictive models for mortality and prognosis of patients with PPH.

METHODS

Data of patients with PPH were retrospectively reviewed. Seven ML models were used to train and validate for predicting outcomes of PPH including 30-day mortality rate, 30-day, and 90-day functional outcomes. Accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive value, F1 score, Brier score, and area under the curve (AUC) of the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) were calculated. The models with the highest AUC were then selected to evaluate the testing data.

RESULTS

One hundred and fourteen patients with PPH were included. Mean hematoma volume was 7 ml and most patients had hematoma in the central part of the pons. The 30-day mortality rate was 34.2% and favorable outcomes were observed in 71.1% and 70.2% during 30-day and 90-day follow-up. The ML model could predict 30-day mortality with an AUC of 0.97 using an artificial neural network. Regarding functional outcome, the gradient boosting machine could predict both 30-day and 90-day outcomes with an AUC of 0.94.

CONCLUSIONS

ML algorithms achieved a high performance and accuracy in predicting PPH outcomes. Despite the need for further validation, ML models are promising tools for clinical applications in the future.

The outcome of surgical management for the patient with giant occipital encephalocele: a case illustration and systematic review

PURPOSE

Occipital encephalocele (OE) is one of congenital malformation of the central nervous system. However, giant OE, mostly defines as bigger-than-head OE, is extremely rare and carries a worse prognosis. Here, we presented our systematic review of the management of the giant OE and illustrated our case.

METHOD

The systematic review was carried out under PRISMA guidelines. Publications were searched under "occipital encephalocele" from 1959 to April 2021. Our primary area of interest was the outcome of patients who have undergone surgery for giant OE. Variables of interest included age, sex, size of the sac, presentations, associated anomalies, management, outcome, and follow-up period were collected.

RESULT

We collected 35 articles, consisting of 74 cases (including 1 case from our illustrative case), to perform a systematic review. The mean age at the time of surgery was 3.53 ± 8.22 months. The mean circumference of the sac was 52.41 ± 18.6 cm. The three most common associated anomalies were microcephaly, corpus callosal agenesis/dysgenesis, and Chiari malformation. After the surgery, survival was reported in 64 (90.1%) patients. Postoperative complications were reported in 14 cases (16 events). Age above 1 month at the time of surgery was significantly associated with survival (p = 0.02) but not with complication (p = 0.22). In contrast, the type of surgery was not associated with survival (p = 0.18) or complications (p = 0.41).

CONCLUSION

Despite a rare condition with a poor prognosis, our reported case and systematic review revealed promising outcomes of surgery regardless of surgical strategies, especially in patients older than 1 month. Thus, appropriate planning is essential for the treatment of this condition.

Outcomes of Combined Endoscopic Surgery and Fibrinolytic Treatment Protocol for Intraventricular Hemorrhage: A Randomized Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND

Intraventricular fibrinolysis (IVF) and endoscopic surgery (ES) are the new promising treatment strategies to enhance the rate of hematoma clearance, which might improve functional outcome. This study investigated and compared the outcomes among these interventions.

METHODS

A randomized (1:1) double-blinded trial was carried out between August 2018 and December 2021. The intervention and control groups comprised patients receiving IVF and/or ES and external ventricular drainage (EVD), respectively. All participants had experienced primary or secondary intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) from spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage with obstructive hydrocephalus complications. The primary outcome was modified Rankin Scale score 180 days post treatment. Interim assessments were planned for every 50 participants enrolled to ensure safety and efficacy.

RESULTS

After enrollment of 110 participants (55 participants in each group), there was a difference in 30-day mortality (2 [3.6%] vs. 13 [32.7%] in the EVD group, P = 0.002), reaching the predetermined boundaries for termination of the trial. We demonstrated a better favorable outcome (modified Rankin Scale score 0-3) at 180 days in the intervention group, compared with the control group (35 [63.6%] vs. 24 [43.6%], P = 0.04). Participants in the intervention group experienced a higher IVH removal rate (91% [9.0] vs. 69.5% [38.0], P < 0.01) and had lower shunt conversion (1 [1.8%] vs. 16 [29.3%], P < 0.01). Treatment complications were comparable between the two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrated that combined ES and IVF is safe and effective for the treatment of IVH. In addition, it concluded that aggressive but safe procedures used to remove IVH could improve clinical outcome in patients with IVH.

Quantitative Comparative Analysis of the Endoscope-Assisted Expanded Retrosigmoid Approach and the Far-Lateral Approach to the Inframeatal Area: An Anatomic Study With Surgical Implications

BACKGROUND

The inframeatal area (IFMA) is a complex anatomic region of the posterior cranial fossa. Given its deep-seated location, tumors involving the IFMA represent a surgical challenge.

OBJECTIVE

To objectively compare the endoscope-assisted expanded retrosigmoid approach (ERSA) and the far-lateral supracondylar transtubercular approach (FLTA) to address the IFMA.

METHODS

Anatomic dissections were performed on 5 cadaveric heads (10 sides). The ERSAs were performed before and after the FLTAs. The surgical exposure, surgical freedom, and angles of attack to the IFMA were measured and compared for each approach. In addition, 2 illustrative clinical cases are reported.

RESULTS

Compared with FLTA, ERSA yielded a nonsignificantly smaller mean area of exposure, whereas FLTA provided a significantly larger mean area of surgical freedom, compared with ERSA ( P = .002). The mean horizontal and vertical angles of attack were significantly different between the approaches. In the vertical plane, FLTA yielded the broadest angle of attack at the root entry zone of the lower cranial nerves (CN; P < .004), whereas ERSA did so at the dural entry zone of CN VII/VIII ( P = .006). In the horizontal plane, FLTA achieved its broadest angle of attack at the root entry zone of the lower CNs ( P = 1.83) while ERSA at the dural entry zone of CN VII/VIII ( P = .37).

CONCLUSION

ERSA and FLTA granted a comparable exposure with the IFMA. Although FLTA may afford a larger area of surgical freedom, ERSA may be a suitable alternative to approach the IFMA, particularly to reach the most medial and superior aspects of this region. Conversely, FLTA may facilitate access to more caudally targets.

The "Crista Ovale": A Reliable Anatomical Landmark in Transorbital Endoscopic Approaches to the Middle Cranial Fossa

BACKGROUND

Transorbital endoscopic approaches (TOEAs) have emerged as adjunct and alternatives for accessing the middle cranial fossa (MCF). Nuances of the skull base anatomy from a ventral transorbital endoscopic viewpoint remain to be fully described.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the anatomy of the "crista ovale" (COv), described transcranially as the midsubtemporal ridge (MSR), from a ventral transorbital perspective and evaluate its role as a landmark in TOEA to the MCF.

METHODS

Lateral TOEAs to the MCF were performed in 20 adult cadaveric heads (40 sides). The presence of the COv/MSR was evaluated under endoscopic visualization. Anatomic relationships between COv/MSR and surrounding structures were assessed. The presence of COv/MSR was also examined in 30 cadaveric head computed tomography (CT) scans (60 sides).

RESULTS

The COv/MSR was identified in 98% (39/40) of sides at the MCF, as 1 of 4 major configurations. The COv/MSR was found anterolateral to the foramen ovale and foramen spinosum (mean distance: 9.2 ± SD 2.4 mm and 12.3 ± SD 2.6 mm, respectively) directly anterior or anteromedial to the petrous apex (mean distance: 26.2 ± SD 2.6 mm) and at a mean 47.6 ± SD 4.7 mm from the approach's surgical portal. It was recognized in 95% (57/60) of CT scans.

CONCLUSION

The COv/MSR can be readily identified during TOEA to the MCF and on CT. It serves as a reliable landmark to localize the foramen ovale, foramen spinosum, and petrous apex. Further studies may confirm its surgical significance in transorbital endoscopic procedures.

Clinical Outcome in Cerebral Vasospasm Patients Treated with and without Intra-Arterial Nimodipine Infusion

BACKGROUND

 Cerebral vasospasm (CV) after aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) is still a problem. Hypertension, hypervolemia, and hemodilution (triple-H) therapy and oral nimodipine only a modest effect on patients. Intra-arterial treatment, including nimodipine, has been studied, but only as retrospective and single-arm prospective studies. We compared the outcomes between CV patients who received an adjunct intra-arterial nimodipine infusion (IANI) and those who received the standard medical treatment alone in a prospective randomized controlled trial.

METHODS

 In this study, patients between the age of 18 and 80 years, who underwent angiography within 14 days after aneurysm obliteration, were recruited and randomized to receive adjunct IANI or not, if they were identified with angiographic vasospasm. All the angiographic and neurologic data were recorded and analyzed during their admission, at the discharge date, and during the 6-month follow-up period.

RESULTS

 From June 2016 to December 2018, we enrolled 68 patients who were randomized into two groups, 36 in the intervention group and 32 in the control group. The patients' characteristics, aneurysm data, and modalities of treatment were similar between the two groups. Within 24 hours after IANI, Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score and motor strength revealed a significant improvement of 33.33 and 38.89%, respectively, in the intervention group versus 12.5 and 9.38%, respectively, in the control group. At discharge, the intervention group still had significant motor improvement (58.33 vs. 21.88%; p = 0.002).

CONCLUSION

 IANI could be considered an effective treatment for CV without significant complications. This is the first RCT demonstrating statistically significant motor strength improvement within 24 hours and at discharge.

Rapidly progressive medulloblastoma initially mimicking idiopathic intracranial hypertension and Chiari I malformation: A case report

Introduction

Medulloblastoma (MDB) often causes signs and symptoms of elevated intracranial pressure (ICP) with imaging findings of mass lesion. Here, we report a case of MDB who initially presented with clinical features imitating idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) and Chiari I malformation (CIM).

Case presentation

A 19-year-old man had clinical symptoms of elevated ICP without mass lesion on imaging. He was initially diagnosed with IIH and CIM, which underwent shunt surgery and posterior fossa decompression. Later on, he had recurrent symptoms, and the new imaging revealed the development of MDB in the right cerebellar hemisphere. After tumor resection, the patient rapidly deteriorated with spinal metastases.

Discussion and conclusion

Management of the coexistence between IIH and CIM in patients with rising ICP is complicated. MDB is one of the aggressive malignant brain tumors showing a wide range of imaging features, including non-enhancing mass. Therefore, recognizing the possibility of brain tumors mimicking IIH or CIM is crucial.

•

The coexistence of idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) and Chiari I malformation (CIM) is complicated.

•

Medulloblastoma (MDB) can present with a wide range of imaging features, including non-enhancing mass.

•

Exclusion of the secondary cause of rising intracranial pressure is necessary before making the diagnosis of IIH or CIM

•

Early diagnosis, including subtype of MDB, and urgent treatment are crucial for better outcome.

Transorbital Endoscopic Approach for Repair of Frontal Sinus Cerebrospinal Fluid Leaks: Case-Series

OBJECTIVES

To highlight the feasibility and evaluate the outcomes of the transorbital endoscopic approach (TOEA) in the management of frontal sinus cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leaks.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective case series.

METHODS

The database of patients with frontal sinus CSF leaks managed with TOEA from January 2017 through December 2019 at our institution was reviewed. Two videos of clinical case examples are presented.

RESULTS

Sixteen patients (10 males, 6 females, mean age 53; range 21-61 years) underwent TOEA through the superior eyelid corridor for the repair of frontal sinus CSF leak. The most common etiology of the CSF leak was trauma (nine cases; 56.3%), followed by injury from iatrogenic causes in six cases (37.5%), and spontaneous leak in one case (6.2%). Average defect size was 8.8 mm (range 2.0-20.8 mm). Ten patients were revision cases who had undergone prior nontransorbital CSF leak repair at outside institutions. All patients underwent successful repair via TOEA without postoperative complications. Complete resolution was maintained in all cases. Mean follow-up period was 11 months (range 6-22 months).

CONCLUSIONS

TOEA is a safe minimally disruptive alternative for definitive management of frontal sinus CSF leak in well-selected primary or revision cases. Further studies are necessary to define its indications and outcomes.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

4 Laryngoscope, 131:1753-1757, 2021.

The Eustachian Tube as a Landmark for Early Identification of the Abducens Nerve During Endonasal Transclival Approaches

BACKGROUND

Expanded endonasal approaches have the potential to injure the abducens nerve (cranial nerve [CN] VI). The nerve's root entry zone (REZ) and cisternal segment (CS) are particularly prone to injury during the clivus resection and dural incision of transclival approaches.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the role of the eustachian tube (ET) as a surgical landmark for the REZ and CS of CN VI.

METHODS

Transclival expanded endonasal approaches were performed bilaterally in 6 fresh-frozen cadaveric specimens (12 sides). Anatomic relationships between ET and CN VI were documented with neuronavigation.

RESULTS

The mean vertical distance from the inferior brainstem point to the horizontal projection of CN VI REZ, CS midpoint, and interdural segment (ID) were 26.38 mm (95% confidence interval [CI] 17.36-35.4), 38.61 mm (95% CI 25.61-51.61), and 42.68 mm (95% CI 30.14-55.22), respectively. The relative vertical distance from the ET to the horizontal projections of the REZ, CS midpoint, and its ID were 6.43 mm (95% CI 3.25-9.61), 18.66 mm (95% CI 11.52-25.8), and 22.72 mm (95% CI 16.02-29.42), respectively. In the axial plane the angles between the ET and (1) the REZ and its midline horizontal projection point, (2) the midpoint and its midline horizontal projection point, and (3) ID and its midline horizontal projection point were 9.81 ± SD 5.20°, 18.50 ± SD 4.87°, and 24.71 ± SD 6.21°, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The ET may serve as a constant landmark to reliably predict the position of the REZ and CS of CN VI.

Comparison of Minimally Invasive and Pterional Craniotomies for Ruptured Anterior Circulation Aneurysms: A Propensity Score Matched Analysis

BACKGROUND

Minimally invasive craniotomy (MIC) for ruptured aneurysm remains a debatable issue because of unclear information regarding its safety and efficacy compared with standard approaches. Here, we compared the outcomes between MIC and pterional craniotomy (PTC) for the treatment of ruptured anterior circulation aneurysms.

METHODS

A database of patients with ruptured anterior circulation aneurysm who were treated with surgical clipping was reviewed. With the use of propensity score matching to balance the baseline characteristics of MIC and PTC groups, outcomes of the 2 groups were compared. Clinical predictors of favorable outcomes (modified Rankin scale score 0-2) were evaluated by using uni- and multivariate analyses.

RESULTS

A total of 102 matched pairs were identified. MIC resulted in a significantly shorter operative time (2.8 ± 0.9 vs. 4.2 ± 0.7 hours; P = 0.004) and hospital stay (14.2 ± 5.9 vs. 19.2 ± 9.1 days; P < 0.001), respectively. Both MIC and PTC had similar mortality and complication rates except for the incidences of intracranial hemorrhage (2% vs. 9.8%; P = 0.039) and brain injury (9.8% vs. 27.5%; P = 0.036), respectively. Use of MIC instead of standard surgery and lower World Federation of Neurosurgical Societies (WFNS) grade and absence of hydrocephalus were significant predictors of favorable outcome at 1 month, whereas higher WFNS grade and higher Fisher grade were significantly associated with a poor outcome at 6 months.

CONCLUSIONS

For the treatment of ruptured anterior circulation aneurysms, MIC was comparable with PTC and presented additional advantage in terms of earlier recovery. Therefore, MIC can be considered an alternative surgical treatment in this setting.

Quantitative analysis of the surgical exposure and surgical freedom between transcranial and transorbital endoscopic anterior petrosectomies to the posterior fossa

OBJECT

This study proposes a variation of the transorbital endoscopic approach (TOEA) that uses the lateral orbit as the primary surgical corridor, in a minimally invasive fashion, for the posterior fossa (PF) access. The versatility of this technique was quantitatively analyzed in comparison with the anterior transpetrosal approach (ATPA), which is commonly used for managing lesions in the PF.

METHODS

Anatomical dissections were carried out in 5 latex-injected human cadaveric heads (10 sides). During dissection, the PF was first accessed by TOEAs through the anterior petrosectomy, both with and without lateral orbital rim osteotomies (herein referred as the lateral transorbital approach [LTOA] and the lateral orbital wall approach [LOWA], respectively). ATPAs were performed following the orbital approaches. The stereotactic measurements of the area of exposure, surgical freedom, and angles of attack to 5 anatomical targets were obtained for statistical comparison by the neuronavigator.

RESULTS

The LTOA provided the smallest area of exposure (1.51 ± 0.5 cm2, p = 0.07), while areas of exposure were similar between LOWA and ATPA (1.99 ± 0.7 cm2 and 2.01 ± 1.0 cm2, respectively; p = 0.99). ATPA had the largest surgical freedom, whereas that of LTOA was the most restricted. Similarly, for all targets, the vertical and horizontal angles of attack achieved with ATPA were significantly broader than those achieved with LTOA. However, in LOWA, the removal of the lateral orbital rim allowed a broader range of movement in the horizontal plane, thus granting a similar horizontal angle for 3 of the 5 targets in comparison with ATPA.

CONCLUSIONS

The TOEAs using the lateral orbital corridor for PF access are feasible techniques that may provide a comparable surgical exposure to the ATPA. Furthermore, the removal of the orbital rim showed an additional benefit in an enhancement of the surgical maneuverability in the PF.

Extended Supraorbital Approach with Modified Eyebrow Incision: Technical Note

BACKGROUND

The extended supraorbital approach through a modified eyebrow incision is a minimally invasive variant of the frontotemporal or pterional approach that enriches a neurosurgeon's armamentarium for the treatment of pathologies lateral to the anterior clinoid process, by advancing laterally with frontal facial nerve branches monitoring. To demonstrate the steps of the approach, we studied 2 formalin-fixed and artery/vein silicone-injected adult cadaveric heads, and reviewed 1 of the 3 clinical cases operated on to illustrate the applicability of the approach.

CLINICAL PRESENTATION

A 56-year-old woman presented with a history of seizures and a complaint of headache that started 2 months ago. She underwent an examination with brain magnetic resonance imaging that showed a dural-based lesion at the medial third of the lesser wing of sphenoid (which is consistent with meningioma). The patient underwent craniotomy with an extended supraorbital approach through a modified eyebrow incision that allowed Simpson grade II removal to be performed and good aesthetic outcome to be achieved.

CONCLUSIONS

The extended supraorbital approach through a modified eyebrow incision is a minimally invasive approach that can add to a neurosurgeon's armamentarium and be used with microscopy, assisted by endoscope, or both to reach the anterior and middle cranial fossae.

Comparative Analysis of the Exposure and Surgical Freedom of the Endoscopic Extended Minipterional Craniotomy and the Transorbital Endoscopic Approach to the Anterior and Middle Cranial Fossae

BACKGROUND

Numerous minimally invasive approaches to the skull base have been successively developed. Knowledge of the surgical nuances of a specific approach may facilitate approach selection. This study sought to compare the nuances of an extended version of the minipterional craniotomy (EMPT) with those of the transorbital endoscopic approach (TOEA) to the anterior and middle cranial fossae (ACF and MCF, respectively).

OBJECTIVE

To quantitatively analyze and compare the area of exposure and surgical freedom between EMPT and TOEA to the ACF and MCF.

METHODS

EMPT and TOEA were carried out in 5 latex-injected cadaveric heads, bilaterally (10 sides). For each approach, the area of exposure, surgical freedom, and angle of attack were obtained with neuronavigation and statistically compared.

RESULTS

No significant difference was found between the mean area of exposure of EMPT and TOEA at the ACF and MCF (P = .709 and .317, respectively). The mean exposure area at the ACF was of 13.4 ± 2.6 cm2 (mean ± standard deviation) and 13.0 ± 1.9 cm2 for EMPT and TOEA, respectively. Except for the crista galli, EMPT afforded a larger area of surgical freedom at all targets. EMPT also achieved significantly greater attack angles in vertical axis except to the crista galli. The horizontal attack angles to all targets were similar between approaches.

CONCLUSION

EMPT and TOEA offer a comparable area of exposure at the ACF and MCF in the cadaver; however, the instrument maneuverability afforded by EMPT is superior. Further studies are necessary to better define their precise surgical application.

Comparative Analysis Between Lateral Orbital Rim Preservation and Osteotomy for Transorbital Endoscopic Approaches to the Cavernous Sinus: An Anatomic Study

BACKGROUND

Transorbital endoscopic approach (TOEA) to the cavernous sinus (CS) is a novel surgical technique. However, the necessity of lateral orbital rim (LOR) osteotomy is questionable.

OBJECTIVE

To illustrate the surgical dissection of TOEAs to CS and to investigate the additional benefit of LOR osteotomy.

METHODS

Anatomic dissections were carried out in 7 cadaveric heads (14 sides). The TOEAs were performed before and after LOR osteotomy; herein referred as the lateral transorbital approach (LTOA) and the lateral orbital wall approach (LOWA), respectively. The stereotactic measurements of the area of exposure, surgical freedom, and angles of attack around CS were quantified.

RESULTS

LOWA increased larger area of exposure than LTOA at entry site (5.3 ± 0.6 cm2 and 2.6 ± 0.6 cm2, respectively; P &lt; .001) but both of these techniques provided similar area of exposure at the surgical target site. With regard to the surgical freedoms, those afforded by LOWA were all significantly superior at all of the surgical targets with the difference ranged from 106.6% to 172.5%. No significant differences were found between the vertical angles produced by either approach. On the other hand, the horizontal angles achieved by LOWA were significantly more favorable.

CONCLUSION

The TOEAs, either with or without LOR osteotomy are feasible for CS exposure. Although the incremental effect of maneuverability is attained following the LOR osteotomy, it should be performed selectively. Additional research is needed to further validate the safety and efficacy, as well as for precisely defining the clinical application of these techniques.

Cerebellopontine angle medulloblastoma with extensive nodularity in a child: case report and review of the literature

BACKGROUND

Cerebellar medulloblastomas (MBs) are one of the most common posterior fossa tumors in children but rarely occur in the cerebellopontine angle (CPA). Only 39 cases of CPA MBs were reported in the literature, and most of them were classic and desmoplastic MBs.

CASE PRESENTATION

A 22-month-old girl presented with progressive cerebellar ataxia. Magnetic resonance imaging showed a large tumor in the right CPA and obstructive hydrocephalus. Surgical resection was performed and achieved total tumor removal. Microscopic examination and immunohistochemical staining revealed the diagnosis of MB with extensive nodularity. The patient recovered from her symptoms during follow-up and was transferred for adjuvant chemotherapy.

CONCLUSION

MB should be considered as a differential diagnosis of a lesion in the CPA. The treatment and outcome of CPA MBs are similar to cerebellar MBs.

Clinical predictors for survival and treatment outcome of high-grade glioma in Prasat Neurological Institute

OBJECTIVE

The aim was to identify clinical predictors for survival and examine treatment outcome in patients with high-grade glioma (HGG).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The authors retrospectively reviewed medical records of patients who was diagnosed HGG between January 2007 and December 2009. Demographic data, radiological data and treatment data of patients were reviewed and analyzed.

RESULTS

A total of 100 patients were analyzed. There was no difference in demographic data between Grade III and IV glioma. Patients with HGG had median survival time (MST) 18 months, The MST of patients with Grade III and IV glioma were 26 and 13 months, respectively. In this study, only anaplastic oligoastrocytoma and radiotherapy did impact strongly on survival of patients with HGG. In patients with Grade III and IV glioma, radiotherapy found to have influence on survival.

CONCLUSION

Patients with HGG in Prasat Neurological Institute had short survival resemble to other previous study. The clinical predictors for survival of patients were identified on multivariate analysis.

A case of disseminated central nervous system sparganosis

Background:

Sparganosis is a very rare parasitic infection in various organs caused by the larvae of tapeworms called spargana. The larva usually lodges in the central nervous system (CNS) and the orbit. However, lumbar spinal canal involvement, as noted in the present case, is extremely rare. We report a rare case of disseminated CNS sparganosis involving the brain and spinal canal and review the literature.

Case Description:

A 54-year-old man presented with progressive low back pain and neurological deficit at the lumbosacral level for 2 months. Imaging indicated arachnoiditis and an abnormal lesion at the L4-5 vertebral level. The patient underwent laminectomy of the L4-5 with lesionectomy and lysis of adhesions between the nerve roots. Microscopic examination indicated sparganum infection. Further brain imaging revealed evidence of chronic inflammation in the left parieto-occipital area without evidence of live parasites. In addition, an ophthalmologist reported a nonactive lesion in the right conjunctiva. The patient recovered well after surgery, although he had residual back pain and bladder dysfunction probably due to severe adhesion of the lumbosacral nerve roots.

Conclusion:

CNS sparganosis can cause various neurological symptoms similar to those of other CNS infections. A preoperative enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay is helpful for diagnosis, especially in endemic areas. Surgical removal of the worm remains the treatment of choice.

Recent Update on Carotid Endarterectomy versus Carotid Artery Stenting

Carotid artery stenosis (CS) is a major cause of ischemic stroke. Treatment of CS consists of best medical treatment and carotid revascularization (CR), including carotid endarterectomy (CEA) and carotid artery stenting (CAS). Both CR techniques have their own procedural risks. Therefore, selection of the appropriate treatment for patients with CS is relatively complicated. Many studies and guidelines have reported the efficacy of each treatment for both symptomatic and asymptomatic patients. However, the results are still controversial, especially concerning the efficacy and safety of CEA and CAS. In this paper, we review and discuss the current evidence and compare results from studies of CEA and CAS, including major randomized trials, meta-analyses and ongoing trials. Moreover, based on the current data, we propose a new comprehensive decision-making for the management of CS.