[Pathological tortuosity of intracranial arteries (pure arterial malformation) - diagnosis and management tactics]

BACKGROUND

Tortuosity of intracranial arteries is rare and usually mistaken for arteriovenous malformations. In the world literature, the term «pure arterial malformations» is used to refer to this disease.

OBJECTIVE

To summarize the experience of the Burdenko Neurosurgery Center on diagnosis of intracranial artery tortuosity, management and treatment of these patients, as well as to review appropriate literature data.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Tortuosity of intracranial arteries was detected in 11 patients (8 women and 3 men) aged 7-48 years who underwent outpatient or inpatient examination and treatment at the Burdenko Neurosurgery Center between 2009 and 2022. We analyzed angiographic, clinical and follow-up data of these patients, as well as appropriate literature data.

RESULTS

According to angiography data, all patients had moderate dilatation, elongation and tortuosity of intracranial arteries without signs of arteriovenous shunting. The most common finding was tortuosity of several segments of internal carotid artery (5 cases). Lesion of PCA, PComA, MCA and ACA was less common. In 7 cases, the walls of the deformed vessels had calcified zones. In two cases, there were saccular aneurysms in the walls of the tortuous vessels. In one case, tortuosity was combined with kinking of the left subclavian artery, in another one - tortuosity of C1 segment of the right ICA. No patient had specific clinical manifestations. The follow-up period was 1-10 years in 7 patients. There were no changes in structure of tortuosity or appearance of new aneurysms.

CONCLUSION

Tortuosity of intracranial arteries is an extremely rare disease with the highest incidence in young women. This abnormality has no specific clinical manifestations and does not require surgical or conservative treatment. Tortuosity of intracranial arteries should be differentiated from arterial dolichoectasia, fusiform aneurysms and AVMs.

[Surgical treatment of cervical neurovascular bundle tumors]

OBJECTIVE

To determine the main principles of a patient-oriented individual approach to diagnosis and surgical treatment of cervical neurovascular bundle tumors considering the capabilities of neurosurgical hospital.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

There were 92 patients with cervical soft tissue tumors affecting neurovascular bundle. Age of patients ranged from 9 to 81 years (mean 47). There were 65.1% women and 34.9% men. We found chemodectoma (47.4%), neurofibroma (15.8%), neurinoma (13.2%), papillary thyroid cancer (5.3%), salivary gland heterotopia (5.3%), salivary gland adenocarcinoma (5.3%), Hodgkin lymphoma (2.6%), hemangioendothelioma (2.6%) and cavernous lymphangioma (2.6%). Diagnostic algorithm included neurological examinations, Doppler ultrasound of supra-aortic arteries, transcranial ultrasound of cerebral vessels, MRI of cervical soft tissues, CT-AG, MR-AG, CT-perfusion, direct selective angiography.

RESULTS

A total of 94 surgical interventions were performed. All surgeries were performed using surgical optics and neurophysiological monitoring of cranial nerves IX, X, XII. We chose resection technique depending on localization, histological features and blood supply of tumor. En-bloc resection was performed in 46 cases, removal of fragments - in 23 cases, intracapsular resection of tumor followed by resection of the capsule - in 26 cases. Total and subtotal resection was performed in 68 (72%) and 23 (24%) cases, respectively. Three (4%) patients underwent partial resection of infiltrative tumors for carotid artery decompression and histological analysis. In 76% of cases, baseline symptoms of disease regressed after surgery. Persistent moderate bulbar disorders were observed in 16 patients (17%). Ischemic complications with additional surgical interventions were observed in 2 cases.

CONCLUSION

Patients with cervical soft tissue tumors require individual approach regarding choosing the optimal surgical treatment including possible preoperative embolization of tumor, en-bloc or intracapsular resection and carotid artery repair.

[pConus device for endovascular treatment of basilar bifurcation aneurysms]

Aneurysm occlusion with microcoils is an effective and safe procedure. However, bifurcation aneurysms usually have a wide neck, and their occlusion is still a difficult objective.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of bifurcation stents in the treatment of basilar bifurcation aneurysms.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A retrospective analysis included 34 patients with basilar bifurcation aneurysms between 2016 and 2022. The pConus bifurcation stent was used as a stent-assistance for endovascular occlusion of aneurysms with microcoils. We analyzed technical features of stent implantation and clinical results of endovascular treatment. Mean aneurysm dimension was 8.4 mm, neck size - 4.6 mm. Preoperative MSR score 0-2 was observed in 94.7% of patients, 3-5 scores - in 5.3% of patients.

RESULTS

There were no significant changes in functional status early after surgery (MSR grading system). Total aneurysm occlusion was achieved in 67.6% of patients, subtotal - 17.6% of cases, partial - 14.8%. There were no technical or early postoperative clinical complications. Six months after surgery, total occlusion was observed in 77.8% of patients, subtotal occlusion - 14.8%, partial occlusion - 4%. MSR score 0-2 was observed between 3 and 12 months after surgery. One patient died from other cause rather aneurysm. Redo intervention due to aneurysm recanalization was performed in 1 patient.

CONCLUSION

The pConus bifurcation stent is effective and safe in endovascular treatment of basilar bifurcation aneurysms of the most complex configuration. There was a minimal risk of aneurysm recanalization in long-term postoperative period.

[Surgical treatment of vertebral artery confluence aneurysms]

BACKGROUND

Aneurysms of vertebral artery confluence and proximal parts of basilar artery are extremely rare. They are usually combined with proximal fenestration of basilar artery. No timely surgical treatment of these aneurysms is associated with high risk of adverse outcomes, and their treatment is a challenge for neurosurgeons.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We analyzed postoperative outcomes in 17 patients with 21 aneurysms of vertebral artery confluence and proximal parts of basilar artery.

RESULTS

Six patients with 10 aneurysms underwent microsurgical resection, 11 patients with 11 aneurysms - endovascular procedure. Persistent postoperative deterioration was observed in 5 (29.4%) patients: severe neurological symptoms (GOS grade 3) in 1 case (5.9%), minor bulbar disorders in 4 cases (23.53%). There were no lethal outcomes.

CONCLUSION

According to our own and literature data, aneurysms of vertebral artery confluence are extremely rare. The risk of rupture of these aneurysms is extremely high. Endovascular approach is preferred in these patients. Microsurgical procedure is an acceptable alternative if endovascular surgery is impossible.

[Unruptured asymptomatic brain aneurysms: modern approaches to the choice of surgical method and treatment outcomes]

BACKGROUND

In recent years, significant attention has been paid to preventive vascular neurosurgery. Treatment of unruptured asymptomatic brain aneurysms is one of the sections of this surgery.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate treatment outcomes in patients with unruptured asymptomatic brain aneurysms who underwent treatment chosen on the basis of criteria adopted at the Burdenko Neurosurgery Center.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

There were 2814 unruptured asymptomatic brain aneurysms in 2334 patients for the period from 1995 to 2019.

RESULTS

Microsurgical operations for unruptured asymptomatic brain aneurysms were performed in 64.9% of cases, endovascular procedures - in 35.1% of patients. Endovascular operations were usually performed for ICA aneurysms and posterior aneurysms of circle of Willis. Microsurgical operations were mainly performed in patients with aneurysms of anterior and middle cerebral arteries. Favorable outcomes (GOS grade V-IV) were obtained in most patients (98.3%). Incidence of severe complications was similar in both groups, mortality rate was 0.3% and 0.4%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Currently, there is a tendency towards annual increase in the number of surgeries for unruptured brain aneurysms. Anatomical and morphological characteristics of aneurysm should be considered to achieve favorable clinical results. At the same time, comprehensive analysis of each case and identification of individual risk factors will eliminate serious complications of surgical treatment.

[A 20-year experience in surgical treatment of steno-occlusive lesion of craniocervical arteries at the Burdenko Neurosurgical Center]

INTRODUCTION

Surgical treatment of cerebral ischemia at the Burdenko Neurosurgical Center for the period from 1999 to 2019 is analyzed in the paper. The details of the treatment strategy in patients with steno-occlusive lesion of craniocervical arteries followed by cerebral ischemia developed over 20 years are discussed in the article. We have analyzed the features of surgical interventions on the major craniocervical arteries in a neurosurgical clinic and the results of this treatment.

OBJECTIVE

To demonstrate management of various lesions of major cerebral arteries in modern neurosurgical vascular hospital.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

In total, there were 3098 interventions on the major cerebral arteries in 2527 patients for this period. Mean age of patients ranged from 1.5 to 91 years (58±14 years). Interventions included open reconstructions of the carotid arteries (2031 surgeries), reconstructions of the vertebrobasilar arteries (135 surgeries), brain revascularization (658 surgeries), excision of the tumors of neurovascular bundle on the neck compressing carotid arteries (51 interventions). Endovascular interventions were performed in 223 cases and consisted of angioplasty and stenting of the extracranial segments of craniocervical arteries (185 surgeries), stenting of the intracranial arteries (30 surgeries) and endovascular thrombextraction (8 cases). Staged surgeries were performed in 541 patients (22.3%).

RESULTS

Favorable outcomes were obtained in 87.6% of cases, satisfactory results - in 9% of patients. Clinical deterioration due to long-term postoperative complications and recurrent strokes occurred in 2.9% of cases. Postoperative morbidity rate was 4.6%, persistent neurological deficit developed in 2.6% of cases. Mortality rate was 0.5%.

CONCLUSION

Surgical treatment of stenotic and occlusive lesion of the major cerebral arteries is an interdisciplinary problem. Solution of this issue is closely associated with technological progress, new discoveries in normal and pathological physiology, as well as clinical researches. Individualized choice of surgical approach is one the main modern trends of neurosurgical approach to this problem. At the same time, own surgical experience is the most important factor determining the results of arterial reconstructions.

[Arteriovenous malformations of the brain in children: treatment results for 376 patients]

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Cerebral arteriovenous malformations (AVM) are increasingly detected in children.

Objective

To estimate the risk of hemorrhage in children with AVM before and after treatment and evaluate the outcomes of various methods of AVM management in children.

Material and methods

This study included 376 patients with various cerebral AVM under the age of 18 years. There were 273 patients with intracranial hemorrhage (72.6%).

Results

Recurrent hemorrhages within the first month were registered in 1.1% of patients with angiomatous AVM prior to treatment and in 15.4% of patients with fistulous AVM. Microsurgical resection of AVM was performed in 135 (35.9%) patients. Total resection was achieved in 97.8% of cases. There were no mortality after microsurgical procedures. Endovascular treatment was applied in 79 (21%) patients. Total embolization was achieved in 29.1% of patients. One patient (1.3%) died after endovascular procedure. Radiosurgery was performed in 140 (37.2%) patients with total obliteration after a single fraction in 64.4% of patients. Favorable long-term outcomes (GOS grades V-IV) were achieved in 89.6% of patients with available follow-up data (n=182). Recurrent hemorrhages were registered in 6% of patients (3.3% after radiosurgery, 2.7% after endovascular treatment). One patient with recurrent hemorrhage died after radiosurgery.

Conclusion

Early relapses of hemorrhage are not characteristic for children with cerebral AVM. Therefore, there are no indications for urgent surgery except for cases of intracerebral hematoma. In children, microsurgical treatment is preferred for angiomatous AVM, endovascular treatment - for fistulous AVM. Radiosurgery also ensures favorable outcomes. However, it is unreasonable to postpone AVM radiosurgical treatment in children with increased risk of recurrent hemorrhage considering relatively long period of post-radiation obliteration of AVM.

[Surgical treatment of patients with cerebral aneurysms in the acute stage of rupture: dynamics of results during 2006-2018]

Treatment of cerebral aneurysms in the acute stage of subarachnoid hemorrhage (SRH) especially on the background of cerebral vasospasm continues to be a difficult task.

OBJECTIVE

Assessment of dynamics of the surgical treatment results of patients with cerebral aneurysms in acute period of SRH.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A comparative analysis of the results of patients' surgical treatment in NMRCN Burdenko about aneurysm in 1-21 days after hemorrhage was made. The following periods were selected: 2006-2014 (343 patients) and 2015-2018 (356 patients). Most patients had microsurgical operations in both periods. The tactics of choosing the surgery time was the main difference between the periods: particularly in 2015-2018 period the surgery was not postponed at patients with severe.

RESULTS

Analysing the post surgical mortality, it was found that since 2006 there is a consistent trend towards a decrease in the number of patients who died after surgery. When calculating the average post surgical mortality for the studied periods this trend is confirmed - number of lethal cases in 2015-2018 reliably decreased when comparing with 2006-2014 - from 6.8 till 3.2%; p=0.03. At the same time, the number of patients with outcome of vegetative status (from 0.3 till 5%).

CONCLUSION

The tactics of surgical treatment of patients with cerebral aneurysms in the acute period of SRH regardless of severity of patient's condition and time of hemorrhage did not lead to worse treatment. In contrast, post surgical mortality rates show a consistent decline. We associate this fact with a number of changes that have occurred in the management and treatment of patients. In particular, we have high hopes for developing new approaches to the treatment of vasospasm, which remains the leading cause of lethal cases. More definite conclusions will be made at the end of the treatment analysis of the respective patient groups.

[Principles of surgical treatment for patients with asymptomatic aneurysms and cerebral aneurysms in the cold period after spontaneous intracranial hemorrhages]

Surgical treatment of patients with cerebral aneurysms still remains one of the most important issues of cerebrovascular neurosurgery, which is associated with both complexity of treatment and risks posed by the disease. The purpose of this publication is to discuss the recommendations and algorithms adopted at the Neurosurgical Institute for choosing surgical treatment of patients with single and multiple intracranial aneurysms based on the clinical course of disease and anatomical morphological classifications of aneurysms. The study was based on a large clinical material: we analyzed treatment outcomes in 1,621 patients (2009-2017); of these, 966 (59.5%) patients were operated on using microsurgical techniques, and 655 (40.4%) patients underwent endovascular surgery. Surgical treatment of patients with cerebral aneurysms has been performed in close cooperation between two vascular (microsurgical and endovasal) departments, using the latest technical innovations.

[Endovascular surgery of spinal dural arteriovenous fistulas]

The article summarizes the experience in the treatment of spinal dural arteriovenous fistulas (SDAVFs).

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the efficacy of endovascular treatment of SDAVFs, depending on the pathophysiological mechanisms of impact on the spinal cord.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

For the last 5 years (2013-2017), 302 patients with SDAVFs were diagnosed and treated at the Neurosurgical Institute. The endovascular technique was used in 295 patients with this pathology. Males accounted for 82%; females accounted for 18%; the mean age was 51 years. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was used to assess the degree of spinal cord involvement. All SDAVF patients underwent total selective spinal angiography in order to study angioarchitectonics and to choose an endovascular treatment option.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSION

Endovascular embolization of fistulas was performed in 295 out of 302 patients; direct surgery was used in the remaining cases. Endovascular treatment provided total SDAVF occlusion in 78% of cases and partial SDAVF occlusion in 22% of cases. Long-term outcomes were followed-up in all patients in a period of 6 to 12 months. In 90% of cases, improvement or stabilization of neurological symptoms was observed. In 60% of cases, there was a marked improvement in the neurological status in the form of rapid (within a few days) recovery of lost motor functions. The remaining patients had stabilization of clinical symptoms.

[Treatment of postoperative vasospasm after insular tumor removal by intra-arterial administration of verapamil (analysis of two clinical cases and a literature review)]

PURPOSE

We describe our experience of using intra-arterial administration of Verapamil to resolve vasospasm in two patients who underwent surgery for insular glial tumors.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Severe vasospasm (an increased systolic LBFV in the M1 MCA, more than 250 cm/s, and a Lindegaard index of 4.1) was observed in 2 (3.2%) of 62 patients in the early postoperative period after removal of intracerebral insular tumors. In both cases, vasospasm was confirmed by angiography, was clinically significant, and manifested by the development of pyramidal hemisyndrome.

RESULTS

Intra-arterial administration of Verapamil led to relief of angiospasm, which was confirmed by angiographic data, and complete regression of neurological symptoms.

CONCLUSION

Vasospasm symptoms in patients after removal of insular tumors largely resemble those after aneurysm hemorrhage. An increase in the LBFV in the MCA and related neurological symptoms develop lately and persists for up to 2 weeks after surgery. LBFV values are similar to those in patients after SAH and reach 250-300 cm/s. Among the causes of focal symptoms developed after removal of insular tumors, injury to the inner capsule structures, injury to arteries of the MCA territory (especially perforators), and angiospasm should be differentiated.

[Neuro-ophthalmological symptoms of intracranial dural arteriovenous fistulas]

OBJECTIVE

The study objective was to identify the main neuro-ophthalmological symptoms of intracranial dural arteriovenous fistulas (dAVFs) with different localization, based on clinical and angiographic correlations.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We analyzed neuro-ophthalmological symptoms in 272 patients with dAVFs verified by direct angiographic examination. The localization of dAVFs was as follows: the cavernous sinus (CS) - 143 patients, the lateral sinuses (LSs) and the confluence of sinuses - 77 patients, and other locations - 52 patients.

RESULTS

Neuro-ophthalmological symptoms were detected in 163 (60%) patients. The symptoms were most typical of fistulas located in the CS (99% of patients with CS dAVFs). Neuro-ophthalmological symptoms were less typical of fistulas located in the LS and confluence (21% of patients with LS dAVFs) and dAVFs located outside of the CS and LS (9.6% of patients). Two main neuro-ophthalmological syndromes of intracranial dAVFs were identified: syndrome of obstructed venous outflow from the orbit and syndrome of intracranial hypertension (ICH). A correlation between neuro-ophthalmological symptoms and changes in the cerebral venous hemodynamics was found.

CONCLUSION

The syndrome of obstructed venous outflow from the orbit is pathognomonic for CS dAVFs. In some cases, obstruction of venous outflow from the orbit was observed in patients with dAVFs of other localization, with involvement of the CS and orbital veins in drainage of the fistula. The ICH syndrome reflects the most significant obstruction of venous outflow from the cranial cavity, which is characteristic of LS dAVFs with retrograde outflow in the sinuses and cerebral veins.

[Intra-arterial administration of verapamil for prevention and treatment of cerebral angiospasm after SAH due to cerebral aneurysm rupture]

AIM

The study purpose was to analyze the efficacy of intra-arterial administration of verapamil (IAV) in the treatment of angiospasm in SAH patients and to determine optimal parameters of the procedure. A number of studies demonstrated the efficacy of intra-arterial administration of vasodilators, in particular verapamil, in the treatment of angiospasm after aneurysmal SAH, which served the basis for inclusion of this method in the recommended protocol for treatment of SAH patients [1-7].

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We analyzed the efficacy of IAV in 35 patients in the acute period of SAH, with 77.2% of the patients having a Hunt-Hess score of III-V. The inclusion criteria were as follows: IAV within two weeks after SAH; excluded aneurysm; verapamil dose per administration of at least 15 mg; follow-up for at least three months. Efficacy endpoints were as follows: changes in spasm according to angiography and transcranial dopplerography (TCDG); development of ischemic lesions; clinical outcome according to the modified Rankin scale.

RESULTS

A total of 76 IAV procedures were performed. The verapamil dose per procedure was 36.7±9.7 mg, on average; the number of procedures varied from 1 to 5. One arterial territory was treated in 12 cases, two arterial territories were treated in 48 cases, and three arterial territories were treated in 15 cases. Typical adverse reactions included decreased blood pressure, a reduced heart rate, and elevated ICP. In all cases, TCDG revealed signs of reduced angiospasm - a 20-40% decrease in the LBFV in the M1 MCA. Four (11.4%) patients died; of these, only one died due to angiospasm progression. On examination at 3 months or more after discharge, favorable outcomes were observed in 74.3% of cases.

CONCLUSION

IAV is associated with a low risk of significant complications. IAV should be performed under control of systemic hemodynamics and ICP. The indications for IAV include signs of moderate worsening or severe angiospasm according to TCDG and/or angiography. The IAV procedure may be performed every day. Further clarification of the IAV procedure and evaluation of clinical outcomes under prospective study conditions are required.

[Resection and correction of the common carotid artery to enable an endovascular approach for treatment of a giant ICA aneurysm (a case report and literature review)]

The article reports a clinical case of endovascular treatment of a female patient with a giant aneurysm of the cavernous internal carotid artery complicated by gross ipsilateral bending of the proximal third of the common carotid artery. To ensure an adequate endovascular approach to the aneurysm, open repair of the common carotid artery and elimination of its bending were performed at the first stage. This enabled successful placement of a flow-diverting stent into the internal carotid artery at the aneurysm level at the second stage, resulting in good technical and clinical outcomes. We discuss the technical aspects of performed interventions and the opportunity of using this approach in patients who need endovascular interventions that are complicated by anatomical-morphological changes in the brachiocephalic arteries.

[Results of deconstructive endovascular surgery in treatment of large and giant intracranial aneurysms]

AIM

To clarify the indications for deconstructive endovascular surgery in patients with large and giant intracranial aneurysms and to evaluate short-term and long-term postoperative outcomes.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study was based on a retrospective analysis of the treatment results in 50 patients with large (15-25 mm) and giant (more than 25 mm) intracranial aneurysms, aged from 18 to 75 years, who were treated at the Burdenko Neurosurgical Institute in 2002-2014. The patients underwent a balloon occlusion test (BOT) in various modifications before stationary occlusion of the carrier artery. For vascular occlusion, we used detachable latex balloon catheters (33 cases) and microcoils (17 cases). The condition of patients in the pre- and postoperative period was assessed by using the modified Rankin Scale.

RESULTS

There were no deaths due to occlusion of the internal carotid artery (37 patients). Postoperative complications occurred in 5 patients. On the basis of BOT, revascularization surgery involving placement of an extra-intracranial microanastomosis (EICMA) was performed in 6 cases. In more 4 cases, EICMA was placed in the early postoperative period due to developing signs of ischemia. Two of 7 patients underwent occlusion of both vertebral arteries (VAs) in the vertebrobasilar basin, which led to fatal outcomes. One more patient died of aggravation of brainstem compression after VA occlusion. There was no worsening of neurological symptoms among survivors. There were no deaths and persistent neurological disorders upon occlusion of branches of the main cerebral arteries, starting with the first order arteries (6 patients). Thirty one patients (66%) were followed-up in the period from 1 to 104 months. There were no deaths associated with artery occlusion. Two patients experienced delayed ischemic disorders.

CONCLUSION

Occlusion of the carrier artery should be performed in a carefully selected group of BOT-negative patients. This surgery can be indicated for aneurysms with a complicated configuration, the topographic and anatomical features of which exclude reconstructive surgery.

[The principles for choosing a surgical technique for patients with acute cerebral aneurysm rupture]

The article describes the principles for choosing a surgical technique for patients with cerebral aneurysms in acute subarachnoid hemorrhage. The principles were developed based on the experience gained at the Burdenko Neurosurgical Institute. Microsurgical and endovascular treatment options are considered.

[Tactics of surgical treatment of patients with unruptured asymptomatic cerebral aneurysms]

AIM

To clarify the indications for surgical treatment and the principles for choosing a surgical technique for patients with unruptured asymptomatic aneurysms (UAAs) based on the results of direct and endovasal operations performed at the Burdenko Neurosurgical Institute and on the literature data.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study included 694 UAA patients (481 females (69.3%) and 213 males (30.7%)) operated on at the Burdenko Neurosurgical Institute from 1997 to 2013. The patients' age ranged from 1 to 74 years (mean age, 48.3 years). Multiple aneurysms were in 126 (18.2%) patients. Anterior circle of Willis aneurysms were in 92.8% of cases. Among these, internal carotid artery (ICA) aneurysms (46.3%) and middle cerebral artery (MCA) aneurysms (30.8%) were predominant. Microsurgical and endovascular interventions on aneurysms were performed in 665 patients (95.8%).

RESULTS

Complete aneurysm exclusion was achieved in 94.8% of cases. A pronounced neurological deficit developed in 8 (1.2%) patients, and a moderate neurological deficit developed in 62 (9.3%) patients. Postoperative mortality was 0.5%.

CONCLUSION

Surgical treatment of UAAs is associated with low disability and mortality rates. All UAAs need to be operated on, especially in young and middle age patients, if surgery is technically possible, and there are no concomitant diseases contraindicating the intervention. The choice of an UAA exclusion technique is made based on the general principles of surgical treatment of cerebral aneurysms. At present, the method of choice is endovascular surgery for most cases of vertebrobasilar basin and ICA aneurysms and a microsurgical intervention for anterior cerebral artery and MCA aneurysms.

[The history of surgery for brain and spinal cord vascular pathology at the Burdenko Neurosurgical Institute (to the 50th anniversary of foundation of the First Neurovascular Department)]

The Vascular Department of the Burdenko Neurosurgical Institute is one of the country's first dedicated departments engaged in treatment of patients with cerebrovascular diseases. The modern vascular service of the Institute is represented by several departments and groups: the Department of Microsurgical Treatment of Vascular Diseases, a group of Reconstructive Brachiocephalic Surgery, and the Department of Endovascular Surgery and Neurodiagnosis that is also engaged in intra-arterial chemotherapy and angiographic diagnosis. The neurovascular service of the Institute is a rightful leader of Russia in the number operations and their complexity: patients with the most serious and unusual pathologies are referred to the Institute from across the country. The achievements of the service are based on science and clinical practice that underlie progressive improvement in the diagnosis, surgical methodology, and recovery of neurovascular patients. On November 02, 2016, the Vascular Department of the Burdenko Neurosurgical Institute will celebrate the 50th anniversary of its foundation.

[The modern role of microsurgery in treatment of large and giant aneurysms of the internal carotid artery]

INTRODUCTION

Large (1.5-2.5 cm) and giant (>2.5 cm in diameter) aneurysms of the internal carotid artery (ICA) remain one of the complex neurosurgical pathologies in terms of microsurgery. In recent years, endovascular techniques for treatment of paraclinoid aneurysms, in particular ICA reconstruction using flow-diverting stents, have become a priority. However, surgery of flow stents has a number of limitations, therefore the choice of treatment in each case is individual.

PURPOSE

To analyze the results of direct surgery in patients with large and giant aneurysms of the ICA and to determine the role and place of modern microsurgical techniques in the treatment of this vascular disease.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study included 260 patients with large and giant ICA aneurysms who were operated on at the Institute using microsurgical techniques in the period between 2001 and 2015. The mean age of patients was 45.1 years. The male/female ratio was 1:2.5. One hundred sixty four (63.1%) patients were operated on after hemorrhages, of whom 15 (5.7%) patients were operated on in the acute period; 69 (26.5%) patients had a pseudotumoral course of the disease; 9 (3.5%) patients had a mixed course of the disease; aneurysms were incidentally found in 18 (6.9%) patients. The aneurysm localization was as follows: paraclinoid aneurisms in 158 (60.7%) patients, supraclinoid aneurisms in 77 (29.6%) patients, and ICA bifurcation aneurisms in 25 (9.6%) patients. Microsurgical clipping was performed in 228 (87.7%) patients, including 158 (60.7%) patients in whom an intravascular blood aspiration technique was used. Aneurysm trapping using a flowmetry probe was performed in 16 patients, with creating vascular anastomoses in 4 (1.5%) cases. In 16 (6.2%) patients, interventions were completed by gauze strengthening. We performed a comparative analysis of the results of endovascular treatment of paraclinoid aneurysms reported in recent publications and obtained in the present series.

RESULTS

Treatment outcomes (Glasgow Outcome Scale) were favorable (Grade 4-5) in 224 (86.2%) patients and satisfactory in 29 (11.1%) patients. Two patients (0.7%) developed diencephalic (electrolyte) disturbances that were successfully corrected using replacement therapy. The mortality was 2.7% (7 patients); the treatment completeness was 94.3%. Comparison with the literature data demonstrated comparable results for both treatment techniques.

CONCLUSION

Microsurgical techniques in treatment of large and giant ICA aneurysms are the methods of choice in complex non-standard cases where endovascular treatment is ineffective or contraindicated. Planning of microsurgical treatment should include the possibility of revascularization surgery. Treatment of these patients should be carried out at large dedicated centers having appropriate expertise and facilities.

[Endovascular treatment of large and giant intracranial aneurysms using flow-diverting stents]

OBJECTIVE

The objective was to evaluate the efficacy of treatment of patients with large and giant cerebral arterial aneurysms using flow-diverting stents (FDSs).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The treatment outcomes of 210 patients with large and giant intracranial aneurysms were analyzed. The study included patients with both asymptomatic and symptomatic aneurysms (manifested by SAH or pseudotumorous course). The rate of giant aneurysms was 62.3%.

RESULTS

The technical success rate was 96%. In the perioperative period, the rate of clinically significant complications was 2.8%; the postoperative mortality was 3.3%. In the long-term period, total thrombosis of the aneurysm was observed in the majority of cases (80%) in the period from 4 to 12 months. Complete regression of clinical symptoms was observed in 26% of the cases, partial regression in 35%, and deterioration in 6% (of them, 4.9% of the cases were clinically significant). The long-term mortality was 2.5%.

CONCLUSION

FDS is a highly efficient device for remodeling of the arterial lumen at the level of large, giant and fusiform intracranial aneurysms that significantly reduces the number of deconstructive operations and decreases the risk of ischemic complications of endovascular treatment for this complex vascular pathology.

[Combined surgical treatment of cavernous internal carotid artery pseudoaneurysm]

We describe a clinical case of surgical treatment of a cavernous internal carotid artery (ICA) pseudoaneurysm that developed due to damage to the artery during transsphenoidal resection of pituitary adenoma. Clinically, the aneurysm presented with episodes of profuse epistaxis that required tight nasal packing. Given the presence of an open circle of Willis, the patient underwent staged surgery that included the creation of a high-flow extra-intracranial anastomosis, subsequent endovascular ICA occlusion at the pseudoaneurysm level using balloon-assisted coiling, and endoscopic debridement of the nasal cavity. The combined surgical treatment of this rare complication successfully excluded the pseudoaneurysm from the bloodstream, which led to complete regression of nasal bleeding.

[Surgical treatment of cerebral vascular diseases]

Theoretical and practical aspects of the complex treatment of brain and spinal vascular diseases using microsurgical, endovascular and radiosurgical methods are considered. Authors present the data demonstrating that, due to the implementation of the program of development of vascular centers in the Russian Federation, considerable progress was made in the treatment of cerebral aneurisms and hemorrhagic stroke. In author's opinion, wide introduction of surgical methods in the treatment of occlusive lesions of the blood vessels supplying the brain is needed.

[Combined treatment of cerebral arteriovenous malformations. Experience of the Burdenko Neurosurgical Institute]

OBJECTIVE

Despite the achievements of recent years, cerebral AVMs continue to pose a challenge to treatment. The objective of this work was the development of recommendations for combined treatment of AVMs based on analysis of the available material and published data.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study included 93 patients hospitalized at the Neurosurgical Institute for combined treatment of cerebral AVMs in 2010-2014. A group of combined surgery (removal of an AVM with preoperative embolization) consisted of 40 patients, and a group of combined radiotherapy (radiation after partial embolization or partial removal of an AVM) included 53 patients. 36 patients underwent radiosurgery, and 17 patients received stereotactic radiation therapy. Both groups were analyzed in terms of outcomes, complications, and follow-up results.

RESULTS

In the group of combined surgery, according to the Glasgow outcome scale, good results (grade 4-5) were achieved in 35 (87.5%) patients at discharge and in 27 (90%) patients during follow-up. Treatment outcomes, surgery duration, and the amount of blood loss were not significantly different from those in the control group. Complete AVM obliteration was achieved in 29 (80.6%) patients 3 years after radiosurgery and in 8 (47%) patients after stereotactic radiotherapy. In discussion, these findings are compared to the published data, and recommendations for AVM treatment are suggested.

CONCLUSION

The combined treatment of AVMs is effective management for patients with complex AVMs (Spetzler-Martin grade III-IV AVMs). Successful treatment of AVMs requires careful planning and teamwork of vascular and endovascular neurosurgeons, radiologists, and neurologists.

[Endovascular treatment of large and giant intracranial aneurysms using stent assistance]

OBJECTIVE

The study objective was to evaluate the efficacy of occlusions of large and giant intracranial aneurysms with microcoils using stent assistance (SA).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study is based on analysis of treatment outcomes in 37 patients with large (15-25mm) and giant (more than 25mm) intracranial aneurysms, aged 18 to 72 years, who were hospitalized at the Burdenko Neurosurgical Institute in the period between 2004 and 2014. Selection of patients for endovascular treatment using SA was based on the anatomical parameters of the aneurysm and carrier vessel. The main determining factor was the index of the aneurysm body to neck size ratio. Occlusion of aneurysms was performed with microcoils of different configurations, including those with a biologically active coating. Self-expanding stents with both an open-cell and closed-cell design were used for SA. The results of intervention for large and giant aneurysms were evaluated using control angiography immediately after occlusion of the aneurysm. The condition of patients with unruptured aneurysms as well as with ruptured aneurysms in the "cold" period was evaluated using the modified Rankin scale. The condition of patients in the acute period of SAH was evaluated on the Hunt and Hess scale.

RESULTS

The technical success (successful implantation of stents and coils with total or subtotal aneurysm occlusion) was 94.5%. The postoperative disability was 2.7%; mortality was 2.7%. 28 patients were followed up for the period of 5 to 84 months (the mean was 20 months.). In the long-term period, the total and subtotal occlusion rate, including the results of re-operations, amounted to 90%. Delayed disability was 10.7%, and mortality was 3.5%.

CONCLUSION

Stent assistance enables achieving total or subtotal occlusion of large and giant aneurysms in 90% of cases. In certain clinical situations, it is an alternative to other existing methods.

[The outcomes of stereotactic radiotherapy in patients with cerebral arteriovenous malformations]

INTRODUCTION

Cerebral arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) are the congenital anomalies of development of cerebral vessels during the embryonic period. The conventional therapy for AVMs currently includes endovascular management, microneurosurgical resection, and stereotactic irradiation.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A total of 315 patients with brain AVMs were subjected to stereotactic radiotherapy in 2005-2011. 238 (76%) patients had previous subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) within different time (6 months to 5 years) before the therapy; 214 (68%) patients had headaches; 113 (36%) patients had focal neurological symptoms caused by localization; and 82 (26%) patients had seizures. Twenty-three patients were subjected to surgical resection of an intracerebral hematoma prior to radiotherapy and 119 (36%) patients received endovascular treatment including partial embolization of the stroma of AVM. 267 patients received single-fraction radiosurgical irradiation. In patients with large AVMs, we used the hypofractionation technique consisting in target irradiation with several (usually 2-7) fractions; the radiation dose per fraction exceeds 2 Gy. Forty-six patients were irradiated in the hypofractionation mode; two patients had a course of stereotactic radiotherapy in the standard fractionation mode. The marginal dose of radiosurgical irradiation was 13-30 Gy (the average dose was 24 Gy). The main group of patients (38 individuals) with large AVMs was treated using hypofractionation of 35 Gy per 5 fractions.

RESULTS

Control angiography was carried out in 225 patients who had been followed up for at least 2 years after therapy showed that complete obliteration was achieved in 83% of cases. The rate of symptomatic radiation reactions was less than 10%. The higher risk of developing obliteration was observed for AVMs less than 2 cm3 in size at marginal doses more than 24 Gy. In the hypofractionation group consisting of 27 patients with complete follow-up data, obliteration was observed in 10 (37%) patients. The rate of symptomatic reactions was less than 35%.

CONCLUSIONS

The radiosurgical method is a minimally invasive choice of treatment for patients with brain AVM, which allows one to achieve sufficiently high degree of obliteration with the minimum complication rate. The hypofractionation procedure is the method of choice for treating large AVMs. Stereotactic irradiation using the Novalis linear accelerator makes it possible to treat patients with AVMs of virtually any location and volume.

MODERN TECHNOLOGY IN THE SURGICAL TREATMENT OF HEAD INJURY SEQUELAE

The paper presents main types of surgically relevant posttraumatic lesions in 4136 patients with skull vault as well as skull base defects, craniofacial deformities, recurrent CSF leaks, arterio-venous fistulas, aneurysms and pseudoaneurysms etc. Classification of TBI sequelae and complications as well as its clinical course grading is presented. The use of modern neuroimaging techniques for studying pathophysiologic mechanisms and complications of TBI has been demonstrated. Special emphasis was given to minimally invasive and reconstructive surgery; computer modeling with subsequent full-copy stereolitographic laser implant setup was shown which is of great importance in cases of large and complex skull base and craniofacial deformities. Patient selection for transcranial and endonasal CSF leak closure techniques was justified. Treatment of post-traumatic vascular injuries using Serbinenko balloon-catheters as well as modern techniques such as stents, coils and embolization has been demonstrated.