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1
Joubert, A., and J. Vauclair. "Reaction To Novel Objects in a Troop of Guinea Baboons: Approach and Manipulation." Behaviour 96, no. 1-2 (1986): 92–104. http://dx.doi.org/10.1163/156853986x00234.
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AbstractA troop of Guinea baboons living in an enclosure was exposed every day and for twelve consecutive days to a new object. The new object and the object(s) of the previous day(s) were presented simultaneously in the compound. The troop as a whole demonstrated excellent abilities to rapidly react to the new objects: 11 out of 12 new objects were discovered within a maximum of 3 min of their first presentation and were furthermore the first to be approached. An analysis conducted on data from age and sex subgroups showed the preponderant part played by juveniles and by some adult males in the discovery process and subsequent contacts with objects. The results are discussed within the conceptual frame of "cognitive mapping". In addition, the extent to which social factors (e.g. dominance) and perceptual and cognitive factors might determine the differential role of subgroups in the exploration and manipulation of objects is examined.
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Songsaeng, Dittapong, Kittipong Srivatanakul, Timo Krings, Sasikhan Geibprasert, Augustin Ozanne, and Pierre Lasjaunias. "Symptomatic spontaneous vertebrobasilar dissections in children: review of 29 consecutive cases." Journal of Neurosurgery: Pediatrics 6, no. 3 (2010): 233–43. http://dx.doi.org/10.3171/2010.6.peds09290.
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Object The purpose of this study is to analyze the clinical presentation, morphological characteristics, angio-architecture, and outcome of vertebrobasilar dissection (VBD) in the pediatric population. Methods The authors retrospectively reviewed 29 consecutive cases involving children younger than 16 years of age who were diagnosed with symptomatic VBDs. Data were gathered with respect to the patient's age, sex, clinical history, associated underlying disease, and symptoms (headache, vertigo) as well as the location of the dissection and the imaging appearance. Results The patients' mean age was 8.24 years (range 2 months–15 years). There was an overall 3:1 male predominance, although among children older than 8 years, girls and boys were similarly affected. Hemorrhagic dissections occurred in 10 of 29 cases. In nonhemorrhagic dissections, stroke occurred in 16 cases, with the most common presenting symptoms being headaches and vertigo; in the other 3 cases, mass effect due to a chronic dissecting aneurysm was present. In 7 children an underlying vessel wall disease was found. The location of the dissection was extradural in 11 cases and intradural in the remainder. There was no preference with respect to side. The basilar artery was affected in 9 patients. Conclusions The imaging appearance and clinical presentation of symptomatic VBDs in the pediatric population differs from that in adults. Boys are more often affected, especially at younger ages, and hemorrhagic presentation is more common, presumably owing to the fact that the basilar artery is more commonly involved. Depending on the pathogenetic mechanism underlying the dissection, different clinical symptoms will evolve, necessitating individually tailored treatment.
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Ozgur, Burak M., and Lawrence F. Marshall. "Atypical presentation of C-7 radiculopathy." Journal of Neurosurgery: Spine 99, no. 2 (2003): 169–71. http://dx.doi.org/10.3171/spi.2003.99.2.0169.
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Object. The authors retrospectively reviewed the presenting symptomatology and 6-month outcome in 241 consecutive patients who underwent C6–7 anterior cervical discectomy (ACD) from an overall series of 1008 patients in whom the senior author performed one-level procedures. Methods. In 28 (12%) of the 241 patients, the sole complaint was subscapular pain on the side ipsilateral to nerve root compression. In 11 patients (5%), the primary complaint was unilateral deep breast or chest pain. No patient experienced any of the traditional radicular signs involving C-7 such as numbness of the second or third digits, pain in the triceps, and/or atrophy or weakness of the triceps or pronator muscles. Of the 28 patients presenting with subscapular pain 238 (93%) of 241 experienced complete symptom relief within 6 months, and of the 11 who presented with chest pain complete relief or relief to the point of requiring nonnarcotic analgesic agents occurred in nine cases. Conclusions. Approximately 15% of patients with a C-7 radiculopathy are likely to present with atypical symptoms that, if persisting after nonsurgical therapy, will often resolve after ACD and fusion.
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Cuetter, Albert C., and Russell J. Andrews. "Intraventricular neurocysticercosis: 18 consecutive patients and review of the literature." Neurosurgical Focus 12, no. 6 (2002): 1–7. http://dx.doi.org/10.3171/foc.2002.12.6.6.
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Object The prognosis for intraventricular neurocysticercosis (IVNCC) is poorer than that for parenchymal NCC, making prompt diagnosis and treatment especially important. Although active, viable intraventricular cysts produce no reaction in the host; they can cause noncommunicating hydrocephalus, the onset of which is frequently abrupt. With the death of the larva comes a local granulomatous ependymitis, generalized ventriculitis, and meningoencephalitis. The authors report on 18 patients with IVNCC (accrued from a larger case series of 62 patients with NCC treated over an 11-year period), detailing clinical presentation, neuroimaging findings, treatment, and outcome. Methods All patients presented with hydrocephalus and/or meningitis. The most valuable diagnostic tests were magnetic resonance imaging of the brain and EITB of serum and/or cerebrospinal fluid. Treatment included albenda-zole and steroid therapy in all cases, and when necessary in cases requiring urgent or emergency ventriculostomy and/or surgical removal of the obstructing cyst (followed by shunt placement if indicated). Conclusions An extensive review of the literature on IVNCC has been prepared, with the goal of providing the reader with the information necessary to diagnose and treat this complex and potentially fatal disease in a timely and effective manner.
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Musiał, Janusz, Serhiy Horiashchenko, Kostyantin Horiashchenko, and Joanna Wilczarska. "Diagnosis of multilayer structures and composite parts by multifrequency phase detection." MATEC Web of Conferences 332 (2021): 01020. http://dx.doi.org/10.1051/matecconf/202133201020.
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The article considers the issue of diagnosing the condition of multilayer elements and structures. Probing methods are considered. A multiphase detection method has been proposed to generate diagnostic information that allows the reflected signals from several consecutive layers to be obtained. The reflection distance is determined for each layer. The presentation of a two-dimensional model of structural sounding in the presence of two objects of study was considered. The three-dimensional model of search of objects of research of concrete designs considered in work provides probing by spherical waves of a detail, measurement of phase shifts of signals reflected from internal objects of research in three points. Division by means of one of mathematical models of signals are reflections from each object of research and determination of coordinates of objects of research and can by means of the mathematical model was represent. The equipment of a measuring instrument was developed to study the analytical multifrequency phase method of distance measurement. This system can be used to diagnose defects in multilayer structures that can transmit radio waves. Also it can be used for quality control of the put coverings and for the analysis of thickness of composite materials, isolation layers in the equipment.
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Tanaka, Shota, Fredric B. Meyer, Jan C. Buckner, Joon H. Uhm, Elizabeth S. Yan, and Ian F. Parney. "Presentation, management, and outcome of newly diagnosed glioblastoma in elderly patients." Journal of Neurosurgery 118, no. 4 (2013): 786–98. http://dx.doi.org/10.3171/2012.10.jns112268.
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Object Optimum management for elderly patients with newly diagnosed glioblastoma (GBM) in the temozolomide (TMZ) era is not well defined. The object of this study was to clarify outcomes in this population. Methods The authors retrospectively reviewed 105 consecutive cases involving elderly patients (age ≥ 65 years) with newly diagnosed GBM who were treated at the Mayo Clinic between 2003 and 2008. Results The patients' median age was 74 years (range 66–87 years), and the median Karnofsky Performance Status (KPS) score was 80 (range 40–90). Half of the patients underwent biopsy and half underwent resection. Patients with deep-seated lesions (19 patients [18%]) or multifocal lesions (34 patients [32%]) were more likely to have biopsy than resection (p = 0.0001 and 0.0009, respectively). New persistent neurological deficits developed in 7 patients (6.7%). Postoperative hemorrhage occurred in 6 patients (5.7%), all of whom underwent biopsy. Complete follow-up data regarding adjuvant treatment was available in 84 patients. Forty-one (49%) were treated with chemotherapy (mostly TMZ) and radiation therapy (RT), and 23 (27%) with RT alone. Nineteen (23%) received only palliative care after surgery (more common with biopsy, p = 0.03). Chemotherapy complications occurred in 28.6% (Grade 3 or 4 hematological complications in 11.9%). The median values for progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were 3.5 and 5.5 months. In a multivariate analysis, younger age (p = 0.03, risk ratio [RR] 0.34, 95% CI 0.13–0.89), single lesion (p = 0.02, RR 0.51, 95% CI 0.30–0.89), resection (p = 0.04, RR 0.54, 95% CI 0.31–0.94), and adjuvant treatment (p = 0.0001, RR 0.24, 95% CI 0.11–0.49) were associated with better OS. Only adjuvant treatment was significantly associated with prolonged PFS (p = 0.0007, RR 0.27, 95% CI 0.13–0.57). With combined therapy with resection, RT, and chemotherapy, the median PFS and OS were 8 and 12.5 months, respectively. Conclusions The prognosis for GBM worsens with increasing age in elderly patients. With important risks, resection and adjuvant treatment are associated with prolonged survival. Although selection bias cannot be excluded in this retrospective study, advanced age alone should not necessarily preclude optimal resection followed by adjuvant radiochemotherapy.
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See, Alfred P., Alexander E. Ropper, Daniel L. Underberg, Richard L. Robertson, R. Michael Scott, and Edward R. Smith. "Down syndrome and moyamoya: clinical presentation and surgical management." Journal of Neurosurgery: Pediatrics 16, no. 1 (2015): 58–63. http://dx.doi.org/10.3171/2014.12.peds14563.
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OBJECT Moyamoya can cause cerebral ischemia and stroke in Down syndrome (DS) patients. In this study, the authors defined a surgically treated population of patients with DS and moyamoya and compared their clinical presentation, response to surgical treatment, and long-term prognosis with those of the general population of patients with moyamoya but without DS. METHODS This study was a retrospective review of a consecutive operative series of moyamoya patients with DS treated at Boston Children’s Hospital from 1985 through 2012. RESULTS Thirty-two patients, average age 9.7 years (range 1.8–29.3 years), underwent surgery for moyamoya in association with DS. The majority presented with ischemic symptoms (87% stroke, 42% transient ischemic attacks). Twenty-four patients (75%) had congenital heart disease. Nineteen patients (59%) had bilateral moyamoya on presentation, and 13 presented with unilateral disease, of which 2 progressed to surgery on the opposite side at a later date. Patients were followed for a median of 7.5 years (1–20.2 years) after surgery, with no patients lost to follow-up. Follow-up arteriography demonstrated Matsushima Grade A collaterals in 29 of 39 (74%) hemispheres, Grade B in 5 (13%), and Grade C in 5 (13%). Complications included postoperative strokes in 2 patients, which occurred within 48 hours of surgery in both; one of these patients had arm weakness and the other confusion (both had recovered completely at follow-up). Seizures occurred in 5 patients perioperatively, including one who had a new seizure disorder related to hypocalcemia. CONCLUSIONS Moyamoya disease is a cause of stroke in patients with DS. Both the incidence of preoperative stroke (87% vs 67%) and the average age at diagnosis for children under age 21 (8.4 vs 6.5 years) were greater in patients with DS and moyamoya than in the general moyamoya surgical population, suggesting a possible delay in reaching a correct diagnosis of the cause of cerebral ischemia in the DS patient population. Pial synangiosis provided long-term protection from stroke in all patients treated.
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Funaki, Takeshi, Jun C. Takahashi, Kazumichi Yoshida, et al. "Periventricular anastomosis in moyamoya disease: detecting fragile collateral vessels with MR angiography." Journal of Neurosurgery 124, no. 6 (2016): 1766–72. http://dx.doi.org/10.3171/2015.6.jns15845.
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OBJECT The authors’ aim in this paper was to determine whether periventricular anastomosis, a novel term for the abnormal collateral vessels typical of moyamoya disease, is reliably measured with MR angiography and is associated with intracranial hemorrhage. METHODS This cross-sectional study sampled consecutive patients with moyamoya disease or moyamoya syndrome at a single institution. Periventricular anastomoses were detected using MR angiography images reformatted as sliding-thin-slab maximum-intensity-projection coronal images and were scored according to 3 subtypes: lenticulostriate, thalamic, and choroidal types. The association between periventricular anastomosis and hemorrhagic presentation at onset was evaluated using multivariate analyses. RESULTS Of 136 eligible patients, 122 were analyzed. Eighteen (14.8%) patients presented with intracranial hemorrhage with neurological symptoms at onset. Intra- and interrater agreement for rating of the periventricular anastomosis score was good (κw = 0.65 and 0.70, respectively). The prevalence of hemorrhagic presentation increased with the periventricular anastomosis score: 2.8% for Score 0, 8.8% for Score 1, 18.9% for Score 2, and 46.7% for Score 3 (p < 0.01 for trend). Univariate analysis revealed that age (p = 0.02) and periventricular anastomosis score (p < 0.01) were factors tentatively associated with hemorrhagic presentation. The score remained statistically significant after adjustment for age (OR 3.38 [95% CI 1.84–7.00]). CONCLUSIONS The results suggest that periventricular anastomosis detected with MR angiography can be scored with good intra- and interrater reliability and is associated with hemorrhagic presentation at onset in moyamoya disease. The clinical utility of periventricular anastomosis as a predictor for hemorrhage should be validated in further prospective studies.
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Al-Holou, Wajd N., Andrew Y. Yew, Zackary E. Boomsaad, Hugh J. L. Garton, Karin M. Muraszko, and Cormac O. Maher. "Prevalence and natural history of arachnoid cysts in children." Journal of Neurosurgery: Pediatrics 5, no. 6 (2010): 578–85. http://dx.doi.org/10.3171/2010.2.peds09464.
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Object Arachnoid cysts are a frequent finding on intracranial imaging in children. The prevalence and natural history of these cysts are not well defined. The authors studied a large consecutive series of children undergoing MR imaging to better define both the MR imaging–demonstrated prevalence and behavior of these lesions over time. Methods The authors reviewed a consecutive series of 11,738 patients who were 18 years of age or younger and had undergone brain MR imaging at a single institution during an 11-year period. In the patients in whom intracranial arachnoid cysts were identified, clinical and demographic information was recorded and imaging characteristics, such as cyst size and location, were evaluated. Prevalence data were analyzed using univariate and multivariate logistic regression, linear regression, and ANOVA. All patients with sufficient data (repeat MR imaging studies as well as repeated clinical evaluation over at least 5 months) for a natural history analysis were identified. This group was assessed for any change in symptoms or imaging appearance during the follow-up interval. Results Three hundred nine arachnoid cysts (2.6% prevalence rate) were identified. There was an increased prevalence of arachnoid cysts in males (p < 0.000001). One hundred eleven patients met all criteria for inclusion in the natural history analysis. After a mean follow-up of 3.5 years, 11 arachnoid cysts increased in size, 13 decreased, and 87 remained stable. A younger age at presentation was significantly associated with cyst enlargement (p = 0.001) and the need for surgery (p = 0.05). No patient older than 4 years of age at the time of initial diagnosis had cyst enlargement, demonstrated new symptoms, or underwent surgical treatment. Conclusions Arachnoid cysts are a common incidental finding on intracranial imaging in pediatric patients. An older age at the time of presentation is associated with a lack of clinical or imaging changes over time.
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Seruya, Mitchel, Albert K. Oh, Michael J. Boyajian, Jeffrey C. Posnick, and Robert F. Keating. "Treatment for delayed presentation of sagittal synostosis: challenges pertaining to occult intracranial hypertension." Journal of Neurosurgery: Pediatrics 8, no. 1 (2011): 40–48. http://dx.doi.org/10.3171/2011.4.peds1160.
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Object Patients with delayed presentation of isolated sagittal synostosis (ISS) pose unique surgical challenges. Intracranial hypertension can be missed in the absence of overt findings. Here, an algorithm is presented for the elucidation of intracranial hypertension and approaches to surgical treatment during calvarial reconstruction. Methods Patients with delayed presentation (age > 15 months) of ISS between 1997 and 2009 were identified. Symptoms, signs, and radiological evidence of intracranial hypertension were noted. Intraoperative management included calvarial reconstruction in conjunction with ventriculostomy for intracranial pressure (ICP) monitoring and CSF drainage in the setting of suspected intracranial hypertension. Results Seventeen patients underwent calvarial reconstruction for delayed presentation of ISS. The mean surgical age was 40.5 months (16.2–82.9 months), and the average follow-up was 34.2 months (0.6–92.2 months). Eleven patients with subtle findings of intracranial hypertension underwent ICP monitoring during calvarial reconstruction. The mean opening ICP was 23.5 cm H2O (16.5–29.5 cm H2O), and the mean closing ICP was 7.0 cm H2O (3.5–17.0 cm H2O). Nine (81.8%) of 11 monitored patients demonstrated intracranial hypertension (ICP ≥ 20 cm H2O); the other 2 had borderline increased ICP. Perioperative morbidity was 5.9%, with 1 patient medically treated for transient, new-onset intracranial hypertension. The postoperative Whitaker category was I in 94.1% of patients, II in 5.9%, and III/IV in 0%. There were no reoperations or deaths. Conclusions In this consecutive series, 11 of 17 patients with delayed presentation of ISS underwent ICP monitoring during calvarial reconstruction as a result of subtle clinical findings of intracranial hypertension. Nine (81.8%) of 11 monitored patients demonstrated intracranial hypertension. Calvarial reshaping along with ICP monitoring and CSF drainage facilitated reconstruction and resulted in good outcomes and the resolution of intracranial hypertension.
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Ahn, Edward S., R. Michael Scott, Richard L. Robertson, and Edward R. Smith. "Chorea in the clinical presentation of moyamoya disease: results of surgical revascularization and a proposed clinicopathological correlation." Journal of Neurosurgery: Pediatrics 11, no. 3 (2013): 313–19. http://dx.doi.org/10.3171/2012.11.peds12199.
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Object Chorea is a movement disorder characterized by brief, irregular, involuntary contractions that appear to flow from 1 muscle to another. There are a limited number of reports in the literature that have linked moyamoya disease and chorea. The authors describe their experience in treating moyamoya disease in patients in whom chorea developed as part of the clinical presentation. Methods The authors conducted a retrospective review of a consecutive series of 316 children who underwent pial synangiosis revascularization for moyamoya disease at the Boston Children's Hospital. Results Of 316 surgically treated patients with moyamoya disease, 10 (3.2%; 6 boys and 4 girls) had chorea as a part of their presentation. The average age at surgical treatment was 9.9 years (range 3.8–17.9 years). All patients had evidence of hypertrophied lenticulostriate collateral vessels through the basal ganglia on preoperative angiography and/or MRI on affected sides. Two patients had cystic lesions in the basal ganglia. Nine patients underwent bilateral craniotomies for pial synangiosis, and 1 patient underwent a single craniotomy for unilateral disease. Follow-up was available in 9 patients (average 50.1 months). The mean duration of chorea was 1.36 years (range 2 days to 4 years), with resolution of symptoms in all patients. One patient developed chorea 3 years after surgical treatment, 4 patients had transient chorea that resolved prior to surgery, and 5 patients experienced resolution of the chorea after surgery (average 13 months). Conclusions The authors describe children with moyamoya disease and chorea as part of their clinical presentation. The data suggest that involvement of the basal ganglia by the hypertrophied collateral vessels contributes to the development of chorea, which can wax or wane depending on disease stage or involution of the vessels after revascularization surgery. In most patients, however, the chorea improves or disappears about 1 year after presentation.
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Durst, Christopher R., Robert M. Starke, John R. Gaughen, et al. "Single-center experience with a dual microcatheter technique for the endovascular treatment of wide-necked aneurysms." Journal of Neurosurgery 121, no. 5 (2014): 1093–101. http://dx.doi.org/10.3171/2014.7.jns132237.
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Object The endovascular treatment of wide-necked aneurysms can be technically challenging due to distal coil migration or impingement of the parent vessel. In this paper, the authors illustrate an alternative method for the treatment of wide-necked intracranial aneurysms using a dual microcatheter technique. Methods The authors' first 100 consecutive patients who underwent coil embolization of a wide-necked aneurysm using a dual microcatheter technique are reported. With this technique, 2 microcatheters are used to introduce coils into the aneurysm. The coils are deployed either sequentially or concurrently to form a stable construct and prevent coil herniation or migration. Angiographic and clinical outcomes are reported. Results The technical success rate of the dual microcatheter technique is 91% with a morbidity and mortality of 1% and 2%, respectively. Clinical outcomes are excellent with 93% of patients demonstrating a modified Rankin Scale score of 0–2 at long-term follow-up regardless of their score at presentation. Retreatment rates are 18%. Conclusions The dual microcatheter technique may be a safe and efficacious first line of treatment for widenecked aneurysms.
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Binder, Devin K., Justin S. Smith, and Nicholas M. Barbaro. "Primary brachial plexus tumors: imaging, surgical, and pathological findings in 25 patients." Neurosurgical Focus 16, no. 5 (2004): 1–6. http://dx.doi.org/10.3171/foc.2004.16.5.12.
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Object The authors report on the treatment of primary brachial plexus tumors in 25 patients at the University of California, San Francisco. They compare their findings with those obtained in similar series. Methods The authors reviewed the electronic and medical records, radiological images, operative reports, and pathological findings in 25 consecutive cases of primary brachial plexus tumors. Cases of metastatic lesions or adjacent neoplasms extending into and involving the brachial plexus were excluded. At presentation patients ranged in age from 19 to 71 years (mean 47 ±15 years), and neurofibromatosis was present in eight patients (32%). Presenting signs and symptoms included palpable mass (60%), numbness/paresthesias (44%), radiating pain (44%), local pain (16%), and weakness (12%). Duration of symptoms ranged from 2 months to 10 years. Neuroimaging revealed lesions ranging widely in size (volume ~1 to >100 ml). Pathological diagnoses included schwannoma (15 [60%]), neurofibroma (five [20%]), malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor (four [16%]), and desmoid tumor (one [4%]). Conclusions Primary tumors arising in the brachial plexus are rare. Careful workup, surgical technique, and attention to pathological diagnosis optimize management.
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Chern, Joshua J., Andrew J. Tsung, William Humphries, Raymond Sawaya, and Frederick F. Lang. "Clinical outcome of leukemia patients with intracranial hemorrhage." Journal of Neurosurgery 115, no. 2 (2011): 268–72. http://dx.doi.org/10.3171/2011.4.jns101784.
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Object Intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) is a frequent complication found in leukemia patients with thrombocytopenia. At the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, when a leukemia patient is found to have ICH, a platelet transfusion is generally recommended until 50,000/μl is reached. The authors examine the feasibility and outcome of their intervention strategy in this study. Methods Records were reviewed from 76 consecutive leukemia patients with newly diagnosed ICH at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center from January 1, 2007, to December 31, 2009. Variables of interest included age, platelet count at presentation, leukemia subtype, history of trauma, Glasgow Coma Scale score at presentation, whether the 50,000/μl goal was reached after transfusion, and whether the patient was a transfusion responder (platelet count increase > 2000/μl/unit transfused). Outcome parameters were mortality rates at 72 hours and 30 days and imaging-documented hemorrhage progression. Results Thrombocytopenia was prevalent at the time of presentation (68 of 76 patients had platelet levels < 50,000/μl at presentation). Despite an aggressive transfusion protocol, only 24 patients reached the 50,000/μl target after an average of 16 units of transfusion. Death due to ICH occurred in 15 patients within the first 72 hours (mortality rate 19.7%). Death correlated with the presenting Glasgow Coma Scale score (p = 0.0075) but not with other transfusion-related parameters. A significant mortality rate was again observed after 30 days (32.7%). The 30-day mortality rate, however, was largely attributable to non-ICH related causes and correlated with patient age (p = 0.032) and whether the patient was a transfusion responder (p = 0.022). Reaching and maintaining a platelet count > 50,000/μl did not positively correlate with the 30-day mortality rate (p = 0.392 and 0.475, respectively). Conclusions Platelet transfusion in the setting of ICH in leukemia patients is undoubtedly necessary, but whether the transfusion threshold should be 50,000/μl remains unclear. Factors other than thrombocytopenia likely contribute to the overall poor prognosis.
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Giraldo, Elias A., Jay N. Mandrekar, Mark N. Rubin, et al. "Timing of clinical grade assessment and poor outcome in patients with aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage." Journal of Neurosurgery 117, no. 1 (2012): 15–19. http://dx.doi.org/10.3171/2012.3.jns11706.
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Object Timing of clinical grading has not been fully studied in patients with aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). The primary objective of this study was to identify at which time point clinical assessment using the World Federation of Neurosurgical Societies (WFNS) grading scale and the Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) is most predictive of poor functional outcome. Methods This study is a retrospective cohort study on the association between poor outcome and clinical grading determined at presentation, nadir, and postresuscitation. Poor functional outcome was defined as a Glasgow Outcome Scale score of 1–3 at 6 months after SAH. Results The authors identified 186 consecutive patients admitted to a teaching hospital between January 2002 and June 2008. The patients' mean age (± SD) was 56.9 ± 13.7 years, and 63% were women. Twenty-four percent had poor functional outcome (the mortality rate was 17%). On univariable logistic regression analyses, GCS score determined at presentation (OR 0.80, p < 0.0001), nadir (OR 0.73, p < 0.0001), and postresuscitation (OR 0.53, p < 0.0001); modified Fisher scale (OR 2.21, p = 0.0013); WFNS grade assessed at presentation (OR 1.92, p < 0.0001), nadir (OR 3.51, < 0.0001), and postresuscitation (OR 3.91, p < 0.0001); intracerebral hematoma on initial CT (OR 4.55, p < 0.0002); acute hydrocephalus (OR 2.29, p = 0.0375); and cerebral infarction (OR 4.84, p < 0.0001) were associated with poor outcome. On multivariable logistic regression analysis, only cerebral infarction (OR 5.80, p = 0.0013) and WFNS grade postresuscitation (OR 3.43, p < 0.0001) were associated with poor outcome. Receiver operating characteristic/area under the curve (AUC) analysis demonstrated that WFNS grade determined postresuscitation had a stronger association with poor outcome (AUC 0.90) than WFNS grade assessed upon admission or at nadir. Conclusions Timing of WFNS grade assessment affects its prognostic value. Outcome after aneurysmal SAH is best predicted by assessing WFNS grade after neurological resuscitation.
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Han, Seunggu J., Isaac Yang, Jose J. Otero, et al. "Secondary gliosarcoma after diagnosis of glioblastoma: clinical experience with 30 consecutive patients." Journal of Neurosurgery 112, no. 5 (2010): 990–96. http://dx.doi.org/10.3171/2009.9.jns09931.
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Object Gliosarcoma can arise secondarily, after conventional adjuvant treatment of high-grade glioma. The current literature on the occurrence of secondary gliosarcoma (SGS) after glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is limited, with only 12 reported cases. The authors present a large series of histologically confirmed SGSs, with follow-up to describe the clinical and radiological presentation, pathological diagnosis, and treatment outcomes. Methods Gliosarcoma cases were identified using the University of California, San Francisco's Departments of Neurological Surgery and Neuropathology databases. Through a retrospective chart review, cases of gliosarcoma were considered SGS if the following inclusion criteria were met: 1) the patient had a previously diagnosed intracranial malignant glioma that did not have gliosarcoma components; and 2) the histopathological tissue diagnosis of the recurrence confirmed gliosarcoma according to the most current WHO criteria. Extensive review of clinical, surgical, and pathology notes was performed to gather clinical and pathological data on these cases. Results Thirty consecutive patients in whom SGS had been diagnosed between 1996 and 2008 were included in the analysis. All patients had previously received a diagnosis of malignant glioma. For the initial malignant glioma, all patients underwent resection, and 25 patients received both external-beam radiation and chemotherapy. Three patients received radiotherapy alone, 1 patient was treated with chemotherapy alone, and 1 patient's tumor rapidly recurred as gliosarcoma, requiring surgical intervention prior to initiation of adjuvant therapy. The median time from diagnosis of the initial tumor to diagnosis of gliosarcoma was 8.5 months (range 0.5–25 months). All but 1 patient (who only had a biopsy) underwent a second operation for gliosarcoma; 8 patients went on to receive radiotherapy (4 had brachytherapy, 3 had external-beam radiation, and 1 had Gamma Knife surgery); and 14 patients received additional chemotherapy. The median length of survival from the time of gliosarcoma diagnosis was 4.4 months (range 0.7–46 months). The median survival from the time of the original GBM diagnosis was 12.6 months (range 5.7–47.4 months). Patients who had received concurrent and adjuvant temozolomide for GBM had worse outcomes than those who had not (4.3 and 10.5 months, respectively; p = 0.045). There was no difference in time to diagnosis of gliosarcoma in these 2 groups (8 and 8.5 months; p = 0.387). Two patients who had not received radiation therapy for GBM had an anecdotally very prolonged survival (20.9 and 46.4 months). Conclusions The data underscore the difficulty associated with management of this disease. The strikingly poor survival of patients with SGS who had previously received combined radiation and temozolomide chemotherapy for GBM may reflect a unique molecular profile of GBM that eventually recurs as SGS. Further work will be required, controlling for multiple prognostic factors with larger numbers of patients.
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Yoshida, Kazumichi, Ryu Fukumitsu, Yoshitaka Kurosaki, et al. "The association between expansive arterial remodeling detected by high-resolution MRI in carotid artery stenosis and clinical presentation." Journal of Neurosurgery 123, no. 2 (2015): 434–40. http://dx.doi.org/10.3171/2014.12.jns14185.
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OBJECT The purpose of the present study was to investigate the association between carotid artery (CA) expansive remodeling (ER) and symptoms of cerebral ischemia. METHODS One hundred twenty-two consecutive CAs scheduled for CA endarterectomy (CEA) or CA stent placement (CAS) were retrospectively studied. After excluding 22 CAs (2 were contraindicated for MRI, 8 had near-occlusion, 6 had poor image quality, and 6 had restenosis after CEA or CAS), there were 100 CAs (100 patients) included in the final analysis. The study included 50 symptomatic patients (mean age 73.6 ± 8.9 years, 6 women, mean stenosis 68.5% ± 21.3%) and 50 asymptomatic patients (mean age 72.0 ± 5.9 years, 5 women, mean stenosis 79.4% ± 8.85%). Expansive remodeling was defined as enlargement of the internal carotid artery (ICA) with outward plaque growth. The ER ratio was calculated by dividing the maximum distance between the lumen and the outer borders of the plaque perpendicular to the axis of the ICA by the maximal luminal diameter of the distal ICA at a region unaffected by atherosclerosis using long-axis, high-resolution MRI. RESULTS The ER ratio of the atherosclerotic CA was significantly greater than that of normal physiological expansion (carotid bulb; p < 0.01). The ER ratio of symptomatic CA stenosis (median 1.94, interquartile range [IQR] 1.58–2.23) was significantly greater than that of asymptomatic CA stenosis (median 1.52, IQR 1.34–1.81; p = 0.0001). When the cutoff value of the ER ratio was set to 1.88, the sensitivity and specificity to detect symptoms were 0.6 and 0.78, respectively. The ER ratio of symptomatic patients was consistently high regardless of the degree of stenosis. CONCLUSIONS There was a significant correlation between ER ratio and ischemic symptoms. The ER ratio might be a potential indicator of vulnerable plaque, which requires further validation by prospective observational study of asymptomatic patients.
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Norris, John S., Taufik A. Valiante, M. Christopher Wallace, et al. "A simple relationship between radiological arteriovenous malformation hemodynamics and clinical presentation: a prospective, blinded analysis of 31 cases." Journal of Neurosurgery 90, no. 4 (1999): 673–79. http://dx.doi.org/10.3171/jns.1999.90.4.0673.
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Object. The authors sought to establish prospectively whether there is a simple relationship between radiological features of brain arteriovenous malformation (AVM) hemodynamics and a patient's clinical presentation.Methods. Thirty-one consecutive patients with AVMs underwent cerebral angiography at 3.8 frames/second during each standardized injection of contrast material. Contrast dilution curves were derived from the image sequences by using regions of interest (ROIs) traced on arteries feeding and veins draining the AVM nidus. Angiographic parameters were then analyzed in a blinded fashion. These parameters included the times required to reach the peak contrast density, the contrast decay time, and fractions thereof, in the ROI for each vessel. The authors determined whether these parameters, the arteriovenous transit time, and/or AVM size were related to patients' presentation with hemorrhage (11 patients), seizure (11 patients), or other clinical symptoms (nine patients). Statistically significant results were found only in analyses of arterial phase times to reach peak contrast density. Analyses of venous parameters, AVM size, and nidus transit time showed trends but no statistical significance. Arterial filling with contrast material was significantly slower in patients presenting with hemorrhage (mean 50%, 80%, and 100% of time to peak ± standard error [SE] = 1.19 ± 0.13, 1.97 ± 0.18, and 3.04 ± 0.34 seconds, respectively) compared with patients presenting with seizures (mean 50%, 80%, and 100% of time to peak ± SE = 0.80 ± 0.12, 1.32 ± 0.18, and 1.95 ± 0.29 seconds, respectively) according to analysis of variance (p < 0.05) and post-hoc t-tests (p < 0.05) for each parameter. Patients who presented with other symptoms had intermediate arterial filling times.Conclusions. These simple hemodynamic parameters, which can be obtained without added risk to the patient, may help identify a subset of individuals in whom AVMs pose a higher risk of future hemorrhage and who may therefore warrant more expeditious treatment.
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Gras-Combe, Guillaume, Sylvie Moritz-Gasser, Guillaume Herbet, and Hugues Duffau. "Intraoperative subcortical electrical mapping of optic radiations in awake surgery for glioma involving visual pathways." Journal of Neurosurgery 117, no. 3 (2012): 466–73. http://dx.doi.org/10.3171/2012.6.jns111981.
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Object Preservation of the visual field in glioma surgery, especially avoidance of hemianopia, is crucial for patients' quality of life, particularly for driving. Recent studies used tractography or cortical occipital stimulation to try to avoid visual deficit. However, optic radiations have not been directly mapped intraoperatively. The authors present, for the first time to their knowledge, a consecutive series of awake surgeries for cerebral glioma with intrasurgical identification and preservation of visual pathways using subcortical electrical mapping. Methods Fourteen patients underwent awake resection of a glioma (1 WHO Grade I, 11 WHO Grade II, 2 WHO Grade III) involving the optic radiations. The patients had no presurgical visual field deficit. Intraoperatively, a picture-naming task was used, with presentation of 2 objects situated diagonally on a screen divided into 4 quadrants. An image was presented in the quadrant to be saved and another image was presented in the opposite quadrant. Direct subcortical electrostimulation was repeatedly performed without the patient's knowledge, until optic radiations were identified (transient visual disturbances). All patients underwent an objective visual field assessment 3 months after surgery. Results All patients experienced visual symptoms during stimulation. These disturbances led the authors to stop the tumor resection at that level. Postoperatively, only 1 patient had a permanent hemianopia, despite an expected quadrantanopia in 12 cases. The mean extent of resection was 93.6% (range 85%–100%). Conclusions Online identification of optic radiations by direct subcortical electrostimulation is a reliable and effective method to avoid permanent hemianopia in surgery for gliomas involving visual pathways.
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Tisdall, Martin M., Richard D. Hayward, and Dominic N. P. Thompson. "Congenital spinal dermal tract: how accurate is clinical and radiological evaluation?" Journal of Neurosurgery: Pediatrics 15, no. 6 (2015): 651–56. http://dx.doi.org/10.3171/2014.11.peds14341.
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OBJECT A dermal sinus tract is a common form of occult spinal dysraphism. The presumed etiology relates to a focal failure of disjunction resulting in a persistent adhesion between the neural and cutaneous ectoderm. Clinical and radiological features can appear innocuous, leading to delayed diagnosis and failure to appreciate the implications or extent of the abnormality. If it is left untreated, complications can include meningitis, spinal abscess, and inclusion cyst formation. The authors present their experience in 74 pediatric cases of spinal dermal tract in an attempt to identify which clinical and radiological factors are associated with an infective presentation and to assess the reliability of MRI in evaluating this entity. METHODS Consecutive cases of spinal dermal tract treated with resection between 1998 and 2010 were identified from the departmental surgical database. Demographics, clinical history, and radiological and operative findings were collected from the patient records. The presence or absence of active infection (abscess, meningitis) at the time of neurosurgical presentation and any history of local sinus discharge or infection was assessed. Magnetic resonance images were reviewed to evaluate the extent of the sinus tract and determine the presence of an inclusion cyst. Radiological and operative findings were compared. RESULTS The surgical course was uncomplicated in 90% of 74 cases eligible for analysis. Magnetic resonance imaging underreported the presence of both an intradural tract (MRI 46%, operative finding 86%) and an intraspinal inclusion cyst (MRI 15%, operative finding 24%). A history of sinus discharge (OR 12.8, p = 0.0003) and the intraoperative identification of intraspinal inclusion cysts (OR 5.6, p = 0.023) were associated with an infective presentation. There was no significant association between the presence of an intradural tract discovered at surgery and an infective presentation. CONCLUSIONS Surgery for the treatment of spinal dermal tract carries a low morbidity. While it seems intuitive that tracts without intradural extension carry a low risk of spinal cord tethering, it is not possible to reliably detect these cases using MRI. Similarly, intraspinal dermoid cannot be reliably excluded using MRI and carries an increased risk of infection. These points justify excision together with intradural exploration of all spinal dermal sinus tracts.
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Sedney, Cara L., William Dillen, and Terrence Julien. "Clinical spectrum and radiographic features of the syndrome of the trephined." Journal of Neurosciences in Rural Practice 6, no. 03 (2015): 438–41. http://dx.doi.org/10.4103/0976-3147.158778.
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ABSTRACT Object: Craniectomy is a common neurosurgical procedure. Syndrome of the trephined (ST) occurring after craniectomy results in neurologic symptoms that are reversible with cranioplasty. While well-documented, previous literature consisted of case reports, symptom spectrum and risk factors have not been well characterized. Materials and Methods: A retrospective review of 29 consecutive cases who underwent decompressive craniectomy within a 30-month period was performed. Patients were considered affected by ST if a previously stable neurological deficit improved within 3 weeks after cranioplasty. Prevalence of ST was measured and association with demographic information, clinical symptoms patterns, indication for and size of craniectomy, as well as radiological signs were tested. Results: Seven patients (24%) developed ST. Chronic rehabilitation arrest was more common than acute neurologic decline. Factors such as craniectomy size and patient age did not reach statistical significance in development of ST. Radiographic factors were predictive, with a sunken skin flap contour being most sensitive, while ventricular effacement was most specific.Conclusion: ST may have a higher incidence than previously thought, with a chronic rehabilitation arrest being a more common presentation than an acute decline. Medical providers involved in the post surgical care and rehabilitation of these patients should maintain a high index of suspicion for ST.
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Hong, Jing-Fang, Ying-Fang Song, Hai-Bing Liu, Zheng Liu, and Shou-Sen Wang. "The Clinical Characteristics and Treatment of Cerebral Microarteriovenous Malformation Presenting with Intracerebral Hemorrhage: A Series of 13 Cases." BioMed Research International 2015 (2015): 1–6. http://dx.doi.org/10.1155/2015/257153.
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Object. The aim of this report was to explore the clinical presentation, radiological features, treatment methods, and outcome of micro-AVMs presenting with intracerebral hemorrhage.Methods. The clinical data, radiological features, treatment, and follow-up results for a consecutive series of 13 cases with micro-AVMs were retrospectively analyzed.Results. All 13 patients presented with intracerebral hemorrhage. Ten cases were confirmed by enhanced thin layer CT scanning and CTA, and the other 3 cases were confirmed by DSA. Treatment consisted of surgical removal in 10 cases, endovascular embolization in 1, and radiosurgery in 2. The modified GOS score was achieved in the third month after discharge: 10 cases were rated with 5 points (good recovery), 1 case was rated with 4 points (mild disability), and 2 cases were rated with 3 points (severe disability). During follow-up, No case of rebleeding was reported.Conclusions. Intracerebral hemorrhage is the main clinical manifestation of micro-AVMs. It is beneficial to find a tiny nidus of dense vessels located on hematoma wall on enhanced thin layer CT scanning for a clear diagnosis and to detect any abnormal feeding artery or venous drainage for an indirect diagnostic evidence. Resection is the main method of treatment for micro-AVMs.
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Machado, Andre G., Raghavan Gopalakrishnan, Ela B. Plow, Richard C. Burgess, and John C. Mosher. "A magnetoencephalography study of visual processing of pain anticipation." Journal of Neurophysiology 112, no. 2 (2014): 276–86. http://dx.doi.org/10.1152/jn.00193.2014.
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Anticipating pain is important for avoiding injury; however, in chronic pain patients, anticipatory behavior can become maladaptive, leading to sensitization and limiting function. Knowledge of networks involved in pain anticipation and conditioning over time could help devise novel, better-targeted therapies. With the use of magnetoencephalography, we evaluated in 10 healthy subjects the neural processing of pain anticipation. Anticipatory cortical activity elicited by consecutive visual cues that signified imminent painful stimulus was compared with cues signifying nonpainful and no stimulus. We found that the neural processing of visually evoked pain anticipation involves the primary visual cortex along with cingulate and frontal regions. Visual cortex could quickly and independently encode and discriminate between visual cues associated with pain anticipation and no pain during preconscious phases following object presentation. When evaluating the effect of task repetition on participating cortical areas, we found that activity of prefrontal and cingulate regions was mostly prominent early on when subjects were still naive to a cue's contextual meaning. Visual cortical activity was significant throughout later phases. Although visual cortex may precisely and time efficiently decode cues anticipating pain or no pain, prefrontal areas establish the context associated with each cue. These findings have important implications toward processes involved in pain anticipation and maladaptive pain conditioning.
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Yamada, Shigeki, Yasushi Takagi, Kazuhiko Nozaki, Ken-ichiro Kikuta, and Nobuo Hashimoto. "Risk factors for subsequent hemorrhage in patients with cerebral arteriovenous malformations." Journal of Neurosurgery 107, no. 5 (2007): 965–72. http://dx.doi.org/10.3171/jns-07/11/0965.
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Object The aim of this study was to identify the natural history of untreated cerebral arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) and the risk factors for subsequent hemorrhage after an initial AVM diagnosis. Methods The authors studied 305 consecutive patients with AVMs at the Kyoto University Hospital between 1983 and 2005. These patients were followed up until the first subsequent hemorrhage, the start of any treatment, or the end of 2005. Possible risk factors that were investigated included age at initial diagnosis, sex, type of initial presentation, size and location of the AVM nidus, and the venous drainage pattern. Subsequent hemorrhage occurred in 26 patients from the hemorrhagic group during 380 patient–years, and in 16 patients from the nonhemorrhagic group during 512 patient–years. Results The annual bleeding rate in the hemorrhagic group was 6.84% after the initial hemorrhage; however, that rate decreased in the first 5 years (15.42% in the first year, 5.32% in the subsequent 4 years, and 1.72% in more than 5 years). In the nonhemorrhagic group (annual bleeding rate of 3.12%), the patients initially presenting with headaches (annual bleeding rate of 6.48%) or asymptomatic presentations (annual bleeding rate of 6.44%) had a higher risk for subsequent hemorrhage. Conversely, those patients presenting with seizures (annual bleeding rate of 2.20%) or neurological deficits (annual bleeding rate of 1.73%) had a lower risk. A significantly increased risk (p < 0.05) of rebleeding was found among children (hazard ratio [HR] = 2.69), females (HR = 2.93), or patients with deep-seated AVMs (HR = 3.07). Conclusions Children, females, and patients with deep-seated AVMs had a threefold increased risk of rebleeding after an initial cerebral AVM. This increased risk was highest in the first year after the initial hemorrhage, and thereafter gradually decreased.
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Ganau, Mario, Andrea Talacchi, Paolo C. Cecchi, Claudio Ghimenton, Massimo Gerosa, and Franco Faccioli. "Cystic dilation of the ventriculus terminalis." Journal of Neurosurgery: Spine 17, no. 1 (2012): 86–92. http://dx.doi.org/10.3171/2012.4.spine11504.
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Object The ventriculus terminalis, an embryological remnant consisting of the ependymal-lined space of the conus medullaris, can occasionally become symptomatic after cystic dilation. In the existing literature, consisting of 32 cases, the preferred type of management (conservative vs surgical) is still debated. The object of this study was to report the surgical results in a consecutive series of 10 adult patients with cystic dilation of the ventriculus terminalis (CDVT), to match them with data retrieved from the relevant literature, and specifically to validate a new recent clinical classification. Methods The authors reported 13 new cases of CDVT treated in the Department of Neurosurgery at University Hospital in Verona, Italy. Treatment modalities and clinical and radiological outcomes, both early and at follow-up, were analyzed and compared with a preoperative classification of clinical presentation, as established by de Moura Batista and colleagues (2008). Results Surgical treatment seemed to guarantee the resolution of CDVT. Dorsolumbar laminotomy, myelotomy, and cystic drainage were performed in 10 patients. Patients with Type I symptoms (nonspecific complaints) often presented with comorbidities (herniated disc or facet hypertrophy) confusing their clinical status. The surgical treatment of patients with Type I symptoms promoted good results only if the diagnosis of CDVT was definitive and symptoms had rapidly evolved. In patients with Type II (focal neurological deficits) and III (sphincter disturbances) symptoms, surgical treatment sustained improvement even at the late follow-up. Conclusions While confirming the usefulness of de Moura Batista and colleagues' classification in its impact on prognosis, the authors propose a revision of the classification with subgroups Type Ia (nonspecific symptoms without clear relation to CDVT), which is best treated conservatively, and Type Ib (rapid onset and invalidating unspecific complaints without comorbidities), which may benefit from surgical evacuation.
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Bettegowda, Chetan, Owoicho Adogwa, Vivek Mehta, et al. "Treatment of choroid plexus tumors: a 20-year single institutional experience." Journal of Neurosurgery: Pediatrics 10, no. 5 (2012): 398–405. http://dx.doi.org/10.3171/2012.8.peds12132.
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Object Choroid plexus tumors (CPTs) are rare intracranial neoplasms that constitute approximately 2%–5% of all pediatric brain tumors. Most of these tumors present with severe hydrocephalus. The optimal perioperative management and oncological care remain a matter of debate. The authors present the epidemiological and clinical features of CPTs from a 20-year single-institutional experience. Methods A total of 39 consecutive patients with pathologically proven CPTs (31 choroid plexus papillomas [CPPs] and 8 choroid plexus carcinomas [CPCs]) were included in this series. Patient demographics, clinical presentation, comorbidities, indications for surgery, radiological studies, tumor location, and all operative variables were reviewed for each case. Multivariate regression analysis was performed to identify independent predictors of tumor recurrence and survival. Results The overall mean age (± SD) was 13.13 ± 19.59 years (15.27 ± 21.10 years in the CPP group and 3.66 ± 3.59 years in the CPC group). Hydrocephalus was noted at presentation in 34% of patients. The most common presenting symptoms were headache (32%) and nausea/vomiting (26%). Gross-total resection (GTR) was achieved in 86% of CPPs and in 71% of CPCs (p = 0.57). There was 100% survival in patients with CPPs observed at the 5- and 10-year follow-up and 71% survival in patients with CPCs at the 5-year follow-up. In a multivariate regression analysis, a diagnosis of papilloma, preoperative vision changes, or hydrocephalus; right ventricle tumor location; and GTR were all independently associated with a decreased likelihood of tumor recurrence at last follow-up. Conclusions The authors' study suggests that patients with CPCs are more likely to experience local recurrence and metastasis; hence, GTR with chemotherapy and radiotherapy, particularly for CPCs, is pivotal in preventing recurrence and prolonging survival. While GTR was important for local control following resection of CPPs, it had a minimal effect on prolonging survival in this patient cohort.
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Albright, A. Leland, Susan S. Ferson, and Humphrey Okechi. "Cerebrospinal fluid white blood cell counts in infants with myelomeningoceles." Journal of Neurosurgery: Pediatrics 13, no. 2 (2014): 189–91. http://dx.doi.org/10.3171/2013.11.peds13196.
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Object The authors undertook this study to determine white blood cell (WBC) counts in CSF obtained from lateral ventricles and myelomeningoceles (MMCs) in infants in a developing country at the time of their initial presentation for medical evaluation. Methods CSF was aspirated from the lateral ventricles and from MMC sacs of 100 consecutive infants at Kijabe Hospital, Kijabe, Kenya. Peripheral blood WBC counts and CSF WBC counts were determined in the laboratory. CSF with WBC counts of 5 cells/mm3 or greater was cultured. Results The mean WBC count in ventricular CSF was 16 cells/mm3, with a median and mode of 0 cells/mm3. The mean WBC count of CSF in MMC sacs was 141 cells/mm3 (median 15 cells/mm3). No child had both a positive culture from ventricular CSF and a negative culture from MMC CSF. There was no correlation between age at presentation and WBC counts in the MMCs. Infants younger than 8 days old were as likely to have high WBC counts in CSF from their MMC sacs as were older children; 7 of 12 infants with 500 WBCs or more in CSF from their MMCs were younger than 8 days old. Only 5 of 58 CSF specimens from MMC sacs with 5 or more WBCs/mm3 had positive bacterial cultures, which may be a reflection of CSF specimen processing rather than of true culture negativity. Conclusions CSF from ventricular fluid of infants presenting with MMCs infrequently has high WBC counts, so infrequently that it does not need to be evaluated routinely. CSF in MMC sacs often has high WBC counts that suggest the presence of bacterial infection. In developing countries where culture reliability is questionable, intravenous administration of antibiotics before MMC closure for infants with high MMC WBC counts may diminish postoperative meningitis/ventriculitis.
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Kondziolka, Douglas, Phillip V. Parry, L. Dade Lunsford, et al. "The accuracy of predicting survival in individual patients with cancer." Journal of Neurosurgery 120, no. 1 (2014): 24–30. http://dx.doi.org/10.3171/2013.9.jns13788.
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Object Estimating survival time in cancer patients is crucial for clinicians, patients, families, and payers. To provide appropriate and cost-effective care, various data sources are used to provide rational, reliable, and reproducible estimates. The accuracy of such estimates is unknown. Methods The authors prospectively estimated survival in 150 consecutive cancer patients (median age 62 years) with brain metastases undergoing radiosurgery. They recorded cancer type, number of brain metastases, neurological presentation, extracranial disease status, Karnofsky Performance Scale score, Recursive Partitioning Analysis class, prior whole-brain radiotherapy, and synchronous or metachronous presentation. Finally, the authors asked 18 medical, radiation, or surgical oncologists to predict survival from the time of treatment. Results The actual median patient survival was 10.3 months (95% CI 6.4–14). The median physician-predicted survival was 9.7 months (neurosurgeons = 11.8 months, radiation oncologists = 11.0 months, and medical oncologist = 7.2 months). For patients who died before 10 months, both neurosurgeons and radiation oncologists generally predicted survivals that were more optimistic and medical oncologists that were less so, although no group could accurately predict survivors alive at 14 months. All physicians had individual patient survival predictions that were incorrect by as much as 12–18 months, and 14 of 18 physicians had individual predictions that were in error by more than 18 months. Of the 2700 predictions, 1226 (45%) were off by more than 6 months and 488 (18%) were off by more than 12 months. Conclusions Although crucial, predicting the survival of cancer patients is difficult. In this study all physicians were unable to accurately predict longer-term survivors. Despite valuable clinical data and predictive scoring techniques, brain and systemic management often led to patient survivals well beyond estimated survivals.
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Ellis, Jason A., Paul C. McCormick, Neil A. Feldstein, and Saadi Ghatan. "Transoccipital endoscopic fenestration of atrial cysts causing ventricular entrapment." Journal of Neurosurgery: Pediatrics 15, no. 6 (2015): 567–72. http://dx.doi.org/10.3171/2014.11.peds14227.
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OBJECT Cystic lesions in the atrium (trigone) of the lateral ventricle may become symptomatic due to obstruction of physiological CSF circulation and/or from mass effect on adjacent structures. A minimally invasive approach that not only allows for straightforward access to multiple regions of the atrial cyst wall, but also enables direct inspection of the entire lateral ventricular system, has not been elaborated. In this paper the authors describe their experience with the endoscopic transoccipital horn approach for treating cystic lesions in the atrium of the lateral ventricle. METHODS A retrospective review was performed of all patients who underwent endoscopic surgical treatment for cysts in the atrium of the lateral ventricle between 1999 and 2014. RESULTS The cohort consisted of 13 consecutive patients who presented with symptomatic lateral ventricular entrapment due to the presence of an atrial cyst. There were 9 male and 4 female patients, with a median age of 5 years. Headache was the most common complaint at presentation. The transoccipital horn approach facilitated successful cyst reduction and fenestration in all cases. Temporal and occipital horn entrapment was reversed in all cases, with reestablishment of a physiological CSF flow pattern throughout the ventricles. Hydrocephalus was also reversed in all patients presenting with this neuroimaging finding at presentation. No cyst or ventricular entrapment was noted to recur during a mean follow-up period of 36 months. No patient in the study cohort required repeat surgery or permanent CSF diversion postoperatively. CONCLUSIONS The endoscopic transoccipital horn approach represents a safe and effective treatment strategy for patients with symptomatic atrial cysts of the lateral ventricle. Using this minimally invasive technique, all poles of the lateral ventricular system can be visualized and the unobstructed flow of CSF can be confirmed after cyst resection obviating the need for additional diversion.
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Chang, Edward F., Rodney A. Gabriel, Matthew B. Potts, Mitchel S. Berger, and Michael T. Lawton. "Supratentorial cavernous malformations in eloquent and deep locations: surgical approaches and outcomes." Journal of Neurosurgery 114, no. 3 (2011): 814–27. http://dx.doi.org/10.3171/2010.5.jns091159.
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Object Resection of cavernous malformations (CMs) located in functionally eloquent areas of the supratentorial compartment is controversial. Hemorrhage from untreated lesions can result in devastating neurological injury, but surgery has potentially serious risks. We hypothesized that an organized system of approaches can guide operative planning and lead to acceptable neurological outcomes in surgical patients. Methods The authors reviewed the presentation, surgery, and outcomes of 79 consecutive patients who underwent microresection of supratentorial CMs in eloquent and deep brain regions (basal ganglia [in 27 patients], sensorimotor cortex [in 23], language cortex [in 3], thalamus [in 6], visual cortex [in 10], and corpus callosum [in 10]). A total of 13 different microsurgical approaches were organized into 4 groups: superficial, lateral transsylvian, medial interhemispheric, and posterior approaches. Results The majority of patients (93.7%) were symptomatic. Hemorrhage with resulting focal neurological deficit was the most common presentation in 53 patients (67%). Complete resection, as determined by postoperative MR imaging, was achieved in 76 patients (96.2%). Overall, the functional neurological status of patients improved after microsurgical dissection at the time of discharge from the hospital and at follow-up. At 6 months, 64 patients (81.0%) were improved relative to their preoperative condition and 14 patients (17.7%) were unchanged. Good outcomes (modified Rankin Scale score ≤ 2, living independently) were achieved in 77 patients (97.4%). Multivariate analysis of demographic and surgical factors revealed that preoperative functional status was the only predictor of postoperative modified Rankin Scale score (OR 4.6, p = 0.001). Six patients (7.6%) had transient worsening of neurological examination after surgery, and 1 patient (1.3%) was permanently worse. There was no surgical mortality. Conclusions The authors present a system of 13 microsurgical approaches to 6 location targets with 4 general trajectories to facilitate safe access to supratentorial CMs in eloquent brain regions. Favorable neurological outcomes following microsurgical resection justify an aggressive surgical attitude toward these lesions.
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Idowu, Olufemi, and Adebayo Olumide. "Etiology and cranial CT scan profile of nontumoral hydrocephalus in a tertiary black African hospital." Journal of Neurosurgery: Pediatrics 7, no. 4 (2011): 397–400. http://dx.doi.org/10.3171/2011.1.peds10481.
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Object Hydrocephalus is a common condition in the pediatric population. The cause of hydrocephalus, Evans ratio, ventricular index, and cerebral mantle thickness are some of the factors associated with poor surgical outcome. This study was conducted to evaluate the profile of these factors in the authors' patient population. Methods The authors conducted a prospective study from the August 1, 2006, to May 30, 2010. The consecutive patients were all 6 years of age or younger. The demographic information, cause of hydrocephalus, and cranial computerized measurements were taken (including widths of the frontal/occipital horns, third ventricle, and cerebral mantle thickness) and entered into the procedural forms. Results One hundred thirty-seven patients presented to the unit over the stipulated period. The male/female ratio was 1.1:1. The median age at presentation was 4 months (mean 7.3 months, range 4 days to 6 years). Myelomeningocele-associated hydrocephalus, aqueductal stenosis, and postmeningitic hydrocephalus accounted for 30.7%, 22.6%, and 17.5%, respectively, of the cases. The mean Evans ratio was 0.56 (range 0.43–0.70), the mean ventricular index was 197.18 (range 135.0–245.3), and the mean cerebral mantle was 10.8 mm (10–14 mm). Conclusions This study shows that the congenital form of hydrocephalus is the predominant variety in the authors' population. Myelomeningocele-associated hydrocephalus, aqueductal stenosis, Dandy-Walker malformation, and postmeningitic hydrocephalus are common causes of hydrocephalus.
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Ogiwara, Hideki, and Nobuhito Morota. "Surgical treatment of transsphenoidal encephaloceles: transpalatal versus combined transpalatal and transcranial approach." Journal of Neurosurgery: Pediatrics 11, no. 5 (2013): 505–10. http://dx.doi.org/10.3171/2013.2.peds12231.
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Object Transsphenoidal encephalocele (TSEC) is a rare developmental anomaly with herniation of neural elements including pituitary gland or optic apparatus, through a defect of sphenoid bone. To prevent obstructive dyspnea, endocrine dysfunction, or visual disturbance, surgical correction is usually performed. However, the optimal operative approach has not been determined yet. The authors present their surgical experiences with transpalatal, transcranial, or combined approach. Methods The authors retrospectively analyzed surgical results in patients with TSEC. The charts were reviewed for demographic data, clinical presentation, surgical therapy, and clinical outcomes. Results Seven consecutive patients with TSEC were surgically treated between March 2004 and February 2012. The mean age was 23.9 months (range 2–69 months). Four patients with TSEC who had a bone defect within the sphenoid bone were successfully treated using a transpalatal approach. Two patients with an extensive sphenoethmoidal bone defect that was treated either by a transpalatal or transcranial approach experienced several relapses with a prolapse of the encephalocele. One patient with an extensive sphenoethmoidal bone defect was successfully treated by combined transpalatal and transcranial approach without relapse for 3.6 years. Conclusions The combined transpalatal and transcranial approach is useful for TSEC with an extensive sphenoethmoidal bone defect to dissect the sac and expose the bone defect circumferentially. If dissection is not sufficient, relapse with a prolapse of the encephalocele can ensue. The transpalatal approach is sufficient for TSEC in which a bone defect is limited within the sphenoid bone.
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Kennedy, Benjamin C., Taylor B. Nelp, Kathleen M. Kelly, et al. "Delayed resolution of syrinx after posterior fossa decompression without dural opening in children with Chiari malformation Type I." Journal of Neurosurgery: Pediatrics 16, no. 5 (2015): 599–606. http://dx.doi.org/10.3171/2015.4.peds1572.
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OBJECT Chiari malformation Type I (CM-I) is associated with a syrinx in 25%–85% of patients. Although posterior fossa decompression (PFD) without dural opening is an accepted treatment option for children with symptomatic CM-I, many surgeons prefer to open the dura if a syrinx exists. The purpose of this study was to investigate the frequency and timing of syrinx resolution in children undergoing PFD without dural opening for CM-I. METHODS A retrospective review of 68 consecutive pediatric patients with CM-I and syringomyelia who underwent PFD without dural opening was conducted. Patient demographics, presenting symptoms and signs, radiographic findings, and intraoperative ultrasound and neuromonitoring findings were studied as well as the patients’ clinical and radiographic follow-up. RESULTS During the mean radiographic follow-up period of 32 months, 70% of the syringes improved. Syrinx improvement occurred at a mean of 31 months postoperatively. All patients experienced symptom improvement within the 1st year, despite only 26% of patients showing radiographic improvement during that period. Patients presenting with sensory symptoms or motor weakness had a higher likelihood of having radiographic syrinx improvement postoperatively. CONCLUSIONS In children with CM-I and a syrinx undergoing PFD without dural opening, syrinx resolution occurs in approximately 70% of patients. Radiographic improvement of the syrinx is delayed, but this does not correlate temporally with symptom improvement. Sensory symptoms or motor weakness on presentation are associated with syrinx resolution after surgery.
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Lau, Darryl, Matthew R. Leach, Frank La Marca, and Paul Park. "Independent predictors of survival and the impact of repeat surgery in patients undergoing surgical treatment of spinal metastasis." Journal of Neurosurgery: Spine 17, no. 6 (2012): 565–76. http://dx.doi.org/10.3171/2012.8.spine12449.
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Object Surgery for spinal metastasis is considered palliative, and postoperative survival is often less than a year. Recurrence of metastatic lesions is quite common, and it remains unclear whether repeat surgery is effective. In this study, the authors assessed independent predictors for survival at 6 months, 1 year, and 2 years after surgery, and examined whether repeat surgery for recurrence of spinal metastasis influenced survival rates. Methods Retrospective review of the electronic medical records was performed to identify a consecutive population of adult patients who underwent surgery for spinal metastasis during the period 2005–2011. Utilizing a Cox proportional hazard regression model, the authors assessed independent predictors and risk factors for survival at 6 months, 1 year, and 2 years after surgery. In addition, the impact of repeat surgery on survival was specifically assessed via multivariable analysis. Results A total of 99 patients were included in the final analysis. The overall mean postoperative duration of survival was 9.6 months. In addition to previously identified predictors of survival (preoperative ambulation, Karnofsky Performance Status [KPS], radiotherapy, primary cancer type, presence of extraspinal metastasis, and number of spinal segments with metastasis), pain on presentation and body mass index (BMI) of 25–30 were both independently associated with survival. Patients with recurrence who underwent repeat surgery had longer mean survival times than patients with recurrence who did not undergo repeat surgery (19.6 months vs 12.8 months, respectively). Repeat surgery was also independently associated with higher survival rates on multivariate analysis. Follow-up KPS was significantly higher in patients who underwent repeat surgery as well. Conclusions In addition to confirming previously identified predictors of survival following surgery for spinal metastasis, the authors identified BMI and pain on presentation as independent predictors of survival. They also found that repeat surgery may be a viable option in patients with metastatic recurrence and may offer prolonged survival, likely due to improved functionality, mitigating complications associated with immobility.
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Joaquim, Andrei F., Enrico Ghizoni, Marcos Juliano dos Santos, Marcelo Gomes C. Valadares, Felipe Soares da Silva, and Helder Tedeschi. "Intramedullary hemangioblastomas: surgical results in 16 patients." Neurosurgical Focus 39, no. 2 (2015): E18. http://dx.doi.org/10.3171/2015.5.focus15171.
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OBJECT Hemangioblastomas are rare, benign, highly vascularized tumors that can be found throughout the neuraxis but are mainly located in the cerebellum and in the spinal cord. Spinal hemangioblastomas can present with motor and sensory deficits, whose severity varies according to the size and location of the tumor. Resection is the best treatment option to avoid neurological deterioration. The authors report surgical results in the treatment of intramedullary hemangioblastomas and discuss the technical nuances important to achieving total resection without adding new deficits. METHODS A consecutive series of patients with intramedullary hemangioblastomas operated on between 2000 and 2014 by the senior author (H.T.) is presented. The functional scale proposed by McCormick was used to evaluate the patients' neurological status before and after surgery. RESULTS Sixteen patients were included in the study and underwent 17 surgeries. Follow-up was at least 6 months. Age at presentation varied from 13 to 58 years (mean 33.8 years). Ten patients (62.5%) were males and 6 patients (37.5%) were females. Seven (43.75%) of the 16 patients had associated von Hippel—Lindau syndrome, with hemangioblastomas also presenting in other locations. Three patients had multiple tumors in the same segment in the spinal cord, and 10 patients (62.5%) presented with cysts. According to the site of presentation, 11 tumors (68.75%) were localized at the cervical region (including the cervicomedullary junction) and 5 tumors (31.25%) at the thoracic level. Total resection was achieved in all cases, evidenced by postoperative MRI. Four patients had some functional worsening immediately after surgery. After 6 months, 1 patient had functional worsening compared with preoperative status, and 2 patients had clinical improvement. The majority of the patients remained clinically stable postoperatively. CONCLUSIONS Adequate knowledge of anatomy and the correct use of microsurgical techniques allowed total resection of these tumors, with minimal morbidity and maximum functional recovery. Outcome seems to be directly related to the neurological status before surgery.
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Jang, Dong-Kyu, Pil Woo Huh, and Kwan-Sung Lee. "Association of apolipoprotein E gene polymorphism with small-vessel lesions and stroke type in moyamoya disease: a preliminary study." Journal of Neurosurgery 124, no. 6 (2016): 1738–45. http://dx.doi.org/10.3171/2015.5.jns142973.
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OBJECT The present study was conducted to investigate whether microbleeds or microinfarcts are associated with apolipoprotein E (APOE) gene polymorphisms in patients with moyamoya disease (MMD), and if so, whetherAPOE gene polymorphisms are also associated with stroke type in patients with MMD. METHODS This cross-sectional, multicenter study included 86 consecutive patients with MMD who underwent T2*-weighted gradient echo or susceptibility-weighted MR imaging and 83 healthy control volunteers. Baseline clinical and radiological characteristics were recorded at diagnosis, and inter- and intragroup differences in the APOE genotypes were assessed. Multivariate binary logistic regression models were used to determine the association factors for small-vessel lesions (SVLs) and hemorrhagic presentation in patients with MMD. RESULTS There was no difference in APOE gene polymorphism and the incidence of SVLs between patients with MMD and healthy controls (p > 0.05). In the MMD group, 7 (8.1%) patients had microbleeds and 32 (37.2%) patients had microinfarcts. Microbleeds were more frequently identified in patients with hemorrhagic-type than in nonhemorrhagictype MMD (p = 0.003). APOE genotypes differed according to the presence of microbleeds (p = 0.024). APOE ε2 or ε4 carriers also experienced microbleeds more frequently than APOE ε3/ε3 carriers (p = 0.013). In the multivariate regression analysis in patients with MMD, microbleeds were significantly related to APOE ε2 or ε4 carrier status (OR 7.86; 95% CI1.20–51.62; p = 0.032) and cerebral aneurysm (OR 17.31; 95% CI 2.09–143.57; p = 0.008). Microinfarcts were independently associated with hypertension (OR 3.01; 95% CI 1.05–7.86; p = 0.007). Hemorrhagic presentation was markedly associated with microbleeds (OR 10.63; 95% CI 1.11–102.0; p = 0.041). CONCLUSIONS These preliminary results did not show a difference in APOE gene polymorphisms between patients with MMD and healthy persons. However, they imply that APOE gene polymorphisms may play certain roles in the presence of microbleeds but not microinfarcts in patients with MMD. A further confirmatory study is necessary to elucidate the effect of APOE gene polymorphisms and SVLs on the future incidence of stroke in patients with MMD.
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Kaur, Gurvinder, Orin Bloch, Brian J. Jian, et al. "A critical evaluation of cystic features in primary glioblastoma as a prognostic factor for survival." Journal of Neurosurgery 115, no. 4 (2011): 754–59. http://dx.doi.org/10.3171/2011.5.jns11128.
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Object The presence of cystic features in glioblastoma (GBM) has been described as a favorable prognostic factor. The aim of this study was to determine the survival outcome in patients undergoing surgery for newly diagnosed primary GBM with a large cystic component as compared with a large cohort of patients with noncystic GBM, while controlling for well-characterized prognostic factors. Methods A retrospective review of 354 consecutive patients treated with resection of primary GBM was performed using medical records and imaging information obtained at the University of California, San Francisco from 2005 to 2009. Within this cohort, 37 patients with large cysts (≥ 50% of tumor) were identified. Clinical presentations and surgical outcomes were statistically compared between the cystic and noncystic patients. Results There were no statistically significant differences in clinical presentation between groups, including differences in age, sex, presenting symptoms, tumor location, or preoperative functional status, with the exception of tumor size, which was marginally larger in the cystic group. Surgical outcomes, including extent of resection and postoperative functional status, were equivalent. The median actuarial survival for the patients with cystic GBM was 17.0 months (95% CI 12.6–21.3 months), and the median survival for patients with noncystic GBM was 15.9 months (95% CI 14.6–17.2 months). There was no significant between-groups difference in survival (p = 0.99, log-rank test). A Cox multivariate regression model was constructed, which identified only age and extent of resection as independent predictors of survival. The presence of a cyst was not a statistically significant prognostic factor. Conclusions This study, comprising the largest series of cases of primary cystic GBM reported in the literature to date, demonstrates that the presence of a large cyst in patients with GBM does not significantly affect overall survival as compared with survival in patients without a cyst. Preoperative discussions with patients with GBM should focus on validated prognostic factors. The presence of cystic features does not confer a survival advantage.
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Guedin, Pierre, Stephan Gaillard, Anne Boulin, et al. "Therapeutic management of intracranial dural arteriovenous shunts with leptomeningeal venous drainage: report of 53 consecutive patients with emphasis on transarterial embolization with acrylic glue." Journal of Neurosurgery 112, no. 3 (2010): 603–10. http://dx.doi.org/10.3171/2009.7.jns08490.
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Object There is a strong correlation between the venous drainage pattern of intracranial dural arteriovenous shunts (ICDAVSs) and the affected patients' clinical presentation. The ICDAVSs that have cortical venous reflux (CVR) (retrograde leptomeningeal drainage: Borden Type 2 and 3 lesions) are very aggressive and have a poor natural history. Although the necessity of treatment remains debatable in ICDAVSs that drain exclusively into a sinus (Borden Type 1), lesions with CVR must be treated because of the negative effects of the retrograde venous drainage. Surgery, radiosurgery, and embolization have been proposed for management of these lesions, but endovascular therapy is considered the most appropriate therapeutic strategy in ICDAVSs. New embolic materials, such as Onyx, have been recently developed and are considered to represent a kind of “gold standard” for embolization of these lesions. The purpose of this study is to emphasize the importance of transarterial embolization using acrylic glue in the therapeutic management of ICDAVSs with CVR, and to compare the results the authors obtained using this treatment with those reported in the literature for Onyx treatment of the same type of dural shunts. Methods The clinical and radiological records of 53 consecutive patients suffering from ICDAVSs with CVR (Borden Types 2 or 3) were reviewed. All cases were managed with the same angiographic and therapeutic protocol. Localization of the lesions, their clinical symptoms, their angioarchitecture, their therapeutic management, and the results were analyzed. Results Fourteen ICDAVSs were located at the superior sagittal sinus and/or convexity veins, 13 at the transverse and sigmoid sinuses, 10 at the tentorium, 5 in the anterior cranial fossa, 4 at the foramen magnum, 3 at the torcula, 2 at the straight sinus, and 1 at the vein of Galen. One patient presented with an infantile form of ICDAVS with multiple shunts. Hemorrhage had occurred in 36% of cases. Forty-three patients underwent transarterial embolization (42 with acrylic glue). Complete closure of the fistula was obtained in 34 patients. Suppression of the CVR with partial occlusion of the main shunt was achieved in all other cases. No mortality or permanent morbidity was observed in this series. Conclusions Intracranial dural arteriovenous shunts can be safely managed by transarterial embolization, which can be considered in most instances as an effective first-intention treatment. Acrylic glue still allows a cheap, fast, and effective treatment with high rates of cures that compare favorably to those obtained with new embolic materials.
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Hart, Michael G., Nicholas J. Sarkies, Thomas Santarius, and Ramez W. Kirollos. "Ophthalmological outcome after resection of tumors based on the pineal gland." Journal of Neurosurgery 119, no. 2 (2013): 420–26. http://dx.doi.org/10.3171/2013.3.jns122137.
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Object Descriptions of visual dysfunction in pineal gland tumors tend to focus on upward gaze palsy alone. The authors aimed to characterize the nature, incidence, and functional significance of ophthalmological dysfunction after resection of tumors based on the pineal gland. Methods Review of a retrospective case series was performed and included consecutive patients who underwent surgery performed by a consultant neurosurgeon between 2002 and 2011. Only tumors specifically based on the pineal gland were included; tumors encroaching on the pineal gland from other regions were excluded. All patients with visual signs and/or symptoms were reviewed by a specialist consultant neuroophthalmologist to accurately characterize the nature of their deficits. Visual disturbance was defined as visual symptoms caused by a disturbance of ocular motility. Results A total of 20 patients underwent resection of pineal gland tumors. Complete resection was obtained in 85%, and there were no perioperative deaths. Visual disturbance was present in 35% at presentation; of those who had normal ocular motility preoperatively 82% had normal motility postoperatively. In total, 55% of patients had residual visual disturbance postoperatively. Although upward gaze tended to improve, significant functional deficits remained, particularly with regard to complex convergence and accommodation dysfunction. Prisms were used in 25% but were only ever partially effective. Visual outcome was only related to preoperative visual status and tumor volume (multivariate analysis). Conclusions Long-term visual morbidity after pineal gland tumor resection is common and leads to significant functional impairment. Improvement in deficits rarely occurs spontaneously, and prisms only have limited effectiveness, probably due to the dynamic nature of supranuclear ocular movement coordination.
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Sanai, Nader, and Michael W. McDermott. "A modified far-lateral approach for large or giant meningiomas of the posterior fossa." Journal of Neurosurgery 112, no. 5 (2010): 907–12. http://dx.doi.org/10.3171/2009.6.jns09120.
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Object Resecting large meningiomas along the posterior fossa convexity or cerebellopontine angle (CPA) through a suboccipital approach can be challenging. Limitations include a restricted angle of view, high venous pressures, and suboptimal brain relaxation. While a far-lateral craniotomy is a viable alternative, the risks associated with condylar resection are undesirable. Methods The authors retrospectively evaluated a modified far-lateral approach in a consecutive series of 12 patients with large or giant posterior fossa convexity and CPA meningiomas. This approach incorporates transverse-sigmoid sinus exposure and C-1 laminectomy, but there is no condylar resection. Results Between January 2006 and February 2008, 12 patients (mean age 52 years) presented with large or giant meningiomas of the posterior fossa convexity or CPA. The mean tumor volume was 72.6 cm3 (range 8–131 cm3). Signs and symptoms at presentation included headache (in 8 patients), cranial neuropathy (in 4), and progressive hemiparesis (in 4). There were no operative complications, and the majority of patients (9) had Simpson Grade I or II resections. There were no new permanent neurological deficits following resection, although 2 patients (17%) had transient deficits. The mean modified Rankin score decreased from 2.2 preoperatively to 0.6 postoperatively. Conclusions A modified far-lateral approach to the posterior fossa and CPA allows for safe, and often total, resection of large meningiomas with minimal morbidity. While avoiding the risks of condylar resection, this microsurgical strategy allows for greater field of view, minimal venous bleeding, and immediate access to the spinal subarachnoid space.
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Tanet, A., A. Philippe, C. Cavezian, and S. Chokron. "A Case Report of Asperger Syndrom with Associated Visuo-Attentional Disorders." European Psychiatry 24, S1 (2009): 1. http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/s0924-9338(09)71099-5.
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In Pervasive Developmental Disorders, visual perception deficits, such as impaired face and object recognition, have been previously described. More particularly, Kracke (1994) as well as Pietz and colleagues (2003) reported prosopagnosia in individuals fulfilling criteria for Asperger Syndrome (AS). Moreover, anatomical or functional anomalies in the temporo-occipital areas have been observed in neuroimaging studies in autistic patients. Besides, this region is known to underlie visuo-attentional functions. Yet, the examination of such cognitive functions in autistic disorders is scarce, even in clinical practice.This poster presents the case study of a teenager (male, 14 years) diagnosed with AS on the basis of his developmental history and current presentation: marked social abnormalities, lack of ocular contact, good language although with verbal and non-verbal communication difficulties, circumscribed special interests and motor impairments.A neuropsychological and neuroophtalmological assessment of visuo-attentional cognitive functions revealed a visual field concentric reduction, signs of left unilateral spatial neglect, impaired visual pursuit, visuo-constructive apraxia and visual extinction. The anatomical MRI showed a mild enlargement of the left posterior ventricular horn (facing the occipital lobe), probably consecutive to a cortical atrophy (in the occipito-parietal parenchyma).This case study emphasizes that visuo-attentional cognitive difficulties such as visual recognition deficit, visual field defect and attentional bias may be associated to behavioural signs of AS. In addition to previous descriptions in the literature, our case study leads us to consider that neuropsychological assessments of visuo-attentional functions in children with autistic symptoms may provide invaluable clinical and theoretical information.
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Sindou, Marc, José Leston, Evelyne Decullier, and François Chapuis. "Microvascular decompression for primary trigeminal neuralgia: long-term effectiveness and prognostic factors in a series of 362 consecutive patients with clear-cut neurovascular conflicts who underwent pure decompression." Journal of Neurosurgery 107, no. 6 (2007): 1144–53. http://dx.doi.org/10.3171/jns-07/12/1144.
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Object The purpose of this study was to evaluate the long-term efficacy of microvascular decompression (MVD) and to identify the factors affecting outcome in patients treated for primary trigeminal neuralgia (TN). Only the cases with a clear-cut neurovascular conflict (vascular contact and/or compression of the root entry zone of the trigeminal nerve) found at surgery and treated with “pure” MVD (decompression of the root without any additional lesioning or cutting of the adjacent rootlets) were retained. Methods The study included 362 patients who were followed up over a period of 1 to 18 years (median follow-up 7.2 years). A Kaplan–Meier survival analysis was generated at 1 and 15 years of follow-up for all of the considered factors. According to Kaplan–Meier analysis, the success rate (defined as pain-free patients without any medication) was 91% at 1 year and estimated to be 73.38% after 15 years of follow-up. Results None of the following patient-related factors played any significant role in prognosis: sex, patient age at surgery, history of systemic hypertension, duration of neuralgia before surgery, or history of failed trigeminal surgery. Patients with atypical neuralgia (a baseline of permanent pain) had the same outcome as those with a typical (purely spasmodic) presentation. In addition, the side and topography of the trigeminal nerve did not play a role, whereas involvement of all three divisions of the nerve had a negative effect on outcome. Concerning anatomical factors, neither the type of the compressive vessel nor its location along or around the root was found to be significant. However, the severity of compression was important—the more severe the degree of compression, the better the outcome (p = 0.002). The authors also found that presence of focal arachnoiditis had a negative influence on outcome (p = 0.002). Conclusions Pure MVD can offer patients affected by a primary TN a 73.38% probability of long-term (15 years) cure of neuralgia. The presence of a clear-cut and marked vascular compression at surgery (and possibly—although not yet reliably—on preoperative magnetic resonance imaging) is the guarantee of a higher than 90% success rate.
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Iosif, Christina, Yann Camilleri, Suzana Saleme, et al. "Diffusion-weighted imaging–detected ischemic lesions associated with flow-diverting stents in intracranial aneurysms: safety, potential mechanisms, clinical outcome, and concerns." Journal of Neurosurgery 122, no. 3 (2015): 627–36. http://dx.doi.org/10.3171/2014.10.jns132566.
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OBJECT It was initially considered safe for flow-diverting stents to cover the ostia of branching vessels during endovascular procedures for the treatment of intracranial aneurysms. As more recent evidence suggests, however, their use is not always free of ischemic concerns in terms of covered arterial ostia. The authors sought to determine the frequency of silent and clinically evident diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI)–detected abnormalities related to stent placement as a means of elucidating potential clinical risks. METHODS This is a prospective single-center study on a series of patients with intracranial aneurysms that were treated with flow-diverting stents. All patients systematically underwent an MRI protocol that included DWI before treatment, between 24 and 48 hours postprocedure, and 3 months postembolization. Effectiveness of anticoagulation treatment was assessed for all patients. Lesions seen on DWI were correlated to the parent artery and the side-branch territories and were statistically analyzed in relation to their time of occurrence and clinical presentation. The authors compared the DWI findings in these patients to findings obtained in patients treated with a stent-assisted coiling technique during the same time period. RESULTS Over the course of 18 consecutive months, 38 consecutive patients (7 males and 31 females) with 49 intracranial aneurysms were treated using flow-diverting stents. Overall, 81.6% of the DWI spots found remained clinically silent during the follow-up period. Five ischemic clinical complications (13.2%) occurred in the postprocedural period. No statistically significant correlation could be established between DWI spots or aneurysm location and clinical complications or follow-up modified Rankin Scale score at 3 months. The complication rate was 7.8% (n = 3) at the 3-month follow-up, and mortality was 0%. Compared with stent-assisted coiling, use of flow-diverting stents showed a statistically significant correlation with silent DWI findings postintervention. CONCLUSIONS Lesions seen on DWI resulting from the procedure are far more common than anticipated, but the technique remains safe and effective, providing an interesting alternative for “difficult” aneurysms, regardless of location. Late-occurring DWI-detected lesions distal to side arterial branches imply a local pressure gradient drop, related to flow competition by collateral networks. Further research is needed to assess the extent and significance of these events.
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Uschold, Timothy, Adib A. Abla, David Fusco, Ruth E. Bristol, and Peter Nakaji. "Supracerebellar infratentorial endoscopically controlled resection of pineal lesions: case series and operative technique." Journal of Neurosurgery: Pediatrics 8, no. 6 (2011): 554–64. http://dx.doi.org/10.3171/2011.8.peds1157.
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Object The heterogeneous clinical manifestations and operative characteristics of pathological entities in the pineal region represent a significant challenge in terms of patient selection and surgical approach. Traditional surgical options have included endoscopic transventricular resection; open supratentorial microsurgical approaches through the midline, choroidal fissure, lateral ventricle, and tentorium; and supracerebellar infratentorial (SCIT) approaches through the posterior fossa. The object of the current study was to review the preoperative characteristics and outcomes for a cohort of patients treated purely via the novel endoscopically controlled SCIT approach. Methods A single-institution series of 9 consecutive patients (4 male and 5 female patients [10 total cases]; mean age 21 years, range 6–37 years) treated via the endoscopically controlled SCIT approach for a pathological entity in the pineal region was retrospectively reviewed. The mean follow-up time was 13.2 months. Results The endoscopically controlled SCIT approach was successfully used to approach a variety of pineal lesions, including pineal cysts (6 patients), epidermoid tumor, WHO Grade II astrocytoma (initial biopsy and recurrence), and malignant mixed germ cell tumor (1 patient each). Gross-total resection and/or adequate cyst fenestration was achieved in 8 cases. Biopsy with conservative debulking was performed for the single case of low-grade astrocytoma and again at the time of recurrence. The mean preoperative tumor and cyst volumes were 9.9 ± 4.4 and 3.7 ± 3.2 cm3, respectively. The mean operating times were 212 ± 71 minutes for tumor cases and 177 ± 72 minutes for cysts. Estimated blood loss was less than 150 ml for all cases. A single case (pineal cyst) was converted to an open microsurgical approach to enhance visualization. There were no operative complications, as well as no documented CSF leaks, additional CSF diversion procedures, or air emboli. Seven patients underwent concomitant third ventriculostomy into the quadrigeminal cistern. At the time of the last follow-up evaluation, all patients had a stable or improved modified Rankin Scale score. Conclusions The endoscopically controlled SCIT approach may be used for the biopsy and resection of appropriately selected solid tumors of the pineal region, in addition to the fenestration and/or resection of pineal cysts. Preoperative considerations include patient presentation, anticipated disease and vascularity, degree of local venous anatomical distortion, and selection of optimal paramedian trajectory.
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Srikantha, Umesh, Jagadeesh V. Morab, Savitr Sastry, et al. "Outcome of ventriculoperitoneal shunt placement in Grade IV tubercular meningitis with hydrocephalus: a retrospective analysis in 95 patients." Journal of Neurosurgery: Pediatrics 4, no. 2 (2009): 176–83. http://dx.doi.org/10.3171/2009.3.peds08308.
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Object Hydrocephalus is the most common complication of tubercular meningitis (TBM). Relieving hydrocephalus by ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt placement has been considered beneficial in patients in Palur Grade II or III. The role of VP shunt placement in those of Grade IV is controversial and the general tendency is to avoid its use. Some authors have suggested that patients in Grade IV should receive a shunt only if their condition improves with a trial placement of an external ventricular drain (EVD). In the present study, the authors assessed the outcome of VP shunt placement in patients in Grade IV TBM with hydrocephalus to examine the factors predicting outcome and to determine whether a trial with an EVD is absolutely necessary prior to shunt placement. Methods Ninety-five consecutive cases of TBM with hydrocephalus in which the patients underwent VP shunt placement were retrospectively analyzed, and direct VP shunts were placed whenever possible. An EVD was placed first only in the presence of deranged blood parameters. Outcomes were assessed both in the short and long term. Results The mean patient age was 17.5 years (range 1–55 years). Fifty-two patients underwent direct VP shunt placement, and the remaining 43 received EVDs first. Overall, 33 and 45% of patients had favorable short- and long-term outcomes, respectively. Age older than 3 years and duration of altered sensorium ≤ 3 days were predictive of a favorable short-term outcome. Glasgow Coma Scale score at presentation was predictive of long-term outcome. Of the patients who did not improve with placement of an EVD prior to VP shunt insertion, 24 and 18% had favorable short- and long-term outcomes, respectively; this was not significantly different from the outcome in the patients who underwent direct VP shunt placement. Conclusions Direct VP shunt placement is an effective option in patients with Grade IV TBM with hydrocephalus. Age and duration of altered sensorium are predictive of short-term outcome, while Glasgow Coma Scale score at presentation predicts long-term outcome. Ventriculoperitoneal shunts should be considered even in patients who do not improve with an EVD.
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Al-Holou, Wajd N., Thomas M. O'Lynnger, Aditya S. Pandey, et al. "Natural history and imaging prevalence of cavernous malformations in children and young adults." Journal of Neurosurgery: Pediatrics 9, no. 2 (2012): 198–205. http://dx.doi.org/10.3171/2011.11.peds11390.
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Object This study was undertaken to define the age-related prevalence of cavernous malformations (CMs) in children and young adults undergoing intracranial imaging. In addition, the authors aim to clarify the natural history of CMs in young people, especially in those with incidentally discovered lesions. Methods To identify those patients with CMs, the authors retrospectively reviewed the electronic medical records of 14,936 consecutive patients 25 years of age or younger who had undergone brain MR imaging. In patients with a CM, clinical and imaging data were collected. Patients with untreated cavernomas who had more than 6 months of clinical and MR imaging follow-up were included in a natural history analysis. The natural history analysis included 110 CMs in 56 patients with a 3.5-year mean clinical follow-up interval (199 patient-years and 361 cavernoma-years). Results In 92 patients (0.6%), 164 CMs were identified. The imaging prevalence of cavernomas increased with advancing age (p = 0.002). Multiple CMs occurred in 28 patients (30%), and 8 patients (9%) had a family history of multiple CMs. Fifty patients (54%) presented with symptoms related to the cavernoma, of whom 30 presented with hemorrhage (33%). Of the 164 cavernomas identified, 103 (63%) were considered incidental, asymptomatic lesions. Larger size was associated with acute symptomatic presentation (p = 0.0001). During the follow-up interval, 6 patients with 8 cavernomas developed 11 symptomatic hemorrhages after initial identification. Five of the patients who had a hemorrhage during the follow-up interval had initially presented with hemorrhage, while only 1 had presented incidentally. The hemorrhage rate for all patients in the natural history group was 1.6% per patient-year and 0.9% per cavernoma-year. The hemorrhage rate was 8.0% per patient-year in the symptomatic group versus 0.2% in the incidental group. Symptomatic hemorrhage after long-term follow-up was associated with initial acute presentation (p = 0.02). Conclusions The imaging prevalence of CM increases with advancing age during childhood. Patients presenting without hemorrhage have a significantly lower risk of bleeding compared with those who present with acute neurological symptoms. Comparing this series of children to prior analyses of CM natural history in adults, the authors' data do not suggest a higher bleeding risk in younger patients.
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Taggard, Derek A., Arnold H. Menezes, and Timothy C. Ryken. "Treatment of Down syndrome—associated craniovertebral junction abnormalities." Journal of Neurosurgery: Spine 93, no. 2 (2000): 205–13. http://dx.doi.org/10.3171/spi.2000.93.2.0205.
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Object. Operative intervention for craniovertebral junction (CVJ) instability in patients with Down syndrome has become controversial, with reports of a low incidence of associated neurological dysfunction and high surgical morbidity rates. The authors analyzed their experience in light of these poor results and attempted to evaluate differences in management. Methods. Medical and radiographic records of 36 consecutive patients with Down syndrome and CVJ abnormalities were reviewed. The most common clinical complaints included neck pain (15 patients) and torticollis (12 patients). Cervicomedullary compression was associated with ataxia and progressive weakness. Hyperreflexia was documented in a majority of patients (24 cases), and 13 patients suffered from varying degrees of quadriparesis. Upper respiratory tract infection precipitated the presentation in five patients. Four patients suffered acute neurological insults after a minor fall and two after receiving a general anesthetic agent. Atlantoaxial instability was the most common radiographically observed abnormality (23 patients), with a rotary component present in 14 patients. Occipitoatlantal instability was also frequently observed (16 patients) and was coexistent with atlantoaxial dislocation in 15 patients. Twenty individuals had bone anomalies, the most frequent of which was os odontoideum (12 patients) followed by atlantal arch hypoplasia and bifid anterior or posterior arches (eight patients). Twenty-seven patients underwent surgical procedures without subsequent neurological deterioration, and a 96% fusion rate was observed. In five of 11 patients basilar invagination was irreducible and required transoral decompression. Overall, 24 patients enjoyed good or excellent outcomes. Conclusions. The results of this series highlight the clinicopathological characteristics of CVJ instability in patients with Down syndrome and suggest that satisfactory outcomes can be achieved with low surgical morbidity rates.
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Edwards, Richard J., Yvonne Clarke, Shelley A. Renowden, and Hugh B. Coakham. "Trigeminal neuralgia caused by microarteriovenous malformations of the trigeminal nerve root entry zone: symptomatic relief following complete excision of the lesion with nerve root preservation." Journal of Neurosurgery 97, no. 4 (2002): 874–80. http://dx.doi.org/10.3171/jns.2002.97.4.0874.
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Object. Within a series of 341 consecutive patients who underwent posterior fossa surgery for trigeminal neuralgia (TN), in five the cause was found to be a microarteriovenous malformation (micro-AVM) located in the region of the trigeminal nerve root entry zone (REZ). The surgical management and clinical outcomes of these cases are presented. Methods. Patients were identified from a prospectively collected database of all cases of TN treated at one institution between 1980 and 2000. Presentation was clinically indistinguishable from TN caused by vascular compression. Preoperative imaging, including computerized tomography scanning (two cases) and magnetic resonance (MR) imaging and MR angiography (three cases), failed to demonstrate an AVM except for one case in which multiple abnormal vessels were identified in the trigeminal REZ on an MR image obtained using a 1.5-tesla magnet. All patients underwent a standard retromastoid craniotomy. In all cases a small AVM embedded in the trigeminal REZ was identified and completely excised, with preservation of the trigeminal nerve. All patients experienced immediate relief of pain following surgery. Postoperatively, in one patient a small pontine hematoma developed, resulting in permanent trigeminal nerve anesthesia in the V2 and V3 divisions. All patients were free from pain at a mean follow-up period of 30 months. Conclusions. These rare lesions are usually angiographically occult, but may sometimes be identifiable on high-resolution MR images. Total microsurgical resection with nerve preservation is possible, although operative complications are relatively common, reflecting the intimate association between these lesions and the pons. Complete resection is advised not only for symptom relief, but also to eliminate the theoretical risk of pontine hemorrhage.
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Garcés-Ambrossi, Giannina L., Matthew J. McGirt, Roger Samuels, et al. "Neurological outcome after surgical management of adult tethered cord syndrome." Journal of Neurosurgery: Spine 11, no. 3 (2009): 304–9. http://dx.doi.org/10.3171/2009.4.spine08265.
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Object Although postsurgical neurological outcomes in patients with tethered cord syndrome (TCS) are well known, the rate and development of neurological improvement after first-time tethered cord release is incompletely understood. The authors reviewed their institutional experience with the surgical management of adult TCS to assess the time course of symptomatic improvement, and to identify the patient subgroups most likely to experience improvement of motor symptoms. Methods The authors retrospectively reviewed 29 consecutive cases of first-time adult tethered cord release. Clinical symptoms of pain and motor and urinary dysfunction were evaluated at 1 and 3 months after surgery, and then every 6 months thereafter. Rates of improvement in pain and motor or urinary dysfunction over time were identified, and presenting factors associated with improvement of motor symptoms were assessed using a multivariate survival analysis (Cox model). Results The mean patient age was 38 ± 13 years. The causes of TCS included lipomyelomeningocele in 3 patients (10%), tight filum in 3 (10%), lumbosacral lipoma in 4 (14%), intradural tumor in 3 (10%), previous lumbosacral surgery in 2 (7%), and previous repair of myelomeningocele in 14 (48%). The mean ± SD duration of symptoms before presentation was 5 ± 7 months. Clinical presentation included diffuse pain/parasthesias in both lower extremities in 13 patients (45%), or perineal distribution in 18 (62%), lower extremity weakness in 17 (59%), gait difficulties in 17 (59%), and bladder dysfunction in 14 (48%). Laminectomy was performed in a mean of 2.5 ± 0.7 levels per patient, and 9 patients (30%) received duraplasty. At 18 months postoperatively, 47% of patients had improved urinary symptoms, 69% had improved lower extremity weakness and gait, and 79% had decreased painful dysesthesias. Median time to symptomatic improvement was least for pain (1 month), then motor (2.3 months), and then urinary symptoms (4.3 months; p = 0.04). In patients demonstrating improvement, 96% improved within 6 months of surgery. Only 4% improved beyond 1-year postoperatively. In a multivariate analysis, the authors found that patients who presented with asymmetrical lower extremity weakness (p = 0.0021, hazard ratio 5.7) or lower extremity hyperreflexia (p = 0.037, hazard ratio = 4.1) were most likely to experience improvement in motor symptoms. Conclusions In the authors' experience, pain and motor and urinary dysfunction improve postoperatively in the majority of patients. The rate of symptomatic improvement was greatest for pain resolution, followed by motor, and then urinary improvement. Patients who experienced improvement in any symptom had done so by 6 months after tethered cord release. Patients with asymmetrical motor symptoms or lower extremity hyperreflexia at presentation were most likely to experience improvements in motor symptoms. These findings may help guide patient education and surgical decision-making.
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Alahmadi, Hussein, Shobhan Vachhrajani, and Michael D. Cusimano. "The natural history of brain contusion: an analysis of radiological and clinical progression." Journal of Neurosurgery 112, no. 5 (2010): 1139–45. http://dx.doi.org/10.3171/2009.5.jns081369.
Full textAbstract:
Object Although brain contusions are a common neurosurgical condition, surprisingly little has been written about their natural history. The purpose of this study was to identify factors that predict radiological and clinically significant progression of this pattern of traumatic brain injury in patients who did not initially require surgery. On the basis of their results and the available literature, the authors suggest a management algorithm. Methods The authors performed a retrospective review of clinical and radiological records of consecutive patients with brain contusions who initially underwent conservative treatment. Significant radiological progression was defined as a 30% increase in contusion size on CT scans. Statistical analysis was performed to identify clinical and radiological predictors of CT contusion progression, the significance of progression, and predictors of clinical outcome. Results Of 98 patients identified with brain contusions who initially received conservative treatment, 44 (45%) had significant progression on CT, and 19 (19%) required surgical intervention. The initial size of the contusion and the presence of subdural hematoma were the only statistically significant predictors of CT progression in the multivariate analysis (p = 0.0212 and 0.05, respectively). Four patients required delayed contusion evacuation (3 had radiological progression on follow-up scans). Good Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) scores on presentation and younger age were predictors of eventual discharge from the hospital (OR 1.471, CI 1.233–1.755, p < 0.001 and OR 0.949, CI 0.912–0.988, p = 0.011, respectively). No patients with an initial GCS score of 15 or an initial contusion size < 14 ml required delayed evacuation. Conclusions Contusion progression is a common phenomenon that is seen more commonly in larger contusions. Patients with large contusions and low initial GCS scores are at risk for delayed deterioration. A proposed management algorithm for patients with contusions initially treated conservatively may help practitioners identify the best course of treatment.