Comparing surgical clipping with endovascular treatment for unruptured middle cerebral artery aneurysms: a systematic review and updated meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVE: Unruptured middle cerebral artery aneurysm (uMCAA) has traditionally been treated with open surgical clipping (SC). Endovascular treatments (EVTs) were designed to reduce surgical risks in these cases. Nevertheless, despite its potential benefits, many surgeons favor SC for uMCAA. This updated meta-analysis aimed to compare the safety, efficacy, and clinical outcomes of SC and EVT for uMCAA. METHODS: The authors searched the Medline, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases according to the Cochrane and PRISMA guidelines. Eligible studies included those with ≥ 4 patients with uMCAA reporting comparative data of SC and EVT. The endpoints were the complete occlusion rate (Raymond class I and II), good clinical outcomes (modified Rankin Scale score ≤ 2 or Glasgow Outcome Scale score ≥ 4), procedure-related complications (further divided into major and minor), and mortality. The authors pooled OR with 95% CI values with a random-effects model. I2 statistics were used to assess heterogeneity, and sensitivity analysis was conducted to address high heterogeneity. Publication bias was assessed with funnel plot analysis and the Egger's test. RESULTS: The analysis included data from 10 studies. Regarding the complete occlusion assessment, the comparative analysis revealed OR 0.17 (95% CI 0.08-0.40, p < 0.01), favoring SC. In terms of achieving good clinical outcomes, OR 0.44 (95% CI 0.20-0.97, p < 0.05) was determined, favoring SC. No differences regarding total procedure-related complications, major complications, or mortality were identified. However, a higher likelihood of minor complications was identified for EVT, with OR 4.68 (95% CI 2.01-10.92, p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: This systematic review and meta-analysis identified a lower likelihood of complete occlusion at last follow-up and lower likelihood of good clinical outcomes in patients treated with EVT when compared with SC. Furthermore, a higher likelihood of minor complications was identified in patients who underwent EVT when compared with SC. The findings reinforce that, based on the currently available data, SC should be considered the primary approach for treating uMCAA. However, EVT is an evolving approach, and this study's findings represent a synthesis of observational studies. Randomized trials are warranted to elucidate which approach should be the mainstay for uMCAA and to identify the nuances that determine whether SC or EVT is more or less indicated for addressing uMCAA with consideration of the individuality of each patient and aneurysm.

Extramedullary Intracranial Plasmacytomas: A Systematic Review of Literature.

Extramedullary plasmacytoma (EMP) is an uncommon disorder characterized by the development of abnormal plasma cell tumors outside the bone marrow. These tumors are typically observed in various locations, including the upper respiratory tract, gastrointestinal tract, and other soft tissues. Among the less explored manifestations of EMP is intracranial EMP, which remains poorly understood due to the limited literature available on the subject. The objective was to comprehend the population characteristics, localization, type, treatment, and outcomes of intracranial EMP. A systematic review of the literature for EMPs was conducted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis guidelines. The strategy "extramedullary plasmacytoma AND multiple myeloma" was used for the search. The search terms were queried using PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Cochrane, and Web of Science databases. We included only those studies that presented clinical studies with patients diagnosed with intracranial plasmacytomas. In this study, a total of 84 patients from 25 studies were analyzed. The average age of diagnosis was 57.25 years, with a slightly higher proportion of females (57%) compared to male patients (43%). The most common locations of intracranial plasmacytomas were the clivus (29.7%), frontal lobe (18.9%), parietal lobe (8.1%), occipital lobe (6.7%), temporal lobe (6.7%), and sphenoid (4%). Chordoma and meningioma were the most common differential diagnoses encountered during clinical investigations. Treatment modalities included radiotherapy (RT), chemotherapy (QT), surgical resection (SR), and conservative approaches. The most frequent treatment combinations were SR + RT (19%) and RT only (17.8%). Mortality was reported in 48% of the cases, with complete resolution observed in 10 cases and partial resolution in 3 cases. The average follow-up duration was 37.5 months. The clivus is the most frequently reported site of extramedullary intracranial plasmacytoma (EMIP) occurrence, representing 29.7% of cases. Chordomas were commonly observed alongside EMIPs and emerged as the primary differential diagnosis. RT was the predominant treatment modality, with SR considered when feasible. RT alone demonstrated the highest effectiveness in managing EMIPs (30%), while QT as a sole intervention showed lower efficacy. However, a combination of dexamethasone, lenalidomide, and targeted RT displayed promising results, offering improved tumor response and increased safety.

Percutaneous Vertebroplasty vs. Non-operative Treatment of Osteoporotic Vertebral Fractures: A meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.

Osteoporotic vertebral fractures (OVFs) frequently result in pain and decreased quality of life (QoL). The management of these fractures remains a topic of debate. Following PRISMA guidelines, we analyzed RCTs comparing PV with non-operative treatment (non-OT). The outcomes of interest included pain, QoL, cement leakage, and new OVFs after one year. Compared to non-OT regarding pain relief, PV yielded significant improvement at 1-2 weeks, 1 month, 6 months (SMD = -0.67 (6/14; 95% CI: -1.29 to -0.06; I2 = 92%, random effects) and 1 year (MD = - 1.07 (4/14; 95% CI: -1.97 to -0.18; I2 = 97%, random effects). For QoL, notable improvements were observed at 1 week (SMD = -2.10 (5/14; 95% CI: -3.77 to -0.42; I2 = 98%, random effects) and 3 months (MD = -1.58 (4/14; 95% CI: -3.07 to -0.09; I2 = 96%, random effects), with 1 month, 6 months and 1 year being inconclusive. A cement leakage rate of 42 % (10/14; 95% CI: 25% to 59%; I2 = 99%, random effects) was found. Further, PV did not significantly heighten the risk of new fractures within a year (OR = 1.26 (6/14; 95% CI: 0.63 to 2.53; I2 = 74%, random effects). PV emerges as a promising intervention for specific time intervals regarding pain relief, especially in the extended-term analysis, and QoL, especially in the short-term analysis, compared to non-OT. However, clinicians must consider cement leakage risks. Heterogeneity among studies underscores careful patient selection.

Are ventriculopleural shunts the second option for treating hydrocephalus? A meta-analysis of 543 patients.

BACKGROUND: Some centers utilize ventriculopleural shunt (VPLS) for treating hydrocephalus when conventional approaches are not feasible. Nonetheless, the literature regarding this approach is scarce. PURPOSE: Evaluate the outcomes of VPLS through a single-arm meta-analysis. METHODS: Following PRISMA guidelines, the authors systematically searched for articles utilizing the VPLS in a cohort with more than four patients. Outcomes included: mortality, pleural effusion, number of patients who underwent revisions, obstructions, shunt migration, emphysema, and subdural hematoma. RESULTS: A total of 404 articles were reviewed, resulting in the inclusion of 13 retrospective studies encompassing 543 patients, with the majority being children (62.6 %). The median average follow-up period was 35.4 months (10-64.1). After analysis, results yielded a revision rate of 54 % (95 % CI: 44 %-64 %; I2=73 %). The most common complication observed was pleural effusion, with a post-analysis incidence of 16 % (95 % CI: 11 %-21 %; I2=63 %), followed by infections at 7 % (95 % CI: 4 %-10 %; I2=33 %). Shunt obstruction occurred in 13 % (95 % CI: 4 %-21 %; I2=84 %) of cases after analysis, while migrations, overdrainage, subdural hematoma, and cutaneous emphysema had minimal occurrence rates (0 %, 95 % CI: 0 %-1 %; I2=0 %). Notably, there were no reported cases of shunt-related mortality. CONCLUSION: VPLS can be considered when there are no other suitable options for placing the distal catheter. However, the notable rates of shunt revisions, pleural effusion, infections, and the inherent heterogeneity of outcomes currently limit the widespread adoption of VPLS. In this scenario, other alternatives should be given priority.

STA-MCA Double-Barrel Bypass: A Systematic Review of Technique and Single-Arm Meta-Analysis of Outcomes.

INTRODUCTION: Conventionally, one branch of the superficial temporal artery (STA) is utilized to revascularize the middle cerebral artery (MCA). However, there is the possibility of utilizing both branches of the STA when performing the bypass, characterizing the double-barrel (DB) STA-MCA bypass. Notably, a lack of studies evaluating this technique led the authors to conduct a systematic review and single-arm meta-analysis. METHODS: PubMed, Embase and Web of Science were searched systematically for publications of DB-STA-MCA bypass on November 1st, 2023. The findings were reported according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Case reports were not included for statistical analysis purposes. RESULTS: The review included 408 patients and 534 bypasses from 34 studies. The main etiology was Moyamoya disease (64.6%), followed by cerebral ischemia (22.2%) and aneurysms (12.5%). The median of the mean follow-ups of each study was 12.8 months (range 1.5-87.9). The postoperative patency was 100%. The follow-up patency was 98% (95% CI: 96%-100%; I2 = 0%). The procedure-related mortality was 0% (95% CI: 0%-1%; I2 = 0%). Aneurysms obtained 87% (95% CI: 72%-100%; I2 = 4%) of good clinical outcomes, while Moyamoya disease yielded a rate of 70% (95% CI: 10%-100%; I2 = 97%). Ischemic complications occurred at a rate of 6% (95% CI: 2%-11%; I2 = 36%), while hemorrhagic occurred at 6% (95% CI: 1%-11%; I2 = 56%). Hyperperfusion syndrome rate was calculated as 18% (7%-30%; I2 = 55%) for Moyamoya disease. CONCLUSIONS: The procedure appears to be safe, with excellent patency rates. The clinical efficacy for ischemic and Moyamoya diseases warrants further standardized robust investigation with a broader number of patients, and aneurysm studies are required to enhance sample sizes. The main complication for the Moyamoya subgroup is hyperperfusion syndrome.

Invasive and Noninvasive Techniques for Intracranial Pressure Monitoring After Decompressive Craniectomy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

The use of invasive or noninvasive intracranial pressure (ICP) monitoring post-decompressive craniectomy (DC) has been a continuous matter of debate. Accordingly, this meta-analysis aims to examine the existing evidence of both approaches and compare their impact among patients undergoing DC, guiding clinical decision-making in the management of elevated ICP. The databases used were Pubmed, Cochrane, Web of Science, and Embase. Inclusion criteria included: (1) English studies; (2) randomized and nonrandomized studies; (3) reporting on invasive OR noninvasive ICP monitoring after DC; (4) with at least one of the outcomes of interest: incidence of mortality, new cerebral hemorrhages, and the Glasgow Outcome Scale. The study followed the Cochrane and Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis guidelines. Thirty-six studies were included in this meta-analysis, resulting in a sample of 1624 patients. One thousand two hundred eighty-six underwent invasive monitoring, and 338 underwent noninvasive methods. In the invasive group, a mortality rate of 17% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 12%-22%), a good outcome rate of 58% (95% CI: 38%-49%), a poor outcome rate of 42% (95% CI: 21%-62%), and an overall incidence of new hemorrhages of 4% (95% CI: 0%-8%) were found. Whereas in the noninvasive sample, a mortality rate of 20% (95% CI: 15%-26%) and a good outcome rate of 38% (95% CI: 25%-52%) were obtained. It seems that the effectiveness of invasive and noninvasive ICP monitoring methods are comparable in post-DC patients. While invasive monitoring remains gold standard, noninvasive methods offer a safer and cost-effective alternative, potentially improving post-DC patient care, and can mostly be used simultaneously with invasive methods.

Comparing open and closed cell stents in idiopathic intracranial hypertension: A comprehensive meta-analysis of clinical outcomes.

Background: Open cell stents (OC) and closed cell stents (CC) each offer unique advantages and potential drawbacks in the context of idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) treatment. We aim to investigate the safety and efficacy of using OC and CC for IIH.Methods: We conducted a systematic review in PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases following the PRISMA guidelines. Eligible studies included ≥4 patients with IIH treated by OC or CC. Primary outcomes were headache, visual acuity, and papilledema status before and after the procedure. Additionally, failure rate, minor complications, major complications, and total complications were assessed. Pooled analysis of the OC group and CC group were done separately and then compared.Results: Twenty-four studies were included. Of these, 20 reported on OC and 6 reported on CC. Pooled analysis of failure rate was 8% (4%-12%) in OC and 5% (0%-11%) in CC. For headache improvement rate: 78% (70%-86%) in OC and 81% (66%-69%) in CC. For visual acuity improvement: 78% (65%-92%) in OC and 76% (29%-100%) in CC. For papilledema improvement: 88% (77%-98%) in OC and 82% (67%-98%) in CC. For minor complications: 0% (0%-1%) in OC and 0% (0%-2%) in CC. For major complications: 0% (0%-1%) in OC and 2% (0%-6%) in CC. Total complications: 0% (0%-1%) in OC and 2% (0%-6%) in CC.Conclusion: Low failure and complication rates were found in both OC and CC, with no significant difference between them in effectiveness. The CC showed a slight but significant increase in major and total complications compared to the OC. Additionally, a subtle yet significantly lower failure rate was identified in the CC.

Surgical clipping and endovascular treatments for small or very small anterior communicating artery aneurysms: A comparative pooled analysis.

INTRODUCTION: Small and very small anterior communicating artery (ACoA) aneurysms pose a complex challenge in neurosurgery and interventional neuroradiology due to their critical location and potential for severe consequences upon rupture. Surgical clipping has been a traditional approach, but it presents challenges requiring precision and expertise. Endovascular treatment has emerged as an alternative, offering minimally invasive techniques with potential advantages. This study aims to comprehensively compare outcomes and efficacy between surgical clipping and endovascular treatment for small or very small ACoA aneurysms. OBJECTIVES: We aimed to perform a meta-analysis of small or very small anterior communicating artery aneurysms comparing surgical clipping and endovascular treatments. METHODS: A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted, including studies reporting on both treatment modalities. Eligible studies were identified through PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Embase databases. Pooled analyses with 95% confidence intervals were used to compare treatment effects, and statistical analysis followed PRISMA guidelines. RESULTS: Thirteen studies with 637 patients were included. Endovascular treatment, predominantly coiling, was performed in 60.3% of patients, while 39.7% underwent surgical management. Endovascular treatment exhibited an 18% retreatment rate, contrasting with 0% in the surgery group. Mortality rates were 3% and 6% for endovascular and surgical treatments, respectively. Overall complications occurred in 1.8% of patients, with intraoperative rupture and cerebral infarction being the most common. CONCLUSION: In summary, our study indicates a comparable outcome between surgical clipping and endovascular treatment for small ACoA aneurysms, with the former showing a lower retreatment rate. Decision factors include surgeon expertise, healthcare context, and patient age. Further research is needed to refine treatment strategies, considering variations in aneurysm status and evolving techniques.

Good clinical outcomes and the necessity of CSF drainage in patients undergoing simultaneous biopsy and endoscopic third ventriculostomy in the region of pineal tumors: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

INTRODUCTION: Due to their delicate and deep-seated location, tumors in the pineal region of the brain pose exceptional challenges in neurosurgical management. Highly precise procedures have become crucial to address these complexities, such as the simultaneous performance of biopsy and endoscopic third ventriculostomy (ETV). Our aim was to assess the feasibility, safety, and efficacy of simultaneous biopsy and ETV for treating patients with pineal region tumors. METHODS: Medline, Embase, and Web of Science were searched for English studies from January 2000 to February 2024, following Cochrane and PRISMA guidelines. Eligible studies encompassed a minimum of four patients and examined at least one of the following outcomes: good clinical outcomes and the necessity of shunt placement. Single proportion analysis with 95% confidence intervals was conducted under a random-effects model, employing the I2 statistic to assess heterogeneity. Additionally, publication bias was evaluated using the ROBINS-I tool. RESULTS: After a meticulous selection process, eighteen studies involving 390 patients were included in the analysis. Overall, good clinical outcomes were observed in 131 out of 147 patients, representing a rate of 92 % (95 % CI: 84 % to 100 %, I2 = 62 %) through random effects analysis. Subgroup analysis showed that children exhibited a notably high rate of good clinical outcomes, reaching 100 % (95 % CI: 96 % to 100 %, I2 = 0 %). Regarding the need for shunt placement, out of the 356 patients assessed, only 39 required shunt placement, yielding a rate of 8 % (95 % CI: 4 % to 12 %, I2 = 63 %). Further sub-analyses indicated shunt requirement rates of 12 % for children and 3 % for adults. Specifically focusing on adults, data from 46 patients who underwent biopsy revealed a success rate of 84 % (95 % CI: 62 % to 100 %, I2 = 81 %). Remarkably, no major complications were reported among adults, resulting in a rate of 0 % (95 % CI: 0 % to 6 %, I2 = 0 %). Additionally, low rates of mortality related to the procedure were observed in adults, with two deaths recorded among the 46 patients analyzed, resulting in a mortality rate of 1 % (95 % CI: 0 % to 7 %, I2 = 0 %). CONCLUSION: In conclusion, our study aimed to assess the feasibility, safety, and efficacy of performing simultaneous biopsy and ETV for patients with pineal region tumors. We meticulously examined clinical aspects and patient outcomes, including good clinical outcomes, the requirement for shunt placement after ETV, biopsy success rates, mortality, and complications.

Enhancing the quality of evidence, comparability, and reproducibility in ventriculoatrial shunt research for normal pressure hydrocephalus: A systematic review and VAS-NPH reporting guideline.

BACKGROUND: Ventriculoatrial shunt (VAS) is an important treatment option for normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH). However, clinical studies reporting the use of VAS for NPH lack sufficient standardization for meta-analytic comparisons that could provide robust evidence regarding its use. This study aims to assess the quality of reporting in these studies and develop a reporting guideline checklist to standardize terminology, concepts, and reporting while reinforcing the essential elements to ensure comparability and reproducibility. METHODS: This is a systematic literature review that followed the PRISMA guidelines with the search in Medline, Embase, and Web of Science databases, with no timeframe restriction. The level of evidence of the studies was assessed using the GRADE system, and the rigor used in the publication of the results was assessed concerning adherence to the guidelines indicated by the EQUATOR Network Group. Furthermore, the studies were scrutinized focusing on eight domains: (1) Characteristics of the included studies and baseline characteristics of the patients; (2) Reporting methodology; (3) Pivotal concepts definition; (4) Adverse events assessment; (5) Data writing and reporting; (6) Detailed outcomes reporting; (7) Specific clinical outcomes assessment and reporting; and (8) Complications reporting. RESULTS: A total of 14 studies with 734 patients and 753 shunts were included in this review, and the assessment exposes notable deficiencies in reporting, specifically in baseline patient details, methodology, and outcome assessments. Only two studies followed reporting guidelines, prompting concerns about comprehensive reporting of adverse events and intraoperative complications. Varied reporting completeness existed for shunt-related issues. The absence of standardized definitions for key concepts and insufficient intervention details were observed. A VAS-NPH reporting guideline, encompassing 36 items across eight domains, was developed to address these shortcomings. CONCLUSION: This systematic review reveals significant deficiencies in methodological rigor and reporting quality. The proposed VAS-NPH Reporting Guideline covers all essential aspects and is a potential solution to rectify these shortcomings and increase transparency, comparability, and reproducibility. This initiative aims to advance the level of evidence and enhance knowledge regarding the use of VAS in NPH.

Efficacy and safety of neuroendoscopy surgery versus craniotomy for supratentorial intracerebral hemorrhage: an updated meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

Neuroendoscopy (NE) surgery emerged as a promising technique for the treatment of spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). A previous meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) analyzed the efficacy and safety of NE compared to craniotomy, but NE did not present a significant improvement in functional outcomes. However, a new study provided an opportunity to update the current knowledge. We searched PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials for RCTs reporting NE evacuation of spontaneous supratentorial ICH compared to craniotomy. The efficacy outcomes of interest were favorable functional outcome, functional disability, hematoma evacuation rate, and residual hematoma volume. The safety outcomes of interest were rebleeding, infection, and mortality. Seven RCTs were included containing 879 patients. The NE approach presented a significantly higher rate of favorable functional outcome compared with craniotomy (RR: 1.42; 95% CI 1.17, 1.73; p < 0.001). The evacuation rate was higher in patients who underwent the NE approach (MD: -8.36; 95% CI -12.66, -4.07; p < 0.001). NE did not show a benefit in improving the mortality rate (RR: 0.81, 95% CI 0.54, 1.22; p = 0.32). NE was associated with more favorable functional outcomes and lower rates of functional disabilities compared to craniotomy. Also, NE was superior regarding evacuation rate, while presenting a reduction in residual hematoma volume. NE might be associated with lower infection rates. Mortality was not improved by NE surgery. Larger, higher-quality randomized studies are needed to adequately evaluate the efficacy and safety of NE compared to craniotomy.

Friend or Foe? Preoperative Embolization in Jugular Paraganglioma Surgery-A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

BACKGROUND: Jugular paragangliomas are highly vascularized tumors that can grow in challenging neurovascular compartments and are particularly challenging to resect. There is still no consensus whether preoperative embolization should be employed to minimize intraoperative morbidity. METHODS: A systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted by searching PubMed, Web of Science, and Embase databases for key terms including "embolization," "jugular paragangliomas," and "surgery." RESULTS: This review included 25 studies with 706 patients and 475 (67%) preoperative embolizations. Polyvinyl alcohol particles were the most common embolic agent (97.8% of all patients who underwent embolization). Complication rate of embolization was 1% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0%, 2%). Preoperative embolization was significantly associated with less intraoperative estimated blood loss (mean difference of -7.92 dL [95% CI: -9.31 dL, -6.53 dL]), shorter operating room times (mean difference of -55.24 minutes [95% CI: -77.10 minutes, -33.39 minutes]), and less overall tumor recurrence (odds ratio = 0.23 [95% CI: 0.06, 0.91]) compared with resective surgery alone. Preoperative embolization had no impact on the development of postoperative new cranial nerve deficits not associated with embolization (odds ratio = 1.17 [95% CI: 0.47, 2.91]) and achievement of gross total resection (odds ratio = 1.92 [95% CI: 0.67, 5.53]). CONCLUSIONS: Preoperative embolization may provide surgical efficiency with faster surgical times and less bleeding and safety with diminished overall recurrence via safe embolization with minimal risks. These results must be considered taking into account the nonrandomness of studies.

Same-day discharge in craniotomy: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Traditionally, patients undergoing craniotomy were subject to extended hospital stays for intensive monitoring and management of potential complications. However, with the evolution of surgical methods, anesthesia, and postoperative protocols, the feasibility and interest in same-day discharge (SDD) are growing. This study aimed to evaluate whether same-day discharge is a safe and feasible approach in craniotomy through a meta-analysis of the available literature. METHODS: Following PRISMA guidelines, a comprehensive search was conducted across Medline, Embase, Cochrane, and Web of Science databases from inception to December 2023. Eligible studies comprised reports in English with a minimum of 4 patients who underwent craniotomies and were discharged with same-day discharge, whether single-arm or comparative with normal discharge. Single proportion analysis with 95 % confidence interval (CI) was used to pool the studies and Odds Ratio (OR) with 95 % CI was used to measure effects in comparative analysis. A random-effects model was adopted. Endpoints included success and failure of pre-planned same-day discharge, and postoperative complications throughout the hospital stay (until discharge), these complications were further categorized into major and minor complications. Also, need for reoperation, readmission within 24 h, readmission after 24 h, and mortality. RESULTS: Seven observational studies were included. Five studies were included in the single-arm analysis, comprising data from 715 patients. Four studies comprising 731 patients were included in the comparative analysis, of whom 233 were discharged on SDD, and 498 were discharged normally. The analysis revealed a success rate of 88 % (95 % CI, 83 %-94 %), readmission to the hospital within the initial 24 h rate of 2 % (95 % CI, 1 %-2 %), readmission after 24 h rate of 1 % (95 % CI, 0 %-2 %;), total postoperative complications until discharge rate of 2 % (95 % CI, 1 %-4 %), major complications rate of 0 % (95 % CI, 0 %-0 %), minor complications rate of 2 % (95 % CI, 1 %-4 %), and mortality rate of 0 % (95 % CI, 0 %-0 %). Comparative analysis for complications and mortality showed no difference between both approaches. CONCLUSION: This systematic review and meta-analysis identified that same-day discharge in craniotomy for selected patients, as well as for tumor resection craniotomies, is highly feasible and safe, with a high success rate, low failure, and reoperation rates. Moreover, for selected patients, no evidence of harm in same-day discharge was identified when compared with normal discharge. Consequently, same-day discharge may be considered a viable option, provided appropriate selection criteria are employed.

Low-level red-light therapy for myopia control in children: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

INTRODUCTION: Low-Level Red-Light (LLRL) Therapy is a safe and natural way to promote healing and reduce inflammation in the body. When it comes to treating myopia in children, LLRL therapy is recent, and its efficacy and safety still are not clear. METHODS: A systematic review and meta-analysis of the literature for LLRL was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines on November 5, 2022. Databases, including PUBMED, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and Embase were queried. A meta-analysis of random effects was conducted. Inclusion criteria included Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) or observational studies where LLRL therapy was used in children (3‒15 years old) with myopia. Exclusion criteria were studies with other ocular abnormalities. Efficacy was evaluated through the mean change in Axial Length (AL) and cycloplegic Spherical Equivalent Error (SER), while safety was evaluated by monitoring adverse effects. RESULTS: A total of 5 final studies were included (4 RCTs, and 1 observational), in which 685 total patients were analyzed. The mean age was 9.7 ± 0.66 years, with 48,2% female patients. The number of eyes in the LRLL arm is 714 and, in the control, arm is 656. LLRL showed better results in SER and AL mean change (OR = 0.58; 95% CI 0.33 to 0.83; p < 0.00001, and MD -0.33; 95% CI -0.52 to -0.13; p = 0.001, respectively), in comparison to the control group. There was no significant difference in adverse effects between groups (MD = 5.76; 95% CI 0.66 to 50.14; p = 0.11). CONCLUSION: LLRL therapy is a non-invasive, effective, and safe short-term treatment option; however, long-term evaluation, particularly in comparison to other therapies, requires additional investigation.

Optimizing radiotherapy strategies for skull base chordoma: a comprehensive meta-analysis and systematic review of treatment modalities and outcomes.

OBJECTIVE: In the treatment of skull base chordoma (SBC) surgery is considered the mainstay approach, and gross-total resection has an established relationship with progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS). However, the tumor's location often interferes with attempts at complete resection. In this case, surgery for maximal resection followed by high-dose radiotherapy has been demonstrated to be the standard treatment. In this context, various modalities are available, yet no consensus exists on the most effective. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of different radiotherapy modalities for SBC. METHODS: Following PRISMA guidelines, the authors systematically searched for the treatment of SBC with radiation modalities in the PubMed, Cochrane, Web of Science, and EMBASE databases. Outcomes assessed for each modality were as follows: OS, PFS, local control (LC), and complications. The random-effects model was adopted. A single-proportion analysis with 95% CI was used to measure the effects in single-arm analysis. For the comparative analysis, the OR with 95% CI was used to compare outcome treatment effects. Heterogeneity was assessed using I2 statistics, and statistical significance was defined as p < 0.05. RESULTS: A total of 32 studies comprising 3663 patients, with 2322 patients who were treated with radiotherapeutic modalities, were included. Regarding 5-year OS findings in each modality study, the findings were as follows: in photon fractionated radiotherapy, an estimated rate of 77% (69%-84%, 568 patients); in conventional fractionated radiotherapy, 76% (65%-87%, 517 cases); in proton-based + carbon ion-based radiotherapy, 85% (82%-88%, 622 cases); and in a comparative analysis of proton-based and carbon ion-based therapy, there was an OR of 1.2 (95% CI 0.59-2.43, 306 cases). Regarding the 5-year PFS estimate, the rates were as follows: 35% (26%-45%, 95 cases) for photon fractionated therapy; 35% (25%-45%, 85 cases) for stereotactic radiotherapy; 77% (50%-100%, 180 cases) for proton-based and carbon ion-based radiotherapy; and 74% (45%-100%, 102 cases) for proton-based radiotherapy. Regarding LC in periods of 3 and 5 years after proton- and carbon ion-based therapy, the overall estimated rates were 84% (78%-90%, 326 cases) and 75% (65%-85%, 448 cases), respectively. For proton-based radiotherapy and carbon ion-based therapy, the 5-year LC rates were 76% (67%-86%, 259 cases) and 75% (59%-91%, 189 cases), respectively. CONCLUSIONS: The analysis highlights the finding that particle-based modalities like proton beam radiotherapy and carbon ion radiotherapy are the most effective radiation therapies available for the treatment of SBC. Furthermore, it reinforces the idea that surgery followed by radiotherapy constitutes the standard treatment.

Feasibility, safety, and efficacy of endovascular treatment of anterior cranial fossa dural arteriovenous fistulas: a systematic review and meta-analysis with a subanalysis for Onyx.

Dural Arteriovenous Fistulas (dAVFs) of the anterior cranial fossa (ACF) are uncommon but carry a high risk of hemorrhage and pose substantial treatment challenges. Recent advancements in endovascular treatment (EVT), including the introduction of novel liquid embolic agents, have markedly bolstered EVT's role in managing ACF-dAVFs, with notable series published in the last five years. We aimed to assess the feasibility, safety, and efficacy of EVT for ACF-dAVFs. We searched Medline, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library databases following PRISMA guidelines. Eligible studies included those with ≥ 5 patients undergoing embolization of ACF-dAVFs, detailing both angiographic and clinical outcomes. We used single proportion analysis with 95% confidence intervals under a random-effects model, I2 to assess heterogeneity, and Baujat and sensitivity analysis to address high heterogeneity. Publication bias was assessed by funnel-plot analysis and Egger's test. Outcomes included complete occlusion following embolization, unsuccessful endovascular embolization attempts, incomplete occlusion following embolization, symptom resolution or clinical improvement following embolization, recurrence; procedure-related complications, morbidity, and mortality. Additionally, a subanalysis for studies exclusively utilizing Onyx™ embolic system was done. Eighteen studies comprising 231 ACF-dAVF were included. Unsuccessful endovascular embolization attempts rate was 2%. Complete occlusion rate was 85%, with 4% of complications. Incomplete occlusion rate was 10%. Successfully embolized patients experienced either symptom resolution or clinical improvement in 94% of cases. Morbidity and mortality rates were 1% and 0%, respectively. Onyx subanalyses showed an overall rate of 0% for unsuccessful attempts, 95% for complete occlusion, and 5% for incomplete occlusion. Symptom resolution or clinical improvement was 98% and recurrence rate was 0%. EVT for ACF-dAVF is highly feasible, effective, and safe, with a low rate of complications, morbidity, and mortality. The subanalyses focusing on Onyx embolizations revealed superior efficacy and safety outcomes compared to the findings of the primary analyses involving all included studies.

Efficacy and Safety of Atorvastatin for Chronic Subdural Hematoma: An Updated Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

BACKGROUND: Chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) is a common neurological condition, especially in the elderly population. Atorvastatin has shown the potential to reduce the recurrence of CSDH and improve overall outcomes. New studies have emerged since the last meta-analysis, increasing the sample size and the variety of outcomes analyzed. METHODS: We searched PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials for studies comparing the use of atorvastatin in CSDH patients with a control group or placebo. The primary outcome was the recurrence of CSDH. Secondary outcomes of interest were hematoma volume, composite adverse effects, mortality, and neurological function, measured by the Glasgow Outcome Scale and Barthel index for activities of daily living. RESULTS: Seven studies, of which 2 were randomized controlled trials, were included, containing 1192 patients. Overall recurrence significantly decreased compared to the control group (risk ratio [RR] 0.46; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.25-0.83; P=0.009). The benefits of atorvastatin were sustained in the subgroup analysis of patients who underwent initial conservative therapy (RR 0.40; 95% CI 0.22-0.70; P=0.001). However, there was no significant difference when atorvastatin was combined with surgical intervention (RR 0.53; 95% CI 0.21-1.32; P=0.17). Adverse effects were not increased by atorvastatin (RR 0.82; 95% CI 0.51-1.34; P=0.44). CONCLUSIONS: Atorvastatin might be beneficial in reducing CSDH recurrence, especially in conservative treatment patients. Atorvastatin was not significantly associated with adverse effects. Larger, higher-quality randomized studies are needed to adequately evaluate the efficacy, safety, and optimal dose of atorvastatin in CSDH patients.