A Decade of Insights: Reevaluating the Use of the Flexible-Fiber CO2 Laser in Brain Tumor Surgery-Efficacy, Challenges, and Lessons Learned.

INTRODUCTION: The introduction of flexible fiber technology in the early 2000s revitalized the interest in the CO2 laser for neurosurgical applications, making it suitable for microsurgical procedures. Despite its widespread use, specific indications for the CO2 laser in neurosurgery remains undefined. This study evaluates the efficacy and limitations of the CO2 laser in brain tumor surgery. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This retrospective observational single-center study analyzed the use of the CO2 laser in intracranial neoplasm surgeries from 2011 to 2021. A total of 94 patients were assessed, focusing on demographics, tumor characteristics, surgical duration, complications, and laser-specific issues. We used a five-tiered scoring system to assess laser effectiveness in both debulking and dissection tasks; with resection extent assessed following established guidelines. RESULTS: The CO2 laser was highly effective in debulking solid tumors, achieving a 76.5% gross total resection rate, while being less effective in softer, highly vascularized tumors. The average effectiveness scores for dissection (2.6±0.8) were significantly lower than for debulking (3.2±1.2). Two major complications were directly associated with laser use. Effectiveness improved over time, particularly in the latter half of the study, and varied across tumor types, with notable utility in meningiomas and vestibular schwannomas but lower scores in glial tumors. CONCLUSIONS: The CO2 laser is a valuable tool in neurosurgery, especially for solid tumors in specific anatomical locations. Careful patient selection is crucial, and the laser complements rather than replaces conventional surgical tools. Ongoing technological advancements suggest broader future applications in neurosurgery.

Surgical management of Glioma Grade 4: technical update from the neuro-oncology section of the Italian Society of Neurosurgery (SINch®): a systematic review.

PURPOSE: The extent of resection (EOR) is an independent prognostic factor for overall survival (OS) in adult patients with Glioma Grade 4 (GG4). The aim of the neuro-oncology section of the Italian Society of Neurosurgery (SINch®) was to provide a general overview of the current trends and technical tools to reach this goal. METHODS: A systematic review was performed. The results were divided and ordered, by an expert team of surgeons, to assess the Class of Evidence (CE) and Strength of Recommendation (SR) of perioperative drugs management, imaging, surgery, intraoperative imaging, estimation of EOR, surgery at tumor progression and surgery in elderly patients. RESULTS: A total of 352 studies were identified, including 299 retrospective studies and 53 reviews/meta-analysis. The use of Dexamethasone and the avoidance of prophylaxis with anti-seizure medications reached a CE I and SR A. A preoperative imaging standard protocol was defined with CE II and SR B and usefulness of an early postoperative MRI, with CE II and SR B. The EOR was defined the strongest independent risk factor for both OS and tumor recurrence with CE II and SR B. For intraoperative imaging only the use of 5-ALA reached a CE II and SR B. The estimation of EOR was established to be fundamental in planning postoperative adjuvant treatments with CE II and SR B and the stereotactic image-guided brain biopsy to be the procedure of choice when an extensive surgical resection is not feasible (CE II and SR B). CONCLUSIONS: A growing number of evidences evidence support the role of maximal safe resection as primary OS predictor in GG4 patients. The ongoing development of intraoperative techniques for a precise real-time identification of peritumoral functional pathways enables surgeons to maximize EOR minimizing the post-operative morbidity.

Ultrasound-guided brain surgery: echographic visibility of different pathologies and surgical applications in neurosurgical routine.

BACKGROUND: The use of intraoperative ultrasound (iUS) has increased in the last 15 years becoming a standard tool in many neurosurgical centers. Our aim was to assess the utility of routine use of iUS during various types of intracranial surgery. We reviewed our series to assess ultrasound visibility of different pathologies and iUS applications during the course of surgery. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This is a retrospective review of 162 patients who underwent intracranial surgery with assistance of the iUS guidance system (SonoWand). Pathologic categories were neoplastic (135), vascular (20), infectious (2), and CSF related (5). Ultrasound visibility was assessed using the Mair classification, a four-tiered grading system that considers the echogenicity of the lesion and its border visibility (from 0 to 3; grade 0, pathology not visible; grade 3, visible with clear border with normal tissue). iUS applications included lesion localization, approach planning to deep-seated lesions, and lesion removal. RESULTS: All pathologies were visible on iUS except one aneurysm. On average, extra-axial tumors were identified more easily and had clearer limits compared to intra-axial tumors (extra-axial 17% grade 2, 83% grade 3; intra-axial 5.5% grade 1, 46.5% grade 2, 48% grade 3). iUS provided precise and safe transcortical trajectories to deep-seated lesions (71 patients; tumors, hemangiomas, ICHs); iUS was judged to be less useful to approach skull base tumors and aneurysms. iUS was used to judge extent of resection in 152 cases; surgical artifacts reduced sonographic visibility in 25 cases: extent of resection was correctly checked in 127 patients (53 gliomas, 15 metastases, 39 meningiomas, 4 schwannomas, 4 sellar region tumors, 6 hemangiomas, 3 AVMs, 2 abscesses). CONCLUSIONS: iUS was highly sensitive in detecting all types of pathology, was safe and precise in planning trajectories to intraparenchymal lesions (including minimally mini-invasive approaches), and was accurate in checking extent of resection in more than 80% of cases. iUS is a versatile and feasible tool; it could improve safety and its use may be considered in routine intracranial surgery.

TRPV1, CGRP and SP in scalp arteries of patients suffering from chronic migraine.

OBJECTIVE: The transient receptor potential vanilloid type-1 receptor (TRPV1) and the neuropeptides calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) and substance P (SP) appear to be differently involved in migraine pain. A role of neurovascular scalp structures is also suggested by several data. We performed a quantitative study of TRPV1-like immunoreactive (LI), CGRP-LI and SP-LI innervation of scalp arterial samples from patients affected with chronic migraine (CM). METHODS: Short segments of scalp arteries were collected from 17 participants undergoing vascular surgery for treatment-resistant CM and from 6 controls who underwent neurosurgery for various indications. The immunoreactivity of the arterial innervation to TRPV1, CGRP, SP and to the pan-neuronal marker protein gene product 9.5 (PGP9.5) was examined. Immunoreactive nerve fibres in vessel cross-sections were quantified by computerised image analysis. RESULTS: A significant increase of TRPV1-LI nerve fibres was found in the arterial wall from CM compared with control patients (p<0.05), while no significant difference was found for CGRP and SP. CONCLUSIONS: This study yields the first evidence for the existence of a TRPV1-LI innervation in human scalp arteries and provides the first quantitative assessment of the TRPV1-LI, CGRP-LI and SP-LI innervation of those vessels. The increase of TRPV1-LI periarterial nociceptive fibres of scalp arteries may represent, at least in some participants, a structural condition favouring CM (and possibly migraine), for example, by causing a higher sensitivity to algogenic agents.

Pedicled multifidus muscle flaps to treat dural tears due to penetrating spinal stab wounds: Two case reports and a literature review.

Background: Penetrating spinal injuries occasionally lead to dural tears (DT) and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leaks that risk both infectious and neurological complications. Here, we reviewed two cases and the literature regarding the safety/efficacy and limitations of repairing traumatic DT utilizing pedicled multifidus muscle flaps. Case Description: Two males, ages 73 and 50, presented with Brown-Sequard syndromes and DT/CSF fistulas attributed to knife-induced spinal injuries at the D3-D4 and D11-D12 levels. Intraoperatively, DT was repaired utilizing pedicle multifidus muscle flaps. Postoperatively, both patients demonstrated partial recovery of neurological function along with no residual symptoms/signs of DT/CSF fistulas. Conclusion: Penetrating traumatic spinal injuries may result in DT/CSF fistulas that can be adequately repaired utilizing pedicle multifidus muscle flaps.

Multidisciplinary Management of Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Scalp: An Algorithm for Reconstruction and Treatment.

Background: Scalp-associated cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) presents formidable treatment challenges, especially when it leads to full-thickness defects involving bone. Aggressive or recurring cases often demand a multidisciplinary approach. Leveraging our surgical experience and a literature review, we introduce a therapeutic algorithm to guide the selection of reconstruction methods, particularly for locally advanced lesions, furthermore showing the synergy between surgery and other therapies for comprehensive, multidisciplinary disease management. Methods: Our algorithm stems from a retrospective analysis of 202 patients undergoing scalp cSCC resection and reconstruction over a 7-year period, encompassing 243 malignancies. After rigorous risk assessment and documentation of surgical procedures, reconstruction methods were therefore related to malignancy extent, depth, and individual clinical status. Results: The documented reconstructions included 76 primary closures, 115 skin grafts, 7 dermal substitute reconstructions, 33 local flaps, 1 locoregional flap, and 1 microsurgical free flap. Patients unsuitable for surgery received radiotherapy or immunotherapy after histological confirmation. Precise analysis of tumor characteristics in terms of infiltration extent and depth guided the selection of appropriate reconstruction and treatment strategies Combining these insights with an extensive literature review enabled us to formulate our algorithm for managing scalp cSCCs. Conclusions: Effectively addressing scalp cSCC, especially in locally advanced or recurrent cases, demands a systematic approach integrating surgery, radiotherapy, and immunotherapy. Our multidisciplinary team's decision-making algorithm improved patient outcomes by offering a broader spectrum of therapeutic options that can synergistically achieve optimal results.

The "state of the art" of intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring: An Italian neurosurgical survey.

Introduction: Intraoperative Neurophysiological Monitoring (IOM) is widely used in neurosurgery but specific guidelines are lacking. Therefore, we can assume differences in IOM application between Neurosurgical centers. Research question: The section of Functional Neurosurgery of the Italian Society of Neurosurgery realized a survey aiming to obtain general data on the current practice of IOM in Italy. Materials and methods: A 22-item questionnaire was designed focusing on: volume procedures, indications, awake surgery, experience, organization and equipe. The questionnaire has been sent to Italian Neurosurgery centers. Results: A total of 54 centers completed the survey. The annual volume of surgeries range from 300 to 2000, and IOM is used in 10-20% of the procedures. In 46% of the cases is a neurologist or a neurophysiologist who performs IOM. For supra-tentorial pathology, almost all perform MEPs (94%) SSEPs (89%), direct cortical stimulation (85%). All centers perform IOM in spinal surgery and 95% in posterior fossa surgery. Among the 50% that perform peripheral nerve surgery, all use IOM. Awake surgery is performed by 70% of centers. The neurosurgeon is the only responsible for IOM in 35% of centers. In 83% of cases IOM implementation is adequate to the request. Discussion and conclusions: The Italian Neurosurgical centers perform IOM with high level of specialization, but differences exist in organization, techniques, and expertise. Our survey provides a snapshot of the state of the art in Italy and it could be a starting point to implement a consensus on the practice of IOM.

Trascallosal bilateral transforaminal resection of a solid partially calcified colloid cyst: 2D operative video.

Background: Colloid cysts are benign lesions of the roof of the third ventricle, often diagnosed incidentally; sometimes they can cause hydrocephalus due to obstruction of the foramina of Monroe. Symptomatic cysts could be resected either microsurgically (transcallosal or transcortical) or endoscopically. Although both strategies are effective and have advantages and disadvantages, there is no consensus on the choice of the optimal approach. Transcallosal resection, although more invasive than endoscopy, allows adequate bimanual manipulation of the cyst and is associated with high rates of complete resection, the use of neuronavigator and intraoperative ultrasound optimizes surgical trajectory and improves safety of the procedure with complication rates comparable to endoscopy. Endoscopy is less invasive but complete resection of solid cysts can be challenging. Case Description: In Video 1, we show resection of a solid partially calcified colloid cyst using a transcallosal bilateral transforaminal approach to anterior third ventricle male, 65 years old; headache and mild memory impairment for 6 months; admitted at our emergency department because of a brief loss of consciousness. Neurologic examination was normal. Computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed a colloid cyst at the level of anterior third of the third ventricle (1.5 cm in diameter) with hypointense appearance in T2 sequences suggesting a solid calcific component. The ventricular system was enlarged. Colloid cyst risk score 3/5 (diameter >0.7 cm, headache, risk zone I) considered an intermediate-risk subgroup according to Alford et al. On this basis, we proposed the surgical treatment. We chose a transcallosal microsurgical resection. The patient gave consent for the procedure. A preoperative planning with a computer-generated 3D model is performed to simulate the approach. Craniotomy, interhemispheric dissection, and callosotomy were planned with the neuronavigator and with the aid of intraoperative ultrasound to optimize the trajectory and perform a limited and tailored callosotomy. The 1.5 cm callosotomy allows to approach both lateral ventricles, the cyst was progressively dissected working bilaterally through both foramina of Monroe without injuries of the fornices. Resection at term is complete. Postoperative MRI and CT scan confirmed complete excision without complications; the patient was discharged after a week in good neurological condition with complete regression of headache. Conclusion: Microscopic transcallosal resection of the colloid cyst of the third ventricle allows for complete resection with low complication rates. The use of preoperative 3D planning and integrated neuronavigation with intraoperative ultrasound helps to reduce invasiveness.

Single thalamic localization of brain toxoplasmosis mimicking brain tumors: Radiological and clinical findings.

Background: Cerebral toxoplasmosis is a relatively rare disorder that usually affects immunocompromised patients. The most common scenario occurs among human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-positive patients. In those patients, toxoplasmosis is the most frequent cause of expansive brain lesion and continues to cause elevated morbidity and mortality. In typical cases of toxoplasmosis, both computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging reveal single/ multiple nodular or ring-enhancing lesions with surrounding edema. Nevertheless, cases of cerebral toxoplasmosis with atypical radiological features have been reported. Diagnosis can be obtained by finding organisms in the cerebrospinal fluid or in stereotactic biopsy samples of the brain lesion. If untreated, cerebral toxoplasmosis is uniformly fatal, so prompt diagnosis is mandatory. A prompt diagnosis is necessary, as untreated cerebral toxoplasmosis is uniformly fatal. Case Description: We discuss imaging and clinical findings of a patient - not aware of being HIV-positive - with a solitary atypical brain localization of toxoplasmosis mimicking a brain tumor. Conclusion: Although relatively uncommon, neurosurgeons should be aware of the potential occurrence of cerebral toxoplasmosis. High index of suspicion is needed for timely diagnosis and prompt initiation of therapy.

Squamous cell carcinoma of the scalp: a combination of different therapeutic strategies.

A case study of a 71-year-old man with a giant cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma of the scalp and calvaria is presented, where a combination of surgical excision, reconstruction with a latissimus dorsi muscular free flap, immunotherapy, and radiotherapy were used to control the disease for two years without recurrence.

Single Step Resection-Reconstruction Using Precurved Titanium Mesh of a Giant Intradiploic Meningioma Mimicking Bone Malignancy: Technical Note.

AIM: Intradiploic meningiomas are rare neoplasms, often mistaken for metastases or malignant bone tumors. Surgical management can be challenging, considering their diffusive bony invasion. Two main critical decisions need to be taken: the timing for cranial vault reconstruction and the choice of the adequate material for cranioplasty. We believe that this case underscores the complexity of such lesions, the importance of a prompt devascularization, and the pivotal role of an immediate reconstruction to avoid the additional morbidity of a re-do surgery. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We report a case of 68-year-old men who presented with slow growing right parietal bone swelling he noted many years before, but for which he didn't seek medical attentions, associated with mild contralateral hemiparesis. Neuroradiological examinations revealed a giant extradural intradiploic tumor affecting the right temporo-parietal bone and conditioning significant compression of the underlying brain. We planned a surgical strategy to deafferent the tumor and to reduce the intraoperative bleeding. At first, a circumferential craniectomy centered upon the lesion was performed, then it was devascularized by means of surgical ligation of the ipsilateral superficial temporal artery (STA) and middle meningeal artery (MMA); these steps allowed a subsequent en block tumor excision, despite its large size, without significant blood loss and respecting the oncological principles. At the end, a contextual calvarial reconstruction was performed using a precurved titanium mesh. RESULTS: Was discharged seven days after surgery with complete recovery of the left-sided motor deficit. Thereafter, he underwent scheduled outpatient evaluations and radiological exams. After 1 year, the Modified Rankin Scale (MRS) was 1, with no evidence of recurrent disease. CONCLUSION: Surgical complications can be reduced adopting an optimal preoperative work-up and a tailored surgical strategy focused on early tumor deafferentation. Moreover, an immediate cranial vault reconstruction avoids the risks related to a second procedure.

Utility and Feasibility of a Low-Cost System to Simulate Clipping Strategy for Cerebral Aneurysms Using Three-Dimensional Computed Tomography Angiography with Virtual Craniotomy.

OBJECTIVE: To assess utility and feasibility of a low-cost system to simulate clipping strategy for cerebral aneurysms using patient-specific surgically oriented three-dimensional (3D) computed tomography angiography with virtual craniotomy. METHODS: From 2017 to 2021, 53 consecutive patients scheduled for aneurysm clipping underwent preoperative planning using 3D computed tomography angiography with virtual craniotomy. The model was oriented in the surgical position to observe the anatomy through surgical corridors. Clipping was planned considering 3 parameters: shape of the clip, clip type (standard vs. fenestrated), and clipping strategy (simple vs. multiple). We used a scoring system (0-3) to assess the concordance of virtual planning with real surgery by assigning 1 point for each correctly predicted parameter. Qualitative assessment of 3D models was a secondary end point. RESULTS: In 51 patients, 3D images perfectly matched the real anatomy shown in surgical videos. Concordance scores of 0, 1, 2, and 3 occurred with a frequency of 5%, 14%, 38%, and 43%, respectively. Concerning the shape of the clip, clip type, and clipping strategy, the concordance occurred in 73%, 80%, and 59%, respectively. Compared with simple clipping, strategies with multiple clippings were more difficult to predict correctly. Concordance scores of 0, 1, 2, and 3 occurred with a frequency of 5.7%, 5.7%, 31.4%, and 57.1%, respectively, in simple clipping and 4.8%, 28.6%, 47.6%, and 19%, respectively, in multiple clipping. CONCLUSIONS: In our experience, use of 3D computed tomography angiography with virtual craniotomy is an easy and useful solution to plan clipping strategy. The surgeon's awareness of the surgical anatomy is improved. Although this method has some technical limitations, it represents a low-cost alternative if complex and expensive simulation systems are not available.

Intraoperative Integration of Multimodal Imaging to Improve Neuronavigation: A Technical Note.

BACKGROUND: Brain shift may cause significant error in neuronavigation, leading the surgeon to possible mistakes. Intraoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the most reliable technique in brain tumor surgery. Unfortunately, it is highly expensive and time consuming and, at the moment, it is available only in few neurosurgical centers. METHODS: In this case series the surgical workflow for brain tumor surgery is described where neuronavigation of preoperative MRI, intraoperative computed tomography (CT) scan, and ultrasound (US) as well as rigid and elastic image fusion between preoperative MRI and intraoperative US and CT, respectively, was applied to 4 brain tumor patients in order to compensate for surgically induced brain shift by using a commercially available software (Elements Image Fusion 4.0 with Virtual iMRI Cranial; Brainlab AG, München, Germany). RESULTS: Four illustrative cases demonstrated successful integration of different components of the described intraoperative surgical workflow. The data indicate that intraoperative navigation update is feasible by applying intraoperative 3-dimensional US and CT scanning as well as rigid and elastic image fusion applied depending on the degree of observed brain shift. CONCLUSIONS: Integration of multiple intraoperative imaging techniques combined with rigid and elastic image fusion of preoperative MRI may reduce the risk of incorrect neuronavigation during brain tumor resection. Further studies are needed to confirm the present findings in a larger population.

Atypical and aggressive diffuse leptomeningeal glioneuronal tumor in a young adult: A case report and review of the literature.

Background: DLGNT is a rare tumor, commonly diagnosed in pediatric age; in most cases, the pathology presents a slow and indolent evolution. We present a case report of a young adult affected by DLGNT characterized by aggressive and atypical behavior. Case Description: A 21-year-old male presented with mild paraparesis and hypoesthesia with a D2 level. MRI scan of the brain and spine showed a dorsal intramedullary lesion; a diffuse craniospinal leptomeningeal thickening was also present. After a week, the neurological status deteriorated rapidly with paraparesis worsening and onset of acute hydrocephalus. The patient underwent external ventricular drain positioning; a C7-D4 laminectomy was subsequently performed with partial tumor resection. Histological examination revealed a DLGNT with aggressive aspects (Ki67 30%). Postoperatively, the patient showed an immediate mild worsening of the lower limbs deficit. After a few days, severe further neurological deterioration occurred with progressive motor deficit to the upper limbs and ultimately respiratory failure. Mechanical ventilation was necessary and the patient was transferred to the ICU; during the following weeks, he developed tetraplegia and underwent ventriculoperitoneal shunt positioning. By the time, the histological diagnosis was available, the clinical status would not allow radiotherapy or chemotherapy. The patient deceased approximately 90 days after hospitalization due to respiratory complications. Conclusion: DLGNT is a rare tumor; diagnosis requires a high index of suspicion and confirmation with biopsy. Although most cases have an indolent course, some patients may have aggressive forms. High proliferation index, hydrocephalus occurrence, and massive craniospinal leptomeningeal spread appear to be associated with worse prognosis.

Multimodal Surgical Management of Cerebral Lesions in Motor-Eloquent Areas Combining Intraoperative 3D Ultrasound with Neurophysiological Mapping.

BACKGROUND: Resection of tumors adjacent to motor pathways carries risks of both postoperative motor deficit and incomplete resection. Our aim was to assess usefulness and limitations of a multimodal strategy that combines intraoperative ultrasound (iUS) guided resection with intraoperative neurophysiology. METHODOLOGY: This is a prospective study of 25 patients with brain lesions adjacent to motor areas who underwent intracranial surgery with assistance of the iUS guidance system and intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring and mapping. Pathologies treated included 19 gliomas, 3 metastases, 1 anaplastic meningioma, 1 arteriovenous malformation (AVM), and 1 ependymoma. The iUS-guided lesion removal accuracy and the extent of resection were estimated and compared with a 30-day postoperative brain MRI. The results were assessed considering the extent of resection related to 6-month motor function outcome. RESULTS: iUS was accurate in checking the extent of resection in 17 patients, whereas in 8 cases the decline of the iUS images quality did not allow a valuable assessment. Positive mapping was obtained in 16 patients. Gross total resection was achieved in 16 patients. In five of nine cases with subtotal resection, surgery was stopped because a functional area was reached. In four patients, tumor removal was limited due to the difficulty of identifying neoplastic tissue. Motor function worsening was transient in six patients and permanent in two. CONCLUSIONS: The integrated use of intraoperative neuromonitoring to identify motor areas and iUS to identify tumor-tissue interface could help increase the rate of radical resection respecting the eloquent areas.

Pedicled Multifidus Muscle Flap To Treat Inaccessible Dural Tear In Spine Surgery: Technical Note And Preliminary Experience.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the usefulness, feasibility, and limitations of pedicled multifidus muscle flaps (PMMFs) for the treatment of inaccessible dural tears during spine surgery. METHODS: The technique of PMMF harvesting was investigated together with relevant anatomy. We prospectively evaluated 8 patients treated with the PMMF technique between January 2017 and December 2019. Results were compared with a retrospective series of 9 patients treated with a standard technique between January 2014 and December 2016. Inclusion criteria were inaccessible dural tear or dural tear judged not amenable to direct repair because of tissue loosening. Exclusion criteria were surgical treatment of intradural disease. Clinical and demographic data of all patients were collected. Clinical evaluations were performed according to American Spinal Injury Association criteria and Oswestry Disability Index. Preoperative and postoperative computed tomography was performed in all patients. The primary end point was wound healing (cerebrospinal fluid leakage, infection, and fluid collection); secondary end points were neurologic outcome and complications. RESULTS: Control group: 1 death as a result of wound infection secondary to cerebrospinal fluid fistula and 2 patients needed lumbar subarachnoid drain; neurologic outcome: 3 patients improved and 6 were unchanged. Flap group: no wound-related complications were observed; neurologic outcome: 3 patients improved and 5 were unchanged. No flap-related complications were described. Flap harvesting was feasible in all cases, with an average 20 minutes adjunctive surgical time. CONCLUSIONS: The PMMF technique was feasible and safe; in this preliminary experience, its use is associated with lower complications as a result of dural tears but larger series are needed to confirm its effectiveness.

Comparison of two different titanium cranioplasty methods: Custom-made titanium prostheses versus precurved titanium mesh.

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to compare the results of two different titanium cranioplasties for reconstructing skull defects: standard precurved mesh versus custom-made prostheses. METHODS: Retrospective analysis of 23 patients submitted to titanium cranioplasty between January 2014 and January 2019. Ten patients underwent delayed cranioplasty using custom-made prostheses; and 13 patients were treated using precurved titanium mesh (ten delayed cranioplasties, and three single-stage resection- reconstructions). Demographic, clinical, and radiological data were recorded. Results and complications of the two methods were compared, including duration of surgery, cosmetic results (visual analog scale for cosmesis [VASC]), and costs of the implants. RESULTS: Complications: one epidural hematoma in the custom-made group, one delayed failure in precurved group due to wound dehiscence with mesh exposure. There were no infections in either group. All custom-made prostheses perfectly fitted on the defect; eight of 13 precurved mesh prostheses incompletely covered the defect. Custom-made cranioplasty obtained better cosmetic results (average VASC 94 vs. 68), shorter surgical time (141min vs. 186min), and -fewer screws was needed to fix the prostheses in place (6 vs. 15). However, satisfactory results were obtained using precurved mesh in cases of small defects and in single-stage reconstruction. Precurved mesh was found to be cheaper (€1,500 vs. €5,500). CONCLUSION: Custom-made cranioplasty obtained better results and we would suggest that this should be a first choice, particularly for young patients with a large cranial defect. Precurved mesh was cheaper and useful for single-stage resection-reconstruction. Depending on the individual conditions, both prostheses have their place in cranioplasty therapies.

Neurocognitive evaluation in older adult patients affected by glioma.

BACKGROUND: Glioblastoma (GBM) has an increasing incidence and dismal prognosis in older adults. This study evaluated neurocognitive status of an older adult population with GBM and its correlation with clinical and demographical variables. METHODS: Each patient underwent an extended neuropsychological evaluation by means of a battery of standardized tests describing eight cognitive domains: global function; verbal learning; short- and long-term memory (LTM); executive functions (EFs); abstract reasoning (AR); attention; and visuo-constructional abilities (CA). RESULTS: We assessed 79 patients with GBM (median age: 74 years). Out of this initial sample, a subgroup of seventeen patients with six-month median time underwent a follow-up test session. 46 out of the 79 patients (58.2%) presented multi-domain cognitive impairment, 24 patients (30.3%) showed single-domain cognitive impairment and only seven (9%) showed no cognitive impairment. Kaplan Meier estimator showed that patients with AR deficit had a poorer prognosis in terms of progression-free survival and overall survival (p < .001). At the multivariate analysis AR (deficit vs non; hazard ratio (HR) = 5.07, 95%; confidence interval (CI): 1.91-13.46; p < .001) was correlated with disease progression and overall survival, AR (deficit vs non; HR = 7.24, 95% CI: 2.58-20.32; p < .001). Eight out of seventeen patients who underwent follow-up test session showed cognitive improvement, five resulted in further deterioration, and four patients remained stable. LTM, EF, and CA were the most affected functions at follow-up, while verbal learning was the most improved one in patients with cognitive improvement. CONCLUSIONS: Cognitive functioning evaluation should be included among the standard clinical endpoints in the treatment of older adult neuro-oncology patients.

Ethical and therapeutic dilemmas in glioblastoma management during pregnancy: Two case reports and review of the literature.

INTRODUCTION: There are no guidelines about the management of glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) during pregnancy: treatment of these patients presents therapeutic and ethical challenges. CASE DESCRIPTION: Two patients, respectively, 28 years old at the 14th week of gestation with a thalamic GBM and 38 years old at the 28th week of gestation with fronto-mesial GBM. Patients and their relatives were deeply informed about the natural history of GBM and potential risks and benefits of surgery, radiotherapy (XRT), and chemotherapy (CTX) for both, mother and fetus. The first patient's will was to preserve her fetus from any related, even minimal, risk of XRT, and CTX until safe delivery despite progression of GBM, accepting only surgery (tumor debulking and shunting of hydrocephalus). The second one asked to deliver the baby as soon as possible (despite the risks of prematurity) to receive the standard treatments of GBM. The two patients survived, respectively, 16 and 46 months after delivery. The first patient's son is in good clinical conditions; the second one suffered problems linked to prematurity. CONCLUSIONS: Standard treatment of GBM in a pregnant woman could improve the mother's survival but can expose the fetus to several potential risks. Ethically, relatives should understand that mother has anyway a poor prognosis and, at the same time, fetus prognosis depends on mother's condition and therapy. It is not possible to warrant absence of risk for both. Considering the absence of guidelines and the relatively poor current data available about management of GBM in a pregnant woman, after a deep explanation of the situation, we think that the will of the mother and her relatives should prevail.