Association between Left Atrial Appendage Morphology and Clot Histology in Patients with Embolic Ischemic Stroke: An Exploratory Study.

BACKGROUND: Acute embolic ischemic stroke poses a significant healthcare challenge. Histological clot features' variability among patients with acute ischemic stroke treated by mechanical thrombectomy has potential implications for determining treatment and etiology. This study investigated the clot histological feature differences among patients who experienced cardioembolic stroke and embolic stroke of undetermined source with different left atrial appendage (LAA) morphologies. METHODS: We conducted a prospective observational study involving 79 patients with acute embolic ischemic stroke undergoing mechanical thrombectomy. Computed tomography angiography images were used to classify LAA morphologies. An artificial intelligence algorithm assessed the clot fibrin and red blood cell contents. RESULTS: Patients with chicken-wing LAA morphology exhibited lower mean clot fibrin proportions than did those with non-chicken-wing morphology (p < 0.001). Linear regression analysis showed that chicken-wing LAA was significantly associated with a lower clot fibrin proportion (estimate, -0.177; 95% CI [-0.259, -0.096]; p < 0.001). The successful recanalization rate and first-pass effect between the groups did not differ significantly. CONCLUSIONS: The chicken-wing LAA morphological type is associated with lower clot fibrin contents, suggesting potentially different embolism mechanisms or diverse embolic sources, compared with the non-chicken-wing LAA types. Further studies are required to investigate this association.

Case report: Late onset type 3 hemiplegic migraine with permanent neurologic sequelae after attacks.

This case study describes a 57-year-old woman with a six-year history of recurrent episodes characterized by visual, sensory, speech disturbances, hemiparesis and severe one-sided headaches accompanied by fever and altered consciousness. Initially misdiagnosed as a stroke, the atypical disease course and MRI findings led to additional genetic testing which revealed a sodium voltage-gated channel gene mutation (T1174S), confirming a diagnosis of sporadic hemiplegic migraine. The migraine prophylaxis showed some improvement in episode frequency and severity. Despite an initial improvement, the patient underwent severe cognitive decline and developed new permanent neurological symptoms during the subsequent 7 years of follow-up.

Circle of Willis Configuration and Thrombus Localization Impact on Ischemic Stroke Patient Outcomes: A Systematic Review.

Background and Objectives: The published literature highlights the fact that the integrity of the Circle of Willis has a direct impact on stroke outcome, especially in cases of distal internal carotid T occlusion. The aim of this study was to review the available data on the Circle of Willis configuration and thrombus location impact on patient outcome in cases of ischemic stroke. Materials and Methods: A systematic search according to PRISMA guidelines was performed in PubMed, Cochrane, and EMBASE databases to identify studies investigating the influence of Circle of Willis variants on ischemic stroke outcomes published up to March 2023. The manuscripts were reviewed by three researchers separately and scored on the quality of the research using the MINORS criteria. Results: After screening 157 manuscripts, 11 studies (n = 4643) were included. Circle of Willis integrity plays a vital role in stroke outcome, especially when T-form occlusions are present. Despite this, in the event of M1 occlusion Circle of Willis configuration does not play an important role. In cases of distal internal carotid artery occlusion, the presence of a fully developed contralateral A1 segment and anterior communicating artery is essential for a favorable stroke outcome. Conclusions: The preserved integrity of the Circle of Willis has great significance for collateral flow in the event of ischemic stroke and helps patients to achieve more favorable outcomes, as it determines the affected brain territory. The clinical outcome of the ischemic stroke appears to be significantly better if only one artery territory is affected, compared to two or more.

Immunoglobulin G4-Related Disease Presenting as Temporal Bone Lesion with Facial Nerve Palsy.

Immunoglobulin G4-related disease (IgG4-RD) is a systemic condition which could present as local infiltration of skull base structures. We report a case of IgG4-RD with infiltration of the temporal bone and surrounding structures in a patient with systemic vasculitis on systemic steroids. A 31-year-old woman presented with right-sided facial weakness, headache, and right ear hearing loss. On examination, redness and retraction of the right tympanic membrane and facial paresis (House-Brackman IV) were noted. Computed tomography imaging showed mastoiditis, temporal lobe stroke, and brain abscess. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed infiltration in the infratemporal fossa, nasopharynx, spreading along the Eustachian tube and perineurally along the branches of CN V and CN VII intracranially, forming a dural based mass in the middle cranial fossa. Intracranial mass compressed the temporal lobe of the brain, causing perifocal brain edema. Endoscopic biopsy of the nasopharynx was chosen as the least invasive method. It showed marked fibrosis of the tissue, dense lymphoplasmacytic infiltrates, and an increased number of IGG4-positive plasma cells. Serum IgG4 levels were below the diagnostic criteria of IgG4-RD, but histological characteristics of IgG4-RD were met. The patient was treated with high-dose oral prednisolone. Resolution of symptoms, including facial nerve paresis, was observed and infiltration in the nasopharynx, infratemporal fossa decreased on subsequent MRI tests. No recurrence was noted on the follow-up of 16 months. The case presented itself as a diagnostic challenge for a multidisciplinary team to differentiate pathology caused by either IgG4-RD, systemic vasculitis, or atypic mastoiditis. MRI and histological reports were essential to establish a correct diagnosis.

Endovascular Treatment of Basilar Artery Occlusion: What Can We Learn from the Results?

Background and Objectives: Current guidelines lack specific endovascular treatment (EVT) recommendations for posterior circulation stroke (PCS). The results of earlier studies are controversial. We aimed to compare early hospital outcomes of stroke caused by large-vessel occlusion (LVO) treated with EVT or bridging therapy (BT) in anterior circulation stroke (ACS) versus PCS (middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) and basilar artery occlusion (BAO), and establish the risk factors for poor outcome. Materials and Methods: we analyzed the data of 279 subjects treated with EVT due to LVO-caused stroke in a comprehensive stroke centre in 2015−2021. The primary outcome was hospital mortality, secondary outcomes were National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) after 24 h, early neurological deterioration, futile recanalization (FR), the ambulatory outcome at discharge, and complications. Results: BAO presented with higher baseline NIHSS scores (19 vs. 14, p < 0.001), and longer door-to-puncture time (93 vs. 82 min, p = 0.034), compared to MCAO. Hospital mortality and the percentage of FR were the same in BAO and almost two times higher than in MCAO (20.0% vs. 10.3%, p = 0.048), other outcomes did not differ. In BAO, unsuccessful recanalization was the only significant predictor of the lethal outcome, though there were trends for PAD and RF predicting lethal outcome. A trend for higher risk of symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (sICH) was observed in the BAO group when BT was applied. Nevertheless, neither BT nor sICH predicted lethal outcomes in the BAO group. Conclusions: Compared to the modern gold standard of EVT in the ACS, early outcomes in BAO remain poor, there is a substantial amount of FR. Nevertheless, unsuccessful recanalization remains the strongest predictor of lethal outcomes. BT in PCS might pose a higher risk for sICH, but not the lethal outcome, although this finding requires further investigation in larger trials.

Identification of the Distal Dural Ring and Definition of Paraclinoid Aneurysms According to Bony Landmarks on 3-Dimensional Computed Tomography Angiography: A Cadaveric and Radiological Study.

BACKGROUND: Determining if paraclinoid aneurysms are intradural or extradural is critical for surgical planning. OBJECTIVE: To create an easily reproducible diagnostic method based on bony anatomy that precisely locates the distal dural ring (DDR) to determine the position of paraclinoid aneurysms as intradural, transitional, or extradural. METHODS: Bilateral anatomic dissections of 10 cadaveric heads (20 sides) were performed to evaluate DDR anatomy. We observed a plane that reflects the position of the DDR passes through 4 bony landmarks: 1) The anterior clinoid-internal carotid artery intersection, 2) the optic strut, 3) the optico-carotid elevation, and 4) the base of the posterior clinoid process. This landmark-based plane can thus define the location of the DDR using 3-dimensional computed tomography angiography (CTA). This was confirmed in 27 surgical patients with intradural/transitional aneurysms and 7 patients with extradural aneurysms confirmed with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The DDR plane method easily classified aneurysm locations as intradural (above the DDR plane), extradural (below the DDR plane), or transitional (the DDR plane crosses the aneurysm). The aneurysm's location was subsequently confirmed intraoperatively or with MRI. RESULTS: The DDR plane method determined if paraclinoid aneurysms were intradural, transitional, or extradural in all 34 cases examined. The visibility of the anatomic features that define the DDR plane was also verified in 82% to 89% of CTA images from 100 patients. CONCLUSION: The DDR plane method provides a useful diagnostic tool to evaluate the position of the DDR and determine the anatomic location of paraclinoid aneurysms.

The Importance of the Temporal Bone 3T MR Imaging in the Diagnosis of Menière's Disease.

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to evaluate endolymphatic hydrops using the 3T temporal bone magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), performed according to the chosen protocol, and determine whether it could be applied as an objective diagnostic tool for Menière's disease. METHODS: 105 participants diagnosed with probable (n = 50) and definite (n = 55) Menière's disease were included in this prospective study at Vilnius University Hospital, Santaros Clinics. Audiometry, vestibular function tests, videonystagmography, and computer posturography were performed before MRI. The 3T MRI with gadolinium contrast was performed to evaluate the endolymphatic hydrops. Imaging protocol consisted of 3D-FLAIR and 3D T2DRIVE sequences. Vestibular endolymphatic sac was interpreted as enlarged if occupied more than 50% of the vestibular area. RESULTS: 78.1% of subjects had abnormal MRI findings other than hydrops, and it was more than 90% (50/55) of patients in the definite MD group (p < 0.001). Changes in caloric test were observed in 63.8% of subjects in general, and in 76.4% of patients with a definite Menière's disease. The side of the endolymphatic hydrops observed on MR imaging corresponded to the clinical diagnosis of the Menière's disease based on the results of audiometry (p < 0.001) and unilateral weakness (p < 0.001). Endolymphatic hydrops on MRI and directional preponderance in caloric test were two independent predictors of the definite Menière's disease. CONCLUSIONS: Temporal bone 3T MRI with gadolinium contrast is clinically superior to confirm the diagnosis of Menière's disease. Grade II endolymphatic hydrops on MRI, directional preponderance, and unilateral weakness on caloric test were independent predictors for the definite Menière's disease.

Is Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Behavior after Endovascular Repair Associated with Aneurysm Wall Density on Computed Tomography Angiography?

Background and objectives: Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) growth is unpredictable after the endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR). Continuing aortic wall degradation and weakening due to hypoxia may have a role in post-EVAR aneurysm sac growth. We aimed to assess the association of aortic wall density on computed tomography angiography (CTA) with aneurysm growth following EVAR. Materials and Methods: A total of 78 patients were included in the study. The control group consisted of 39 randomly assigned patients without aortic pathology. Post-EVAR aneurysm sac volumes on CTA were measured twice during the follow-up period to estimate aneurysm sac behavior. A maximum AAA sac diameter, aortic wall and lumen densities in Hounsfield units (HU) on CTA were measured. A relative aortic wall density (the ratio of aortic wall to lumen densities) was calculated. A statistical data analysis was performed using standard methods. Results: An increase in the AAA sac volume was observed in 12 (30.8%) cases. Median relative aortic wall density on CTA scores in both the patient and the control group at the level of the diaphragm were similar: 0.15 (interquartile range (IQR), 0.11-0.18) and 0.16 (IQR 0.11-0.18), p = 0.5378, respectively. The median (IQR) relative aortic wall density score at the level of the maximum AAA diameter in the patient group was lower than at the level below renal arteries in the control group: 0.10 (0.07-0.12) and 0.17 (0.12-0.23), p < 0.0001, respectively. The median (IQR) relative growing AAA sac wall density score was lower than a relative stable/shrinking AAA sac wall density score: 0.09 (0.06-0.10) and 0.11 (0.09-0.13), p = 0.0096, respectively. Conclusions: A lower aortic aneurysm wall density on CTA may be associated with AAA growth after EVAR.

Aortic sac enlargement after endovascular aneurysm repair: volume-related changes and the impact of intraluminal thrombus.

PURPOSE: Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) growth after endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) is still unpredictable. The issue of optimal frequency of computed tomography angiography for surveillance and its measurement method accuracy remain unclear. We aimed to assess the value of abdominal aneurysm sac volume measurement for detecting expansions and the association of preprocedural intraluminal thrombus (ILT) volume with aneurysm sac growth following EVAR. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A total of 107 patients underwent elective EVAR. Inclusion criteria provided a cohort of 39 patients. Changes of postoperative maximum aneurysm sac diameter and AAA volume were calculated. Volumetric AAA changes and demographic data of the cases with clinically irrelevant AAA diameter enlargement were evaluated. Preoperative ILT volumes were collected. ILT and AAA sac volume ratio was calculated. Statistical data analysis was performed using standard methods. RESULTS: The mean changes of maximum AAA diameter and volume in percentage after EVAR were -5.08 ± 8.20 mm and -13.39 ± 23.32%, respectively. A moderate positive linear correlation between those changes was found (R 2 = 0.731; p < 0.0001). The mean relative AAA volume increase in cases without clinically relevant diameter enlargement was 11.50 ± 8.27%. The means of ILT and AAA sac ratios were 0.59 ± 0.17 and 0.52 ± 1.8 in growing AAA sac and in stable or shrinking AAA sac groups, respectively (p = 0.308). CONCLUSIONS: Volumetric AAA measurement may be useful as an additional method to diameter measurement after EVAR to identify clinically relevant sac growth. Preoperative volume of ILT may not significantly affect the growth rate of AAA after EVAR.

Predicting Prognosis of Patients with Chronic Subdural Hematoma: A New Scoring System.

OBJECTIVE: Chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) is a commonly encountered neurosurgical pathology that frequently requires operative intervention. With an increasing ageing demographic, more elderly and comorbid patients will present with symptomatic CSDH. This study evaluated clinical and radiologic factors to create a scoring system to aid prognostication. METHODS: A cohort of patients undergoing evacuation of CSDH at a single institution was established from 2010 to 2015. Primary endpoint was a dichotomized score on a modified Rankin Scale score at 1-year follow-up (favorable outcome score 0-1; unfavorable outcome score 2-6). Logistic regression analyses were performed to model determinants related to outcome. A prediction rule for diagnosing poor postoperative prognosis with unfavorable modified Rankin Scale score was developed with the obtained results. RESULTS: Logistic regression analyses showed that age >75 years, midline shift >10 mm, and hematoma thickness >30 mm were significantly associated with unfavorable outcome (age >75 years: odds ratio [OR] 0.01, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.001-0.01; midline shift 11-20 mm: OR 0.18, 95% CI 0.04-0.88; midline shift >20 mm: OR 0.03, 95% CI 0.002-0.41; hematoma thickness >30 mm: OR 0.07, 95% CI 0.01-0.46). A scoring system was designed using the final fitted multivariate model. A minimum score of 3 is feasible, indicating worst prognosis, and maximum score of 13 is feasible, indicating best prognosis. A score of ≥9 showed favorable outcome. Receiver operating characteristic curves were constructed to predict favorable versus unfavorable outcomes with the sensitivity analysis yielding an excellent model discrimination with an area under curve of 0.95, 95% CI 0.92-0.98. CONCLUSIONS: A scoring system has been devised to predict outcome, which can aid in the necessity of surgery in certain patient demographics.

Endoscopic retroperitoneal adrenalectomy for adrenal metastases.

Objectives. To evaluate whether retroperitoneal approach for adrenalectomy is a safe and effective treatment for adrenal metastases (AM). Methods. From June 2004 to January 2014, nine consecutive patients with AM were treated with endoscopic retroperitoneal adrenalectomy (ERA). A retrospective study was conducted, and clinical data, tumor characteristics, and oncologic outcomes were acquired and analyzed. Results. Renal cancer was the primary site of malignancy in 44.4% of cases. The mean operative time was 132 ± 10.4 min. There were 5 synchronous and 4 metachronous AM. One patient required conversion to transperitoneal laparoscopic procedure. No mortality or perioperative complications were observed. The median overall survival was 11 months (range: 2-42 months). Survival rates of 50% and 25% were identified at 1 and 3 years, respectively. At the end of the study, 4 patients were alive with a mean observed follow-up of 20 months. No patients presented with local tumor relapse or port-site metastases. Conclusions. This study shows that ERA is a safe and effective procedure for resection of AM and advances the surgical treatment of adrenal disease. The use of the retroperitoneal approach for adrenal tumors less than 6 cm can provide very favorable surgical outcomes.