First Reported Series of Cerebral Angiography Performed at an Outpatient Center: Safety and Satisfaction Results.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs) are increasingly common venues for same-day neurosurgical procedures, allowing for cost-effective, high-quality patient care. We present the first and largest series of patients undergoing diagnostic cerebral angiography at an ASC to demonstrate the effectiveness, safety, and efficiency of outpatient endovascular care. METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed data for consecutive patients who underwent diagnostic cerebral angiography at our ASC between January 1, 2024, and May 29, 2024. Data collected included vascular access approach, procedural duration, turnover time, and periprocedural complications. Using a standardized 2-week postprocedural survey, patients were asked to provide comments and rate their subjective satisfaction from a 1 to 5 scale, with "5" being completely satisfied. All cases were performed with a physician team comprising 1 attending neuroendovascular neurosurgery and 1 neuroendovascular fellow present. Fentanyl and midazolam were administered for conscious sedation in all cases. RESULTS: Among the 67 patients included in this series, the mean procedural duration was 29.4 ± 8.6 minutes. The mean turnover time was 13.7 ± 3.6 minutes. Between transradial (46 of 67 [68.7%]) and transfemoral (21 of 67 [31.3%]) access site approaches, there were no statistically significant differences in mean procedural duration (29.4 ± 8.0 vs 29.2 ± 9.9 minutes, respectively; P = .72) or turnover time (14.0 ± 3.9 vs 12.9 ± 2.8 minutes, respectively; P = .4). No complications occurred periprocedurally or within the 2-week follow-up period. A total of 48 (71.6%) of 67 patients responded to the postprocedural survey, all of whom unanimously reported a score of "5." CONCLUSION: We found that diagnostic cerebral angiography performed at our ASC was safe and effective for patient care. In addition, all survey respondents (71.6% of those provided the survey) reported highest levels of satisfaction. The integration of neuroendovascular procedures into ASCs potentially offers a cost-effective and highly efficient option in an evolving economic landscape.

Cavernous Sinus Thrombosis.

Cavernous sinus thrombosis is a potentially lethal subset of cerebral venous sinus thrombosis that may occur as a result of septic and aseptic etiologies. The overall incidence is estimated to be between 0.2 and 1.6 per 100,000 persons; and treatments include antibiotics, anticoagulation, corticosteroids, and surgery. Recent morbidity and mortality estimates are approximately 15% and 11%, respectively. Rapid identification and treatment are essential and may reduce the risk of poor outcome or death.

Social Determinants of Health and Associations With Outcomes in Pediatric Patients With Brain Tumors.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Social determinants of health (SDOH) are nonmedical factors that affect health outcomes. Limited investigation has been completed on the potential association of these factors to adverse outcomes in pediatric populations. In this study, the authors aimed to analyze the effects of SDOH disparities and their relationship with outcomes after brain tumor resection or biopsy in children. METHODS: The authors retrospectively reviewed the records of their center's pediatric patients with brain tumor. Black race, public insurance, median household income, and distance to hospital were the investigated SDOH factors. Univariate analysis was completed between number of SDOH factors and patient demographics. Multivariate linear regression models were created to identify coassociated determinants and outcomes. RESULTS: A total of 272 patients were identified and included in the final analysis. Among these patients, 81 (29.8%) had no SDOH disparities, 103 (37.9%) had 1, 71 (26.1%) had 2, and 17 (6.2%) had 3. An increased number of SDOH disparities was associated with increased percentage of missed appointments ( P = .002) and emergency room visits ( P = .004). Univariate analysis demonstrated increased missed appointments ( P = .01), number of postoperative imaging ( P = .005), and number of emergency room visits ( P = .003). In multivariate analysis, decreased median household income was independently associated with increased length of hospital stay ( P = .02). CONCLUSION: The SDOH disparities are prevalent and impactful in this vulnerable population. This study demonstrates the need for a shift in research focus toward identifying the full extent of the impact of these factors on postoperative outcomes in pediatric patients with brain tumor.

Non-dermatologic isolated intracranial necrobiotic xanthogranuloma.

Necrobiotic xanthogranuloma is a condition that was first identified in 1980 based on its characteristic histological identity, and it has been known since then as a dermatologic manifestation of an underlying systemic dysproteinemia. Intracranial manifestation is a rare presentation of this condition and has been reported only once in its more than 40 years of existence. Herein and to our knowledge, we report the second observation of an intracranial manifestation and, surprisingly, the first case without the expected dermatologic and systemic dysproteinemia associations. This case identifies an existing knowledge gap in our understanding of necrobiotic xanthogranuloma and emphasises the need for further research into understanding the presentation, comorbidities and management of this condition.

Expansion and Subsequent Rupture of Carotid Pseudoaneurysm After Tandem Carotid and Middle Cerebral Artery Occlusion Treated With Mechanical Thrombectomy and Carotid Stenting.

BACKGROUND AND IMPORTANCE: Extracranial carotid artery pseudoaneurysm is a rare entity with potential etiologies including infection, blunt trauma, postsurgical atherosclerotic disease, and invasive neoplasia. Although the natural history of carotid pseudoaneurysm is difficult to determine because of its rarity, complications such as stroke, rupture, and local mass effect may occur at staggering rates. CLINICAL PRESENTATION: In this case, a middle-aged man presented with a tandem carotid, middle cerebral artery occlusion that was treated with a carotid stent and mechanical thrombectomy. He returned 3 weeks later with a ruptured carotid pseudoaneurysm that was then treated with a covered stent. He made a full recovery and was neurologically intact on follow-up. CONCLUSION: This case illustrates a rare potential complication of carotid occlusion and stenting with possible catastrophic consequences. The goal of this report was to educate other clinicians in remaining vigilant in awareness of this complication and provide a framework for potential treatment if and when it occurs.

Salvage of Intraoperative Rupture of a Wide-Necked Middle Cerebral Artery Bifurcation Aneurysm: The Felt-Fenestrated Clipping Technique.

BACKGROUND: Intraoperative aneurysm rupture during microsurgical clipping can be managed with different salvage techniques. In an aneurysm with a very wide neck that is located at a bifurcation, repairing an iatrogenic tear can be challenging and carry the risk of branch occlusion and infarction. OBJECTIVE: To describe a variation of the cotton-clipping technique modified to better fit the bifurcation anatomy, which we call "felt-fenestrated clipping." METHODS: An illustrative case of intraoperative rupture of a wide-necked middle cerebral artery bifurcation aneurysm is presented. Radiological imaging, operative video, and technique illustration were obtained and prepared for this report. RESULTS: A middle-aged woman underwent microsurgical clipping of a wide-necked middle cerebral artery bifurcation aneurysm. A right-angle clip became dislodged from the clip applier and snapped across the aneurysm causing a small rupture at the base. This was later determined to be the result of improper placement of a standard clip onto a mini-clip applier. After a few salvage attempts, a small piece of Teflon felt was placed over the rupture site and held in place using a straight, fenestrated clip. Then, the right-angle clip was applied over the true neck of the aneurysm and the edge of the rupture site, covering the Teflon felt to obtain true hemostasis. CONCLUSION: We demonstrate a technically successful felt-fenestrated clipping technique for treatment of an intraoperative rupture not amenable to other salvage options. This technique is useful to achieve hemostasis while preserving branches in wide-necked bifurcation aneurysms.

Volumetric resolution of chronic subdural hematomas treated with surgical evacuation versus middle meningeal artery embolization during immediate, early, and late follow up: propensity-score matched cohorts.

BACKGROUND: Literature on volumetric resolution and recurrence over time between surgical evacuation alone (SEA) and standalone middle meningeal artery embolization (MMAE) in comparable chronic subdural hematoma (cSDH) patients is limited. METHODS: A retrospective database analysis of cSDH patients managed with either SEA or MMAE was conducted. Propensity-score matching was performed for axial and coronal lengths, maximum diameter, and midline shift. Volumetric measurements at multiple time intervals and recurrence were compared between the groups. RESULTS: 48 matched hematoma pairs in patients with similar demographics, comorbidities, medications, and symptoms were obtained. Median volume was significantly lower at 24 hours in the SEA group (12.6 mL vs 52.7 mL, p<0.001) but not at remaining intervals. Median volume reduction was significantly greater in the SEA group at 24 hours (39.1 mL vs 8.8 mL in the MMAE group, p<0.001) and at 3-12 weeks (50.8 mL vs 23.7 mL, p<0.001), but not at remaining intervals. The SEA group had a significantly greater median hematoma resolution rate at 24 hours (39.1 mL/day vs 8.8 mL/day, p<0.001) and 3-12 weeks (1 mL/day vs 0.4 mL/day, p<0.001), but not at remaining intervals. Near-complete resolution at 3-12 weeks and 12-60 weeks was not significantly different between groups. Overall, the recurrence rate was significantly higher in the SEA group (22.9% vs 4.2%, p=0.01). CONCLUSIONS: In comparable cSDH patients, SEA resulted in better volumetric outcomes in immediate postoperative and early follow-up periods, as expected. However, this difference was not significant at more distant follow-up intervals. Furthermore, surgical patients experienced a significantly higher rate of recurrence.

Mechanical thrombectomy with a balloon-guide catheter: sheathless transradial versus transfemoral approach.

BACKGROUND: The transradial approach (TRA) for mechanical thrombectomy (MT) for acute ischemic stroke has been limited by the size of catheters usable in the radial artery, with the smaller access site precluding balloon-guide catheter (BGC) use. However, promising results have been reported for a TRA with a sheathless BGC (sTRA). We sought to perform a comparative study of MT with a BGC via the sTRA versus the transfemoral approach (TFA). METHODS: A retrospective review of our MT database was conducted. Baseline, procedure-related, and outcome data were compared for patients aged ≥18 years with anterior circulation large vessel occlusion, Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score ≥6, and prestroke modified Rankin Scale score ≤2 treated with either approach. RESULTS: Ninety-three consecutive patients (34 sTRA and 59 TFA) were included. Both groups had similar demographics, comorbidities, stroke severity, intravenous alteplase use, and occlusion location. Mean time from puncture to final recanalization was faster in the sTRA group (29 vs 36 min, p=0.059) despite a higher access site crossover rate in the sTRA group (11.8% vs 0%, p=0.016). There were no differences between groups regarding last modified Thombolysis in Cerebral Infarction score; first-pass or modified first-pass effect; time from last known well to puncture; use of stent-retriever, aspiration, or combination first approach; number of passes; symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage; hospital stay; 90-day functional independence; and mortality. National Institutes of Health Scale score and modified first-pass effect were the only independent predictors of poor outcomes. CONCLUSIONS: Comparable patients treated with MT via the sTRA or TFA had similar angiographic and clinical outcomes.

Extensive Symptomatic Thoracolumbar Epidural Lipomatosis Treated With Minimally Invasive Hemilaminectomies: Technical Case Report.

BACKGROUND AND IMPORTANCE: Spinal epidural lipomatosis is a rare condition commonly associated with chronic corticosteroid use and obesity that involves deposition of adipose tissue in the epidural space of the spinal canal. This accumulation of adipose tissue may cause compression of the spinal cord and/or nerve roots and result in compressive symptoms such as myelopathy or radiculopathy. Spinal involvement is usually confined to either the thoracic or lumbar spine but can infrequently affect both regions. Depending on pre-existing conditions, treatment options include weight loss and discontinuation of exogenous steroid use, both of which have been shown to be effective therapeutic methods. Surgical decompression may be useful for appropriately selected patients in whom conservative therapy has failed or who experience acute neurological deterioration, although this is rarely indicated. CLINICAL PRESENTATION: In this study, we describe a patient receiving long-term corticosteroid therapy who presented with symptomatic epidural lipomatosis that involved the thoracic and lumbar spine. She was treated with decompression by continuous T3-L5 hemilaminectomies performed through 5 small incisions of alternating laterality. After surgery, the patient experienced clinical improvement and was able to return to her baseline. CONCLUSION: We illustrate a successful spinal decompression of extensive epidural lipomatosis through a less-invasive surgical approach using several small incisions to accomplish uninterrupted hemilaminectomies. This alternative approach to a standard continuous incision can be considered in cases of extensive spinal epidural lipomatosis in patients with multiple medical comorbidities in whom wound healing is believed to be an issue and for whom minimizing blood loss is crucial.

Minimally Invasive Resection of Intraventricular Pilocytic Astrocytoma Using the Aurora Surgiscope in an Adult Patient: Technical Note.

BACKGROUND: Pilocytic astrocytomas account for approximately 5%-6% of all gliomas and are most commonly diagnosed between the ages of 8 and 13 years. Although they may occur throughout the neuraxis, approximately two thirds arise from the cerebellum and optic pathway. Other locations of origin include midline structures such as thalamus, hypothalamus, and periventricular regions. Surgical approaches to lateral or third ventricular tumors include anterior transcallosal, subfrontal translamina terminalis, and anterior transcortical approaches. The Aurora Surgiscope is a single-use, disposable minimally invasive neurological endoscope designed for intraparenchymal hemorrhage evacuation. We present the successful use of this system to aid resection of a large intraventricular pilocytic astrocytoma. METHODS: A 29-year-old man presented with signs of developing hydrocephalus and was found to have a large intraventricular tumor, which was later identified to be a rare intraventricular pilocytic astrocytoma. A ventriculostomy was performed as a temporizing measure, and he was transferred to our tertiary care facility for surgical management. Sulcal dissection was performed, and the endoscope was inserted to create a minimally invasive corridor to the lateral ventricle. Using the endoscope, bimanual surgery using multiple instruments simultaneously was possible and enabled gross total resection of the tumor. RESULTS: The patient tolerated the procedure well and was discharged at his neurological baseline level. CONCLUSIONS: Extensive sulcal dissection preceding placement of the endoscope allowed access to the intraventricular space with minimal passage of parenchymal tissue. High-definition visualization was provided and allowed the operating surgeon to freely use both hands during surgery.

Ventral Intrameningeal Cyst Treatment and Management: Technical Note.

BACKGROUND: Intrameningeal cysts are rare lesions without definitive etiologies that can involve the dura or arachnoid mater. Spinal arachnoid cysts have been described, and several different etiologies have been hypothesized. This includes one-way valve mechanisms, traumatic herniation of arachnoid through the dura, and abnormal arachnoid membrane proliferation. To the authors' knowledge, no such descriptions exist regarding purely dural-based cystic lesions; however, the authors hypothesize similar mechanisms may be involved. Most notably, a traumatic injury to the dura leading to a one-way valve mechanism may allow for egress of cerebrospinal fluid between the dural layers, splitting them open. This progressive enlargement can lead to displacement of neural elements and subsequent neurological compromise. METHODS: We describe a 17-year-old girl who presented with progressive neck and back pain, left upper-extremity numbness, bilateral lower-extremity weakness, paresthesias, and numbness without obvious etiology despite an extensive neurologic investigation. She had undergone conservative management options including multiple medications, physical and chiropractic therapy, and epidural steroid injections. Computed tomography myelography revealed a cerebrospinal fluid leak into the lumbar epidural space for which surgical exploration was performed. Despite utilizing fluoroscopy and intrathecal fluorescein, no leak source was identified. Fluid collection was found contained within the dural layers rather than the epidural space. RESULTS: An intracystic blood patch was performed with near-complete resolution of the lesion by 6-week follow-up and near-complete return of neurologic function. CONCLUSIONS: Ventral panspinal cysts are an exceedingly rare cause of radiculopathy and myelopathy that can be resolved by an intracystic blood patch.

Indolent nonendemic central nervous system histoplasmosis presenting as an isolated intramedullary enhancing spinal cord lesion.

BACKGROUND: Histoplasma capsulatum infection is largely seen in endemic regions; it results in symptomatic disease in <5% of those infected and is most often a self-limiting respiratory disease. Disseminated histoplasmosis is considered rare in the immunocompetent host. Central nervous system (CNS) dissemination can result in meningitis, encephalitis, and focal lesions in the brain and spinal cord, stroke, and hydrocephalus. An intramedullary spinal cord lesion as the only manifestation of CNS histoplasmosis has been rarely described. CASE DESCRIPTION: We present an atypical case of a 44-year-old man from a nonendemic region, on adalimumab therapy for ulcerative colitis who developed an isolated intramedullary spinal cord lesion in the setting of disseminated histoplasmosis. His course was initially indolent with vague systemic symptoms that led to consideration of several other diagnoses including sarcoidosis and lymphoma. Biopsies of several positron emission tomography positive lymph nodes revealed granulomatous inflammation, but no firm diagnosis was achieved. He was ultimately diagnosed with histoplasmosis after an acute respiratory infection in the setting of anti-tumor necrosis factor therapy. With appropriate antifungal therapy, the spinal cord lesion regressed. The previous systemic biopsies were re-reviewed, and rare fungal elements consistent with H. capsulatum were identified. A presumptive diagnosis of CNS histoplasmosis was made in the absence of direct laboratory confirmation in the setting of rapid and complete resolution on antifungal therapy. CONCLUSION: Disseminated histoplasmosis should be considered in granulomatous disease, even if the patient resides in a nonendemic region. Furthermore, clinicians should be mindful that CNS histoplasmosis may present in an atypical fashion.

Spinal cord detethering without laminectomy or laminotomy.

BACKGROUND: Tethered cord syndrome occurs when there is abnormal tension on the distal spinal cord, which limits its elevation as patients grow. This results in stretching of the neural elements and microvasculature, resulting in both direct and ischemic injury.[7] Animal studies suggest that impairment of oxidative metabolic pathways may contribute to neuronal injury.[7] Associated conditions include myelomeningocele, lipomyelomeningocele, intraspinal lipomas, diastematomyelia, thickened/fatty filum terminale, and trauma.[2] Tethering may be asymptomatic or result in a variety of symptoms including lower extremity weakness/sensory deficits, bowel/bladder dysfunction, scoliosis, pes cavus, and back/leg pain.[6] Early surgical intervention has been shown to improve outcomes and may be performed prophylactically or to prevent symptom progression.[1,3] More specifically, retrospective studies demonstrate that surgical intervention in patients under the age of 2 years is associated with improved outcomes.[5] In some cases, detethering may result in clinical improvement.[3]. CASE DESCRIPTION: We present a case of a 6-month-old male with a low-lying conus medullaris, lumbar syrinx, mildly abnormal urodynamic studies, and asymmetric utilization of his lower extremities observed during the evaluation of a Y-shaped gluteal cleft. He underwent elective spinal cord detethering via the safe and effective, minimally invasive technique described in the video.The patient's parents gave informed consent for treatment and video recording. Institutional review board approval was deemed unnecessary. CONCLUSION: Given the variety of surgical techniques used for cord detethering, this video may assist other surgeons in developing techniques that require little to no compromise of the developing bony spinal column while achieving sufficient release of the spinal cord.[4].

Infundibular hemangioblastoma resection: Video case report.

Background: Hemangioblastomas are benign (World Health Organization Grade I), highly vascular neoplasms commonly associated with Von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) disease.[2] The VHL tumor-suppressor gene, located on chromosome 3, is implicated in sporadic cases and cases associated with VHL disease. Hemangioblastomas most commonly arise in the posterior fossa; however, they may also be found supratentorially or within the spinal cord.[3] Surgical intervention is indicated for symptomatic lesions with a goal of complete resection of the enhancing nodule.[1]. Case Description: We demonstrate the case of a 69-year-old man with a history of multiple hemangioblastomas who had undergone two previous craniotomies and Gamma-Knife radiosurgery (Video https://drive.google.com/file/d/1lUwsb80NLmIW2Enp-DVdtM9_Oqbid3Ih/view?usp=sharing). He presented with progressive imbalance and diplopia and was found to have a new lesion within the suprasellar cistern. Digital subtraction angiography (DSA) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) characteristics were typical of hemangioblastoma. Surgery was determined to be indicated, with a goal of vision preservation. Preoperative embolization was not possible because preoperative DSA demonstrated vascular supply by only small perforators directly from the internal carotid artery. Hypopituitarism was identified preoperatively, although diabetes insipidus was not present. The patient underwent a right orbitozygomatic craniotomy and extradural anterior clinoidectomy for access. The tumor was noted to encapsulate the infundibulum, which necessitated its sacrifice. Postoperatively, the patient remained at his neurologic baseline. He had a positive triphasic diabetes insipidus response and was discharged home on maintenance desmopressin. Postoperative MRI demonstrated complete lesion resection.The patient gave informed consent for treatment and video recording. Institutional review board approval was deemed unnecessary. Conclusion: This video highlights a safe and effective surgical technique for suprasellar lesions as well as the complex anatomy observed through an orbitozygomatic approach.

Management of Iatrogenic Internal Carotid Artery Injury During Medial Sphenoid Wing Meningioma Resection: 2-Dimensional Operative Video.

Medial sphenoid wing meningiomas constitute up to 10% of all intracranial meningiomas.1 These meningiomas have a tendency to engulf the internal carotid artery (ICA), its termination, and the middle cerebral artery. These arteries and the optic apparatus are at a particularly high risk of injury during the microsurgical resection of these tumors. ICA injuries are potentially devastating and challenging to manage. In this technical video, we demonstrate the management of inadvertent ICA terminus injury during the microsurgical resection of the medial sphenoid. Rapid vascular control was obtained with temporary clips on the ICA and anterior cerebral artery (ACA). Tamponade with a felt and primary repair of the arterial tear were attempted without success. We then created a tamponade around the tear with the help of a Hemashield strip (Meadox Medicals, Oakland, New Jersey), which was secured with a 90-degree-angled clip. Temporary clips were removed, and microsurgical dissection was completed. The Hemashield strip was removed at the end of the procedure. This maneuver resulted in complete hemostasis. Vascular patency was confirmed using Doppler imaging and intraoperative indocyanine green angiography. Postoperatively, the patient had transient right-sided weakness, which resolved 2 d later. The patient was discharged without any neurological deficit. The patient gave informed consent for surgery and video recording. Institutional review board approval was deemed unnecessary. Video ©University at Buffalo, April 2020. Published with permission.

Ventriculoperitoneal shunt placement with ultrasound guidance and laparoscopic assistance: 2-dimensional instructional video.

BACKGROUND: Postoperative communicating hydrocephalus has been described in the literature commonly associated with treatment of ruptured intracranial aneurysms; however, it is also reported to occur following other intracranial interventions such as meningioma resection and decompressive hemicraniectomy. In 2011, Burkhardt et al. reported the incidence of postoperative hydrocephalus following skull base meningioma resection was twice as high as resection of meningiomas in other regions.[1] They found that age and increased length of surgery were associated with higher rates of postoperative hydrocephalus. Our patient, a 76-year-old man, initially presented with the left-hand paresthesias and numbness before the revelation of a large sphenoid planum meningioma on workup imaging. He underwent surgical resection due to developing cranial nerve deficits and personality changes in an extensive procedure that required approximately 8 h to complete. His postoperative course, given the factors above, included the development of hydrocephalus. CASE DESCRIPTION: He was taken to the operating room for ventriculoperitoneal shunt placement, as displayed in this video case report, which highlights our surgical and sterile techniques, intraoperative ultrasound to ensure appropriate ventricular placement, and a single-port laparoscopic technique for direct visualization of placement of the abdominal catheter. After shunt placement, his course was complicated by a small tract hemorrhage, which resolved without further treatment. He was observed to have an improvement in mental function that occurred over the following 2-3 days before being discharged to an outpatient rehabilitation facility for continued care. CONCLUSION: Ventriculoperitoneal shunt placement is an effective and safe procedure for the treatment of postoperative communicating hydrocephalus when performed with appropriate techniques as displayed in the associated video case report. The patient gave informed consent for surgery and video recording. Institutional Review Board approval was deemed unnecessary.

Transradial middle meningeal artery embolization for chronic subdural hematoma using Onyx: case series.

BACKGROUND: Middle meningeal artery (MMA) embolization is an emerging therapy for the resolution of subacute or chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH). CSDH patients are often elderly and have several comorbidities. We evaluated our experience with transradial access (TRA) for MMA embolization using predominantly Onyx under conscious sedation. METHODS: Data for consecutive patients who underwent transradial MMA embolization for CSDH during a 2-year period (2018-2019) were analyzed from a single-center, prospectively-maintained database. Patient demographics, comorbidities, ambulatory times, subdural hematoma resorption status, and guide catheter type were recorded. Conversion to femoral access and complication rates were also recorded. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed. RESULTS: Forty-six patients (mean age, 71.7±14.4 years) were included in this study. Mean CSDH size was 14±5.5 mm. Most (91.3%) TRA embolizations were performed with 6-French 0.071-inch Benchmark guide catheters (Penumbra). MMA embolization was successful in 44 patients (95.7%) (including two cases of TRA conversion). Twenty-one (48%) patients had a severe Charlson Comorbidity Index (>5). Symptomatic improvement was noted in 39 of 44 patients (88.6%). Mean length of stay was 4±3 days. Patients were ambulated immediately postprocedure. At mean follow-up (8±4 weeks), 86.4% of patients had complete or partial CSDH resolution. Persistent use of antiplatelet agents after the procedure was associated with failed or minimal CSDH resorption (5 of 6, 83.3% vs 9 of 38 23.7% with complete or near-complete resolution; P=0.009). CONCLUSION: Transradial Onyx MMA embolization under conscious sedation is safe and effective for CSDH treatment. TRA may be especially useful in elderly patients with numerous comorbidities.

Endoscopic Carpal Tunnel Release.

Carpal tunnel syndrome represents compression of the median nerve in the carpal tunnel, which is defined by the carpal bones on the lateral, medial, and dorsal aspects and the transverse carpal ligament on the anterior aspect.1 Symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome include paresthesia, anesthesia, paresis, and pain located in the median nerve distribution. In severe cases, there may be atrophy of median nerve-innervated thenar muscles. In the United States, carpal tunnel syndrome affects approximately 3.72% of the population.2 Conservative measures, such as bracing, steroid injections, and physical and occupational therapy, are commonly employed.1 However, many patients still require more definitive surgical management, which may be in the form of open or endoscopic procedures. Regardless of surgical approach, the clinical success rates of carpal tunnel release have been reported to be 75%-90%.3 Recurrence rates are 8.4%-15% over 4-5 years,4,5 with the lower end of this range representing the Agee single-portal technique. Endoscopic carpal tunnel release leads to reduced postoperative pain and an increase in transient neurologic deficits; however, no improvements have been reported in overall complication rate, subjective satisfaction, return to work, postoperative grip and pinch strength, and operative time.6 In this technical video, we present a case of single-incision endoscopic carpal tunnel release in a patient with severe symptoms after conservative measures failed. The patient experienced a noncomplicated postoperative course and demonstrated an excellent recovery at follow-up visits. Surgical decompression is an important treatment for refractory carpal tunnel syndrome, and videos such as this provide guidance for safe and effective treatment (Video 1).

Overexpression of human wtTDP-43 causes impairment in hippocampal plasticity and behavioral deficits in CAMKII-tTa transgenic mouse model.

AIMS: The current study utilizes the adeno-associated viral gene transfer system in the CAMKIIα-tTA mouse model to overexpress human wild type TDP-43 (wtTDP-43) and α-synuclein (α-Syn) proteins. The co-existence of these proteins is evident in the pathology of neurodegenerative disorders such as frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD), Parkinson disease (PD), and dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB). METHODS: The novel bicistronic recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) serotype 9 drives wtTDP-43 and α-Syn expression in the hippocampus via "TetO" CMV promoter. Behavior, electrophysiology, and biochemical and histological assays were used to validate neuropathology. RESULTS: We report that overexpression of wtTDP-43 but not α-Syn contributes to hippocampal CA2-specific pyramidal neuronal loss and overall hippocampal atrophy. Further, we report a reduction of hippocampal long-term potentiation and decline in learning and memory performance of wtTDP-43 expressing mice. Elevated wtTDP-43 levels induced selective degeneration of Purkinje cell protein 4 (PCP-4) positive neurons while both wtTDP-43 and α-Syn expression reduced subsets of the glutamate receptor expression in the hippocampus. CONCLUSIONS: Overall, our findings suggest the significant vulnerability of hippocampal neurons toward elevated wtTDP-43 levels possibly via PCP-4 and GluR-dependent calcium signaling pathways. Further, we report that wtTDP-43 expression induced selective CA2 subfield degeneration, contributing to the deterioration of the hippocampal-dependent cognitive phenotype.