Cerebrospinal fluid velocity changes of idiopathic scoliosis: a preliminary study on 3-T PC-MRI and 3D-SPACE-VFAM data.

OBJECTIVES: To the best of our knowledge, there is no study on 3-Tesla (3-T) phase-contrast MRI (PC-MRI) and three-dimensional sampling perfection with application-optimized contrasts using different flip-angle evolutions (3D-SPACE-VFAM) in the evaluation of idiopathic scoliosis. This study aimed to investigate CSF abnormalities in the scoliotic spine using 3-T PC-MRI and 3D-SPACE-VFAM techniques. METHODS: Thirty-four patients and 14 controls were examined with spinal PC-MRI and T2-weighted 3D-SPACE-VFAM techniques. Inter- and intra-reader agreements of flow-void phenomenon on 3D-SPACE-VFAM images, and velocity values on PC-MRI data were also evaluated. RESULTS: There are statistically significant differences between scoliosis and control groups based on the highest and mean peak velocity values on PC-MRI images (p = 0.005 and p = 0.023, respectively). The main thoracic (MT) group's highest peak CSF velocity values were higher than the control group (p = 0.022). There is a significant difference between the patient and control groups regarding flow-void phenomenon scores on 3D-SPACE-VFAM images (p = 0.036). Inter- and intra-reader agreement values related to PC-MRI velocity measurements were perfect for all PC-MRI readings. Inter- and intra-reader agreement values of the flow-void phenomenon scores were moderate. CONCLUSIONS: Our study has led us to conclude that idiopathic scoliosis is associated with CSF flow disturbances in parallel with the literature. MRI can demonstrate these abnormalities in a non-invasive and radiation-free way.

Detection of cholesteatoma: High-resolution DWI using RS-EPI and parallel imaging at 3 tesla.

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the impact of RS-EPI-DWI in the detection of cholesteatoma and to compare with single-shot echo-planar DWI (SS-EPI-DWI). Diffusion-weighted and apparent diffusion-coefficient (ADC) images were obtained using RS-EPI and SS-EPI techniques in 30 patients. Presence of cholesteatoma (3 point scale), amount of artefacts (4 point scale), visibility (4 point scale), and ADC values of the lesions were assessed. The results of both techniques were compared with each other and gold-standard (GS) test results. Lesion visibility and presence of artefact scores of RS-EPI-DWI group were significantly different from those of the SS-EPI group. RS-EPI-DWI images had fewer artefacts and higher visibility scores. The sensitivity, specificity, negative/positive-predictive, and overall-agreement values of RS-EPI-DWI technique were 100%, 78%, 100%, 74%, and 87%; respectively. These values for SS-EPI-DWI technique were 91%, 60%, 88%, 67%, and 75%; respectively. Also, these values were higher on axial plane than coronal plane images for ADC measurements. Based on gold-standard test findings, agreement values were good (κ=0.74) for RS-EPI-DWI and moderate for SS-EP-DWI (κ=0.50) techniques (P<0.001 for both). The RS-EPI-DWI technique allows a higher spatial-resolution and this technique is less susceptible to artefacts when compared with SS-EPI technique.

Use of the Woven EndoBridge Device for Sidewall Aneurysms: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: The Woven EndoBridge device was originally approved to treat intracranial wide-neck saccular bifurcation aneurysms. Recent studies have suggested its use for the treatment of sidewall intracranial aneurysms with variable success. PURPOSE: Our aim was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of the Woven EndoBridge device for sidewall aneurysms using a meta-analysis of the literature. DATA SOURCES: We performed a systematic review of all studies including patients treated with the Woven EndoBridge device for sidewall aneurysms from inception until May 2022 on Scopus, EMBASE, MEDLINE, the Web of Science, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials. STUDY SELECTION: Ten studies were selected, and 285 patients with 288 sidewall aneurysms were included. DATA ANALYSIS: A random-effects meta-analysis of proportions using a generalized linear mixed model was performed as appropriate. Statistical heterogeneity across studies was assessed with I2 statistics. DATA SYNTHESIS: The adequate occlusion rate at last follow-up was 89% (95% CI, 81%-94%; I2, = 0%), the composite safety outcome was 8% (95% CI, 3%-17%; I2 = 34%), and the mortality rate was 2% (95% CI, 1%-7%; I2 = 0%). Aneurysm width (OR = 0.5; P = .03) was the only significant predictor of complete occlusion. LIMITATIONS: Given the level of evidence, our results should be interpreted cautiously until confirmation from larger prospective studies is obtained. CONCLUSIONS: The initial evidence evaluating the use of the Woven EndoBridge device for the treatment of wide-neck sidewall intracranial aneurysms has demonstrated high rates of adequate occlusion with low procedural complications. Our findings favor the consideration of the Woven EndoBridge device as an option for the treatment of sidewall aneurysms.

Phase-contrast MRI and 3D-CISS versus contrast-enhanced MR cisternography for the detection of spontaneous third ventriculostomy.

PURPOSE: To compare the diagnostic efficacies of phase-contrast MRI (PC-MRI) and three-dimensional constructive interference in steady-state (3D-CISS) sequence for the detection of spontaneous third ventriculostomy (STV) on the basis of contrast-enhanced MR cisternography (MRC). PATIENTS AND METHODS: Eleven obstructive hydrocephalus patients with clinically-radiologically suspected STV and ten controls were examined by PC-MRI, 3D-CISS and MRC. PC-MRI and 3D-CISS sequence were applied to view the third ventricle and basal cisterns. Following injection of 0.5-1ml intrathecal Gd-DTPA injection, postcontrast MRC images were obtained in three planes. Presence of STV was scored as follows: grade 0, no existence of STV; grade 1, STV present. Results of PC-MRI and 3D-CISS were compared with the MRC findings. RESULTS: In PC-MRI, five patients were assessed as grade 0 and six cases grade 1. As a result of 3D-CISS sequence, eight cases were evaluated as grade 0 and three cases grade 1. Based on MRC, nine cases were assessed as grade 0 and two cases grade 1. False positivity was found in four cases by PC-MRI and in one case by 3D-CISS. The sensitivity, specificity and accuracy of PC-MRI and 3D-CISS sequence regarding demonstration of STV, were 100, 100, 56, 89, 64, and 91% respectively. DISCUSSION: PC-MRI and 3D-CISS are helpful in confirming the STV. PC-MRI and 3D-CISS should be the first preference. If PC-MRI and 3D-CISS give negative results, then MRC is not required. MRC should be performed on patients who demonstrate suspected STV findings on PC-MRI and 3D-CISS sequences. MRC may prevent false positive results.

Microfracture technique versus carbon fibre rod implantation for treatment of knee articular cartilage lesions.

PURPOSE: To compare the microfracture technique with carbon fibre rod implantation for treatment of knee articular cartilage lesions. METHODS: 10 men and 30 women aged 22 to 56 (mean, 37.4) years underwent microfracture (n=20) or carbon fibre rod implantation (n=20) for International Cartilage Repair Society grade 3 to 4 knee articular cartilage lesions after a mean of 12.2 months of viscosupplementation and physiotherapy. Clinical outcome at 6 and 12 months was assessed using the Tegner-Lysholm score and modified Cincinnati score. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) outcome at 12 months was assessed by a radiologist. The modified magnetic resonance observation of cartilage repair tissue (MOCART) score was evaluated. RESULTS: The 2 groups were comparable in terms of age, body mass index, lesion location, lesion size, duration of symptoms, and coexisting pathology. The microfracture group had a higher preoperative Tegner-Lysholm score (39.4±7.3 vs. 34.4±4.9, p=0.015) and modified Cincinnati score (36.4±7.2 vs. 30.4±4.0, p=0.002) than the carbon fibre rod group. At 12 months, change in both scores was significant within each group (p<0.001) and was higher in the microfracture than carbon fibre rod group (p<0.001). MRI showed minimal regenerative tissue. Lobulation, oedema, and hypertrophy were more commonly found in the regeneration tissue after carbon fibre rod implantation than microfracture. At 12 months, the MOCART score was higher in the microfracture than carbon fibre rod group (59 vs. 47, p<0.001). CONCLUSION: Microfracture is superior to carbon fibre rod implantation in terms of clinical and radiological outcome.

Investigation of Heschl's gyrus and planum temporale in patients with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder: a proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy study.

BACKGROUND: Superior temporal cortices include brain regions dedicated to auditory processing and several lines of evidence suggest structural and functional abnormalities in both schizophrenia and bipolar disorder within this brain region. However, possible glutamatergic dysfunction within this region has not been investigated in adult patients. METHODS: Thirty patients with schizophrenia (38.67±12.46years of age), 28 euthymic patients with bipolar I disorder (35.32±9.12years of age), and 30 age-, gender- and education-matched healthy controls were enrolled. Proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy data were acquired using a 3.0T Siemens MAGNETOM TIM Trio MR system and single voxel Point REsolved Spectroscopy Sequence (PRESS) in order to quantify brain metabolites within the left and right Heschl's gyrus and planum temporale of superior temporal cortices. RESULTS: There were significant abnormalities in glutamate (Glu) (F(2,78)=8.52, p<0.0001), N-acetyl aspartate (tNAA) (F(2,81)=5.73, p=0.005), creatine (tCr) (F(2,83)=5.91, p=0.004) and inositol (Ins) (F(2,82)=8.49, p<0.0001) concentrations in the left superior temporal cortex. In general, metabolite levels were lower for bipolar disorder patients when compared to healthy participants. Moreover, patients with bipolar disorder exhibited significantly lower tCr and Ins concentrations when compared to schizophrenia patients. In addition, we have found significant correlations between the superior temporal cortex metabolites and clinical measures. CONCLUSION: As the left auditory cortices are associated with language and speech, left hemisphere specific abnormalities may have clinical significance. Our findings are suggestive of shared glutamatergic abnormalities in schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.

Intrathecal gadolinium-enhanced MR cisternography: a comprehensive review.

CE-MRC has been in use for the past 15 years and was reported to be a useful method in the evaluation of CSF disorders and hydrocephalus. The use of CE-MRC in conjunction with other MR imaging techniques has been shown to be effective in selected cases for the evaluation of several disorders of cerebrospinal system. CE-MRC has certain advantages over other cisternographic studies with fewer side effects if performed properly. Although intrathecal Gd administration is not widely accepted yet, several recent studies have reported the safety of small-dose intrathecal gadolinium injection. In this review, we describe CE-MRC and review recent applications in several clinical conditions.

Evaluation of aqueductal stenosis by 3D sampling perfection with application-optimized contrasts using different flip angle evolutions sequence: preliminary results with 3T MR imaging.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Diagnosis of AS and periaqueductal abnormalities by routine MR imaging sequences is challenging for neuroradiologists. The aim of our study was to evaluate the utility of the 3D-SPACE sequence with VFAM in patients with suspected AS. MATERIALS AND METHODS: PC-MRI and 3D-SPACE images were obtained in 21 patients who had hydrocephalus on routine MR imaging scans and had clinical suspicion of AS, as well as in 12 control subjects. Aqueductal patency was visually scored (grade 0, normal; grade 1, partial obstruction; grade 2, complete stenosis) by 2 experienced radiologists on PC-MRI (plus routine T1-weighted and T2-weighted images) and 3D-SPACE images. Two separate scores were statistically compared with each other as well as with the consensus scores obtained from general agreement of both radiologists. RESULTS: There was an excellent correlation between 3D-SPACE and PC-MRI scores (κ = 0.828). The correlation between 3D-SPACE scorings and consensus-based scorings was higher compared with the correlation between PC-MRI and consensus-based scorings (r = 1, P < .001 and r = 0.966, P < .001, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: 3D-SPACE sequence with VFAM alone can be used for adequate and successful evaluation of the aqueductal patency without the need for additional sequences and examinations. Noninvasive evaluation of the whole cranium is possible in a short time with high resolution by using 3D-SPACE.

Comparison between Capsule Endoscopy and Magnetic Resonance Enterography for the Detection of Polyps of the Small Intestine in Patients with Familial Adenomatous Polyposis.

Objective. The objective of this study was to assess the utility of magnetic resonance enterography (MRE) compared with capsule endoscopy (CE) for the detection of small-bowel polyps in patients with familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP). Methods. Patients underwent MRE and CE. The polyps were classified according to size of polyp: <5 mm (small size), 5-10 mm (medium size), or >10 mm (large size). The location (jejunum or ileum) and the number of polyps (1-5, 6-20, >20) detected by CE were also assessed. MRE findings were compared with the results of CE. Results. Small-bowel polyps, were detected by CE in 4 of the 6 (66%) patients. Three patients had small-sized polyps and one patient had medium-sized polyps. CE detected polyps in four patients that, were not shown on MRE. Desmoid tumors were detected on anterior abdominal wall by MRE. Conclusion. In patients with FAP, CE can detect small-sized polyps in the small intestine not seen with MRE whereas MRE yields additional extraintestinal information.

Giant dilatations of virchow-robin spaces in the midbrain. MRI aspects and review of the literature.

Virchow-Robin spaces are lesions often seen in the brain parenchyma but their etiopathogenesis remains unsettled. Giant Virchow-Robin spaces placed in the midbrain are extremely rare. We describe three patients with a diagnosis of giant Virchow-Robin spaces in the midbrain, and their clinical and radiologic findings. We reviewed the literature in terms of the etiopathology, anatomic and radiologic appearance and differential diagnosis of the giant Virchow-Robin spaces. The diagno-stic role of the high Tesla magnetic resonance devices and new sequences techniques such as three dimensional isotropic acquisition and diffusion tensor imaging were also evaluated in this case series.

An unusual cause of multiple cerebral hemorrhages: drotrecogin alpha (activated protein C).

The mortality of severe sepsis is still high, despite improved treatment modalities. It is known that treatment with DAA reduces mortality in this condition; however, major bleeding may occur as a complication. We present a patient with normal findings on platelet and coagulation tests who developed multiple cerebral hemorrhages after DAA infusion. Patients with septic shock who undergo DAA infusion should be followed closely for possible intracranial bleeding. When intracranial hemorrhage is detected in patients in the intensive care unit, treatment with DAA infusion should be questioned.

Proton MR spectroscopy and white matter hyperintensities in idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus and other dementias.

The differentiation of idiopathic normal-pressure hydrocephalus (INPH) from other types of dementia is a clinical challenge. The aim of this prospective study was to evaluate the role of proton MR spectroscopy (MRS) and white matter hyperintensities (WMH) in the diagnosis of INPH, predicting response to therapy and differentiating INPH from other dementias. The study included 18 patients with INPH (Group 1), 11 patients with other types of dementia (Group 2) and 20 control patients (Group 3). The value of WMH scores and MRS findings in diagnosis, evaluation of response to therapy and in the differentiation of INPH from other dementias was statistically evaluated. The level of statistical significance was set at p<0.05 (Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney U-test). In both Groups 1 and 2, N-acetylaspartate (NAA)/choline-NAA/creatine ratios were significantly less than in the control group (p<0.05). The WMH and MRS findings of Groups 1 and 2 demonstrated no statistically significant correlation (p>0.05). No correlation was found between the outcome of shunt operations and WMH and MRS findings (p>0.05). In conclusion, neither WMH nor MRS were useful in differentiating INPH from other types of dementia. WMH and MRS showed no additional benefit in identifying INPH patients who will better respond to shunt therapy.

The contribution of 3D-CISS and contrast-enhanced MR cisternography in detecting cerebrospinal fluid leak in patients with rhinorrhoea.

The aim of this prospective study was to evaluate the value of unenhanced (three-dimensional constructive interference in steady state (3D-CISS)) and contrast-enhanced MR cisternography (CE-MRC) in detecting the localisation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak in patients with rhinorrhoea. 17 patients with active or suspected CSF rhinorrhoea were included in the study. 3D-CISS sequences in coronal and sagittal planes and fat-suppressed T1-weighted spin-echo sequences in three planes before and after intrathecal contrast media administration were obtained. Images were obtained of the cribriform plate and sphenoid sinus. In addition, high-resolution CT (HRCT) was performed in order to evaluate the bony elements. The leak was present in 9/17 patients with 3D-CISS and 10/17 patients with CE-MRC. The leak from the cribriform plate to the nasal cavity in six patients and from the sphenoid sinus in four patients was nicely shown by CE-MRC. Eight of those patients were surgically treated, but spontaneous regression of the symptoms in two precluded any intervention. The leak localisations shown with CE-MRC were fully compatible with surgical results. The sensitivities of HRCT, 3D-CISS and CE-MRC for showing CSF leakage were 88%, 76% and 100%, respectively. In conclusion, 3D-CISS is a non-invasive and reliable technique, and should be the first-choice method to localise CSF leak. CE-MRC is helpful in conditions when there is no leak or in complicated cases with a positive beta2-transferrin measurement.