Chirurgie des accidents vasculaires cérébraux hémorragiques au Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Joseph Ravoahangy Andrianavalona, Antananarivo, Madagascar / Surgery of intracerebral haemorrhage at the Joseph Ravoahangy Andrianavalona teaching hospital, Antananarivo, Madagascar

L'accident vasculaire cérébral hémorragique (AVCH) est une interruption de la circulation sanguine par la rupture d'une artère cérébrale qui va provoquer une perte soudaine d'une ou plusieurs fonctions cérébrales. L'objectif de notre étude était de déterminer l'aspect épidemio-clinique et radiologique et de décrire la prise en charge chirurgicale d'un AVCH au Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Joseph Ravoahangy Andrianavalona (CHU JRA), Antananarivo Madagascar. Méthodes : Il s'agit d'une étude rétrospective et descriptive de 125 cas d'AVCH opérés sur des patients hospitalisés du Janvier 2017 au 31 Décembre 2019. Résultats : Nous avons noté une prédominance masculine de 55% avec un Sex ratio de 0,82 ; dont l'âge moyen était de 52,8 ans. Le facteur de risque le plus rencontré était l'hypertension artérielle (HTA) avec 58,4% des cas. Les motifs d'admission étaient les troubles de la conscience (63,2%) et les déficits moteurs (44,8%). Les signes à l'examen étaient surtout l'hémiplégie (55,2%), la dysarthrie (22,4%). Les hématomes étaient lobaires dans 80,8% des cas et 19,2% au niveau de la fosse postérieure. La technique chirurgicale la plus utilisée était l'évacuation de l'hématome par craniotomie. Les séquelles étaient dominées par l'hémiparésie et l'aphasie respectivement 53.6% et 10.4%. Le taux de mortalité a été de 8%. Conclusion : La chirurgie tient une place primordiale dans la prise en charge des AVCH au CHU JRA.

Clinical Research of Early Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy on Patients with Hypertensive Cerebral Hemorrhage After Craniotomy.

AIM: To observe the effect of early hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) therapy on the improvement of consciousness and prognosis of patients with severe brain damages after craniocerebral craniotomy. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Eighty-one patients who had cerebral hemorrhage and underwent clearance of hematoma and decompressive craniectomy from August 2013 to August 2016 were retrospectively analyzed. The patients were divided into HBO and non-HBO therapy groups. The treatment effects were scored and subjected to corresponding statistical analysis. RESULTS: There were significant differences in the Glasgow coma scale (GCS) scores at 3 and 5 weeks (t=2.293 and t=3.014, respectively, p < 0.05), and in Glasgow outcome scale (GOS) scores at 5 weeks and 3 months between the two groups (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Early HBO therapy could improve the consciousness and prognosis of patients with cerebral hemorrhage after craniotomy.

Pediatric Major Head Injury: Not a Minor Problem.

Traumatic brain injury is a highly prevalent and devastating cause of morbidity and mortality in children. A rapid, stepwise approach to the traumatized child should proceed, addressing life-threatening problems first. Management focuses on preventing secondary injury from physiologic extremes such as hypoxemia, hypotension, prolonged hyperventilation, temperature extremes, and rapid changes in cerebral blood flow. Initial Glasgow Coma Score, hyperglycemia, and imaging are often prognostic of outcome. Surgically amenable lesions should be evacuated promptly. Reduction of intracranial pressure through hyperosmolar therapy, decompressive craniotomy, and seizure prophylaxis may be considered after stabilization. Nonaccidental trauma should be considered when evaluating pediatric trauma patients.

The effect of cranioplasty in cognitive and functional improvement: Experience of post traumatic brain injury inpatient rehabilitation.

To investigate the effect of cranioplasty on rehabilitation of post-traumatic brain injury (TBI) patients, 37 patients with TBI were arranged by retrospectively assessment study. Those TBI patients receiving in-hospital rehabilitation in the Department of Rehabilitation in a medical center of South Taiwan from 2010 to 2015 were assigned into two groups: A and B. All patients entered the multidisciplinary holistic in-patient rehabilitation training for about 1 month. Patients in Group A received decompressive craniectomy (DC), patients in Group B received DC and cranioplasty. All assessments were arranged right on admission and before discharge. The functional activity evaluation included muscle power and Barthel index (BI), and cognitive function evaluation, including the Rancho Los Amigo Scale, Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE), Community Mental State Examination (CMSE), and the Luria-Nebraska Neuropsychological Battery-Screening Test Short Form (LNNBS). The results showed that there were synergetic effects of cranioplasty on post-TBI patients with rehabilitation training, especially in the BI score, and cognitive improvement in CMSE and LNNBS.

Mini-Craniotomy under Local Anesthesia to Treat Acute Subdural Hematoma in Deteriorating Elderly Patients.

Background and Study Aims Surgical treatment for acute subdural hematomas (ASDHs) in elderly patients is still considered unsatisfactory. Series focusing on the use of conventional craniotomy or decompressive craniectomy in such patients report discouraging results. Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score at admission seems to be crucial in the decision-making process. Deteriorating patients with a GCS score between 9 and 11 are those who would benefit most from the surgical treatment. Unfortunately, elderly patients often present other comorbidities that greatly increase the risk of severe complications after major neurosurgical procedures under general anesthesia. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the feasibility of performing a mini-craniotomy under local anesthesia to treat ASDHs in a select group of elderly patients who were somnolent but still breathing autonomously at admission (GCS 9-11). Material and Methods Twenty-eight elderly patients (age > 75 years) with ASDH and a GCS score at surgery ranging from 9 to 11 were surgically treated under local anesthesia by a single burr-hole mini-craniotomy (transverse diameter 3-5 cm) and hematoma evacuation. At the end of the procedure, an endoscopic inspection of the surgical cavity was performed to look for residual clots that were not visible under direct vision. Results The median operation time was 65 minutes. Hematoma evacuation was complete in 22 cases, complete consciousness recovery was observed in all patients but one, and reoperation was required for two patients. Conclusion Historically, elderly patients with ASDH treated with a traditional craniotomy performed under general anesthesia have not had a good prognosis. Our preliminary experience with this less invasive surgical and anesthesiological approach suggests that somnolent but autonomously breathing elderly patients could benefit from this approach, achieving an adequate hematoma evacuation and bypassing the complications related to intubation and artificial respiratory assistance.

Functional Outcomes of Decompressive Craniectomy in Patients with Malignant Middle Cerebral Artery Infarction and Their Association with Preoperative Thalamus Deformation: An Analysis of 12 Patients.

Objective Decompressive craniectomy (DC) in patients with malignant middle cerebral artery (MCA) infarction is known to decrease the mortality rate. However, the functional outcomes (communication and oral intake) of this procedure remain unclear. Most patients with malignant MCA infarction exhibit a loss of consciousness, which may be principally governed by the thalamus. We herein investigated the functional outcomes of DC at 90 days after the onset of malignant MCA infarction and their association with preoperative thalamus deformation, which can occur due to pressure and edema. Methods Twelve of 2,692 patients with acute cerebral infarction were diagnosed with malignant MCA infarction and underwent DC. We evaluated preoperative thalamus damage using brain computed tomography and its association with communication and oral intake abilities and the modified Rankin Scale (mRS) and Barthel index scores at 90 days after stroke onset. Results The mRS score at 90 days was 0-4 in five patients. Seven patients could communicate immediately after surgery, while five could do so by 90 days. Five patients were able to resume the oral intake of food at 90 days. All patients with preoperative thalamus deformation showed a poor recovery, while those with absent or slight preoperative thalamus deformation showed a good recovery. Conclusion Patients with preoperative thalamus deformation caused by pressure and edema show a poor oral intake and communication abilities after DC, suggesting that preoperative thalamus deformation is a predictor of poor functional outcomes after DC in patients with malignant MCA infarction.

Effect of prolonged therapeutic hypothermia on intracranial pressure, organ function, and hospital outcomes among patients with aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage.

BACKGROUND: Global cerebral edema (GCE) with subsequent refractory intracranial hypertension complicates some cases of aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH), and typically is associated with poorer outcome. Treatment options for refractory intracranial pressure (ICP) cases are limited to decompressive hemicraniectomy (DHC) and targeted temperature management (TTM) with induced hypothermia (32-34 °C). No outcomes comparison between patients treated with either or both forms of refractory ICP therapy exists, and data on the effect of prolonged hypothermia on ICP and organ function among patients with aSAH are limited. METHODS: This is a retrospective study of aSAH patients who underwent DHC and/or prolonged hypothermia (greater than 48 h) for refractory ICP (i.e., ICP >20 mmHg after osmotherapy) in the intensive care unit of a single, tertiary-care academic center. RESULTS: Nineteen individuals with aSAH underwent TTM with or without DHC; sixteen patients underwent DHC alone. The patients in TTM group were younger (median age 44 years) than the DHC without TTM population (median age 60 years). TTM was started on median day 2 with a median duration of 7 days. There were no significant group differences in survival to discharge (59 % vs. 69 %) or in the mean modified Rankin score on follow-up (3.6 vs. 3.7), despite the TTM group having longer hospital length of stay (24 vs. 19 days, p = 0.03), longer duration of mechanical ventilation (20 vs. 9 days, p = 0.04), a higher cumulative fluid balance (12.8 vs. 5.1 L, p = 0.01), and higher APACHEII scores. The median maximal ICP decreased from 23.5 to 21 mmHg within 24 h of hypothermia initiation. There were no significant differences in other markers of end-organ function (respiratory, hematologic, renal, liver, and cardiac), infection rate, or adverse events between groups. CONCLUSIONS: Use of prolonged TTM among aSAH patients with GCE and refractory ICP elevations is associated with a longer duration of mechanical ventilation but is not different in terms of neurological outcomes measured by modified Rankin score or organ function outcomes compared to patients who received DHC alone.

Decompressive hemicraniectomy following malignant middle cerebral artery infarctions: a mixed methods exploration of carer experience and level of burden.

PURPOSE: This study explores the experiences and sense of burden of family carers of survivors of malignant middle cerebral artery infarctions who had undergone decompressive hemicraniectomy. To date, there have been no studies examining carer outcomes among this unique population. This study, taken alongside an already published study of survivor outcomes, provides a more holistic picture with regard to sequelae within the sample. METHOD: Six family carers completed the Sense of Competence Questionnaire and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale. These results were compared with existing normative data. Carers also consented to a semi-structured interview. Interview data were examined using thematic content analysis. Consistent with the mixed methods design, quantitative and qualitative findings were integrated for further analysis. RESULTS: While carers experienced many losses, their overall sense of burden was not outside 'Average' limits, nor did they experience clinically significant symptoms of depression. All carers identified methods of coping with the demands of caregiving. These included intrapersonal, interpersonal and practical strategies. All carers apart from one were able to identify areas of post-traumatic growth. CONCLUSION: Carers will benefit from information, support and care. In addition, problem solving skills are essential in managing the myriad difficulties that arise in the aftermath of stroke.

Sinking Skin Flap Syndrome after Craniectomy in a Patient Who Previously Underwent Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt / 대한신경손상학회지

Sinking skin flap syndrome, resulting from decompressive craniectomy, is defined as a series of neurologic symptoms with skin depression at the site of cranial defect. A 61-year-old male was hospitalized with high fever and operative site swelling. He underwent decompressive craniectomy on his left side for treatment for acute subdural hematoma and traumatic intracerebral hematoma 5 years ago. Four months later, a ventriculoperitoneal shunt was performed for treatment for hydrocephalus and cranioplasty was also performed. We suspected infection at the previous operative site and proceeded with craniectomy and epidural abscess removal. Following the procedure, the depression of the sinking flap became significant, and he has suffered from right hemiparesis. We performed a shunt catheter tie at the level of the right clavicle under local anesthesia, and the patient recovered his health to his baseline. We present a patient who was successfully managed with a tie of the shunt catheter for sinking skin flap syndrome.

Unilateral Thrombosis of a Deep Cerebral Vein Associated with Transient Unilateral Thalamic Edema

Symptoms of deep cerebral vein thrombosis (DCVT) are variable and nonspecific. Radiologic findings are essential for the diagnoses. In the majority of cases of deep internal cerebral venous thrombosis, the thalamus is affected bilaterally, and venous hypertension by thrombosis causes parenchymal edema or venous infarction and may sometimes cause venous hemorrhage. Intravenous injections of mannitol can be administered or decompressive craniectomy can be performed for reduction of intracranial pressure. The objectives of antithrombotic treatment in DCVT include recanalization of the sinus or vein, and prevention of propagation of the thrombus. Herein, the authors report DCVT which was successfully treated by low molecular weight heparin.

Acute management of acquired brain injury part I: an evidence-based review of non-pharmacological interventions.

PRIMARY OBJECTIVE: To review the literature on non-pharmacological interventions used in acute settings to manage elevated intracranial pressure (ICP) and minimize cerebral damage in patients with acquired brain injury (ABI). MAIN OUTCOMES: A literature search of multiple databases (CINAHL, EMBASE, MEDLINE and PSYCHINFO) and hand-searched articles covering the years 1980-2008 was performed. Peer reviewed articles were assessed for methodological quality using the PEDro scoring system for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and the Downs and Black tool for RCTs and non-randomized trials. Levels of evidence were assigned and recommendations made. RESULTS: Five non-invasive interventions for acute ABI management were assessed: adjusting head posture, body rotation (continuous rotational therapy and prone positioning), hyperventilation, hypothermia and hyperbaric oxygen. Two invasive interventions were also reviewed: cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) drainage and decompressive craniectomy (DC). CONCLUSIONS: There is a paucity of information regarding non-pharmacological acute management of patients with ABI. Strong levels of evidence were found for only four of the seven interventions (decompressive craniectomy, cerebrospinal fluid drainage, hypothermia and hyperbaric oxygen) and only for specific components of their use. Further research into all interventions is warranted.

Hemicraniectomy: a new model for human electrophysiology with high spatio-temporal resolution.

Human electrophysiological research is generally restricted to scalp EEG, magneto-encephalography, and intracranial electrophysiology. Here we examine a unique patient cohort that has undergone decompressive hemicraniectomy, a surgical procedure wherein a portion of the calvaria is removed for several months during which time the scalp overlies the brain without intervening bone. We quantify the differences in signals between electrodes over areas with no underlying skull and scalp EEG electrodes over the intact skull in the same subjects. Signals over the hemicraniectomy have enhanced amplitude and greater task-related power at higher frequencies (60-115 Hz) compared with signals over skull. We also provide evidence of a metric for trial-by-trial EMG/EEG coupling that is effective over the hemicraniectomy but not intact skull at frequencies >60 Hz. Taken together, these results provide evidence that the hemicraniectomy model provides a means for studying neural dynamics in humans with enhanced spatial and temporal resolution.

Spontaneous Intracerebral Hemorrhage in the Patients Undergoing Dialysis Therapy / 대한뇌혈관외과학회지

OBJECTIVE: The management of spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage in the patients with chronic renal failure is frequently influenced by factors such as coagulopathy, electrolyte imbalance, hemodialysis and malnutrition. This study aimed at evaluating the aggravating factors in the patients with intracerebral hemorrhage and who also underwent dialysis therapy. METHODS: Eight patients with chronic renal failure and who suffered from intracerebral hemorrhage were investigated. The clinical features, the location and amount of the hematomas, the treatment methods and the hemodialysis patterns were compared. RESULTS: The locations of hematoma were the subcortex (3 cases), putamen (2 cases), thalamus (2 csaes), and intraventricle (1 case), respectively. The types of dialysis were hemodialysis (6 cases), peritoneal dialysis (1 case), and a continuous form of renal replacement therapy (1 case). The average GCS was 8.4 (range: 5-14). All the patients underwent surgical treatment, which were EVD (3 cases), streotactic hematoma aspiration (2 cases), and decompressive craniectomy with hematoma removal (3 cases). The clinical outcomes were good recovery (1 case), moderate disability (1 case), a vegetative state (1 case) and death (5 cases). For the cases of death, the factors for aggravating the outcome were brain swelling (1 case), rebleeding (2 cases), aspiration pneumonia (1 case), and uncontrolled bleeding during the operation (1 case). The poor outcomes of intracerebral hemorrhage in the dialysis failure patients were caused by poor consciousness during bleeding, (ED note: this word ictus seems to makes no sense here.) and a high risk of rebleeding and brain edema due to anticoagulant and dialysis. CONCLUSION: We suggest that consideration of the patients' medical problems and an adequate environment for dialysis should be taken into account to achieve favorable patient outcomes.