Evaluation of deep learning algorithms in detecting moyamoya disease: a systematic review and single-arm meta-analysis.

The diagnosis of Moyamoya disease (MMD) relies heavily on imaging, which could benefit from standardized machine learning tools. This study aims to evaluate the diagnostic efficacy of deep learning (DL) algorithms for MMD by analyzing sensitivity, specificity, and the area under the curve (AUC) compared to expert consensus. We conducted a systematic search of PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science for articles published from inception to February 2024. Eligible studies were required to report diagnostic accuracy metrics such as sensitivity, specificity, and AUC, excluding those not in English or using traditional machine learning methods. Seven studies were included, comprising a sample of 4,416 patients, of whom 1,358 had MMD. The pooled sensitivity for common and random effects models was 0.89 (95% CI: 0.85 to 0.92) and 0.92 (95% CI: 0.85 to 0.96), respectively. The pooled specificity was 0.89 (95% CI: 0.86 to 0.91) in the common effects model and 0.91 (95% CI: 0.75 to 0.97) in the random effects model. Two studies reported the AUC alongside their confidence intervals. A meta-analysis synthesizing these findings aggregated a mean AUC of 0.94 (95% CI: 0.92 to 0.96) for common effects and 0.89 (95% CI: 0.76 to 1.02) for random effects models. Deep learning models significantly enhance the diagnosis of MMD by efficiently extracting and identifying complex image patterns with high sensitivity and specificity. Trial registration: CRD42024524998 https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/displayrecord.php?RecordID=524998.

Predicting short-term outcomes in brain-injured patients: a comprehensive approach with transcranial Doppler and intracranial compliance assessment.

Neurocritical patients frequently exhibit abnormalities in cerebral hemodynamics (CH) and/or intracranial compliance (ICC), all of which significantly impact their clinical outcomes. Transcranial Doppler (TCD) and the cranial micro-deformation sensor (B4C) are valuable techniques for assessing CH and ICC, respectively. However, there is a scarcity of data regarding the predictive value of these techniques in determining patient outcomes. We prospectively included neurocritical patients undergoing intracranial pressure (ICP) monitoring within the first 5 days of hospital admission for TCD and B4C assessments. Comprehensive clinical data were collected alongside parameters obtained from TCD (including the estimated ICP [eICP] and estimated cerebral perfusion pressure [eCPP]) and B4C (measured as the P2/P1 ratio). These parameters were evaluated individually as well as in combination. The short-term outcomes (STO) of interest were the therapy intensity levels (TIL) for ICP management recommended by the Seattle International Brain Injury Consensus Conference, as TIL 0 (STO 1), TIL 1-3 (STO 2) and death (STO 3), at the seventh day after last data collection. The dataset was randomly separated in test and training samples, area under the curve (AUC) was used to represent the noninvasive techniques ability on the STO prediction and association with ICP. A total of 98 patients were included, with 67% having experienced severe traumatic brain injury and 15% subarachnoid hemorrhage, whilst the remaining patients had ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke. ICP, P2/P1, and eCPP demonstrated the highest ability to predict early mortality (p = 0.02, p = 0.02, and p = 0.006, respectively). P2/P1 was the only parameter significant for the prediction of STO 1 (p = 0.03). Combining B4C and TCD parameters, the highest AUC was 0.85 to predict death (STO 3), using P2/P1 + eCPP, whereas AUC was 0.72 to identify ICP > 20 mmHg using P2/P1 + eICP. The combined noninvasive neuromonitoring approach using eCPP and P2/P1 ratio demonstrated improved performance in predicting outcomes during the early phase after acute brain injury. The correlation with intracranial hypertension was moderate, by means of eICP and P2/P1 ratio. These results support the need for interpretation of this information in the ICU and warrant further investigations for the definition of therapy strategies using ancillary tests.

Short-term predictors of stereotactic radiosurgery outcome for untreated single non-small cell lung cancer brain metastases: a restrospective cohort study.

Stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) is an option for brain metastases (BM) not eligible for surgical resection, however, predictors of SRS outcomes are poorly known. The aim of this study is to investigate predictors of SRS outcome in patients with BM secondary to non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). The secondary objective is to analyze the value of volumetric criteria in identifying BM progression. This retrospective cohort study included patients >18 years of age with a single untreated BM secondary to NSCLC. Demographic, clinical, and radiological data were assessed. The primary outcome was treatment failure, defined as a BM volumetric increase 12 months after SRS. The unidimensional measurement of the BM at follow-up was also assessed. One hundred thirty-five patients were included, with a median BM volume at baseline of 1.1 cm3 (IQR 0.4-2.3). Fifty-two (38.5%) patients had SRS failure at follow-up. Only right BM laterality was associated with SRS failure (p=0.039). Using the volumetric definition of SRS failure, the unidimensional criteria demonstrated a sensibility of 60.78% (46.11%-74.16%), specificity of 89.02% (80.18%-94.86%), positive LR of 5.54 (2.88-10.66) and negative LR of 0.44 (0.31-0.63). SRS demonstrated a 61.5% local control rate 12 months after treatment. Among the potential predictors of treatment outcome analyzed, only the right BM laterality had a significant association with SRS failure. The volumetric criteria were able to identify more subtle signs of BM increase than the unidimensional criteria, which may allow earlier diagnosis of disease progression and use of appropriate therapies.

Neuropsychological outcomes in patients with ruptured anterior communicating artery aneurysms treated by clipping versus coiling: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Ruptured anterior communicating artery (ACoA) aneurysms are frequently associated with neuropsychological deficits. This review aims to compare neuropsychological outcomes between surgical and endovascular approaches to ACoA. We systematically searched PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science for studies comparing the endovascular and surgical approaches to ruptured ACoA aneurysms. Outcomes of interest were the cognitive function, covered by memory, attention, intelligence, executive, and language domains, as well as motor and visual functions. Nine studies, comprising 524 patients were included. Endovascularly-treated patients showed better memory than those treated surgically (Standardized Mean Difference (SMD) = -2; 95% CI: -3.40 to -0.61; p < 0.01). Surgically clipped patients had poorer motor ability than those with coiling embolization (p = 0.01). Executive function (SMD = -0.20; 95% CI: -0.47 to 0.88; p = 0.55), language (SMD = -0.33; 95% CI: -0.95 to 0.30; p = 0.30), visuospatial function (SMD = -1.12; 95% CI: -2.79 to 0.56; p = 0.19), attention (SMD = -0.94; 95% CI: -2.79to 0.91; p = 0.32), intelligence (SMD = -0.25; 95% CI: -0.73 to 0.22; p = 0.30), and self-reported cognitive status (SMD = -0.51; 95% CI: -1.38 to 0.35; p = 0.25) revealed parity between groups. Patients with ACoA treated endovascularly had superior memory and motor abilities. Other cognitive domains, including executive function, language, visuospatial function, attention, intelligence and self-reported cognitive status revealed no statistically significant differences between the two approaches. Trial Registration PROSPERO (International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews) CRD42023461283; https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=461283.

Role of temporary arterial occlusion in subarachnoid hemorrhage outcomes: a prospective cohort study.

PURPOSE: Temporary arterial occlusion (TAO) is a widespread practice in the surgical treatment of intracranial aneurysms. This study aimed to investigate TAO's role during ruptured aneurysm clipping as an independent prognostic factor on short- and long-term outcomes. METHODS: This prospective cohort included 180 patients with ruptured intracranial aneurysms and an indication of microsurgical treatment. Patients who died in the first 12 hours after admission were excluded. RESULTS: TAO was associated with intraoperative rupture (IOR) (odds ratio - OR = 10.54; 95% confidence interval - 95%CI 4.72-23.55; p < 0.001) and surgical complications (OR = 2.14; 95%CI 1.11-4.07; p = 0.01). The group with TAO and IOR had no significant difference in clinical (p = 0.06) and surgical (p = 0.94) complications compared to the group that had TAO, but no IOR. Among the 111 patients followed six months after treatment, IOR, number of occlusions, and total time of occlusion were not associated with Glasgow Outcome Scale (GOS) in the follow-up (respectively, p = 0.18, p = 0.30, and p = 0.73). Among patients who underwent TAO, IOR was also not associated with GOS in the follow-up (p = 0.29). CONCLUSIONS: TAO was associated with IOR and surgical complications, being the latter independent of IOR occurrence. In long-term analysis, neither TAO nor IOR were associated with poor clinical outcomes.

Prospective Analysis of Cerebral Edema Admission and Clinical Outcome in Ruptured Intracranial Aneurysm.

AIM: To evaluate the association between global cerebral edema (GCE) after subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) and its impact on functional outcome evaluated by the modified Rankin scale (mRS). MATERIAL AND METHODS: This is a prospective cohort study with patients who were admitted to the hospital due to SAH. During the period from January 2018 to November 2019, 107 patients with intracranial aneurysms were enrolled. Using univariate and multivariate analysis, we sought to identify predictors and evaluated the impact of GCE on outcome after 6 months using the mRS. RESULTS: GCE was present in 54 (50.5%) patients, of which 27 (25.2%) were mild, 20 (18.7%) moderate and 7 (6.5%) were severe. Univariate analysis identified high Hunt-Hess and Glasgow coma scale on clinical admission as predictors factors of GCE (p < 0.05), and higher modified Fisher scale as a radiological predictor of Glasgow coma scale (p < 0.05). Thirty-three (30.8%) patients were deceased at 6 months. Death or severe disability were predicted by higher age, poor clinical scale on admission and severe GCE (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: GCE on admission is independently associated with poor clinical outcomes at discharge, and six months after SAH. Given its strong association with poor clinical grade on admission, GCE should be considered a straightforward and radiological important marker of early brain injury, with ominous implications.

Neutrophil-to-lymphocyte and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratios and prognosis after aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage: a cohort study.

BACKGROUND: Subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) prognosis remains poor. Vasospasm mechanism might be associated with inflammation. Neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) have been studied as inflammation markers and prognostic predictors. OBJECTIVE: We aimed to investigate NLR and PLR in admission as predictors of angiographic vasospasm and functional outcome at 6 months. METHODS: This cohort study included consecutive aneurysmal SAH patients admitted to a tertiary center. Complete blood count was recorded at admission before treatment. White blood cell count, neutrophil count, lymphocyte count, platelet count, NLR, and PLR were collected as independent variables. Vasospasm occurrence-modified Rankin scale (mRS), Glasgow outcome scale (GOS), and Hunt-Hess score at admission and at 6 months were recorded as dependent variables. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to adjust for potential confounding and to assess the independent prognostic value of NLR and PLR at admission. RESULTS: A total of 74.1% of the patients were female, with mean age of 55.6 ± 12.4 years. At admission, the median Hunt-Hess score was 2 (interquartile range [IQR] 1), and the median mFisher was 3 (IQR 1). Microsurgical clipping was the treatment for 66.2% of the patients. Angiographic vasospasm incidence was 16.5%. At 6 months, the median GOS was 4 (IQR 0.75), and the median mRS was 3 (IQR 1.5). Twenty-one patients (15.1%) died. Neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio and PLR levels did not differ between favorable and unfavorable (mRS > 2 or GOS < 4) functional outcomes. No variables were significantly associated with angiographic vasospasm. CONCLUSION: Admission NLR and PLR presented no value for prediction of functional outcome or angiographic vasospasm risk. Further research is needed in this field.

ANTECEDENTES: O prognóstico da hemorragia subaracnoidea (HSA) permanece ruim. Vasoespasmo pode estar associado à inflamação. Razões neutrófilo-linfócito (NLR) e plaqueta-linfócito (PLR) têm sido estudadas como marcadores de inflamação e prognóstico. OBJETIVO: Investigar NLR e PLR na admissão como preditores de vasoespasmo angiográfico e desfecho aos 6 meses. MéTODOS: Este estudo de coorte incluiu pacientes consecutivos com HSA aneurismática de um centro terciário. Contagem de leucócitos, neutrófilos, linfócitos e plaquetas, proporção de neutrófilos para linfócitos e de plaquetas para linfócitos foram coletados como variáveis independentes. Ocorrência de vasoespasmo, escala de Rankin modificada, escala de desfecho de Glasgow e o escore de Hunt-Hess na admissão e 6 meses após a mesma foram registradas como variáveis dependentes. Modelos de regressão logística multivariável foram usados para ajustar potenciais fatores de confusão e avaliar valor prognóstico independente de NLR e PLR. RESULTADOS: Um total de 74,1% pacientes eram do sexo feminino, com idade média de 55,6 ± 12,4 anos. Na admissão, a pontuação média de Hunt-Hess foi de 2 (IQR 1) e a mediana de mFisher foi de 3 (IQR 1). Clipagem microcirúrgica foi o tratamento escolhido para 66,2% dos pacientes. A incidência de vasoespasmo angiográfico foi de 16,5%. Aos 6 meses, a escala de desfecho de Glasgow mediana era 4 (IQR 0,75) e a escala de Rankin modificada mediana era 3 (IQR 1,5). Vinte e um pacientes (15,1%) morreram. Os níveis de NLR e PLR não diferiram entre resultados funcionais favoráveis e desfavoráveis (mRS > 2 ou GOS < 4). Nenhuma variável foi significativamente associada ao vasoespasmo angiográfico. CONCLUSãO: Razão neutrófilo-linfócito e a PLR não apresentaram valor preditivo de desfecho funcional ou risco de vasoespasmo angiográfico. Mais pesquisas são necessárias neste campo.

Modifiable risk factors for glioblastoma: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common and aggressive glioma histological subtype, associated with high disability and poor survival. The etiology of this condition is still mostly unknown, and evidence about risk factors is elusive. The aim of this study is to identify modifiable risk factors for GBM. Electronic search was performed by two reviewers independently using the keywords and MeSH terms 'glioblastoma' OR 'glioma' OR 'brain tumor' AND 'risk factor'. The inclusion criteria were (1) observational studies or experimental studies on humans, (2) studies assessing the association between glioblastoma and exposure to modifiable conditions, and (3) studies published in English or Portuguese. Studies on the pediatric population or about exposure to ionizing radiation were excluded. A total of 12 studies were included. Seven were case-control studies, and five were cohort studies. The risk factors assessed included body mass index, alcohol consumption, exposure to magnetic fields, diabetes mellitus type 2 (DM2), and use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID). No significant link was found between GBM incidence and DM2 or magnetic field exposure. On the other hand, higher BMI, alcohol consumption, and NSAID use demonstrated a protective effect on GMB risk. However, given the limited number of studies, it is not possible to obtain a behavioral recommendation; instead, these findings are relevant to guide future basic scientific studies on GBM oncogenesis.

Neutrophil-to-lymphocyte and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratios and prognosis after aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage: a cohort study / Razão neutrófilos-linfócitos e razão plaquetas-linfócitos e o prognóstico de hemorragia subaracnóidea aneurismática: um estudo de coorte

Abstract Background Subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) prognosis remains poor. Vasospasm mechanism might be associated with inflammation. Neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) have been studied as inflammation markers and prognostic predictors. Objective We aimed to investigate NLR and PLR in admission as predictors of angiographic vasospasm and functional outcome at 6 months. Methods This cohort study included consecutive aneurysmal SAH patients admitted to a tertiary center. Complete blood count was recorded at admission before treatment. White blood cell count, neutrophil count, lymphocyte count, platelet count, NLR, and PLR were collected as independent variables. Vasospasm occurrence-modified Rankin scale (mRS), Glasgow outcome scale (GOS), and Hunt-Hess score at admission and at 6 months were recorded as dependent variables. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to adjust for potential confounding and to assess the independent prognostic value of NLR and PLR at admission. Results A total of 74.1% of the patients were female, with mean age of 55.6 ± 12.4 years. At admission, the median Hunt-Hess score was 2 (interquartile range [IQR] 1), and the median mFisher was 3 (IQR 1). Microsurgical clipping was the treatment for 66.2% of the patients. Angiographic vasospasm incidence was 16.5%. At 6 months, the median GOS was 4 (IQR 0.75), and the median mRS was 3 (IQR 1.5). Twenty-one patients (15.1%) died. Neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio and PLR levels did not differ between favorable and unfavorable (mRS > 2 or GOS < 4) functional outcomes. No variables were significantly associated with angiographic vasospasm. Conclusion Admission NLR and PLR presented no value for prediction of functional outcome or angiographic vasospasm risk. Further research is needed in this field.

Resumo Antecedentes O prognóstico da hemorragia subaracnoidea (HSA) permanece ruim. Vasoespasmo pode estar associado à inflamação. Razões neutrófilo-linfócito (NLR) e plaqueta-linfócito (PLR) têm sido estudadas como marcadores de inflamação e prognóstico. Objetivo Investigar NLR e PLR na admissão como preditores de vasoespasmo angiográfico e desfecho aos 6 meses. Métodos Este estudo de coorte incluiu pacientes consecutivos com HSA aneurismática de um centro terciário. Contagem de leucócitos, neutrófilos, linfócitos e plaquetas, proporção de neutrófilos para linfócitos e de plaquetas para linfócitos foram coletados como variáveis independentes. Ocorrência de vasoespasmo, escala de Rankin modificada, escala de desfecho de Glasgow e o escore de Hunt-Hess na admissão e 6 meses após a mesma foram registradas como variáveis dependentes. Modelos de regressão logística multivariável foram usados para ajustar potenciais fatores de confusão e avaliar valor prognóstico independente de NLR e PLR. Resultados Um total de 74,1% pacientes eram do sexo feminino, com idade média de 55,6 ± 12,4 anos. Na admissão, a pontuação média de Hunt-Hess foi de 2 (IQR 1) e a mediana de mFisher foi de 3 (IQR 1). Clipagem microcirúrgica foi o tratamento escolhido para 66,2% dos pacientes. A incidência de vasoespasmo angiográfico foi de 16,5%. Aos 6 meses, a escala de desfecho de Glasgow mediana era 4 (IQR 0,75) e a escala de Rankin modificada mediana era 3 (IQR 1,5). Vinte e um pacientes (15,1%) morreram. Os níveis de NLR e PLR não diferiram entre resultados funcionais favoráveis e desfavoráveis (mRS > 2 ou GOS < 4). Nenhuma variável foi significativamente associada ao vasoespasmo angiográfico. Conclusão Razão neutrófilo-linfócito e a PLR não apresentaram valor preditivo de desfecho funcional ou risco de vasoespasmo angiográfico. Mais pesquisas são necessárias neste campo.

Critical Closing Pressure and Cerebrovascular Resistance Responses to Intracranial Pressure Variations in Neurocritical Patients.

BACKGROUND: Critical closing pressure (CrCP) and resistance-area product (RAP) have been conceived as compasses to optimize cerebral perfusion pressure (CPP) and monitor cerebrovascular resistance, respectively. However, for patients with acute brain injury (ABI), the impact of intracranial pressure (ICP) variability on these variables is poorly understood. The present study evaluates the effects of a controlled ICP variation on CrCP and RAP among patients with ABI. METHODS: Consecutive neurocritical patients with ICP monitoring were included along with transcranial Doppler and invasive arterial blood pressure monitoring. Internal jugular veins compression was performed for 60 s for the elevation of intracranial blood volume and ICP. Patients were separated in groups according to previous intracranial hypertension severity, with either no skull opening (Sk1), neurosurgical mass lesions evacuation, or decompressive craniectomy (DC) (patients with DC [Sk3]). RESULTS: Among 98 included patients, the correlation between change (Δ) in ICP and the corresponding ΔCrCP was strong (group Sk1 r = 0.643 [p = 0.0007], group with neurosurgical mass lesions evacuation r = 0.732 [p < 0.0001], and group Sk3 r = 0.580 [p = 0.003], respectively). Patients from group Sk3 presented a significantly higher ΔRAP (p = 0.005); however, for this group, a higher response in mean arterial pressure (change in mean arterial pressure p = 0.034) was observed. Exclusively, group Sk1 disclosed reduction in ICP before internal jugular veins compression withholding. CONCLUSIONS: This study elucidates that CrCP reliably changes in accordance with ICP, being useful to indicate ideal CPP in neurocritical settings. In the early days after DC, cerebrovascular resistance seems to remain elevated, despite exacerbated arterial blood pressure responses in efforts to maintain CPP stable. Patients with ABI with no need of surgical procedures appear to remain with more effective ICP compensatory mechanisms when compared with those who underwent neurosurgical interventions.

Torque Teno virus DNA is found in the intracranial aneurysm wall-Is there a causative role?

Objective: Torque Teno virus (TTV) is a recently discovered virus with high prevalence worldwide, that has been associated with vascular diseases. The aim of this study is to investigate the prevalence of TTV molecular DNA in the intracranial aneurysm (IA) artery walls. Method: Samples of IA walls were collected after microsurgical clipping from 35 patients with IA (22 ruptured/13 unruptured cases). The samples were submitted to molecular DNA extraction using the EasyMag automatized extractor and performed with Qiagen DNA extraction Minikit 250. The samples underwent PCR examination with primers for ß-globin as internal control using the Nanodrop ® 2000 spectrophotometer. A quantitative (real-time) PCR with TTV-specific primers was performed. Clinical and radiological data of patients included was collected. Results: TTV was detected in 15 (42.85%) cases, being 10 (45.4%) ruptured and 5 (38.4%) unruptured (p = 0.732) lesions. Multiple IAs accounted for 14 (40%) cases. Five cases (17.2%) had TTV+ and multiple aneurysms (p = 0.73). Association between presence of virus and aneurysm rupture was not statistically significant (p = 0.96). Conclusion: This study demonstrated a relatively high prevalence of viral DNA in the walls of IAs. This is the first study to identify the presence of TTV DNA in IA's samples, which was found more often in ruptured lesions. This is an exploratory study, therefore, larger studies are required to clarify the relationships between inflammation, viral infection, IA formation and rupture.

Noninvasive intracranial pressure waveforms for estimation of intracranial hypertension and outcome prediction in acute brain-injured patients.

Analysis of intracranial pressure waveforms (ICPW) provides information on intracranial compliance. We aimed to assess the correlation between noninvasive ICPW (NICPW) and invasively measured intracranial pressure (ICP) and to assess the NICPW prognostic value in this population. In this cohort, acute brain-injured (ABI) patients were included within 5 days from admission in six Intensive Care Units. Mean ICP (mICP) values and the P2/P1 ratio derived from NICPW were analyzed and correlated with outcome, which was defined as: (a) early death (ED); survivors on spontaneous breathing (SB) or survivors on mechanical ventilation (MV) at 7 days from inclusion. Intracranial hypertension (IHT) was defined by ICP > 20 mmHg. A total of 72 patients were included (mean age 39, 68% TBI). mICP and P2/P1 values were significantly correlated (r = 0.49, p < 0.001). P2/P1 ratio was significantly higher in patients with IHT and had an area under the receiving operator curve (AUROC) to predict IHT of 0.88 (95% CI 0.78-0.98). mICP and P2/P1 ratio was also significantly higher for ED group (n = 10) than the other groups. The AUROC of P2/P1 to predict ED was 0.71 [95% CI 0.53-0.87], and the threshold P2/P1 > 1.2 showed a sensitivity of 60% [95% CI 31-83%] and a specificity of 69% [95% CI 57-79%]. Similar results were observed when decompressive craniectomy patients were excluded. In this study, P2/P1 derived from noninvasive ICPW assessment was well correlated with IHT. This information seems to be as associated with ABI patients outcomes as ICP.Trial registration: NCT03144219, Registered 01 May 2017 Retrospectively registered, https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03144219 .

Role of temporary arterial occlusion in subarachnoid hemorrhage outcomes: a prospective cohort study

Purpose: Temporary arterial occlusion (TAO) is a widespread practice in the surgical treatment of intracranial aneurysms. This study aimed to investigate TAO's role during ruptured aneurysm clipping as an independent prognostic factor on short- and long-term outcomes. Methods: This prospective cohort included 180 patients with ruptured intracranial aneurysms and an indication of microsurgical treatment. Patients who died in the first 12 hours after admission were excluded. Results: TAO was associated with intraoperative rupture (IOR) (odds ratio ­ OR = 10.54; 95% confidence interval ­ 95%CI 4.72­23.55; p < 0.001) and surgical complications (OR = 2.14; 95%CI 1.11­4.07; p = 0.01). The group with TAO and IOR had no significant difference in clinical (p = 0.06) and surgical (p = 0.94) complications compared to the group that had TAO, but no IOR. Among the 111 patients followed six months after treatment, IOR, number of occlusions, and total time of occlusion were not associated with Glasgow Outcome Scale (GOS) in the follow-up (respectively, p = 0.18, p = 0.30, and p = 0.73). Among patients who underwent TAO, IOR was also not associated with GOS in the follow-up (p = 0.29). Conclusions: TAO was associated with IOR and surgical complications, being the latter independent of IOR occurrence. In long-term analysis, neither TAO nor IOR were associated with poor clinical outcomes.

Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage: Is the Time Until Intervention Related to Minor Disabilities in 6 Months?

Background Aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhages (aSAHs) account for 5% of all strokes, an appalling number when it comes to the second most common cause of death worldwide. The basis of the treatment is clinical support and either endovascular or surgical intervention. The purpose of the present study is to analyze if the time from the onset of the thunderclap headache until treatment intervention is related to the degree of disability after 6 months. Methods In the present prospective observational study, data were collected from all patients (n » 223) admitted to the hospital with a diagnosis of aSAH. Patients whose data were missing or who missed the follow-up after 6 months were excluded. Then, the number of days from the thunderclap headache until the surgical intervention (Delta T) was obtained. The degree of disability was evaluated using standardized scales, Rankin Scale (RS) and Glasgow Outcome Scale (GOS), at the time of discharge as well as 6 months later. Then, the RS and GOS were correlated with Delta T. Results An average of 6.8 days was found from the onset of symptoms to the intervention, the average age was 54 years old, 73% were women and 55% were smokers. The mean Glasgow Coma Scale on admission was 13. The mean score on the Hunt and Hess scale was 2.1. From the radiological point of view, the mean size of the aneurysm was 6 mm, and the modified Fisher Scale was 3.1. Of the total number of patients at the end of the study (n » 78), 50 underwent microsurgical treatment (63%). Rankin scale at discharge was 1.9 and GOS was 4.5, with no statistically significant change at 6 months. Analyzing the data distribution using linear regression, no statistically significant correlation was found between the time until treatment and disability using RS and GOS (p > 0.05). The same results were found even analyzing age subgroups ( 45 years old, 45 to 55 years old, 55 to 70 years old, and > 70 years old with a p-value > 0.05). Conclusions The present study suggests that there is no linear correlation between Delta T and disability at 6 months for the population studied. However, more studies are needed to assess whether these findings may be present in other populations, especially with a shorter time from symptoms to intervention, since the greatest risk of rebleeding occurs in the first 3 days after the event.

Influence of Serum Ferritin and B12 Levels in the Functional Outcomes of Patients with Ruptured and Unruptured Intracranial Aneurysms / Influência dos níveis séricos de ferritina e B12 nos desfechos funcionais de pacientes com aneurismas intracranianos rotos e não rotos

Introduction Pathological processes in the arterial wall that result in vessel dilation are the cause of intracranial aneurysms (IAs), and the risk factors for their formation and progression are not well established. Ferritin is associated with inflammation and angiogenesis; it has protective antioxidative activity, and controls cell differentiation. Vitamin B12 is related to neurological and hematological disorders; it can be used as differential diagnosis tool, and acts in the control of homocysteinemia, a predictor of worse prognosis. The present article aims to assess the correlation between serum ferritin and B12 levels and the patient's functional outcome. Materials and Methods In the present cohort study, we assessed the serum levels of ferritin and B12, as well as the scores on the modified Rankin and Glasgow Outcome Scales at 6 months, of 2 groups, one with 19 and the other with 49 individuals, out of 401 patients treated for IA at Universidade de São Paulo from 2018 to 2019. We performed a statistical analysis, using logistic regression, to determine the aforementioned correlation. Results In the univariable analysis, the serum levels of ferritin showed no significant impact on the functional outcome (odds ratio [OR]: 0.96 for every 100 pg/mL increase; 95% confidence interval [95%CI]: 0.761­1.210; p » 0.732); neither did the serum levels of B12 (OR: 0.998 for every 100 pg/mL increase; 95%CI: 0.826­1.206; p » 0.987). Moreover, no significant impact on the functional outcome was observed in the multivariable analysis regarding the serum levels of B12, age, hypertension, and aneurysm rupture (OR: 1.086 for every 100 pg/mL increase; 95%CI: 0.847­1.392; p » 0.513). Conclusion We were not able to confirm a statistical correlation regarding the serum levels of ferritin and B12, and functional outcome of IA patients. These variables might be linked to other determinants of the pathophysiology of IAs, like inflammation and homocysteinemia.

Introdução Processos patológicos na parede arterial, que resultam em dilatação dos vasos, são a causa dos aneurismas intracranianos (AIs), e os fatores de risco para a sua formação e evolução não estão bem estabelecidos. A ferritina está associada a inflamação e angiogênese, tem atividade antioxidante, e controla diferenciação celular. A vitamina B12 está relacionada a distúrbios neurológicos e hematológicos, é utilizada como ferramenta de diagnóstico, e atua no controle da homocisteinemia. Este artigo visa avaliar a correlação entre os níveis séricos de ferritina e B12 e o desfecho funcional do paciente. Materiais e Métodos Neste estudo de coorte, analisamos os níveis séricos de ferritina e B12, assim como as pontuações nas escalas de desfechos de Rankin modificada e Glasgow aos 6 meses de 2 grupos, um com 19 e o outro com 49 indivíduos, dos 401 pacientes com AI tratados na Universidade de São Paulo de 2018 a 2019. Para determinar a já mencionada correlação, realizamos análise estatística usando regressão logística. Resultados Na análise univariada, a ferritina sérica não resultou em impacto significativo sobre o desfecho funcional (razão de possibilidades [RP]: 0,96 para cada aumento de 100 pg/mL; intervalo de confiança de 95% [IC95%]: 0,761­1,210; p » 0,732), nem a B12 sérica (RP: 0,998 para cada aumento de 100 pg/mL; IC95%: 0,826­1,206; p » 0,987). Tampouco observou-se impacto significativo sobre o desfecho na análise multivariada usando B12 sérica, idade, hipertensão e ruptura de aneurisma (RP: 1,086 para cada aumento de 100 pg/mL; IC95%: 0,847­1,392; p » 0,513). Conclusão Não foi confirmada a correlação estatística entre os níveis séricos de ferritina e de B12 e o desfecho funcional de pacientes com AI. Essas variáveis podem estar ligadas a outros determinantes da fisiopatologia do AI, como inflamação e homocisteinemia.

Microsurgery versus embolization: different risk factors for short- and longterm outcomes of patients with ruptured aneurysms.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the risk factors for poor outcomes after surgical and endovascular treatment of aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH). METHODS: Patients with ≥ 18-years of age and aSAH were included, while patients who died within 12 h of admission or lost follow-up were excluded. All participants underwent standardized clinical and radiological assessment on admission and were reassessed at discharge and at 6-months follow-up using the Glasgow Outcome Scale (GOS). RESULTS: Death at discharge was associated with female gender, anterior communication artery (ACoA) aneurysm location and presence of atherosclerotic plaque in the surgical group, and with age in the endovascular group. Both groups had clinical condition on follow-up associated with mFisher score on admission and hypertension. GOS on follow-up was also associated with presence of atherosclerotic plaque and multiple aneurysms in surgical group, and with age in endovascular group. CONCLUSIONS: Subjects treated surgically are prone to unfavorable outcomes if atherosclerotic plaques and multiple aneurysms are present. In patients with endovascular treatment, age was the main predictor of clinical outcome.

Could outcomes of intracranial aneurysms be better predict using serum creatinine and glomerular filtration rate?

PURPOSE: To analyze the role of serum creatinine levels as a biomarker of intracranial aneurysm outcomes. METHODS: This is a prospective analysis of outcomes of patients with intracranial aneurysm. One hundred forty-seven patients with serum creatinine at admission and 6 months follow up were included. Linear and logistic regressions were used to analyze the data. Modified Rankin scale (mRS) was used to assess outcome. RESULTS: Creatinine level was not directly related to aneurysm outcome nor aneurysm rupture (p > 0.05). However, patients with a glomerular filtration rate (GFR) lower than 72.50 mL·min-1 had an odds ratio (OR) of 3.049 (p = 0.006) for worse outcome. Similarly, aneurysm rupture had an OR of 2.957 (p = 0.014) for worse outcomes. Stepwise selection model selected 4 variables for outcomes prediction: serum creatinine, sex, hypertension and treatment. Hypertensive patients had, on average, an increase in 0.588 in mRS (p = 0.022), while treatment with microsurgery had a decrease in 0.555 (p = 0.038). CONCLUSIONS: Patients with higher GFR had better outcomes after 6 months. Patients with higher GFR had better outcomes after 6 months. Creatinine presented an indirect role in GFR values and should be included in models for outcome prediction.

Temporary arterial occlusion (TAO) as independent prognostic factor in unruptured aneurysm surgery: A cohort study.

BACKGROUND: Temporary arterial occlusion (TAO) is a technique widely used in cerebrovascular surgery. However, few studies have evaluated the independent long-term effects of TAO or given detailed information about the complications during in-hospital stay. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to investigate the independent impact of TAO during unruptured intracranial aneurysm surgery on short and long-term outcomes. METHODS: The study included surgical elective patients diagnosed with unruptured aneurysm and indication of microsurgical treatment. Outcome assessment included occurrence of intra-operative (IOC) and post-operative (POC) complications, as well as Glasgow Outcome Scale (GOS) score 6 months after discharge. RESULTS: 114 patients were included and 36 were followed. TAO was associated with POC (OR = 2.08; CI 95% 1.12-3.96; p = 0.01). The group with TAO and intraoperative rupture (IOR) did not differ from the group with TAO without IOR in terms of POC (p = 0.65) and IOC (p = 0.78). IOR (p = 0.16) and number of occlusions (p = 0.23) did not change GOS, but the total time of occlusion was associated with neurologic worsening (p = 0.034) during follow-up. The TAO group had larger aneurysm size and higher frequency of irregular lesions, when compared to the entire study group. Aneurysm location was not associated with POC (p = 0.25), IOC (0.17) or GOS (p = 0.75). CONCLUSION: The location of temporary clip placement and the number of clips did not influence the short- and long-term outcomes of patients with unruptured intracranial aneurysms. However, presence of temporary clips was associated with POC regardless of IOR occurrence and increased total time of occlusion was associated with poor outcomes after 6 months.

Analysis of serum cholesterol, statins and atherosclerotic plaque in ruptured and unruptured intracranial aneurysm / Análise de colesterol sérico, estatina e placa aterosclerótica em aneurisma intracraniano roto e não roto

Introduction Intracranial aneurysm (IA) is a major healthcare concern. The use of statin to reduce serum cholesterol has shown evidence to reduce cardiovascular risk in various diseases, but the impact on IA has not been described. This study aims to determine whether statin use, and serum cholesterol levels interfere with outcomes after IA event. Methods A cohort of patients with IA was analyzed. Patients social and demographics data were collected.Modified Rankin scale (mRS) score after 6months of follow-up was the endpoint. The data regarding statins use, presence or not of atherosclerotic plaque in radiological images and serum cholesterol of 35 patients were included in our study. Linear regression models were used to determine the influence of those 6 variables in the clinical outcome. Results The prevalence of atherosclerotic plaque, high cholesterol and use of statins was 34.3%, 48.5%, and 14.2%, respectively. Statins and serum cholesterol did not impact the overall outcome,measured by mRS after 6 months (p>0.05), but did show different tendencies when separated by IA rupture status. Serum cholesterol shows na important association with rupture of aneurysm (p»0.0382). High cholesterol and use of statins show a tendency for worse outcome with ruptured aneurysm, and the opposite is true for unruptured aneurysm. The presence of atherosclerotic plaques was not related with worse outcomes. Conclusions Multiple and opposite mechanisms might be involved in the pathophysiology of IA. Ruptured aneurysms are associated with higher levels of serum cholesterol. Serum cholesterol and statins use were not correlated with worse outcomes, but further studies are important to clarify these relationships.

Introdução Aneurisma intracranial (AI) é uma grande preocupação para a saúde. Evidências apontam que o uso de estatina para reduzir o colesterol sérico diminui o risco cardiovascular em diversas doenças, mas o impacto em AI ainda não foi descrito. Este estudo almeja determinar se o uso de estatina e o nível sérico de colesterol interferem no desfecho clínico após a ocorrência de AIs. Métodos Uma coorte de pacientes com AI foi analisada. Os dados sociodemográficos dos pacientes foram coletados. Ao final de 6 meses de acompanhamento, aplicou-se a escala modificada de Rankin (mRS). Os dados sobre uso de estatina, existência de placa aterosclerótica em imagens radiológicas, e colesterol sérico de 35 pacientes foram incluídos no estudo. Modelos de regressão linear foram usados para determinar a influência dessas 6 variáveis nos desfechos clínicos. Resultados A prevalência de placa aterosclerótica, colesterol elevado, e uso de estatina foram respectivamente 34,3%, 48,5% e 14,2%. Estatina e colesterol sérico não impactaram nos desfechos medidos pela mRS em 6 meses (p > 0,05), mas mostraram diferentes tendências quando separados pelo estado de ruptura do AI. Colesterol sérico apresenta uma importante associação com ruptura de aneurisma (p » 0,0382). Colesterol elevado e uso de estatinas representam uma tendência a piores desfechos para aneurismas rompidos, e o oposto é verdade para os não rompidos. A presença de placa aterosclerótica não está relacionada com piores resultados. Conclusões Mecanismos múltiplos e opostos podem estar envolvidos na patofisio logia do AI. Aneurismas rompidos estão associados com maiores níveis de colesterol sérico. Colesterol sérico e estatinas não foram correlacionados com piores desfechos, mas mais estudos são importantes para clarificar a relação entre esses fatores

Could outcomes of intracranial aneurysms be better predict using serum creatinine and glomerular filtration rate?

Purpose: To analyze the role of serum creatinine levels as a biomarker of intracranial aneurysm outcomes. Methods: This is a prospective analysis of outcomes of patients with intracranial aneurysm. One hundred forty-seven patients with serum creatinine at admission and 6 months follow up were included. Linear and logistic regressions were used to analyze the data. Modified Rankin scale (mRS) was used to assess outcome. Results: Creatinine level was not directly related to aneurysm outcome nor aneurysm rupture (p > 0.05). However, patients with a glomerular filtration rate (GFR) lower than 72.50 mL·min­1 had an odds ratio (OR) of 3.049 (p = 0.006) for worse outcome. Similarly, aneurysm rupture had an OR of 2.957 (p = 0.014) for worse outcomes. Stepwise selection model selected 4 variables for outcomes prediction: serum creatinine, sex, hypertension and treatment. Hypertensive patients had, on average, an increase in 0.588 in mRS (p = 0.022), while treatment with microsurgery had a decrease in 0.555 (p = 0.038). Conclusions: Patients with higher GFR had better outcomes after 6 months. Patients with higher GFR had better outcomes after 6 months. Creatinine presented an indirect role in GFR values and should be included in models for outcome prediction.