An Intracranial Tuberculoma with Discharging Scalp Sinus.

Our report highlights a case of intracranial tuberculoma in an elderly woman with chronic discharging sinus. A 77-year-old woman had a mass lesion extending to the scalp through a chronic discharging sinus for 2 years with an intermittent, non-radiating, dull, low-grade headache. Based on our survey of central nervous system tuberculosis, this case is a rare event of documented intracranial tuberculoma with concomitant discharge of the scalp sinus similar to the periodic geyser eruptions in developing countries.

Microvascular Decompression of Facial Nerve and Pexy of the Left Vertebral Artery for Left Hemifacial Spasm: 3-Dimensional Operative Video.

A 73-yr-old man presented with intractable left hemifacial spasm of 4 yr duration. Brain magnetic resonance imaging showed significant compression of left facial nerve by the left vertebral artery (VA) and anterior inferior cerebellar artery (AICA).The patient underwent a left retrosigmoid craniotomy and a microvascular decompression of the cranial nerve (CN) VII. Intraoperatively, we found that the distal AICA had a protracted subarcuate extradural course.1 This was relieved by intra/extradural dissection. The left VA and the AICA loop were compressing the root exit zone of CN VII. The VA was mobilized, and pexy into the petrosal dura was done with 8-0 nylon sutures (Ethilon Nylon Suture, Ethicon Inc, a subsidiary of Johnson & Johnson, Somerville, New Jersey). Once this was done, the lateral spread disappeared.2 The AICA loop was decompressed with 2 pieces of Teflon felt (Bard PTFE felt, Bard peripheral Vascular Inc, a subsidiary of CR Bard Inc, Temp, Arizona). After this, wave V of the brainstem auditory evoked potential (BAEP) disappeared completely, with no recovery despite the application of the nicardipine on the internal auditory artery (IAA). The IAA appeared to be stretched by the microvascular decompression. Arachnoidal dissection was done to release the CN VIII and an additional felt piece was placed to elevate the AICA loop; the BAEP recovered completely. The patient had a complete disappearance of the hemifacial spasm postoperatively, and hearing was unchanged.This 3-D video shows the technical nuances of performing a vertebropexy, release of the AICA from its extradural subarcuate course, and the surgical maneuvers in the event of an unexpected change in neuromonitoring response. The suture technique of vertebropexy is preferred to a loop technique, to avoid kinking of the VA.3Informed consent was obtained from the patient prior to the surgery that included videotaping of the procedure and its distribution for educational purposes. All relevant patient identifiers have also been removed from the video and accompanying radiology slides.

Predictors of Recurrence, Progression, and Retreatment in Basilar Tip Aneurysms: A Location-Controlled Analysis.

BACKGROUND: Endovascular treatment of intracranial aneurysms is associated with higher rates of recurrence and retreatment, though contemporary rates and risk factors for basilar tip aneurysms (BTAs) are less well-described. OBJECTIVE: To characterize progression, retreatement, and retreated progression of BTAs treated with microsurgical or endovascular interventions. METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed records for 141 consecutive BTA patients. We included 158 anterior communicating artery (ACoA) and 118 middle cerebral artery (MCA) aneurysms as controls. Univariate and multivariate analyses were used to calculate rates of progression (recurrence of previously obliterated aneurysms and progression of known residual aneurysm dome or neck), retreatment, and retreated progression. Kaplan-Meier analysis was used to characterize 24-mo event rates for primary outcome prediction. RESULTS: Of 141 BTA patients, 62.4% were ruptured and 37.6% were unruptured. Average radiographical follow-up was 33 mo. Among ruptured aneurysms treated with clipping, there were 2 rehemorrhages due to recurrence (6.1%), and none in any other cohorts. Overall rates of progression (28.9%), retreatment (28.9%), and retreated progression (24.7%) were not significantly different between surgical and endovascular subgroups, though ruptured aneurysms had higher event rates. Multivariate modeling confirmed rupture status (P = .003, hazard ratio = 0.14) and aneurysm dome width (P = .005, hazard ratio = 1.23) as independent predictors of progression requiring retreatment. In a separate multivariate analysis with ACoA and MCA aneurysms, basilar tip location was an independent predictor of progression, retreatment, and retreated progression. CONCLUSION: BTAs have higher rates of progression and retreated progression than other aneurysm locations, independent of treatment modality. Rupture status and dome width are risk factors for progression requiring retreatment.

Microsurgical Resection of Ruptured Large Left Temporo-Occipital Arteriovenous Malformation: 3-Dimensional Operative Video.

A 59-yr-old man presented with intraventricular hemorrhage and was found to have a large temporo-occipital arteriovenous malformation (AVM), Spetzler-Martin grade 4. The preoperative intra-arterial digital subtraction angiography (IADSA) showed the AVM was 4 × 4 cm2, had superficial and deep venous drainage, and was fed by multiple branches of the posterior cerebral artery and middle cerebral artery. Preoperative embolization was done in 4 stages. He underwent a left temporo-occipital craniotomy, mastoidectomy, and retrosigmoid craniotomy with a posterior temporal approach. Intraoperatively, there was a large draining vein draining into the sigmoid sinus in the location of the vein of Labbe, and multiple other feeding arteries and draining veins, including periventricular vessels. Circumferential dissection of the AVM was done from posteriorly, superiorly, anteriorly, and then inferiorly. The technique of temporary clipping and cauterizing the perforating arteries, and then sectioning them after flow arrest is shown in the video. Large arterial feeders were cauterized and divided. Three permanent aneurysm clips were left to control bleeding from the vessels of the trigone of the lateral ventricle. After the large draining vein into the sigmoid sinus was occluded, the AVM was completely removed. The patient had acute nonfluent aphasia postoperatively but improved after speech therapy. The postoperative IADSA demonstrated total resection. At 3-mo follow-up, he had recovered completely (mRS0). This 3-D video shows the technical nuances of microsurgical resection of a complex large AVM. Informed consent was obtained from the patient prior to the surgery that included videotaping of the procedure and its distribution for educational purposes. All relevant patient identifiers have also been removed from the video and accompanying radiology slides.

Microsurgical Resection of a Large Intraventricular Trigonal Tumor: 3-Dimensional Operative Video.

A 62-yr-old woman presented with incidentally detected left trigonal mass by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) performed during workup for left-sided hearing loss and vertigo of 5-yr duration. Due to persistent dizziness, headache, and progressive enlargement of the tumor in follow-up scans, operation was planned. Because the tumor extended superiorly, a superior parietal lobule approach was selected.She underwent a left parietal craniotomy. A strip electrode was used to localize the motor and sensory regions, and neuronavigation was used to confirm the entry site. A small transsulcal corticotomy was performed posterior to a large cortical vein. The tumor was pinkish in color with a well-defined capsule. It was centrally debulked by using curettes, pituitary forceps, and the ultrasonic aspirator. Tumoral blood supply from the choroid plexus and the posterior choroidal vessels were cauterized and divided. Additional blood supply coming from the anterior choroidal vessels was also found and cauterized. After circumferential dissection of the tumor capsule, the tumor was removed completely. The pathology indicated WHO Grade I meningioma. The patient had mild expressive and receptive aphasia postoperatively, but improved progressively. The postoperative MRI showed total resection with no evidence of brain injury. At 3-mo follow-up, the speech was normal; she was independent for all daily activities, but had not yet returned to work (Karnofsky score 80).This 3-D video shows the technical nuances of microsurgical resection of an intraventricular tumor through a narrow brain corridor.Informed consent was obtained from the patient prior to the surgery that included videotaping of the procedure and its distribution for educational purposes. All relevant patient identifiers have also been removed from the video and accompanying radiology slides.

Brain Stem Cavernous Malformations: Operative Nuances of a Less-Invasive Resection Technique.

BACKGROUND: Different operative techniques are reported for the resection of brainstem cavernous malformations (BSCMs). The senior author has previously reported on a less-invasive technique of entering the brain stem with piecemeal removal of BSCMs, especially the deep-seated ones. OBJECTIVE: To present a larger series of these lesions, emphasizing the approach to the brain stem via case selection. We discuss the nuances of the less-invasive operative technique through case illustrations and intraoperative videos. METHODS: A retrospective review of 46 consecutive cases of BSCMs, with their clinical and radiographic data, was performed. Nine cases were selected to illustrate 7 different operative approaches, and discuss surgical nuances of the less-invasive technique unique to each. RESULTS: Postoperative morbidity, defined as an increase in modified Rankin Scale, was observed in 5 patients (10.9%). A residual BSCM was present in 2 patients (4.3%); both underwent reoperation to remove the remainder. At follow-up of 31.1 ± 27.8 mo, 3 patients experienced recurrence (6.5%). Overall, 65% of our patients improved, 20% stayed the same, and 11% worsened postsurgery. Two patients died, yielding a mortality of 4.3%. CONCLUSION: Using the less-invasive resection technique for piecemeal BSCM removal, in appropriately selected patients, has yielded comparable to improved patient outcomes over existing large series. In our experience, lateral, anterolateral, and posterolateral approaches are favorable over direct midline (dorsal or ventral) approaches. A thorough understanding of brain-stem safe-entry zones, in conjunction with appropriate approach selection, is key to a good outcome in challenging cases.

Transpetrosal approach to petro-clival meningioma.

A 38-year-old woman had a 3-week gradual onset of right-sided weakness in the upper and lower extremities. MRI showed a large left petro-clival meningioma encasing the basilar and left superior cerebellar artery and compressing the brainstem. A posterior transpetrosal approach, with a left temporal and retrosigmoid craniotomy and mastoidectomy, was performed. The tumor was removed in a gross-total resection with questionable remnants adherent to the brainstem. Intraoperative partial iatrogenic injury to the left oculomotor nerve was repaired with fibrin glue. Postoperatively, the hemiparesis improved, and the patient was discharged to the rehabilitation center with left oculomotor and abducens palsies. A postoperative MRI scan showed complete resection of tumor with no remnants on the brainstem. A 6-month follow-up examination showed complete resolution of motor symptoms and complete recovery of cranial nerve (CN) palsies affecting CN III and CN VI. The video can be found here: https://youtu.be/vOu6YFA8uoo .

Optimizing the management of neuromyelitis optica and spectrum disorders in resource poor settings: Experience from the Mangalore demyelinating disease registry.

BACKGROUND: In resource-poor settings, the management of neuromyelitis optica (NMO) and NMO spectrum (NMOS) disorders is limited because of delayed diagnosis and financial constraints. AIM: To device a cost-effective strategy for the management of NMO and related disorders in India. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cost-effective and disease-specific protocol was used for evaluating the course and treatment outcome of 70 consecutive patients. RESULTS: Forty-five patients (65%) had a relapse from the onset and included NMO (n = 20), recurrent transverse myelitis (RTM; n = 10), and recurrent optic neuritis (ROPN; n = 15). In 38 (84.4%) patients presenting after multiple attacks, the diagnosis was made clinically. Only 7 patients with a relapsing course were seen at the onset and included ROPN (n = 5), NMO (n = 1), and RTM (n = 1). They had a second attack after a median interval of 1 ± 0.9 years, which was captured through our dedicated review process. Twenty-five patients had isolated longitudinally extensive transverse myelitis (LETM), of which 20 (80%) remained ambulant at follow-up of 3 ± 1.9 years. Twelve patients (17%) with median expanded disability status scale (EDSS) of 8.5 at entry had a fatal outcome. Serum NMO-IgG testing was done in selected patients, and it was positive in 7 of 18 patients (39%). Irrespective of the NMO-IgG status, the treatment compliant patients (44.4%) showed significant improvement in EDSS (P ≤ 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Early clinical diagnosis and treatment compliance were important for good outcome. Isolated LETM was most likely a post-infectious demyelinating disorder in our set-up. NMO and NMOS disorders contributed to 14.9% (45/303) of all demyelinating disorders in our registry.

Influence of post fit and post length on fracture resistance: an in vitro study.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: As root filled teeth often have insufficient coronal tooth structure, placement of a post is occasionally necessary to provide adequate retention for the core and final restoration. The aim of the present study was to investigate (i) the impact of post fit (form-congruence) and (ii) the influence of post length on the fracture resistance of severely damaged root filled extracted teeth. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Forty single-rooted human teeth were root filled and divided into four groups (n = 10 per group). Post spaces were prepared with a depth of 6 mm (groups 1, 3) and 3 mm (groups 2, 4). Form-congruence with a maximal fit of the post within the root canal space was obtained in groups 1 and 2, whereas there was no form-congruence in groups 3 and 4. In all groups, glass fiber reinforced composite (FRC) posts were adhesively cemented and direct composite crown buildups were fabricated without a ferrule. Specimens were subjected to thermocycling and cyclic loading followed by application of static load until failure. Loads-to-failure [in N] were compared among the groups. RESULTS: Post fit did not have a significant influence on fracture resistance, irrespective of the post length. Both groups with post insertion depths of 6 mm resulted in significantly higher mean failure loads (group 1: 274.27 N; group 3: 277.16 N) than the groups with post space preparation of 3 mm (group 2: 250.40 N; group 4: 255.48 N). INTERPRETATION AND CONCLUSION: Within the limitations of this study, the fracture resistance of teeth restored with FRC posts and direct resin composite crowns without ferrules was not influenced by post fit within the root canal. These results imply that excessive post space preparation aimed at producing an optimal circumferential post fit is not required to improve fracture resistance of roots.

Investigation of nano lipid vesicles of methotrexate for anti-rheumatoid activity.

BACKGROUND: The purpose of this study was to formulate and evaluate nano lipid vesicles of methotrexate (MTX) for its anti-rheumatoid activity. METHODS: In this study the principle of both active as well as passive targeting using MTX-loaded stealth liposomes as per the magic gun approach was followed. Stealth liposomes of MTX were prepared by thin-film hydration method using a PEGylated phospholipid-like DSPE-MPEG 2000. Similarly, conventional liposomes were prepared using phospholipids like DPPC and DSPC. Conventional liposomes were coated with a hydrophilic biocompatible polymer like chitosan. They were investigated for their physical properties and in vitro release profile. Further, in vivo screening of the formulations for their anti-rheumatoid efficacy was carried out in rats. Rheumatoid arthritis was induced in male Wistar-Lewis rats using complete Freund's adjuvant (1 mg/mL Mycobacterium tuberculosis, heat killed in mineral oil). RESULTS: It was found that chitosan coating of the conventional liposomes increased the physical stability of the liposomal suspension as well as its entrapment efficiency. The size of the unsonicated lipid vesicles was found to be in the range of 8-10 µm, and the sonicated lipid vesicles in the range of 210-260 nm, with good polydispersity index. Further, chitosan-coated conventional liposomes and the PEGylated liposomes released the drug for a prolonged period of time, compared to the uncoated conventional liposomes. It was found that there was a significant reduction in edema volume in the rat group administered with the test stealth liposomal formulations and chitosan-coated conventional liposomes (PEGylated and chitosan-coated conventional) compared to that of the control and standard (administered with free MTX) group of rats. PEGylated liposomes showed almost equal efficacy as that of the chitosan-coated conventional liposomes. CONCLUSION: Lipid nano vesicles of MTX can be administered by intravenous route, whereby the drug selectively reaches the target site with reduced toxicity to other organs.