Complex intracranial aneurysms: a DELPHI study to define associated characteristics.

PURPOSE: Intracranial aneurysms present significant health risks, as their rupture leads to subarachnoid haemorrhage, which in turn has high morbidity and mortality rates. There are several elements affecting the complexity of an intracranial aneurysm. However, criteria for defining a complex intracranial aneurysm (CIA) in open surgery and endovascular treatment could differ, and actually there is no consensus on the definition of a "complex" aneurysm. This DELPHI study aims to assess consensus on variables defining a CIA. METHODS: An international panel of 50 members, representing various specialties, was recruited to define CIAs through a three-round Delphi process. The panelists participated in surveys with Likert scale responses and open-ended questions. Consensus criteria were established to determine CIA variables, and statistical analysis evaluated consensus and stability. RESULTS: In open surgery, CIAs were defined by fusiform or blister-like shape, dissecting aetiology, giant size (≥ 25 mm), broad neck encasing parent arteries, extensive neck surface, wall calcification, intraluminal thrombus, collateral branch from the sac, location (AICA, SCA, basilar), vasospasm context, and planned bypass (EC-IC or IC-IC). For endovascular treatment, CIAs included giant size, very wide neck (dome/neck ratio ≤ 1:1), and collateral branch from the sac. CONCLUSIONS: The definition of aneurysm complexity varies by treatment modality. Since elements related to complexity differ between open surgery and endovascular treatment, these consensus criteria of CIAs could even guide in selecting the best treatment approach.

Training in Sylvian Arachnoid Dissection: The Art of Using Kamiyama Scissors and a Simple Novel Model for Practice Sylvian Arachnoid Dissection Using Cotton Fiber with Brain Model.

Background Transsylvian approach is one of the main approaches for a variety of vascular, tumor, and skull-base lesions. Sylvian fissure harbors a lot of critical structures including the middle cerebral artery and many venous structures. If not done properly, the transsylvian approach could cause several complications. Up to now, there is no simple training model for practicing Sylvian fissure dissection. In this article, we describe the technique of using microscissors for the sharp dissection of arachnoid trabeculae. We also propose a new model for practicing Sylvian arachnoid dissection using a three-dimensional (3D) brain model with cotton fiber. Materials and Method We inserted cotton fiber into the Sylvian fissure of the brain model (aneurysm box from UpsurgeOn) and covered the Sylvian fissure with a cotton sheet, then sprayed the water over it. We dissected this model under a microscope by using Kamiyama scissors in the right hand and suction in the left hand. Result Under the microscope, our model appears comparable with the real Sylvian fissure. We can use this model for practicing arachnoid dissection with Kamiyama scissors. Conclusion The arachnoid dissection model by using a 3D brain model with cotton fiber is a simplified and novel approach for practicing the Sylvian fissure dissection.

A Practical Guide to Train the Side-to-side Anastomosis: Tips, Tricks and Technical Nuances.

BACKGROUND: Microanastomosis presents a challenge in neurosurgical procedures, requiring specialized skills. Regular practice outside the operating room is crucial. This study aims to provide a detailed description of the side-to-side anastomosis technique and analyze its advantages in preventing failures compared with other variations. METHODS: We examined the technique, characteristics, and outcomes of side-to-side bypass procedures for complex aneurysms in the anterior cerebral artery territory at our institution over the past decade. We compared our technique with those described in the literature by other groups. RESULTS: The Far East Neurosurgical Institute (FENI) technique was used in 15 patients, with 17 side-to-side anastomoses performed. The average anastomosis time was 27.5 minutes, with 100% patency in follow-up. Our technique demonstrated safety and effectiveness in treating intracranial aneurysms, yielding satisfactory short- and long-term functionality outcomes. We highlight the importance of maintaining a curvilinear arteriotomy shape, at least 3 times the diameter of the artery, and utilizing an interrupted suturing technique on the anterior wall. CONCLUSIONS: This paper presents the first comprehensive description of the side-to-side anastomosis technique, supported with images and videos for training and replicability. Our technique enhances flow dynamics and reduces the risk of acute thrombus formation. Training in simulators and microsurgery practice centers outside the operating room is essential for acquiring and refining microsurgical skills.

Combined Direct and Indirect Revascularisation With Superficial Sparing of Temporalis Muscle in Moyamoya Disease: Operative Technique: 2-Dimensional Operative Video.

The primary objective of revascularization surgery for moyamoya disease (MMD) is to augment cerebral blood flow and prevent disease progression.1 There are several options for bypass surgery, including direct methods such as superficial temporal artery-middle cerebral artery anastomosis, indirect bypasses such as encephalomyosynangiosis, encephaloduroarteriosynangiosis or encephaloduroarteriomyosynangiosis, or combined procedures.2-5 In our institution, we undertake a combined approach involving multiple low-flow bypasses and a modified indirect bypass technique, with additional attention to achieving an optimal cosmetic result. Given that MMD often affects young patients, considering cosmesis as a significant factor in managing this condition should be standard practice. We present our modified operative technique of a combined approach to revascularization surgery in patients with MMD with particular emphasis on the indirect bypass procedure. The temporalis muscle is divided in two parts in the sagittal plane where the deeper portion is mobilized to perform an EMS, and the superficial portion is reattached to the bone flap to maintain cosmetic symmetry. A 23-year-old woman presented with a 6-month history of transient left-sided hemiparesis on a background of MMD (previous left-sided revascularization surgery). Subsequent imaging demonstrated worsening right internal carotid artery stenosis. The patient and her family were extensively counseled and decision to proceed with right-sided bypass surgery was undertaken (Video). The patient had an unremarkable postoperative course and was discharged home on day 14. Institutional review board approval was not required in our institution. The patient consented to the procedure and to the publication of his/her images.

Case Report of Ruptured Large Fusiform Distal Anterior Cerebral Artery Aneurysm Treated With A3-A3 In Situ Bypass, Reimplantation, and Trapping With Aneurysmectomy: 2-Dimensional Operative Video.

Large fusiform aneurysms in the distal anterior cerebral territory are infrequent and pose considerable treatment challenges, as they necessitate comprehensive aneurysm resolution without compromising physiological flow dynamics.1-3 We present the case of a 52-year-old man with a ruptured distal anterior cerebral artery fusiform aneurysm. The patient consented to the procedure; this complex condition was successfully managed through an A3-A3 in situ bypass, branch reconstruction, and trapping accompanied by aneurysmectomy. The multifaceted nature of fusiform lesions precludes the feasibility of endovascular interventions as a sole remedy. In addition, reconstructive and deconstructive approaches exhibit elevated mortality rates in patients experiencing high-grade subarachnoid hemorrhage.1,4 Given the intricacies intrinsic to this clinical context and the exigent nature of fusiform aneurysms, the surgical therapeutic arsenal embraces a diverse array of surgical methodologies, each offering a bespoke spectrum of techniques meticulously tailored to attain predefined objectives.3,5-7 These approaches are attuned to promptly abrogate imminent threats, while concurrently mitigating latent complications linked to subarachnoid hemorrhage ensuing from aneurysmal rupture, encompassing the specters of rebleeding, ischemic stroke, and edematous sequelae.8,9 Crucially, the selection of the most appropriate surgical approach hinges on a comprehensive understanding of available options, patient-specific anatomic considerations, and the preferences of the neurosurgeon. Such a nuanced decision-making process ensures an individualized treatment strategy tailored to optimize patient outcomes.3,6.

Basal vein of Rosenthal classification: the key to venous outflow of the deep sylvian fissure.

OBJECTIVE: Mastery of sylvian fissure dissection is essential to access lesions within the deep basal cisterns. The deep sylvian vein and its tributaries play a major role during access to and beyond the carotid cistern through the sylvian fissure and determine the complexity of microdissection. Preserving the venous outflow during sylvian fissure dissection is the best reliable strategy to prevent postoperative venous strokes or venous hypertension. The authors report the role of the basal vein of Rosenthal (BVR) in the venous outflow pattern of the deep sylvian cistern. METHODS: The authors analyzed 262 consecutive surgical cases involving sylvian fissure dissection from 2015 to 2017. Inclusion criteria were complete sylvian fissure dissection for the treatment of intracranial aneurysms. Exclusion criteria were giant size (aneurysm diameter > 24 mm), meningitis, subarachnoid hemorrhage within the sylvian cistern, absence of 4D CT angiography, and previous surgery. Retrospective radiological and operative video reviews were carried out to assess the association between the superficial sylvian vein and the BVR. The authors analyzed the course of the BVR and the patterns of venous drainage of the sylvian cistern. The surgical difficulty of sylvian fissure dissection was rated by the authors to study the operative significance of the venous patterns encountered. Two clinical cases are described to illustrate the proposed BVR classification. RESULTS: A total of 97 patients met the selection criteria. The most frequent type of BVR was immature (diameter < 0.5 mm, 68%). When the BVR was incompletely developed or absent (immature type), the deep sylvian veins drained through a middle sylvian vein in 70% of cases, requiring advanced sylvian fissure dissection techniques. However, when the BVR was completely developed (32%), the middle sylvian vein was found in a minority of cases (6%), which allowed for an unobstructed transsylvian corridor. Interrater and test-retest reliability of the surgical difficulty was greater than 0.9. CONCLUSIONS: Preoperative assessment of the BVR anatomy is key to predict the deep sylvian venous pattern. The authors provide objective evidence supporting the reciprocal relationship between the type of BVR and the presence of a middle sylvian vein and the deep sylvian venous outflow. An immature BVR should alert the neurosurgeon of the high likelihood of finding a complex deep venous pattern, which may drive surgical planning.

Current Mouse Models of Intracranial Aneurysms: Analysis of Pharmacological Agents Used to Induce Aneurysms and Their Impact on Translational Research.

Intracranial aneurysms (IAs) are rare vascular lesions that are more frequently found in women. The pathophysiology behind the formation and growth of IAs is complex. Hence, to date, no single pharmacological option exists to treat them. Animal models, especially mouse models, represent a valuable tool to explore such complex scientific questions. Genetic modification in a mouse model of IAs, including deletion or overexpression of a particular gene, provides an excellent means for examining basic mechanisms behind disease pathophysiology and developing novel pharmacological approaches. All existing animal models need some pharmacological treatments, surgical interventions, or both to develop IAs, which is different from the spontaneous and natural development of aneurysms under the influence of the classical risk factors. The benefit of such animal models is the development of IAs in a limited time. However, clinical translation of the results is often challenging because of the artificial course of IA development and growth. Here, we summarize the continuous improvement in mouse models of IAs. Moreover, we discuss the pros and cons of existing mouse models of IAs and highlight the main translational roadblocks and how to improve them to increase the success of translational IA research.

Microsurgical thrombectomy: where the ancient art meets the new era.

Mechanical thrombectomy (MT) is the leading treatment for acute large vessel occlusion (LVO). However, surgical thrombectomy (ST) may have a role in well selected LVO patients where MT failed to re-establish flow, the endovascular route is inaccessible, or where MT is a financially prohibitive or absent option (developing and poor countries). We compared the efficacy and efficiency between ST and MT, and described our operative experience and its potential application in the developing world. Clinical outcomes, procedural times, and efficacy of treatment were compared between the MT and ST of acute LVO between 2012 and 2022. Propensity score-matched analysis was also conducted to compare MT and ST. One-hundred nine patients fulfilled the study criteria (77 MTs vs 32 STs). Factors driving outcome were age (aOR: 0.95, 95%CI, 0.91-0.98), hemisphere side (aOR: 0.38, 95%CI, 0.15-0.96), and DWI-ASPECT (aOR: 1.39, 95%CI, 1.09-1.77) at presentation by the multivariate analysis. Times from door-start of procedure (P = 0.45) and start of procedure-recanalization (P = 0.13) were similar between treatment options. Propensity score-matched analysis found no significant difference for 2 treatment methods about time of door to recanalization (P = 0.155) and outcome (P = 0.221). The prognosticators of thrombectomy for acute LVO in patients with successful recanalization were age, affected hemisphere side, and DWI-ASPECT score. Our evidence shows that the efficacy of ST is similar to that of MT. There should be a place of ST for cases of mechanical failure or tandem cervical ICA and MCA occlusion. ST may be a temporizing LVO treatment option in healthcare systems where MT is inexistent or financially prohibitive to patients.

Optimizing the Approach to STA-MCA Bypass Surgery and Reducing Wound Complications.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The treatment of complex intracranial aneurysms with bypass surgery using 2 branches of the superficial temporal artery (STA) proves to be an effective surgical option. However, the harvest of these 2 STA branches, combined with a pterional craniotomy, carries the potential risk of delayed wound healing of the skin flap. This study undertook a retrospective analysis to examine and identify the factors associated with this delayed wound healing. METHODS: A total of 56 consecutive cases, including both ruptured and unruptured complex intracranial aneurysms, that underwent bypass surgery with 2 branches of the STA, were analyzed retrospectively. RESULTS: Major delayed wound healing was observed in 6 (10.7%) cases. Univariate analysis demonstrated significant associations with the following factors: rupture (P = 0.023), presence of diabetes mellitus (P = 0.028), large craniotomy size (P = 0.012), and the type of skin incision (P ≤ 0.001). Age (P = 0.283), sex (P = 0.558), body mass index (P = 0.221), and other blood test parameters did not demonstrate any statistical significance. Similarly, the presence of a dominant frontal branch (P = 0.515) or a low-positioned frontal branch (P = 0.622) did not reveal statistically significant results. CONCLUSIONS: In the treatment of complex intracranial aneurysms, where harvesting of the 2 STA branches is involved with a pterional craniotomy, producing a smaller skin flap (L- or T-shaped incision) is effective in minimizing the risk of delayed wound healing. The process of harvesting the STA and closing the wound demands meticulous care, taking into consideration the normal anatomical structures and the subdermal vascular plexus of the scalp.

Bypass Surgery for Vertebral Artery and Posterior Inferior Cerebellar Artery Fusiform Aneurysms: Surgical Technique and Key Lessons.

Fusiform vertebral artery (VA) aneurysms are challenging to treat due to their pathophysiology, morphology, and anatomic location.1,2 Endovascular treatments are considered to be a widely adopted safe option for this pathology.1 Open microsurgical treatment is considered for complex anatomy, important branch involvement, poor collateral flow, or failed endovascular therapy.3-7 This report aims to show the flow-replacement strategy and bypass technique for a VA aneurysm with complex anatomy and branch involvement. A 24-year-old man presented to our clinic with a bilateral fusiform VA aneurysm discovered during workup of progressive headaches. Further investigation revealed that the left-side aneurysm was mostly thrombosed and the posterior inferior cerebellar artery arose from the aneurysm dome with a fusiform enlargement within a few millimeters from the branching point. After evaluating all management options, the patient decided on surgical treatment of the left VA aneurysm. We performed an occipital artery to posterior inferior cerebellar artery end-to-side anastomosis distal to the fusiform enlargement, followed by trapping of the aneurysm and dome resection (Video 1). Antegrade flow to the distal VA was reestablished using a radial artery interposition graft, thus preventing any flow alterations that may cause growth or rupture of the contralateral aneurysm caused by increased hemodynamic stress if the ipsilateral VA flow is not preserved.8 After in-hospital physical rehabilitation, the patient was discharged with a modified Rankin Scale score of 1. The contralateral aneurysm is managed with serial imaging and treatment will ensue if there is clinical-radiologic evolution. The patient consented to the procedure and publication of his image.

Dome Resection and End-to-End Reanastomosis for a Middle Cerebral Artery Fusiform Aneurysm of the M1 Segment: 2-Dimensional Operative Video.

Fusiform aneurysms of the middle cerebral artery (MCA) are both relatively uncommon and challenging to treat given their pathophysiology, morphology, and anatomy (e.g., perforating arteries involvement).1,2 Endovascular treatment of fusiform MCA aneurysms can achieve good outcomes in well-selected cases.3,4 Open microsurgical strategies are effective in a case of fusiform MCA aneurysms with complex anatomy or perforator involvement.2,5,6 We demonstrate the bypass strategy for resection of a fusiform M1 MCA aneurysm (Video 1). A 48-year-old female was referred for the treatment of a growing incidental right M1 MCA fusiform aneurysm. Imaging showed a tortuous M1 segment with no apparent perforator involvement, which we considered a candidate for resection and reanastomosis. A modified minipterional transsylvian approach was performed as described earlier.7,8 A double superficial temporal artery to middle cerebral artery bypass was performed to maintain flow to MCA territory and distal perforators in anticipation of a long temporary flow arrest due to complex aneurysmal dissection and reanastomosis and also to serve as long-term protective insurance. Resection and end-to-end reanastomosis will preserve the antegrade flow and prevent the risk stump thrombosis carried by a simple trapping.9,10 We cover the nuances of this technique including key steps to an efficient aneurysmal resection and complication avoidance. The patient tolerated the procedure well, and postoperative imaging showed no aneurysmal remnant and flow restoration with no evidence of stroke. We discharged the patient home with a modified Rankin scale of 0. The patient consented to the procedure and publication of his or her image.

Increased PDGFRB and NF-κB signaling caused by highly prevalent somatic mutations in intracranial aneurysms.

Intracranial aneurysms (IAs) are a high-risk factor for life-threatening subarachnoid hemorrhage. Their etiology, however, remains mostly unknown at present. We conducted screening for sporadic somatic mutations in 65 IA tissues (54 saccular and 11 fusiform aneurysms) and paired blood samples by whole-exome and targeted deep sequencing. We identified sporadic mutations in multiple signaling genes and examined their impact on downstream signaling pathways and gene expression in vitro and an arterial dilatation model in mice in vivo. We identified 16 genes that were mutated in at least one IA case and found that these mutations were highly prevalent (92%: 60 of 65 IAs) among all IA cases examined. In particular, mutations in six genes (PDGFRB, AHNAK, OBSCN, RBM10, CACNA1E, and OR5P3), many of which are linked to NF-κB signaling, were found in both fusiform and saccular IAs at a high prevalence (43% of all IA cases examined). We found that mutant PDGFRBs constitutively activated ERK and NF-κB signaling, enhanced cell motility, and induced inflammation-related gene expression in vitro. Spatial transcriptomics also detected similar changes in vessels from patients with IA. Furthermore, virus-mediated overexpression of a mutant PDGFRB induced a fusiform-like dilatation of the basilar artery in mice, which was blocked by systemic administration of the tyrosine kinase inhibitor sunitinib. Collectively, this study reveals a high prevalence of somatic mutations in NF-κB signaling pathway-related genes in both fusiform and saccular IAs and opens a new avenue of research for developing pharmacological interventions.

High-Flow Bypass and Trapping of a Ruptured Internal Carotid Artery Blister Aneurysm: Operative Principles and Key Lessons.

Blood blister-like aneurysms (BBAs) are infrequent but challenging small aneurysms with fragile domes consisting of a thin adventitia layer.1 Flow diversion and microsurgical trapping are acceptable treatment options. While endovascular treatment is becoming the first choice in developed countries, it is prohibitive in most developing countries, where microsurgical treatment is the only feasible option. Microsurgical treatment offers superior obliteration rates at similar neurologic outcomes than endovascular treatment.1-3 Mastering high-flow revascularization and pressure monitoring is necessary to improve outcomes of BBA, especially in the developing world. We present our operative principles, which involve pressure monitoring and a high-flow bypass to ensure sufficient post-trapping cerebral pressure.4 A 53-year-old lady was found to have a modified Fisher 4 subarachnoid hemorrhage after the worst headache of her life. Endovascular flow diversion and trapping and bypass were discussed with the patient and family. A right internal carotid artery BBA was trapped (Video 1). A right superficial temporal artery to M4 middle cerebral artery (MCA) bypass was used to both maintain perfusion during a high-flow bypass and to measure cerebral blood pressure. An external carotid artery to MCA bypass using a saphenous vein graft provided >80% of baseline MCA arterial pressure, which prevents delayed ischemic strokes.4 The patient tolerated the procedure well and was discharged home without deficits on postoperative day 15 after vasospasm watch. The patient consented to the procedure and provided consent to the publication of her images.

The Microcisternal Drainage Technique.

BACKGROUND: Microsurgical dissection of arachnoid cisterns requires a combination of anatomic knowledge and microsurgical skill. The latter relies on experience and microsurgical dexterity, which depend on visual identification of cisternal microvasculature. We describe a novel standardized operative sequence to allow for bloodless arachnoid dissection when cisternal anatomy is challenging. METHODS: We used the reported technique in 1928 cases over the past 5 years (2018-2022). The outer arachnoid was incised to enter the cisternal space. A cotton pledget was placed in contact with an inner membrane and gently pushed laterally and superficially with the suction cannula at medium suction power. When the arachnoid membranes dried, arachnoid trabeculae were cut and microvasculature were released at the convexity of their loops and gently transposed off the dissection trajectory. The same principle was used to release parent and perforating arteries from the aneurysm dome. RESULTS: The microcisternal drainage technique enabled safe and efficient access through adhered arachnoid in all cases. A complex anterior communicating artery aneurysm in a 52-year-old lady demonstrated the use of the microcisternal drainage technique during access through the pericallosal cistern. This technique was used in all cases where cisternal dissection was needed. CONCLUSIONS: The microcisternal drainage technique uses deliberate and strategic suction, dynamic retraction, and nuanced scissor cuts to enable precise and bloodless microdissection of adherent arachnoid cisterns. This technique combines common neurosurgical maneuvers in a novel standardized sequence to improve efficiency and safety during arachnoid dissection.

A case of facial nerve palsy caused by severe head injury treated by translabyrinthine approach.

Background: Several treatments for traumatic facial paralysis have been reported, but the role of surgery is still controversial. Case Description: A 57-year-old man was admitted to our hospital with head trauma due to a fall injury. A total body computed tomography (CT) scan showed a left frontal acute epidural hematoma associated with a left optic canal and petrous bone fractures with the disappearance of the light reflex. Hematoma removal and optic nerve decompression were performed immediately. The initial treatment was successful with complete recovery of consciousness and vision. The facial nerve paralysis (House and Brackmann scale grade 6) did not improve after medical therapy, and thus, surgical reconstruction was performed 3 months after the injury. The left hearing was lost entirely, and the facial nerve was surgically exposed from the internal auditory canal to the stylomastoid foramen through the translabyrinthine approach. The facial nerve's fracture line and damaged portion were recognized intraoperatively near the geniculate ganglion. The facial nerve was reconstructed using a greater auricular nerve graft. Functional recovery was observed at the 6-months follow-up (House and Brackmann grade 4), with significant recovery in the orbicularis oris muscle. Conclusion: Interventions tend to be delayed, but it is possible to select a treatment method of the translabyrinthine approach.

Reverse Suction Decompression Using the Superior Thyroid Artery During Clipping of a Complex Anterior Choroidal Artery Aneurysm.

Direct aneurysmal suction decompression was first described by Dr. Flamm in 1981 to improve safety and ease clipping of complex aneurysms by deflating their dome.1 This technique evolved over the following decade, from direct aneurysmal puncture to indirect-reverse-suction decompression (RSD).2,3 The conventional technique for RSD involves a cannulation of the internal (ICA) or common (CCA) carotid arteries.2-9 Direct puncture of either the CCA or ICA carry risk of arterial wall damage (e.g., dissection), which may result in significant morbidity.10,11 We routinely cannulate the superior thyroidal artery (SThA) as the vascular access to perform RSD. This subtle technical nuance prevents dissection of either the CCA or ICA while providing a reliable source for RSD.12 In this operative video, the SThA was cannulated to apply reverse suction decompression, which allowed releasing perforating arteries from the dome of an anterior choroidal artery aneurysm in a 68-year-old lady. The patient tolerated the procedure well, was discharged without neurologic deficits, and resumed normal life with no aneurysm remnant. The patient consented to the procedure and video/photography publication. RSD is an optimal technique to enhance efficiency and safety when dissecting around the dome of a complex intradural ICA aneurysm. The use of the SThA avoids the risk of ICA or CCA wall damage due to access, which defeats the protective purpose of RSD itself. Video 1 provides an educational example of the SThA cannulation technique for RSD during dissection and clipping of a complex anterior choroidal artery aneurysm.