Sodium fluorescein and 5-aminolevulinic acid fluorescence- guided biopsy in brain lesions: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

PURPOSE: Stereotactic brain biopsies are highly efficient for diagnosing intracerebral pathologies, particularly when surgical resection is infeasible. Fluorescence-based agents such as 5-aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA) and fluorescein sodium (NaFl) can enhance diagnostic accuracy and safety, improving the visualization of lesional tissues. This meta-analysis aimed to evaluate their effect on diagnostic yield and complication rates of brain biopsies. METHODS: This study adhered to Cochrane and PRISMA guidelines. We assessed studies for diagnostic yield and complication rates. Data was analyzed using a random-effects model in RStudio. Diagnostic accuracy measures such as sensitivity and predictive values were calculated based on fluorescence visibility in biopsy samples. RESULTS: Thirty-two non-randomized studies were included, comprising 947 patients, with a mean age ranging from 37 to 77 years, and a mean sample number ranging from 1 to 15 specimens. Diagnostic yields were high: 93% for NaFl and 96% for 5-ALA. Major complications occurred in 3% of procedures with both agents, while minor complications were reported in 7% and 5% with NaFl and 5-ALA respectively. The Negative-predictive-value (NPV) of 5-ALA and NaFl were 8-11% and 60-80% respectively. NaFl demonstrates higher sensitivity and specificity at 84% and 100% compared to 5-ALA's 66%. and 85% respectively. CONCLUSION: 5-ALA and NaFl provide high diagnostic yields with acceptable safety profiles in stereotactic biopsies. NaFl showed higher sensitivity and specificity. NaFl outperforms 5ALA in terms of NPV making it more efficient for small lesions near eloquent regions or major blood vessels. The significance of these findings can be further ascertained through randomized trials.

Fractionated stereotactic radiotherapy in craniopharyngiomas: A systematic review and single arm meta-analysis.

INTRODUCTION: Numerous studies have demonstrated Fractionated Stereotactic Radiotherapy's (FSRT) effectiveness in tumor control post-resection for craniopharyngiomas. Nevertheless, past literature has presented conflicting findings particularly regarding endocrine and visual function outcomes. This study aims to elucidate FSRT's efficacy and safety for this population. METHODS: Adhering to PRISMA, a systematic review and meta-analyses was conducted. Included studies had to report the effects of FSRT for treating craniopharyngiomas in a sample greater than four patients, addressing at least one of the outcomes of interest: improvement in visual acuity or field, new-onset hypopituitarism, effectiveness, and tumor progression. Relative risk with 95% confidence intervals were used to assess the outcomes. RESULTS: After retrieving a total of 1292 studies, 10 articles met the predefined criteria and thus were finally selected, amounting to a total of 256 patients. The improvement in visual acuity was estimated at 45% (95% CI: 6-83%), while the improvement in the visual field was 22% (95% CI: 0-51%). Regarding endocrine function, the new-onset hypopituitarism rate was found to be 5% (95% CI: 0-11%). Relative to FSRT effectiveness, the pooled estimate of the complete tumor response rate was 17% (95% CI: 4-30%), and the tumor progression rate was 7% (95% CI: 1-13%). Also, a 3-year progression-free survival rate of 98% (95% CI: 95-100%) was obtained. CONCLUSION: Despite limitations and risks, FSRT shows promise as a viable therapeutic option for craniopharyngiomas, offering notable benefits for visual functions and tumor control. Further research is required to better understand the associated risks, benefits, and clinical utility.

Comparative efficacy and safety of sodium fluorescein-guided surgery versus standard white light for resection of brain metastases: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

PURPOSE: Recent studies have investigated if the sodium fluorescein-guided (SFg) improves the extent of resection of BMs when compared to standard white light (sWL). Therefore, we aimed to assess the comparative efficacy and safety of SFg and sWL for resection of BMs. METHODS: We searched Medline, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases following Cochrane and PRISMA guidelines for studies reporting comparative data of SFg and WL resection of BMs. We pooled odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals under random effects and applied I² statistics and leave-one-out sensitivity analysis to assess heterogeneity. I² > 40% was considered significant for heterogeneity. RESULTS: Five studies involving 816 patients were included, of whom 390 underwent BMs resection with SFg and 426 with sWL, and ages ranging between 26 and 86.2 years old. Analysis revealed a statistically significant higher likelihood of complete resection in the SFg group when compared to the sWL group (OR = 2.15, 95%CI: 1.18-3.92, p = 0.01; I² = 47%). Sensitivity analysis revealed a consistent result in all five scenarios, with low heterogeneity in two of the five scenarios. Three studies reported significant improvement in OS in the SFg group, and the qualitative assessment of complications and procedure-related mortality did not provide sufficient information for conclusions. CONCLUSION: This systematic review and meta-analysis identified a higher likelihood of complete resection in the SFg group when compared to the standard sWL group. This study is the first to directly compare the impact of SFg and sWL on resection outcomes for BMs.

Advancements and challenges: immunotherapy therapy in high-grade glioma - a meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials.

BACKGROUND: High-grade gliomas (HGG) are the most aggressive primary brain tumors with poor prognoses despite conventional treatments. Immunotherapy has emerged as a promising avenue due to its potential to elicit a targeted immune response against tumor cells. OBJECTIVE: This meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of various immunotherapeutic strategies, including immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI), virotherapy, and dendritic cell vaccines (DCV) in treating HGG. METHODS: Following the PRISMA framework, we searched PubMed, Cochrane, and Embase for studies reporting outcomes of HGG patients treated with immunotherapy. Key metrics included overall survival, progression-free survival, and treatment-related adverse events. RESULTS: We reviewed 47 studies, analyzing data from 3674 HGG patients treated with immunotherapy. The mean overall survival for patients treated with ICI was 11.05 months, with virotherapy at 11.79 months and notably longer for DCV at 24.11 months. The mean progression-free survival (PFS) for ICIs was 3.65 months. Virotherapy demonstrated a PFS favoring the control group, indicating minimal impact, while DCV showed substantial PFS improvement with a median of 0.43 times lower hazard compared to controls (95% CI: 29-64%). Adverse events were primarily Grade 1 or 2 for ICI, included a Grade 5 event for virotherapy, and were predominantly Grade 1 or 2 for DCV, indicating a favorable safety profile. CONCLUSION: Immunotherapy holds potential as an effective treatment for HGG, especially DCV. However, results vary significantly with the type of therapy and individual patient profiles. Further randomized controlled trials are necessary to establish robust clinical guidelines and optimize treatment protocols.

Efficacy and safety of low profile stents in Y-stent assisted coil embolization of wide-necked bifurcation aneurysms: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Low-profile stents may provide significant advantages in Y-stent-assisted coiling due to their miniaturized design and capability to be delivered through a 0.0165-inch microcatheter. We aim to investigate the safety and efficacy of using these newer versions of stents in Y-stent-assisted coiling for the treatment of wide-necked bifurcation aneurysms. We conducted a systematic review of the PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science databases up to September 2023, following the PRISMA guidelines. Eligible studies included ≥ 5 patients with intracranial wide-necked bifurcation aneurysms treated with Y-stent-assisted coiling using low-profile stents, providing angiographic and clinical outcomes. Two authors independently handled the search and selection. Primary outcomes were immediate and follow-up aneurysm occlusion, procedure-related complications, aneurysm recanalization, and retreatment. Secondary outcomes included technical success, procedure-related morbidity, procedure-related mortality, procedure-related stroke, and in-stent stenosis at follow-up. We analyzed the data using random-effects meta-analysis. In total, 19 studies including 507 patients with 509 aneurysms were included. 95% of the treated aneurysms were managed using the crossing Y-configuration. Technical success rate was 99%. Immediate adequate aneurysm occlusion was 90%. Follow-up angiographies were available for 443 aneurysms. The mean angiographic follow-up duration was 15.6 ± 1.9 months. The rates for follow-up adequate aneurysm occlusion and complete occlusion were 98% and 89%, respectively. After a mean clinical follow-up of 15 ± 2.4 months, a good clinical outcome was observed in 98% of patients. Overall, procedure-related morbidity and mortality rates were 1.3%, and 0.4%, respectively. Low-profile stents in Y-stent-assisted coiling outperform previous stent versions in terms of safety, efficacy, and technical success rates.

A light in the darkness: sodium fluorescein-assisted peripheral nerve sheath tumors resection - a comprehensive systematic review and single-arm meta-analysis.

The treatment for peripheral nerve sheath tumors (PNSTs) is based on surgical excision and the primary goal is to improve symptoms whilst preserving neurological function. In order to improve this technique, surgeons may use sodium fluorescein (SF) to help visualize the neoplasm and, consequently, facilitate its removal. Aiming to assess the efficacy of this emerging surgical strategy, we conducted a systematic review and single-arm meta-analysis. We conducted a systematic search on the PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science databases, following the PRISMA guidelines. Studies without outcomes of interest, case series with less than four patients, letters, comments, technical notes, editorials, reviews, and basic research papers were excluded. The outcomes considered for this study were: the number of tumors that achieved total resection, subtotal resection, or near total resection, the approach/technique utilized by the surgeon, SF-related complications, and total complications. Five studies, with a total of 175 individuals, were included in our survey. Notably, 70% of the neoplasms presented by the patients were schwannomas. Considering extracranial lesions, we found a proportion of 96% (95% CI: 88 - 100%) in total resection, 0% (95% CI: 0-1%) in near total resection, and 4% (95% CI: 0-12%) in subtotal resection, all linked to an amount of 185 analyzed PNSTs. Furthermore, a proportion of 1% (95% CI: 0 - 2%) in SF-related complications was spotted among 183 patients. Finally, total complications analysis accounted for 11% (95% CI: 0 - 25%) among 183 individuals. We concluded that SF-assisted resection of PNSTs is a suitable and relatively safe technique, linked to minimum complications, of which the majority was not associated with the chemical compound itself. Future research is necessary to increase the number of patients available in the current literature and, therefore, enhance future analyses.

Timing Matters: Ultra-Early and Early versus Late Thromboprophyaxis Following Spontaneous Intracerebral Hemorrhage: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) represents a critical and potentially devastating medical event resulting from the rupture of intracerebral vessels. Patients afflicted with ICH face an increased risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) due to factors such as immobility. However, determining the ideal timing for initiating venous thromboembolism thromboprophylaxis (TP) remains uncertain, as it may carry the potential risk of exacerbating hematoma expansion. Thus, our objective was to ascertain the optimal timing for initiating TP following ICH through a comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis.This systematic review and meta-analysis were performed following the Cochrane Collaboration and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) statement guidelines, considering outcomes based on the time of intervention: Ultra early (UEPT) < 24 h, Early (EPT) < 48 h, Late (LPT) > 48 h to perform an analysis on hematoma expansion and mortality.Of 2.777 Hematoma expansion was not more frequent in the 440 patients receiving UEPT/EPT (n = 440) versus 565 receiving LPT (Odds ratio (OR) 0.94 (95% CI; 0.62 to 1.43; I2 = 0%)). Similarly, mortality was not lower in the 293 received UEPT or EPT versus 477 receiving LPT (OR 0.63 (95% CI; 0.39 to 1.0; I2 = 0%).This study, through a systematic review and meta-analysis, conclusively found no difference in intracranial hematoma expansion and/or increased mortality between the use of heparin in the early thromboprophylaxis (< 48 h) group compared to the late thromboprophylaxis (> 48 h) group. Implementing this approach in the management of spontaneous cerebral hemorrhage could facilitate progress towards more optimal care protocols.

Deep brain stimulation of the subthalamic nucleus under general anesthesia versus local anesthesia in the treatment of Parkinson's disease: a meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials.

Deep brain stimulation (DBS) stands as the preferred treatment for Parkinson's disease (PD) patients manifesting refractory motor symptoms or when medication side effects outweigh the benefits. Though traditionally administered under local anesthesia coupled with sedation (LA + S), recent evidence hints at comparable outcomes under general anesthesia (GA). This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to scrutinize post-surgical outcomes in randomized PD patients undergoing DBS surgery while GA versus LA + S. We searched PubMed, Cochrane, and Embase databases following PRISMA guidelines. We included randomized studies directly comparing DBS surgery under GA versus LA + S, delineating clinical outcomes. Safety outcomes assessed disparities in infection and hemorrhage risk. Mean differences (MD) and Risk Differences (RD) with 95% Confidence Intervals (CI) were utilized to evaluate outcomes, under a random-effects model. Heterogeneity was evaluated through I² statistics, and in studies exhibiting high heterogeneity, exclusion analysis was performed. Evaluated outcomes encompassed motor improvement, complications, behavioral and mood effects gauged by the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS), Parkinson's Disease Questionnaire 39 (PDQ39), and daily levodopa equivalent dose (LEDD). A total of 3 studies, encompassing 203 patients, were reviewed. At a 6-month follow-up, in patients undergoing GA during surgery, there was no statistically significant difference compared to the LA + S group in terms of UPDRS III ON (MD 0.19; 95% CI -2.21 to 2.59; p = 0.88; I²=0%), UPDRS III OFF (MD 0.58; 95% CI -4.30 to 5.45; p = 0.21; I²=0%), UPDRS IV ON ( (MD 0.98; 95% CI -0.95 to 2.92; p = 0.32; I²=23%), PDQ39 (MD -1.27; 95% CI -6.31 to 3.77; p = 0.62; I²=0%), and LEDD (MD -1.99; 95% CI -77.88 to 73.90; p = 0.96; I²=32%). There was no statistically significant difference between groups in terms of infection (RD 0.02; 95% CI -0.02 to 0.05; p = 0.377; I²=0%) or hemorrhage (RD 0.04; 95% CI -0.03 to 0.11; p = 0.215; I²=0%). Our findings suggest, based on short-term follow-up, that GA is not inferior to LA + S in terms of benefits for the selected outcomes. However, further studies are needed to determine whether there are significant long-term clinical differences between these groups.

STA-MCA Double-Barrel Bypass: A Systematic Review of Technique and Single-Arm Meta-Analysis of Outcomes.

INTRODUCTION: Conventionally, one branch of the superficial temporal artery (STA) is utilized to revascularize the middle cerebral artery (MCA). However, there is the possibility of utilizing both branches of the STA when performing the bypass, characterizing the double-barrel (DB) STA-MCA bypass. Notably, a lack of studies evaluating this technique led the authors to conduct a systematic review and single-arm meta-analysis. METHODS: PubMed, Embase and Web of Science were searched systematically for publications of DB-STA-MCA bypass on November 1st, 2023. The findings were reported according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Case reports were not included for statistical analysis purposes. RESULTS: The review included 408 patients and 534 bypasses from 34 studies. The main etiology was Moyamoya disease (64.6%), followed by cerebral ischemia (22.2%) and aneurysms (12.5%). The median of the mean follow-ups of each study was 12.8 months (range 1.5-87.9). The postoperative patency was 100%. The follow-up patency was 98% (95% CI: 96%-100%; I2 = 0%). The procedure-related mortality was 0% (95% CI: 0%-1%; I2 = 0%). Aneurysms obtained 87% (95% CI: 72%-100%; I2 = 4%) of good clinical outcomes, while Moyamoya disease yielded a rate of 70% (95% CI: 10%-100%; I2 = 97%). Ischemic complications occurred at a rate of 6% (95% CI: 2%-11%; I2 = 36%), while hemorrhagic occurred at 6% (95% CI: 1%-11%; I2 = 56%). Hyperperfusion syndrome rate was calculated as 18% (7%-30%; I2 = 55%) for Moyamoya disease. CONCLUSIONS: The procedure appears to be safe, with excellent patency rates. The clinical efficacy for ischemic and Moyamoya diseases warrants further standardized robust investigation with a broader number of patients, and aneurysm studies are required to enhance sample sizes. The main complication for the Moyamoya subgroup is hyperperfusion syndrome.

Feasibility, safety, and efficacy of endovascular treatment of anterior cranial fossa dural arteriovenous fistulas: a systematic review and meta-analysis with a subanalysis for Onyx.

Dural Arteriovenous Fistulas (dAVFs) of the anterior cranial fossa (ACF) are uncommon but carry a high risk of hemorrhage and pose substantial treatment challenges. Recent advancements in endovascular treatment (EVT), including the introduction of novel liquid embolic agents, have markedly bolstered EVT's role in managing ACF-dAVFs, with notable series published in the last five years. We aimed to assess the feasibility, safety, and efficacy of EVT for ACF-dAVFs. We searched Medline, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library databases following PRISMA guidelines. Eligible studies included those with ≥ 5 patients undergoing embolization of ACF-dAVFs, detailing both angiographic and clinical outcomes. We used single proportion analysis with 95% confidence intervals under a random-effects model, I2 to assess heterogeneity, and Baujat and sensitivity analysis to address high heterogeneity. Publication bias was assessed by funnel-plot analysis and Egger's test. Outcomes included complete occlusion following embolization, unsuccessful endovascular embolization attempts, incomplete occlusion following embolization, symptom resolution or clinical improvement following embolization, recurrence; procedure-related complications, morbidity, and mortality. Additionally, a subanalysis for studies exclusively utilizing Onyx™ embolic system was done. Eighteen studies comprising 231 ACF-dAVF were included. Unsuccessful endovascular embolization attempts rate was 2%. Complete occlusion rate was 85%, with 4% of complications. Incomplete occlusion rate was 10%. Successfully embolized patients experienced either symptom resolution or clinical improvement in 94% of cases. Morbidity and mortality rates were 1% and 0%, respectively. Onyx subanalyses showed an overall rate of 0% for unsuccessful attempts, 95% for complete occlusion, and 5% for incomplete occlusion. Symptom resolution or clinical improvement was 98% and recurrence rate was 0%. EVT for ACF-dAVF is highly feasible, effective, and safe, with a low rate of complications, morbidity, and mortality. The subanalyses focusing on Onyx embolizations revealed superior efficacy and safety outcomes compared to the findings of the primary analyses involving all included studies.

Efficacy and safety of microvascular decompression with or without partial sensory rhizotomy: a comprehensive meta-analysis and systematic review in treating trigeminal neuralgia.

Classical trigeminal neuralgia (TN), caused by vascular compression of the nerve root, is a severe cause of pain with a considerable impact on a patient's quality of life. While microvascular decompression (MVD) has lower recurrence rates when compared with partial sensory rhizotomy (PSR) alone, refractoriness can still be as high as 47%. We aimed to assess the efficacy and safety profile of MVD + PSR when compared to standalone MVD for TN. We searched Medline, Embase, and Web of Science following PRISMA guidelines. Eligible studies included those with ≥ 4 patients, in English, published between January 1980 and December 2023, comparing MVD vs. MVD + PSR for TN. Endpoints were pain cure, immediate post-operative pain improvement, long-term effectiveness, long-term recurrence, and complications (facial numbness, hearing loss, and intracranial bleeding). We pooled odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals with a random-effects model. I2 was used to assess heterogeneity, and sensitivity and Baujat analysis were conducted to address high heterogeneity. Eight studies were included, comprising a total of 1,338 patients, of whom 1,011 were treated with MVD and 327 with MVD + PSR. Pain cure analysis revealed a lower likelihood of pain cure in patients treated with MVD when compared to patients treated with MVD + PSR (OR = 0.30, 95% CI: 0.13 to 0.72). Immediate postoperative pain improvement assessment revealed a lower likelihood of improvement in the MVD group when compared with the MVD + PSR group (OR = 0.31, 95% CI: 0.10 to 0.95). Facial numbness assessment revealed a lower likelihood of occurrence in MVD alone when compared to MVD + PSR (OR = 0.08, 95% CI: 0.04 to 0.15). Long-term effectiveness, long-term recurrence, hearing loss, and intracranial bleeding analyses revealed no difference between both approaches. Our meta-analysis identified that MVD + PSR was superior to MVD for pain cure and immediate postoperative pain improvement for treating TN. However, MVD + PSR demonstrated a higher likelihood of facial numbness complications. Furthermore, identified that hearing loss and intracranial bleeding complications appear comparable between the two treatments, and no difference between long-term effectiveness and recurrence.

Optimizing radiotherapy strategies for skull base chordoma: a comprehensive meta-analysis and systematic review of treatment modalities and outcomes.

OBJECTIVE: In the treatment of skull base chordoma (SBC) surgery is considered the mainstay approach, and gross-total resection has an established relationship with progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS). However, the tumor's location often interferes with attempts at complete resection. In this case, surgery for maximal resection followed by high-dose radiotherapy has been demonstrated to be the standard treatment. In this context, various modalities are available, yet no consensus exists on the most effective. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of different radiotherapy modalities for SBC. METHODS: Following PRISMA guidelines, the authors systematically searched for the treatment of SBC with radiation modalities in the PubMed, Cochrane, Web of Science, and EMBASE databases. Outcomes assessed for each modality were as follows: OS, PFS, local control (LC), and complications. The random-effects model was adopted. A single-proportion analysis with 95% CI was used to measure the effects in single-arm analysis. For the comparative analysis, the OR with 95% CI was used to compare outcome treatment effects. Heterogeneity was assessed using I2 statistics, and statistical significance was defined as p < 0.05. RESULTS: A total of 32 studies comprising 3663 patients, with 2322 patients who were treated with radiotherapeutic modalities, were included. Regarding 5-year OS findings in each modality study, the findings were as follows: in photon fractionated radiotherapy, an estimated rate of 77% (69%-84%, 568 patients); in conventional fractionated radiotherapy, 76% (65%-87%, 517 cases); in proton-based + carbon ion-based radiotherapy, 85% (82%-88%, 622 cases); and in a comparative analysis of proton-based and carbon ion-based therapy, there was an OR of 1.2 (95% CI 0.59-2.43, 306 cases). Regarding the 5-year PFS estimate, the rates were as follows: 35% (26%-45%, 95 cases) for photon fractionated therapy; 35% (25%-45%, 85 cases) for stereotactic radiotherapy; 77% (50%-100%, 180 cases) for proton-based and carbon ion-based radiotherapy; and 74% (45%-100%, 102 cases) for proton-based radiotherapy. Regarding LC in periods of 3 and 5 years after proton- and carbon ion-based therapy, the overall estimated rates were 84% (78%-90%, 326 cases) and 75% (65%-85%, 448 cases), respectively. For proton-based radiotherapy and carbon ion-based therapy, the 5-year LC rates were 76% (67%-86%, 259 cases) and 75% (59%-91%, 189 cases), respectively. CONCLUSIONS: The analysis highlights the finding that particle-based modalities like proton beam radiotherapy and carbon ion radiotherapy are the most effective radiation therapies available for the treatment of SBC. Furthermore, it reinforces the idea that surgery followed by radiotherapy constitutes the standard treatment.

Treatment of an Intracranial Fusiform Vertebral Aneurysm Using the MVP® Micro Vascular Plug System as an Adjunct to Pipeline(TM) Embolization: Technical Case Instruction.

Fusiform and dolichoectatic aneurysms pose unique challenges in treatment, often requiring alternative approaches compared to saccular aneurysms. Microsurgical options like clipping or a bypass can be difficult, leading to the advancement of endovascular techniques. Flow-diverting stents and vessel sacrifice with detachable coils have shown efficacy in reconstruction. The MVP® Micro Vascular Plug System (Medtronic, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA) offers a resheathable plug for vessel occlusion through electrolytic detachment. This case report illustrates the supplementary application of MVP® subsequent to flow diverter (FD) stenting, resulting in the effective endovascular management of a fusiform aneurysm affecting both vertebral arteries (VA), following unsuccessful coil vessel sacrifice treatment. A 61-year-old female presented with an unruptured fusiform aneurysm in the bilateral vertebral arteries (VAs). Treatment included a flow diverter in the right VA and vessel sacrifice in the left VA using Onyx-18 and coils. Despite initial success, left V4 segment recanalization occurred. Endovascular treatment, deploying two devices and additional coils using the MVP®, halted the flow. Follow-up showed left VA occlusion and reconstruction of the treated right VA, with the patient being discharged without deficits. This case demonstrates a unique approach using MVP® alongside a flow diverter (a PipelineTM Embolization Device (PED), Medtronic) for the treatment of a V4 segment fusiform aneurysm. This innovative technique is an alternative when conventional coil embolization for vessel sacrifice fails. The MVP®'s ease of use and precise delivery render it a feasible and efficacious alternative for treating complex aneurysms.

Comparing open and closed cell stents in idiopathic intracranial hypertension: A comprehensive meta-analysis of clinical outcomes.

Background: Open cell stents (OC) and closed cell stents (CC) each offer unique advantages and potential drawbacks in the context of idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) treatment. We aim to investigate the safety and efficacy of using OC and CC for IIH.Methods: We conducted a systematic review in PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases following the PRISMA guidelines. Eligible studies included ≥4 patients with IIH treated by OC or CC. Primary outcomes were headache, visual acuity, and papilledema status before and after the procedure. Additionally, failure rate, minor complications, major complications, and total complications were assessed. Pooled analysis of the OC group and CC group were done separately and then compared.Results: Twenty-four studies were included. Of these, 20 reported on OC and 6 reported on CC. Pooled analysis of failure rate was 8% (4%-12%) in OC and 5% (0%-11%) in CC. For headache improvement rate: 78% (70%-86%) in OC and 81% (66%-69%) in CC. For visual acuity improvement: 78% (65%-92%) in OC and 76% (29%-100%) in CC. For papilledema improvement: 88% (77%-98%) in OC and 82% (67%-98%) in CC. For minor complications: 0% (0%-1%) in OC and 0% (0%-2%) in CC. For major complications: 0% (0%-1%) in OC and 2% (0%-6%) in CC. Total complications: 0% (0%-1%) in OC and 2% (0%-6%) in CC.Conclusion: Low failure and complication rates were found in both OC and CC, with no significant difference between them in effectiveness. The CC showed a slight but significant increase in major and total complications compared to the OC. Additionally, a subtle yet significantly lower failure rate was identified in the CC.

Ultrasound-Guided Resection of High-Grade Gliomas: A Single-Arm Meta-Analysis.

BACKGROUND: High-grade gliomas (HGGs) present a challenge in neuro-oncology, often necessitating surgical resection for optimal management. Ultrasound holds promise in achieving better gross total resection (GTR) and improving outcomes. This meta-analysis systematically evaluates literature providing robust evidence on the use of intraoperative ultrasonography (iUSG) in HGG resection. METHODS: Following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis guidelines a comprehensive search was made across PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, and Web of Science utilized terms related to iUSG for HGG resection. The meta-analysis examined randomized trials and observational cohort studies on iUSG-guided HGG resection. GTR, subtotal resection, and postresection complications were assessed. Statistical analysis, employing R software for a single proportion analysis with confidence intervals of 95%, I2 statistics for heterogeneity, and the instrumental variables method with restricted maximum likelihood for a random effects model. RESULTS: A total of 178 patients were included in our study. The GTR overall rate in patients with iUSG-guided resection was found to be 64% (95% confidence interval: 46%-81%). Two-dimensional ultrasound remains dominant at 80% against other options of ultrasound. Complications were reported at a 15% rate (95% confidence interval: 7%-23%). CONCLUSIONS: Our study provided robust data on the utilization of iUSG-guided resection regarding the attainment of GTR and the complications related to resection. However, challenges such as outcome heterogeneity and limited complication reporting highlight the need for further research to optimize iUSG in HGG treatment. Long-term follow-up studies on patient survival and postsurgery quality of life will complement existing literature, guiding clinical practices in managing HGG.

Safety of local anesthesia in endovascular treatment of Aneurysms: A systematic review and Meta-Analysis.

BACKGROUND: Endovascular treatment of intracranial aneurysms (EVTIAs) is increasingly popular due to its minimally invasive nature and high success rate. While general anesthesia (GA) has been the historical preference for EVTIAs, there's growing interest in local anesthesia (LA). However, concerns persist about LA safety for EVTIAs. Therefore, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to assess LA safety for EVTIAs. METHODS: Following PRISMA guidelines, we searched PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science databases. Pooled analysis with 95 % confidence intervals (CI) assessed effects, I2 statistics gauged heterogeneity, and a random-effects model was adopted. Conversion to GA, neurological or procedure-related complications, intraoperative intracranial hemorrhagic complications (IIHC), and mortality were assessed. Subanalyses for ruptured and unruptured cases were performed. RESULTS: The analysis included eleven studies, 2,133 patients, and 2,369 EVTIAs under LA. Conversion to GA rate was 1 % (95 %CI: 0 to 2 %). Neurological or procedure-related complications rate was 13 % (95 % CI: 8 % to 17 %). IIHC analysis revealed a rate of 1 % (95 % CI: 1 % to 2 %). The mortality rate was 0 % (95 %CI: 0 % to 0 %). Subanalyses revealed similar rates in ruptured and unruptured subgroups, except for a slightly high rate of complications and IIHC in the ruptured subgroup. CONCLUSION: Findings indicate that EVTIA under LA is safe, with low conversion and mortality rates, even for ruptured aneurysms. Complications rates, also in IIHC rates, are comparable to those reported for GA, emphasizing LA's comparable safety profile in EVTIAs. Considering these promising outcomes, the decision to opt for the LA approach emerges as meaningful and well-suited for the endovascular treatment of aneurysms. Beyond its safety, LA introduces inherent supplementary advantages, including shortened hospitalization periods, cost-effectiveness, and an expedited patient recovery process.

Unruptured Brain Arteriovenous Malformations: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Mortality and Morbidity in Aruba-Eligible Studies.

BACKGROUND: Treating unruptured brain arteriovenous malformations (bAVMs) represent significant challenges, with numerous uncertainties still in debate. The ARUBA trial induced further investigation into optimal management strategies for these lesions. Here, we present a systematic-review and meta-analysis focusing on ARUBA-eligible studies, aiming to correlate patient data with outcomes and discuss key aspects of these studies. METHODS: Following PRISMA guidelines, we conducted a systematic-review. Variables analyzed included bAVM Spetzler-Martin (SM) grade, treatment modalities, and outcomes such as mortality and neurological deficits. We compared studies with a minimum of 50% cases classified as SM 1-2 lesions and those with less than 50% in this category. Similarly, a comparison between studies with at least 50% microsurgery-cases and those with less than 50% was performed. We examined correlations between mortality incidence, SM distribution, and treatment modalities. RESULTS: Our analysis included 16 studies with 2.417 patients. The frequency of bAVMs SM-grade 1-2 ranged from 44% to 76%, SM-grade 3 from 19% to 48%, and SM 4-5 from 5 to 23%. Notably, studies with more than 50% cases presenting lesions SM-grade 1-2 presented significantly lower mortality rates than those with less than 50% cases of SM 1-2 lesions (P < 0.001). No significant difference in mortality rates or neurological deficits was identified between studies with more than 50% of microsurgery-cases and those with less than 50%. CONCLUSIONS: The analysis revealed that studies with a higher proportion of bAVMs presenting SM 1-2 lesions were associated with lower mortality rates. Mortality did not show a significant association with treatment modalities.

Effectiveness and Safety of Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt Versus Lumboperitoneal Shunt for Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension: A Systematic Review and Comparative Meta-Analysis.

INTRODUCTION: Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension (IIH) is a condition characterized by elevated intracranial pressure. Although several mechanisms have been proposed as underlying causes of IIH, no identifiable causative factor has been determined for this condition. Initial treatments focus on weight or CSF reduction, but severe cases may require surgery. This study compares outcomes in IIH patients treated with lumboperitoneal shunts (LPSs) versus ventriculoperitoneal shunts (VPSs). METHODS: This systematic-review and meta-analysis follows Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis guidelines and includes studies about VPS and LPS patients, reporting one of the outcomes of interest. We conducted searches on PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library. RESULTS: Our analysis involved twelve studies, comprising 5990 patients. The estimated odds ratio (OR) for visual improvement was 0.97 (95% CI 0.26-3.62; I2 = 0%) and for headache improvement was 0.40 (95% CI 0.20-0.81; I2 = 0%), favoring LPS over VPS. Shunt revision analysis revealed an OR of 1.53 (95% CI 0.97-2.41; I2 = 77%). The shunt complications showed an OR of 0.91 (95% CI 0.68-1.22; I2 = 0%). The sub-analyses for shunt failure uncovered an OR of 1.41 (95% CI 0.92-2.18; I2 = 25%) and for shunt infection events an OR of 0.94 (95% CI 0.50-1.75; I2 = 0%). CONCLUSIONS: The interventions showed general equivalence in complications, shunt failure, and other outcomes, but LPS seems to hold an advantage in improving headaches. Substantial heterogeneity highlights the need for more conclusive evidence, emphasizing the crucial role for further studies. The findings underscore the importance of considering a tailored decision between VPS and LPS for the management of IIH patients.

Posterior Inferior Cerebellar Artery-Posterior Inferior Cerebellar Artery Bypass versus Occipital Artery-Posterior Inferior Cerebellar Artery Bypass for Treating Posterior Circulation Aneurysms: A Systematic Review and Comparative Meta-Analysis.

BACKGROUND: When traditional therapies are unsuitable, revascularization becomes essential for managing posterior inferior cerebellar artery (PICA) or vertebral artery aneurysms. Notably, the PICA-PICA bypass has emerged as a promising option, overshadowing the occipital artery-PICA (OA-PICA) bypass. The objective was to compare the safety and efficacy of OA-PICA and PICA-PICA bypasses. METHODS: Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis guidelines, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the safety and efficacy of OA-PICA and PICA-PICA bypasses for treating posterior circulation aneurysms. RESULTS: We analyzed 13 studies for the PICA-PICA bypass and 16 studies on the OA-PICA bypass, involving 84 and 110 patients, respectively. The median average follow-up for PICA-PICA bypass was 8 months (2-50.3 months), while for OA-PICA, it was 27.8 months (6-84 months). The patency rate for OA-PICA was 97% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 92%-100%) and 100% (95% CI: 95%-100%) for PICA-PICA. Complication rates were 29% (95% CI: 10%-47%) for OA-PICA and 12% (95% CI: 3%-21%) for PICA-PICA. Good clinical outcomes were observed in 71% (95% CI: 52%-90%) of OA-PICA patients and 87% (95% CI: 75%-100%) of PICA-PICA patients. Procedure-related mortality was 1% (95% CI: 0%-6%) for OA-PICA and 1% (95% CI: 0%-10%) for PICA-PICA. CONCLUSIONS: Both procedures have demonstrated promising results in efficacy and safety. PICA-PICA exhibits slightly better patency rates, better clinical outcomes, and fewer complications, but with a lack of substantial follow-up and a smaller sample size. The choice between these procedures should be based on the surgeon's expertise and the patient's anatomy.