bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevention of cerebral vasospasm by a humanized anti-CD11/CD18 monoclonal antibody administered after experimental subarachnoid hemorrhage in nonhuman primates
Authors: Clatterbuck Richard E. , Gailloud Philippe , Ogata Lynn , Gebremariam Abeyu , Dietsch Gregory N. , Murphy Kieran J. , Tamargo Rafael J.
Published: May 2009

Object. Leukocyte—endothelial cell interactions occurring in the first hours after subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) initiate changes in the endothelium and vessel wall that lead to an influx of leukocytes and the development of chronic vasospasm days later. Upregulation of intercellular adhesion molecule—1 (ICAM-1), also called CD54, appears to be a crucial step in this process. There is increasing experimental evidence that blocking the interaction between ICAM-1, which is expressed on endothelium, and integrins such as lymphocyte function—associated antigen—1 (CD11a/CD18) and macrophage antigen—1 (complement receptor 3, CD11b/CD18), which are expressed on the surface of leukocytes, prevents not only inflammation of vessel walls but also chronic vasospasm. The authors extend their previous work with monoclonal antibody (mAb) blockade of leukocyte migration to a nonhuman primate model of chronic, posthemorrhagic cerebral vasospasm.

Methods. Before surgery was performed, six young adult male cynomolgus monkeys underwent baseline selective biplane common carotid and vertebrobasilar artery cerebral angiography via a transfemoral route. On Day 0, a right frontosphenotemporal craniectomy was performed with arachnoid microdissection and placement of 2 to 3 ml of clotted autologous blood in the ipsilateral basal cisterns. The animals were given daily intravenous infusions of 2 mg/kg of either a humanized anti-CD11/CD18 or a placebo mAb beginning 30 to 60 minutes postoperatively. The monkeys were killed on Day 7 after a repeated selective cerebral angiogram was obtained. The area of contrast-containing vessels observed in each hemisphere on anteroposterior angiographic views was calculated for the angiograms obtained on Day 7 and expressed as a percentage of the area on baseline angiograms (percent control areal fraction). Review of flow cytometry and enzyme immunoassay data confirmed the presence of the anti-CD11/CD18 antibody in the serum and bound to leukocytes in the peripheral blood of treated animals. Comparisons of the groups revealed 53 ± 4.8% control vascular areal fraction in the placebo group (two animals) and 95.8 ± 9.4% in the anti-CD11/CD18—treated group (three animals), a statistically significant difference (p = 0.043, t-test).

Conclusions. These results show that blockade of leukocyte migration into the subarachnoid space by an anti-CD11/CD18 mAb is effective in preventing experimental cerebral vasospasm in nonhuman primates, despite the unaltered presence of hemoglobin in the subarachnoid space. These experimental data support the hypothesis that inflammation plays a role in cerebral vasospasm after SAH.
Contribution of Src tyrosine kinase to cerebral vasospasm after subarachnoid hemorrhage
Authors: Kusaka Gen , Kimura Hitoshi , Kusaka Ikuyo , Perkins Eddie , Nanda Anil , Zhang John H.
Published: May 2009

Object. Mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) has been implicated in cerebral vasospasm after subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). This study was conducted to investigate whether Src tyrosine kinase, an upstream regulator of MAPK, is involved in cerebral vasospasm.

Methods. An established canine double-hemorrhage model was used. Twenty-four dogs were divided into four groups: control, vehicle-treated, Src inhibitor PP2—treated, and Src inhibitor damnacanthal—treated groups. Vehicle (dimethyl sulfoxide), PP2, or damnacanthal was injected daily into the cisterna magna of 18 dogs at 3 to 6 days after induction of SAH. Angiography was performed on Day 0 (the day on which the first blood injection was administered to induce SAH) and on Day 7. Western blot analysis of Src and MAPK activation in basilar arteries (BAs) collected on Day 7 post-SAH was performed.

Severe vasospasm was observed in the BAs of vehicle-treated dogs. Mild vasospasm was observed in all dogs treated with Src inhibitors. Phosphorylated Src and MAPK were increased after SAH and activation of these kinases in the BAs was abolished by PP2 and damnacanthal.

Conclusions. The tyrosine kinase Src is an important upstream regulator of MAPK, and inhibition of Src might offer a new therapy in the management of cerebral vasospasm.
Giant fusiform aneurysms in the middle cerebral artery presenting with hemorrhages of different origins
Authors: Horie Nobutaka , Takahashi Nobuaki , Furuichi Shoji , Mori Katsuharu , Onizuka Masanari , Tsutsumi Keisuke , Shibata Shobu
Published: May 2009

✓ Three cases of giant fusiform aneurysms in the middle cerebral artery (MCA) presenting with hemorrhages of different origins are reported, and appropriate literature is reviewed to investigate the characteristics of these lesions. Two patients had suffered a subarachnoid hemorrhage and the other had an intramural hemorrhage (dissection). Pathologically, these aneurysms presented with hemorrhages of different origins; classic rupture type (Case 1), dissection type (Case 2), and atherosclerosis-related thrombosis type (Case 3).

Based on surgical and pathological investigations in these three cases and a review of the reported literature, the authors propose that giant fusiform aneurysms in the MCA are characterized by weaknesses in the internal elastic lamina with intimal thickening. Therefore, these lesions have the potential to present with hemorrhage in each of the three types. This finding indicates that there is a strong relationship between the pathological features of giant fusiform aneurysms and their clinical course, and that it is necessary to determine appropriate therapy for giant fusiform aneurysms in the MCA by evaluating cerebral blood flow, even if the lesions are found incidentally.
Gonadotropic pituitary carcinoma: HER-2/neu expression and gene amplification
Authors: Roncaroli Federico , Nosé Vania , Scheithauer Bernd W. , Kovacs Kalman , Horvath Eva , Young William F. , Lloyd Ricardo V. , Bishop Mary C. , Hsi Bradley , Fletcher Jonathan A.
Published: May 2009

✓ The authors report on two gonadotropic carcinomas of the adenohypophysis that occurred in a 55-year-old man (Case 1) and a 53-year-old woman (Case 2), with signs of mass effect and amenorrhea, respectively. Both lesions were macroadenomas. The tumor in Case 1 metastasized to dura mater, skull, nasal sinus, and larynx 2 years after patient presentation, whereas that in Case 2 spread to vertebral bodies and ribs after a 19-year latency. Histologically, the primary, recurrent, and metastatic lesions in Case 1 featured brisk mitotic activity and high MIB-1 levels as well as p53 labeling indices. Immunoreactivity for HER-2/neu was assessable only in rare neoplastic cells of the second recurrence and in 80% of cells of the dural metastasis. Low-level HER-2/neu gene amplification was evident in the recurrent tumors and metastasis. The sellar and metastatic tumors in Case 2 resembled benign gonadotropic adenoma with oncocytic change; p53 accumulation, HER-2/neu overexpression, and HER-2/neu gene amplification were not present. The results indicate that low-level amplification of the HER-2/neu gene might be associated with pituitary carcinomas in which more aggressive behavior is seen. Further studies are needed to determine whether HER-2/neu plays a role in the pathogenesis of pituitary carcinoma.
Developmental venous anomalies and sinus pericranii in the blue rubber-bleb nevus syndrome
Authors: Gabikian Patrik , Clatterbuck Richard E. , Gailloud Philippe , Rigamonti Danielle
Published: May 2009

✓ Blue rubber-bleb nevus syndrome (BRBNS) is a developmental disorder that originally was identified by the presence of distinctive cutaneous and gastrointestinal hemangiomas. More recently it has been recognized that the number of affected organs is larger and that BRBNS includes central nervous system vascular malformations. A 52-year-old woman in whom intracranial vascular malformations had been diagnosed earlier presented for evaluation. At birth, several blue nevi had been noted on her tongue, lips, and neck. Cerebral angiography demonstrated an extensive network of developmental venous anomalies and a left anterior sinus pericranii. The literature on BRBNS and developmental venous anomalies is reviewed.
The aspect ratio (dome/neck) of ruptured and unruptured aneurysms
Authors: Weir Bryce , Amidei Christina , Kongable Gail , Findlay J. Max , Kassell Neal F. , Kelly John , Dai Lanting , Karrison Theodore G.
Published: May 2009

Object. In this retrospective study the authors examined the aspect ratio (AR; the maximum dimension of the dome/width of the neck of an aneurysm) and compared the distribution of this ratio in a group of ruptured and unruptured aneurysms. A similar comparison was performed in relation to the maximum dimension of the aneurysm alone. The authors sought to evaluate the utility of these measures for differentiating ruptured and unruptured aneurysms.

Methods. Measurements were made of 774 aneurysms in 532 patients at three medical centers. One hundred twenty-seven patients harbored only unruptured lesions, 290 only ruptured lesions, and 115 both ruptured and unruptured lesions. Cases were included if angiograms were available for measurement and the status of the individual patient's aneurysm(s) was known.

The odds of a lesion falling in the ruptured aneurysm group increased with both the lesion's maximum size and the AR. The odds ratio for rupture rose progressively only for the AR. The distribution curves showed that ruptured aneurysms were larger and had greater ARs. The mean size of unruptured aneurysms was 7 mm and that of ruptured ones was 8 mm; the corresponding mean ARs were 1.8 and 3.4, respectively. The odds of rupture were 20-fold greater when the AR was larger than 3.47 compared with an AR less than or equal to 1.38. Only 7% of ruptured aneurysms had an AR less than 1.38 compared with 45% of unruptured lesions.

Conclusions. The AR is probably a useful index to calculate. A high AR might reasonably influence the decision to treat actively an unruptured aneurysm independent of its maximum size. Prospective studies are warranted.
Intraoperative factors associated with surgical outcome in patients with unruptured cerebral aneurysms: the experience of a single surgeon
Authors: Grigorian Arthur A. , Marcovici Alvin , Flamm Eugene S.
Published: May 2009

Object. Some well-known predictors of clinical outcomes in patients with ruptured aneurysms are not useful for forecasting outcome in patients with unruptured aneurysms. The goal of this study was to analyze outcomes in patients harboring unruptured cerebral aneurysms in different locations and to create a predictive tool for assessing both favorable outcome and morbidity in a large series of unruptured aneurysms.

Methods. The authors analyzed data from 387 patients with nonruptured intracranial cerebral aneurysms who underwent surgery for clip placement. Intraoperative data were reviewed and seven factors that might influence outcomes were identified. These included the following: 1) aneurysm size larger than 10 mm; 2) presence of a broad aneurysm neck; 3) presence of plaque calcification near the aneurysm neck; 4) application of clips to more than one aneurysm during the same surgery; 5) temporary occlusion; 6) multiple clip applications and repositioning; and 7) use of multiple clips. The entire group of patients with unruptured aneurysms was divided into two subgroups on the basis of outcome. Each patient was subsequently assessed to formulate the factor accumulation index (FAI), the sum of different factors observed in a given patient.

The subgroup of patients with expected outcomes was composed of 312 patients, whereas the subgroup of unexpected outcomes consisted of 31 patients. Depending on the anatomical locations of the aneurysms, the combined mortality—morbidity rate ranged from 5.7 to 25%, with the best results for patients harboring ophthalmic artery aneurysms and the worst results for those with vertebrobasilar system (VBS) aneurysms. The majority of patients with expected outcomes who harbored aneurysms of the middle cerebral artery, the internal carotid artery, and the VBS had a lower FAI, whereas the majority of patients with unexpected outcomes had a higher FAI.

Conclusions. It is possible to predict outcomes in patients with unruptured cerebral artery aneurysms by calculating the FAI. The rate of postoperative morbidity increases with the FAI within the range of three to four factors.
Prediction and monitoring of cerebral hyperperfusion after carotid endarterectomy by using single-photon emission computerized tomography scanning
Authors: Ogasawara Kuniaki , Yukawa Hirotsugu , Kobayashi Masakazu , Mikami Chiaki , Konno Hiromu , Terasaki Kazunori , Inoue Takashi , Ogawa Akira
Published: May 2009

Object. The purpose of this study was to determine whether the preoperative measurement of acetazolamide-induced changes in cerebral blood flow (CBF), which is performed using single-photon emission computerized tomography (SPECT) scanning, can be used to identify patients at risk for hyperperfusion following carotid endarterectomy (CEA). In addition, the authors investigated whether monitoring of CBF with SPECT scanning after CEA can be used to identify patients at risk for hyperperfusion syndrome.

Methods. Cerebral blood flow and cerebrovascular reactivity (CVR) to acetazolamide were measured before CEA in 51 patients with ipsilateral internal carotid artery stenosis (≥ 70% stenosis). Cerebral blood flow was also measured immediately after CEA and on the 3rd postoperative day.

Hyperperfusion (an increase in CBF of ≥ 100% compared with preoperative values) was observed immediately after CEA in eight of 12 patients with reduced preoperative CVR. Reduced preoperative CVR was the only significant independent predictor of post-CEA hyperperfusion. Forty-three patients in whom hyperperfusion was not detected immediately after CEA did not exhibit hyperperfusion on the 3rd postoperative day and did not experience hyperperfusion syndrome. In two of eight patients in whom hyperperfusion occurred immediately after CEA, CBF progressively increased and hyperperfusion syndrome developed, but intracerebral hemorrhage did not occur. In the remaining six of eight patients in whom hyperperfusion was detected immediately after CEA, the CBF progressively decreased and the hyperperfusion resolved by the 3rd postoperative day.

Conclusions. Preoperative measurement of acetazolamide-induced changes in CBF, which is performed using SPECT scanning, can be used to identify patients at risk for hyperperfusion after CEA. In addition, post-CEA monitoring of CBF performed using SPECT scanning results in the timely and reliable identification of patients at risk for hyperperfusion syndrome.
Dedicated linear accelerator radiosurgery for the treatment of trigeminal neuralgia
Authors: Smith Zachary A. , De Salles Antonio A. F. , Frighetto Leonardo , Goss Bryan , Lee Steve P. , Selch Michael , Wallace Robert E. , Cabatan-Awang Cynthia , Solberg Timothy
Published: May 2009

Object. In this study the authors evaluate the efficacy of and complications associated with dedicated linear accelerator (LINAC) radiosurgery for trigeminal neuralgia (TN).

Methods. Between August 1995 and February 2001, 60 patients whose median age was 66.1 years (range 45–88 years) were treated with dedicated LINAC radiosurgery for TN. Forty-one patients (68.3%) had essential TN, 12 (20%) had secondary facial pain, and seven (11.7%) had atypical features. Twenty-nine patients (48.3%) had undergone previous surgical procedures. Radiation doses varied between 70 and 90 Gy (mean 83.3 Gy) at the isocenter, with the last 35 patients (58.3%) treated with a 90-Gy dose. A 5-mm collimator was used in 45 patients (75%) and a 7.5-mm collimator in 15 patients (25%). Treatment was focused at the nerve root entry zone.

At last follow up (mean follow-up period 23 months, range 2–70 months), 36 (87.8%) of the 41 patients with essential TN had sustained significant pain relief (good plus excellent results). Twenty-three patients (56.1%) were pain free without medication (excellent outcome), 13 (31.7%) had a 50 to 90% reduction in pain with or without medication (good outcome), and five (12.2%) had minor improvement or no relief. Of 12 patients with secondary facial pain, significant relief was sustained in seven patients (58.3%); worse results were found with atypical pain. Fifteen (25%) of the 60 patients experienced new numbness postprocedure; no other significant complications were found. Pain relief was experienced at a mean of 2.7 months (range 0–12 months).

Conclusions. Dedicated LINAC radiosurgery is a precise and effective treatment for TN.
Magnetic resonance imaging studies of age-dependent responses to scaled focal brain injury in the piglet
Authors: Duhaime Ann-Christine , Hunter Jill V. , Grate Loretta L. , Kim Anje , Golden Jeffrey , Demidenko Eugene , Harris Christine
Published: May 2009

Object. Whether the brain differs in its response to traumatic injury as a function of age remains unclear. To further investigate the age-dependent response of the brain to mechanical trauma, a cortical contusion model scaled for brain growth during maturation was used to study the evolution of injury over time as demonstrated on serial magnetic resonance (MR) imaging studies in piglets of different ages.

Methods. Sixteen Yorkshire piglets received scaled cortical contusions. Animals were either 5 days (six animals), 1 month (five animals), or 4 months (five animals) of age at injury. These ages correspond developmentally to human infants, toddlers, and early adolescents, respectively. Serial MR imaging examinations, including fluid-attenuated inversion-recovery and T1-, T2-, and diffusion-weighted sequences were performed at 24 hours, 1 week, and 1 month after injury. Lesions were quantified and expressed as a ratio of the lesion volume divided by the volume of the uninjured hemisphere for each animal and each MR sequencing. Differences in relative lesion volume among the varied ages at a single time point and in lesion volume over time at each age were compared. In addition, the relationship between age and evolution of injury were analyzed using a two-compartment mathematical model. Histological features were examined at 1 month postinjury. Despite comparable injury inputs, the youngest animals had lesions whose volumes peaked earlier and resolved more quickly than those in older animals. The intermediate-age piglets (toddler) had the most pronounced swelling of any age group, and the oldest piglets (adolescent) had the latest peak in lesion volume.

Conclusions. Scaled cortical contusions in piglets demonstrated age-dependent differences in injury response, both in magnitude and time course. These observations may shed light on development-related trauma response in the gyrencephalic brain.
Regeneration of rat sciatic nerve across a LactoSorb bioresorbable conduit with interposed short-segment nerve grafts
Authors: Francel Paul C. , Smith Kevin S. , Stevens F. Alan , Kim Soon C. , Gossett James , Gossett Cynthia , Davis Mark E. , Lenaerts Marc , Tompkins Paul
Published: May 2009

Object. This study was conducted to evaluate peripheral nerve regeneration through a conduit composed of a bioresorbable material (LactoSorb).

Methods. Sprague—Dawley rats weighing approximately 250 g were randomized into five groups. A 20-mm-long sciatic nerve gap was created, then it was bridged by a reverse nerve autograft (Group I), an empty silicone tube (Group II), a silicone tube containing a short (2-mm) interposed nerve segment (Group III), an empty LactoSorb conduit (Group IV), or a LactoSorb conduit containing a 2-mm interposed nerve segment (Group V). The intact sciatic nerve served as the control in each animal.

At 16 weeks postoperatively, no nerve regeneration was observed through either the empty silicone tube or the empty LactoSorb conduit. There was regeneration in all animals receiving the reverse autograft as well as in all animals receiving the silicone or LactoSorb conduit containing the 2-mm interposed nerve segment. Effective regeneration was assessed based on histological, electrophysiological, and morphometric criteria.

Conclusions. The results indicate that a conduit made of resorbable material will support sciatic nerve regeneration over a critical gap defect.
Reversible hearing loss associated with a malignant pineal germ cell tumor
Authors: Gaspar Nathalie , Verschuur Arnauld , Mercier Ghislaine , Couanet Dominique , Sainte-Rose Christian , Brugières Laurence
Published: May 2009

✓ In patients with pineal tumors, clinical symptoms are due to direct compression of adjacent structures. The most common signs include increased intracranial pressure (80%) caused by obstruction of the sylvian aqueduct, and Parinaud syndrome (50%) caused by direct compression of the superior colliculi. Hearing loss is rare in patients with tumors in this location. The authors report on the case of a 12-year-old boy in whom a malignant pineal germ cell tumor was found together with the unusual occurrence of severe hearing loss due to direct bilateral compression of the inferior colliculi. This condition resolved completely after tumor regression.
Neurosurgical education: the “other” competencies
Authors: Heros Roberto C.
Published: May 2009

✓ In his 2003 Presidential Address to the American Association of Neurological Surgeons, Dr. Heros discusses his personal additions to the six basic competencies for which all neurosurgical residents must be tested. The basic competencies are as follows: 1) patient care; 2) medical knowledge; 3) practice-based learning and improvement; 4) interpersonal and communication skills; 5) professionalism; and 6) system-based practice. To these, Dr. Heros proposes to add six supplemental competencies: 1) intellectual honesty, which involves frank discussions about patient complications and admissions of the physician's frailties; 2) scholarship—the art and science of medicine, which recognizes the value of evidence-based medicine but does not discount knowledge derived from experience; 3) practicing in a hyperlegalistic society, which involves tailoring informed consent to fit individual patients' circumstances; 4) time- and cost-efficient practices, in which the physician strives to conserve time and resources by forgoing testing that is not strictly necessary, doing only what is needed to return patients to wellness; 5) approach to patients, which entails acknowledging and respecting the dignity of all patients; and 6) pride in being a neurosurgeon, which carries a sense of elitism without arrogance.
A genealogical assessment of heritable predisposition to aneurysms
Authors: Cannon Albright Lisa A. , Camp Nicola J. , Farnham James M. , Macdonald Joel , Abtin Keyvan , Rowe Kerry G.
Published: May 2009

Object. This study was conducted to investigate the familial and genetic contribution to intracranial, abdominal aortic, and all other types of aneurysms, and to define familial relationships among patients who present with the different aneurysm types.

Methods. The authors used a unique Utah resource to perform population-based analysis of the familial nature of aneurysms. The Utah Population Data Base is a genealogy of the Utah population dating back eight generations, which is combined with death certificate data for the state of Utah dating back to 1904. Taking into account the genetic relationships among all aneurysm cases derived from this resource, the authors used a previously published method to estimate the familiality of different aneurysm types. Using internal, birth-cohort-specific rates of disease calculated from the database, they estimated relative risks by comparing observed to expected rates of aneurysm incidence in defined sets of relatives of probands.

Conclusions. Each of the three aneurysm types investigated showed significant evidence for a genetic component. Relatives of patients with intracranial aneurysms do not appear to be at increased risk for abdominal or other lesions, but relatives of patients with abdominal aortic aneurysms appear to be at increased risk for other types of these lesions.
Low-dose aspirin prophylaxis and risk of intracranial hemorrhage in patients older than 60 years of age with mild or moderate head injury: a prospective study
Authors: Spektor Sergey , Agus Samuel , Merkin Vladimir , Constantini Shlomo
Published: May 2009

Object. The goal of this paper was to investigate a possible relationship between the consumption of low-dose aspirin (LDA) and traumatic intracranial hemorrhage in an attempt to determine whether older patients receiving prophylactic LDA require special treatment following an incidence of mild-to-moderate head trauma.

Methods. Two hundred thirty-one patients older than 60 years of age, who arrived at the emergency department with a mild or moderate head injury (Glasgow Coma Scale [GCS] Scores 13–15 and 9–12, respectively), were included in the study. One hundred ten patients were receiving prophylactic LDA (100 mg/day) and these formed the aspirin-treated group. One hundred twenty-one patients were receiving no aspirin, and these formed the control group. There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups with respect to age, sex, mechanism of trauma, or GCS score on arrival at the emergency department. Most of the patients sustained the head injury from falls (88.2% of patients in the aspirin-treated group and 85.1% of patients in the control group), and had external signs of head trauma such as bruising or scalp laceration (80.9% of patients in the aspirin-treated group and 86.8% of patients in the control group). All patients underwent similar neurological examinations and computerized tomography (CT) scanning of the head.

The CT scans revealed evidence of traumatic intracranial hemorrhage in 27 (24.5%) patients in the aspirin-treated group and in 31 patients (25.6%) in the control group. Surgical intervention was required for five patients in each group (4.5% of patients in the aspirin-treated group and 4.1% of patients in the control group). A surprising number of the patients who arrived with GCS Score 15 were found to have traumatic intracranial hemorrhage, as revealed by CT scanning (11.5% of patients in the aspirin-treated group and 16.5% of patients in the control group). Surgery, however, was not necessary for any of these patients.

Conclusions. There was no statistically significant difference in the frequency or types of traumatic intracranial hemorrhage between patients who had received aspirin prophylaxis and those who had not. The authors conclude that LDA does not increase surgically relevant parenchymal or meningeal bleeding following moderate and minor head injury in patients older than 60 years of age.
Patient age and outcome following severe traumatic brain injury: an analysis of 5600 patients
Authors: Hukkelhoven Chantal W. P. M. , Steyerberg Ewout W. , Rampen Anneke J. J. , Farace Elana , Habbema J. Dik F. , Marshall Lawrence F. , Murray Gordon D. , Maas Andrew I. R.
Published: May 2009

Object. Increasing age is associated with poorer outcome in patients with closed traumatic brain injury (TBI). It is uncertain whether critical age thresholds exist, however, and the strength of the association has yet to be investigated across large series. The authors studied the shape and strength of the relationship between age and outcome, that is, the 6-month mortality rate and unfavorable outcome based on the Glasgow Outcome Scale.

Methods. The shape of the association was examined in four prospective series with individual patient data (2664 cases). All patients had a closed TBI and were of adult age (96% < 65 years of age). The strength of the association was investigated in a metaanalysis of the aforementioned individual patient data (2664 cases) and aggregate data (2948 cases) from TBI studies published between 1980 and 2001 (total 5612 cases). Analyses were performed with univariable and multivariable logistic regression.

Proportions of mortality and unfavorable outcome increased with age: 21 and 39%, respectively, for patients younger than 35 years and 52 and 74%, respectively, for patients older than 55 years. The association between age and both mortality and unfavorable outcome was continuous and could be adequately described by a linear term and expressed even better statistically by a linear and a quadratic term. The use of age thresholds (best fitting threshold 39 years) in the analysis resulted in a considerable loss of information. The strength of the association, expressed as an odds ratio per 10 years of age, was 1.47 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.34–1.63) for death and 1.49 (95% CI 1.43–1.56) for unfavorable outcome in univariable analyses, and 1.39 (95% CI 1.3–1.5) and 1.46 (95% CI 1.36–1.56), respectively, in multivariable analyses. Thus, the odds for a poor outcome increased by 40 to 50% per 10 years of age.

Conclusions. An older age is continuously associated with a worsening outcome after TBI; hence, it is disadvantageous to define the effect of age on outcome in a discrete manner when we aim to estimate prognosis or adjust for confounding variables.
Expression of Ki-67 antigen in nonfunctioning pituitary adenomas: correlation with growth velocity and invasiveness
Authors: Honegger Jürgen , Prettin Carsten , Feuerhake Friedrich , Petrick Manfred , Schulte-Mönting Jürgen , Reincke Martin
Published: May 2009

Object. The cell cycle—dependent nuclear antigen Ki-67 is related to growth potential in a variety of tumors. Elevated expression of Ki-67 was previously shown in recurrent pituitary adenomas; however, it has remained unclear whether this expression is related to the growth velocity or invasive behavior of these tumors. The aim of this study was to determine the correlation of Ki-67 antigen expression, growth velocity, and invasiveness in nonfunctioning pituitary adenomas.

Methods. Between April 1998 and April 2002, 23 patients with nonfunctioning pituitary adenomas who had participated in an observation period in which multiple computerized tomography and magnetic resonance imaging studies had been performed were surgically treated in our department. Tumor volumes were assessed using a stereological method based on the Cavalieri principle. The growth rate was calculated for each patient. Expression of Ki-67 antigen was examined using the monoclonal antibody MIB-1.

The assessed growth velocity of the adenomas was best described by a linear growth model. The correlation between Ki-67 expression and growth rate was highly significant. Rapidly growing adenomas (>0.07% daily increase in size) were found to have a Ki-67 labeling index (LI) exceeding 1.5%, whereas all five adenomas with a very slow growth rate (< 0.02% daily increase in size) had a Ki-67 LI lower than 1.5%. No correlation was found between the growth rate and the invasive character of the adenomas.

Conclusions. Expression of Ki-67 antigen is significantly correlated to the growth velocity of pituitary adenomas. Invasive behavior is a feature independent of proliferative activity. The extent of Ki-67 expression is helpful for clinical decision making and routine assessment of Ki-67 is recommended during the histopathological workup of pituitary adenomas.
Management of vestibular schwannoma by fractionated stereotactic radiotherapy and associated cerebrospinal fluid malabsorption
Authors: Sawamura Yutaka , Shirato Hiroki , Sakamoto Touru , Aoyama Hidefumi , Suzuki Keishiro , Onimaru Rikiya , Isu Toyohiko , Fukuda Satoshi , Miyasaka Kazuo
Published: May 2009

Object. The goal of this study was to investigate outcomes in patients with vestibular schwannoma (VS) who were treated with fractionated stereotactic radiotherapy (SRT).

Methods. One hundred one patients with VS were treated with fractionated SRT at a radiation level of 40 to 50 Gy administered in 20 to 25 fractions over a 5- to 6-week period. The median tumor size in these patients was 19 mm (range 3–40 mm), and 27 tumors were larger than 25 mm. Patients were consistently followed up using magnetic resonance imaging every 6 months for 5 years in principle. The median follow-up period was 45 months. The actuarial 5-year rate of tumor control (no growth > 2 mm and no requirement for salvage surgery) was 91.4% (95% confidence interval 85.2–97.6%). Three patients with progressive tumors underwent salvage tumor resection. The actuarial 5-year rate of useful hearing preservation (Gardner—Robertson Class I or II) was 71%. The observed complications of fractionated SRT included transient facial nerve palsy (4% of patients), trigeminal neuropathy (14% of patients), and balance disturbance (17% of patients). No new permanent facial weakness occurred after fractionated SRT. Eleven patients (11%) who had progressive communicating hydrocephalus (cerebrospinal fluid malabsorption) and no evidence of tumor growth after fractionated SRT required a shunt. The symptoms of this type of hydrocephalus were similar to those of normal-pressure hydrocephalus and occurred 4 to 20 months (median 12 months) after fractionated SRT. The mean size (± standard deviation) of tumors causing symptomatic hydrocephalus (25.5 ± 7.8 mm) was significantly larger than that of other tumors (18.2 ± 8.7 mm) (p = 0.011). Only four of the 72 patients with tumors smaller than 25 mm in maximum diameter received a shunt.

Conclusions. Fractionated SRT resulted in an excellent tumor control rate, even for relatively large tumors, and produced a high rate of hearing preservation that was comparable to the best results of single-fraction radiosurgery. The progression of communicating hydrocephalus should be monitored closely, particularly in patients harboring a large VS.
Fusobacterial brain abscess: a review of five cases and an analysis of possible pathogenesis
Authors: Han Xiang Y. , Weinberg Jeffrey S. , Prabhu Sujit S. , Hassenbusch Samuel J. , Fuller Gregory N. , Tarrand Jeffrey J. , Kontoyiannis Dimitrios P.
Published: May 2009

Object. The cases of five patients with fusobacterial brain abscess are presented. The authors discuss their attempt to determine the pathogenesis.

Methods. The clinical and microbiological features of five cases of fusobacterial brain abscess are reviewed. Isolates of 2031 Fusobacterium spp. and other anaerobes collected (1989–2002) at our institution were analyzed and compared for incidences and isolation sources. The findings were correlated with extensive literature on the subject.

The five patients were men between 45 and 74 years of age. All experienced an insidious onset of the disease and probable hematogenous seeding of the organism(s). One patient had a monomicrobic Fusobacterium necrophorum abscess, whereas the others had polymicrobic F. nucleatum abscesses. Despite surgery and a regimen of antibiotic medications and dexamethasone, three patients experienced a paradoxical deterioration 3 days postoperatively that necessitated reevacuation of the lesion. The evacuants observed at that time contained numerous leukocytes but no microorganisms, suggesting intensified inflammation as the likely cause of deterioration. This explanation is supported by literature that fusobacteria strongly activate neutrophils. An analysis of the 2031 anaerobes from blood, wounds, and abscesses showed the considerable virulence of Fusobacterium spp., which were able to enter and/or sustain themselves in the blood circulation. This pattern was similar to that of Clostridium spp., but different from those of Peptostreptococcus spp., Bacteroides spp., and Prevotella spp., which were less invasive but more abundant.

Conclusions. Some fusobacterial brain abscesses may be associated with a paradoxical postoperative deterioration, which is probably due to intensified inflammation following treatment. The blood-borne dissemination and invasive behavior of fusobacteria likely initiate such a brain abscess, and further seeding of other synergic bacteria leads to a polymicrobic abscess.
Transarterial approach for selective intravenous coil embolization of a benign dural arteriovenous fistula
Authors: Tokunaga Koji , Barath Krisztina , Martin Jean-Baptiste , Rüfenacht Daniel A.
Published: May 2009

✓ Transarterial particulate embolization is indicated for benign intracranial dural arteriovenous fistulas (DAVFs) that have no dangerous venous reflux. This treatment, however, does not cure these lesions. In this case report the authors describe a spontaneously occurring DAVF that was treated by implanting coils through a transarterial microcatheter into the affected venous channel. The channel was separate from the normal dural sinuses. The pathological architecture of the fistula and the usefulness of this approach are discussed.
Evolution of a cochlear schwannoma on clinical and neuroimaging studies
Authors: Khurana Vini G. , Link Michael J. , Driscoll Colin L. W. , Beatty Charles W.
Published: May 2009

✓ The authors report on a patient with a rare schwannoma that arose from the cochlear division of the vestibulocochlear nerve. Distinctively, the lesion appeared to arise from the cochlea itself and was monitored with clinical and neuroimaging studies for 12 years before it was diagnosed and treated. The atypical occurrence of schwannomas of the vestibulocochlear nerve originating in the inner ear structures underscores the high level of clinical suspicion required for the diagnosis of these lesions in patients presenting with persistent auditory and vestibular symptoms.
Dual-floor burr hole adjusted to burr hole ring and cap for implantation of stimulation electrodes
Authors: Yamamoto Takamitsu , Katayama Yoichi , Kobayashi Kazutaka , Oshima Hideki , Fukaya Chikashi
Published: May 2009

✓ Using a new perforator, the authors have developed a new dual-floor burr-hole method for use in deep brain stimulation therapy. The modification is called “dual-floor” because the usual 15-mm-diameter burr hole, which is located centrally and reaches the dura mater, is surrounded by a 4-mm-wide rim that is also planed downward by the new perforator to a depth of 4 mm. This dual-floor burr hole is adjusted to fit the burr-hole ring and cap that are are supplied by the electrode manufacturer. Such a method eliminates bulging of the scalp just over the burr-hole ring and cap. In addition, it is helpful for securing a tight fixation between the burr-hole ring and the skull.
Percutaneous trigeminal nerve radiofrequency rhizotomy guided by computerized tomography fluoroscopy
Authors: Gusmão Sebastião , Oliveira Marcelo , Tazinaffo Uedson , Honey Christopher R.
Published: May 2009

✓ The authors describe a new procedure for percutaneous trigeminal radiofrequency rhizotomy. Computerized tomography fluoroscopy is used for guidance of the rhizotomy needle insertion through the foramen ovale. Ten patients were treated using this method, and in each case the target was reached with a single puncture. The potential benefits of this method are presented.
Harvey Cushing's Meningiomas text and the historical origin of resectability criteria for the anterior one third of the superior sagittal sinus
Authors: Shrivastava Raj K. , Segal Salomao , Camins Martin B. , Sen Chandranath , Post Kalmon D.
Published: May 2009

✓ The search for the origin of the commonly held principle in current neurosurgery regarding the resectability of the anterior one third of the superior sagittal sinus unravels the many fascinating developments that occurred in neurosurgery during the early 20th century. All these occurrences can be traced back to, and are uniquely contextualized in, Harvey Cushing's seminal text, Meningiomas, Their Classification, Regional Behaviour, Life History, and Surgical End Results. Written with Louise Eisenhardt and published in 1938, Meningiomas is a monograph of incredible description and detail. The meticulous categorization of meningiomas, their presentation, clinical outcome, and surgical therapies are even further supplemented by Cushing's personal commentary, questions, and recollections. Cushing's genius was evident in his ability not only to make insightful clinical observations, but also to synthesize these ideas within the neurosurgical context of his era. As he says in Meningiomas, “Thus the pathological curiosity of one day becomes in its proper time a commonplace … most of which are one and the same disorder—had, for their interpretation, to await the advent of the Neurosurgeon.”
Association between a black band on the inner membrane of a chronic subdural hematoma on T2*-weighted magnetic resonance images and enlargement of the hematoma
Authors: Imaizumi Toshio , Horita Yoshifumi , Honma Toshimi , Niwa Jun
Published: May 2009

Object. The cause and indication for enlargement of chronic subdural hematomas (CSDHs) have remained unresolved. The authors observed a black band on the inner membrane of a CSDH on T2*-weighted magnetic resonance (MR) images obtained in patients with symptoms. After surgical treatment, the band disappeared. The T2*-weighted sequence of MR imaging is an excellent diagnostic tool for detecting ferromagnetic substances, but it is rarely performed in cases of a CSDH. The authors speculate that the black band may be associated with the development of CSDH.

Methods. To investigate how the black band observed on T2*-weighted MR images contributes to the development of a CSDH, 59 lesions in 50 patients with CSDH (41 men and nine women, mean age 70 ± 11 years [range 48–93 years]) were investigated prospectively. The incidence of black bands on the first T2*-weighted MR image obtained in patients with symptomatic CSDH was 97% (31 of 32 CSDHs), which was significantly higher than that associated with asymptomatic CSDH (11% [three of 27 CSDHs], p < 0.001). The black bands associated with symptomatic CSDH disappeared soon after surgical treatment in 31 CSDHs and became fainter in another. In two instances the CSDH recurred with reappearance of the band. Twenty-four of 27 asymptomatic CSDHs had no accompanying black band. Follow-up MR images demonstrated a later formation of bands in two of 24 asymptomatic CSDHs that enlarged to symptomatic size. Logistic regression analysis revealed that the heterogeneity and thickness of the CSDH on computerized tomography scans were independently and significantly associated with the black band.

Conclusions. The dynamics of the black band may depend on the enlargement or shrinkage of the CSDH.
Recurrent spontaneous spinal cerebrospinal fluid leaks and intracranial hypotension: a prospective study
Authors: Schievink Wouter I. , Maya M. Marcel , Riedinger Mary
Published: May 2009

Object. Intracranial hypotension due to a spontaneous spinal cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak is an increasingly recognized cause of postural headaches, but reliable follow-up data are lacking. The authors undertook a study to determine the risk of a recurrent spontaneous spinal CSF leak.

Methods. The patient population consisted of a consecutive group of 18 patients who had been evaluated for consideration of surgical repair of a spontaneous spinal CSF leak. The mean age of the 15 women and three men was 38 years (range 22–55 years). The mean duration of follow up was 36 months (range 6–132 months). The total follow-up time was 654 months. A recurrent spinal CSF leak was defined on the basis of computerized tomography myelography evidence of a CSF leak in a previously visualized but unaffected spinal location. Five patients (28%) developed a recurrent spinal CSF leak; the mean age of these four women and one man was 36 years. A recurrent CSF leak developed in five (38%) of 13 patients who had undergone surgical CSF leak repair, compared with none (0%) of five patients who had been treated non-surgically (p = 0.249). The recurrent leak occurred between 10 and 77 months after the initial CSF leak, but within 2 or 3 months of successful surgical repair of the leak in all patients.

Conclusions. Recurrent spontaneous spinal CSF leaks are not rare, and the recent successful repair of such a leak at another site may be an important risk factor.
Progress in long-term survival in adult patients with supratentorial low-grade gliomas: a population-based study of 993 patients in whom tumors were diagnosed between 1970 and 1993
Authors: Johannesen Tom B. , Langmark Frøydis , Lote Knut
Published: May 2009

Object. The goal of this study was to document and compare long-term survival during the periods 1970 through 1981 and 1982 through 1993 in all adult patients in Norway with histologically verified supratentorial low-grade gliomas (LGGs).

Methods. Nine hundred ninety-three patients 15 to 69 years of age were found to have a primary supratentorial diffuse astrocytoma, oligodendroglioma, oligoastrocytoma, or pilocytic astrocytoma. Survival time was analyzed in all patients and, in a subset of 451 patients, the influence of new imaging methods on the time from symptom onset to imaging diagnosis was estimated.

Overall median survival was 6.4 years (95% confidence interval [CI] 5.7–7.1 years). Survival times for patients in whom a diagnosis was made between 1970 and 1981 (397 patients) and between 1982 and 1993 (596 patients) were 4.1 years (95% CI 3.3–4.9 years) and 9.2 years (95% CI 7.9–10.6 years), respectively (p < 0.0001). Survival also improved in the later period within each histological subgroup. In patients in whom a biopsy was performed the median length of survival was 6.4 years (95% CI 3.1–9.7 years); in patients treated with subtotal tumor resection it was 6.8 years (95% CI 5.8–7.7 years); and in those treated with gross-total tumor resection it was 7.6 years (95% CI 5.5–9.7 years), a nonsignificant difference (p = 0.59). A considerable age-dependent variation in overall survival was demonstrated. The availability of computerized tomography (CT) scanning and/or magnetic resonance (MR) imaging as a diagnostic tool reduced the median period of symptoms prior to diagnosis by 6 months.

Conclusions. Long-term overall survival significantly improved, but age-related differences in prognosis persisted. The increased sensitivity of the diagnostic method due to the availability of CT scanning and/or MR imaging may partly, but not entirely, account for the observed magnitude of improvement in overall survival. Thus local tumor treatment improved during the study period.