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BackgroundThe pipeline embolization device (PED; Medtronic) has presented as a safe and efficacious treatment for small- and medium-sized intracranial aneurysms. Independently adjudicated long-term results of the device in treating these lesions are still indeterminate. We present 3-year results, with additional application of a flow diverter specific occlusion scale.MethodsPREMIER (prospective study on embolization of intracranial aneurysms with pipeline embolization device) is a prospective, single-arm trial. Inclusion criteria were patients with unruptured wide-necked intracranial aneurysms ≤12 mm. Primary effectiveness (complete aneurysm occlusion) and safety (major neurologic event) endpoints were independently monitored and adjudicated.ResultsAs per the protocol, of 141 patients treated with a PED, 25 (17.7%) required angiographic follow-up after the first year due to incomplete aneurysm occlusion. According to the Core Radiology Laboratory review, three (12%) of these patients progressed to complete occlusion, with an overall rate of complete aneurysm occlusion at 3 years of 83.3% (115/138). Further angiographic evaluation using the modified Cekirge–Saatci classification demonstrated that complete occlusion, neck residual, or aneurysm size reduction occurred in 97.1%. The overall combined safety endpoint at 3 years was 2.8% (4/141), with only one non-debilitating major event occurring after the first year. There was one case of aneurysm recurrence but no cases of delayed rupture in this series.ConclusionsThe PED device presents as a safe and effective modality in treating small- and medium-sized intracranial aneurysms. The application of a flow diverter specific occlusion classification attested the long-term durability with higher rate of successful aneurysm occlusion and no documented aneurysm rupture.Trial registrationNCT02186561.

Background By 2030, nonacute subdural hematomas (NASHs) will likely be the most common cranial neurosurgery pathology. Treatment with surgical evacuation may be necessary, but the recurrence rate after surgery is as high as 30%. Minimally invasive middle meningeal artery embolization (MMAE) during the perioperative period has been posited as an adjunctive treatment to decrease the potential for recurrence after surgical evacuation. We evaluated the safety and efficacy of concurrent MMAE in a multi-institutional cohort. Methods Data from 145 patients (median age 73 years) with NASH who underwent surgical evacuation and MMAE in the perioperative period were retrospectively collected from 15 institutions. The primary outcome was the rate of recurrence requiring repeat surgical intervention. We collected clinical, treatment, and radiographic data at initial presentation, after evacuation, and at 90-day follow-up. Outcomes data were also collected. Results Preoperatively, the median hematoma width was 18 mm, and subdural membranes were present on imaging in 87.3% of patients. At 90-day follow-up, median NASH width was 6 mm, and 51.4% of patients had at least a 50% decrease of NASH size on imaging. Eight percent of treated NASHs had recurrence that required additional surgical intervention. Of patients with a modified Rankin Scale score at last follow-up, 87.2% had the same or improved mRS score. The total all-cause mortality was 6.0%. Conclusion This study provides evidence from a multi-institutional cohort that performing MMAE in the perioperative period as an adjunct to surgical evacuation is a safe and effective means to reduce recurrence in patients with NASHs.

Aneurysmal recurrence after successful flow-diversion embolization is exceptionally rare. The rarity of recurrence has called into question the yield of interval surveillance imaging. Here we report the case of a recurrent intracranial aneurysm despite complete angiographic resolution after flow-diversion therapy with a Pipeline embolization device (PED). Given the absence of poor wall apposition, endoleak, and device migration, how this aneurysm recurred remains unclear, particularly given the recurrence was at a timepoint at which complete reendothelialization of the device would be expected. The patient ultimately underwent interval treatment with a second device placed across the neck of the aneurysm. Although rare, reports of aneurysmal recurrences support the use of interval non-invasive imaging surveillance to ensure successful embolization in this patient population.

Background Endovascular thrombectomy(EVT) is the standard of care for large vessel occlusion(LVO) stroke. Data on technical and clinical outcome in proximal medium vessel occlusions(pMeVOs) comparing frontline techniques remain limited. Methods We report an international multicenter retrospective study of patients undergoing EVT for stroke at 32 centers between 2015–2021. Patients were divided into LVOs(ICA/M1/Vertebrobasilar) or pMeVOs(M2/A1/P1) and categorized by thrombectomy technique. Primary outcome was 90-day good functional outcome(mRS ≤ 2). Multivariate logistic regressions were used to evaluate the impact of technical variables on clinical outcomes. Propensity score matching was used to compare outcome in patients with pMeVO treated with aspiration versus stent-retriever. Results In the cohort of 5977 LVO and 1287 pMeVO patients, pMeVO did not independently predict good-outcome(p = 0.55). In pMeVO patients, successful recanalization irrespective of frontline technique(aOR = 3.2,p Conclusions Clinical outcomes following EVT for pMeVO are comparable to those in LVOs. The golden hour or 3-pass rules in LVO thrombectomy still apply to pMeVO thrombectomy. Different techniques may exhibit different futility metrics; SR thrombectomy was more influenced by attempts whereas aspiration was more dependent on procedure time.

BackgroundPreliminary clinical studies on the safety and efficacy of the pipeline embolization device (PED) for the treatment of small/medium aneurysms have demonstrated high occlusion rates with low complications.ObjectiveTo evaluate the safety and effectiveness of the PED for treatment of wide necked small and medium intracranial aneurysms.MethodsPREMIER is a prospective, multicenter, single arm trial. Patients were treated with the PED for unruptured wide necked aneurysms, measuring ≤12 mm along the internal carotid artery or vertebral artery, between July 2014 and November 2015. At 1 year post-procedure, the primary effectiveness endpoint was complete occlusion (Raymond grade 1) without major parent vessel stenosis (≤50%) or retreatment, and the primary safety endpoint was major stroke in the territory supplied by the treated artery or neurologic death.ResultsA total of 141 patients were treated with PEDs (mean age 54.6±11.3 years, 87.9% (124/141) women). Mean aneurysm size was 5.0±1.92 mm, and 84.4% (119/141) measured ConclusionsTreatment of wide necked small/medium aneurysms with the PED results in high rates of complete occlusion without significant parent vessel stenosis and low rates of permanent neurologic complications.Trial registrationNCT02186561.

Background Middle meningeal artery (MMA) embolization is an apparently efficacious minimally invasive treatment for nonacute subdural hematomas (NASHs), but how different embolisates affect outcomes remains unclear. Our objective was to compare radiographic and clinical outcomes after particle or liquid MMA embolization. Methods Patients who had MMA embolization for NASH were retrospectively identified from a multi-institution database. The primary radiographic and clinical outcomes—50% NASH thickness reduction and need for surgical retreatment within 90 days, respectively—were compared for liquid and particle embolizations in patients treated 1) without surgical intervention (upfront), 2) after recurrence, or 3) with concomitant surgery (prophylactic). Results The upfront, recurrent, and prophylactic subgroups included 133, 59, and 16 patients, respectively. The primary radiographic outcome was observed in 61.8%, 61%, and 72.7% of particle-embolized patients and 61.3%, 55.6%, and 20% of liquid-embolized patients, respectively (p = 0.457, 0.819, 0.755). Hazard ratios comparing time to reach radiographic outcome in the particle and liquid groups or upfront, recurrent, andprophylactic timing were 1.31 (95% CI 0.78–2.18; p = 0.310), 1.09 (95% CI 0.52–2.27; p = 0.822), and 1.5 (95% CI 0.14–16.54; p = 0.74), respectively. The primary clinical outcome occurred in 8.0%, 2.4%, and 0% of patients who underwent particle embolization in the upfront, recurrent, and prophylactic groups, respectively, compared with 0%, 5.6%, and 0% who underwent liquid embolization (p = 0.197, 0.521, 1.00). Conclusions MMA embolization with particle and liquid embolisates appears to be equally effective in treatment of NASHs as determined by the percentage who reach, and the time to reach, 50% NASH thickness reduction and the incidence of surgical reintervention within 90 days.

* on behalf of the Stroke Thrombectomy and Aneurysm Registry (STAR) Collaborators Introduction: Intravenous thrombolysis complications are enriched in AF associated stroke, as these patients have worse functional outcomes, less effective recanalization, and increased rates of hemorrhagic complications. These data suggest that AF patients may be at particularly high risk for complications of bridging therapy for large vessel occlusions treated with mechanical thrombectomy (MT). Here we determine whether clinical outcomes differ in AF associated stroke treated with MT and bridging therapy. Methods: We performed a retrospective cohort study of the Stroke and Aneurysm Registry (STAR) from January 2015 to December 2018 and identified 4,169 patients who underwent MT for an anterior circulation stroke, 1,517 (36.4 %) of which had comorbid AF. Prospectively defined baseline characteristics and clinical outcomes were compared. Results: Hemorrhagic complications after MT were similar in patients with or without AF. In patients without AF, bridging therapy improved 90-day outcomes (aOR 1.32, 1.02-1.74, p Conclusions: Bridging therapy in AF patients undergoing thrombectomy independently increased the odds of intracranial hemorrhage and did not improve functional outcomes. AF patients may represent a high-risk subgroup for thrombolytic complications. Randomized trials are warranted to determine whether patients with AF associated stroke may benefit by deferring bridging therapy at thrombectomy-capable centers.

Background The Woven EndoBridge (WEB) device was granted premarket approval in the United States following results of the Woven EndoBridge Intrasaccular Therapy (WEB-IT) study. WEB-IT reported excellent adequate angiographic occlusion of treated aneurysms with a high safety profile. These results were achieved, however, in the context of a prospective study with strict inclusion criteria and rigorous training support. Objective To review early as-practiced clinical experience with the WEB device in the United States. Methods Retrospective review across 6 institutions identified 91 patients undergoing 92 treatment sessions for WEB device placement in treatment of 91 intracranial aneurysms. Details regarding demographics, aneurysm characteristics, treatment considerations, clinical outcomes, and aneurysm occlusion were obtained and analyzed in a multicenter database. Angiograms from the index procedure and follow-up studies were reviewed by a blinded and independent adjudicator. Results The middle cerebral, anterior communicating, and basilar artery complexes were the commonly treated locations. Eight patients presented with ruptured aneurysms. A mean of 1.2 devices were introduced per case. Technical failure without deployment of a WEB device occurred in 2% (2/92) of sessions. Adequate aneurysm occlusion for patients with imaging follow-up was 49% (mean follow-up of 8 mo). Four aneurysms were retreated. 90% of patients had modified Rankin Scale ≤ 2 at last clinical follow-up with no mortalities. Conclusion Immediate postmarket experience with the WEB device, newly introduced at American centers, confirms safe procedural use, but long-term efficacy remains unclear. Early challenges include accurate sizing and device selection.

OBJECTIVE Cerebral vasospasm and delayed cerebral ischemia (DCI) contribute to poor outcome following subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). With the paucity of effective treatments, the authors describe their experience with intrathecal (IT) nicardipine for this indication. METHODS Patients admitted to the Emory University Hospital neuroscience ICU between 2012 and 2017 with nontraumatic SAH, either aneurysmal or idiopathic, were included in the analysis. Using a propensity-score model, this patient cohort was compared to patients in the Subarachnoid Hemorrhage International Trialists (SAHIT) repository who did not receive IT nicardipine. The primary outcome was DCI. Secondary outcomes were long-term functional outcome and adverse events. RESULTS The analysis included 1351 patients, 422 of whom were diagnosed with cerebral vasospasm and treated with IT nicardipine. When compared with patients with no vasospasm (n = 859), the treated group was significantly younger (mean age 51.1 ± 12.4 years vs 56.7 ± 14.1 years, p < 0.001), had a higher World Federation of Neurosurgical Societies score and modified Fisher grade, and were more likely to undergo clipping of the ruptured aneurysm as compared to endovascular treatment (30.3% vs 11.3%, p < 0.001). Treatment with IT nicardipine decreased the daily mean transcranial Doppler velocities in 77.3% of the treated patients. When compared to patients not receiving IT nicardipine, treatment was not associated with an increased rate of bacterial ventriculitis (3.1% vs 2.7%, p > 0.1), yet higher rates of ventriculoperitoneal shunting were noted (19.9% vs 8.8%, p < 0.01). In a propensity score comparison to the SAHIT database, the odds ratio (OR) to develop DCI with IT nicardipine treatment was 0.61 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.44–0.84), and the OR to have a favorable functional outcome (modified Rankin Scale score ≤ 2) was 2.17 (95% CI 1.61–2.91). CONCLUSIONS IT nicardipine was associated with improved outcome and reduced DCI compared with propensity-matched controls. There was an increased need for permanent CSF diversion but no other safety issues. These data should be considered when selecting medications and treatments to study in future randomized controlled clinical trials for SAH.

Background and PurposeCerebral vasospasm and delayed cerebral ischemia (DCI) contribute to poor outcome following subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). With the paucity of effective treatments, we describe our experience with intrathecal (IT) nicardipine for this indication.MethodsPatients admitted to Emory University Hospital Neuroscience ICU between 2012-2017 with non-traumatic SAH, either aneurysmal or idiopathic, were included in the analysis. This patient cohort was compared using a propensity-score model to patients in the SAH international trialist (SAHIT) repository who did not receive intrathecal nicardipine. The primary outcome was DCI. Secondary outcomes were long-term functional outcome and adverse events.ResultsThe analysis included 1,351 patients, 422 of whom were diagnosed with cerebral vasospasm and treated with IT nicardipine. When compared with patients with no vasospasm (n=859) the treated group was younger (51.1±12.4 vs. 56.7±14.1, p0.1) yet higher rates of VP shunting were noted (19.9% vs. 8.8%, pConclusionsIT nicardipine was associated with improved outcome and reduced DCI compared with propensity matched controls. There was an increased need for permanent CSF diversion but no other safety issues. This data should be considered when selecting medications and treatments to study in future randomized controlled clinical trial for SAH.

BackgroundAtrial fibrillation (AF) associated ischemic stroke has worse functional outcomes, less effective recanalization, and increased rates of hemorrhagic complications after intravenous thrombolysis (IVT). Limited data exist about the effect of AF on procedural and clinical outcomes after mechanical thrombectomy (MT).ObjectiveTo determine whether recanalization efficacy, procedural speed, and clinical outcomes differ in AF associated stroke treated with MT.MethodsWe performed a retrospective cohort study of the Stroke Thrombectomy and Aneurysm Registry (STAR) from January 2015 to December 2018 and identified 4169 patients who underwent MT for an anterior circulation stroke, 1517 (36.4 %) of whom had comorbid AF. Prospectively defined baseline characteristics, procedural outcomes, and clinical outcomes were reported and compared.ResultsAF predicted faster procedural times, fewer passes, and higher rates of first pass success on multivariate analysis (pConclusionsIn patients treated with MT, comorbid AF is associated with faster procedural time, fewer passes, and increased rates of first pass success without increased risk of intracranial hemorrhage or worse functional outcomes. These results are in contrast to the increased hemorrhage rates and worse functional outcomes observed in AF associated stroke treated with supportive care and or IVT. These data suggest that MT negates the AF penalty in ischemic stroke.

Background Flow diversion of posterior cerebral artery (PCA) aneurysms has not been widely reported, possibly owing to concerns regarding parent vessel size and branch vessel coverage. Objective To examine the safety and effectiveness of PCA aneurysm flow diverter treatment. Methods Retrospective review of PCA aneurysms treated with the Pipeline Embolization Device (PED; Medtronic Inc, Dublin, Ireland) at 3 neurovascular centers, including periprocedural complications and clinical and angiographic outcomes. Systematic review of the literature identified published reports of PCA aneurysms treated with flow diversion. Rates of aneurysm occlusion and complications were calculated, and outcomes of saccular and fusiform aneurysm treatments were compared. Results Ten PCA aneurysms in 9 patients were treated with the PED. There were 2 intraprocedural thromboembolic events (20%), including 1 symptomatic infarction and 1 delayed PED thrombosis. Eight of 10 patients returned to or improved from their baseline functional status. Complete aneurysm occlusion with parent vessel preservation was achieved in 75% (6/8) of cases at mean follow-up of 16.7 mo. Eleven of 12 (92%) major branch vessels covered by a PED remained patent. Including the present study, systematic review of 15 studies found a complete aneurysm occlusion rate of 88% (30/34) and complication rate of 26% (10/38), including 5 symptomatic ischemic strokes (13%; 5/38). Fusiform aneurysms more frequently completely occluded compared with saccular aneurysms (100% vs 70%; P = .03) but were associated with a higher complication rate (43% vs 9%; P = .06). Conclusion The safety and effectiveness profile of flow diverter treatment of PCA aneurysms may be acceptable in select cases.

Background Middle meningeal artery (MMA) embolization has emerged as a promising treatment for chronic subdural hematoma (cSDH). Objective To determine the safety and efficacy of MMA embolization. Methods Consecutive patients who underwent MMA embolization for cSDH (primary treatment or recurrence after conventional surgery) at 15 centers were included. Clinical details and follow-up were collected prospectively. Primary clinical and radiographic outcomes were the proportion of patients requiring additional surgical treatment within 90 d after index treatment and proportion with > 50% cSDH thickness reduction on follow-up computed tomography imaging within 90 d. National Institute of Health Stroke Scale and modified Rankin Scale were also clinical outcomes. Results A total of 138 patients were included (mean age: 69.8, 29% female). A total of 15 patients underwent bilateral interventions for 154 total embolizations (66.7% primary treatment). At presentation, 30.4% and 23.9% of patients were on antiplatelet and anticoagulation therapy, respectively. Median admission cSDH thickness was 14 mm. A total of 46.1% of embolizations were performed under general anesthesia, and 97.4% of procedures were successfully completed. A total of 70.2% of embolizations used particles, and 25.3% used liquid embolics with no significant outcome difference between embolization materials (P > .05). On last follow-up (mean 94.9 d), median cSDH thickness was 4 mm (71% median thickness reduction). A total of 70.8% of patients had >50% improvement on imaging (31.9% improved clinically), and 9 patients (6.5%) required further cSDH treatment. There were 16 complications with 9 (6.5%) because of continued hematoma expansion. Mortality rate was 4.4%, mostly unrelated to the index procedure but because of underlying comorbidities. Conclusion MMA embolization may provide a safe and efficacious minimally invasive alternative to conventional surgical techniques.

BACKGROUND: There are limited data on outcomes of extracranial-intracranial (EC-IC) bypass in patients with recurrent hemispheric syndromes due to atherosclerotic internal carotid artery occlusion (AICAO). OBJECTIVE: To compare clinical outcomes and efficacy of EC-IC bypass surgery in patients with and without recurrent hemispheric syndromes associated with AICAO in the Carotid Occlusion Surgery Study (COSS). METHODS: In patients enrolled in the COSS trial, we compared baseline characteristics and clinical outcomes for participants with (rHEMI+) and without recurrent hemispheric ischemia (rHEMI−) prior to randomization into surgical vs medical groups. The primary outcome was all stroke and death from randomization through 30 d and ipsilateral ischemic stroke within 2 yr. RESULTS: Of 195 randomized participants, 100 were rHEMI+ (50 in each group). Baseline characteristics between rHEMI+ and rHEMI− participants were similar except rHEMI+ were more likely to have had previous stroke prior to randomization (61% vs 20%, P

BACKGROUND Though the Pipeline Embolization Device (Medtronic) is approved for use in adults 22 yr and older, the high efficacy and long-term durability of the device is attractive for treatment of intracranial aneurysms in younger patients who often have aneurysms less amenable to traditional endovascular treatments. OBJECTIVE To report technical, angiographic, and clinical outcomes in patients aged 21 or below undergoing flow-diversion treatment for intracranial aneurysms. METHODS Retrospective review across 16 institutions identified 39 patients aged 21 or below undergoing 46 treatment sessions with Pipeline Embolization Device placement between 2012 and 2018. A total of 50 intracranial aneurysms were treated. Details regarding patient demographics, aneurysm characteristics, treatment considerations, clinical outcomes, and aneurysm occlusion were obtained and analyzed in a multicenter database. RESULTS A total of 70% of patients were male. Nonsaccular morphology was seen in half of identified aneurysms. Six aneurysms were giant, and five patients were treated acutely after ruptured presentation. Eight patients were younger than 10 yr of age. Complete aneurysm occlusion was seen in 74% of treated aneurysms. Three aneurysms (6%) were retreated. A total of 83% of patients had a modified Rankin Scale scores of ≤2 at last clinical follow-up. There were 2 early mortalities (4.3%) in the immediate postprocedure period because of rerupture of a treated ruptured aneurysm. No recanalization of a previously occluded aneurysm was observed. CONCLUSION Flow-diversion treatment is a safe and effective treatment for intracranial aneurysms in patients younger than 22 yr. Rates of complete aneurysm occlusion and adverse events are comparable for rates seen in older patients.

BackgroundThe off-label use of flow diverters in the treatment of distal aneurysms continues to be debated.ObjectiveTo report our multicenter experience in the treatment of complex anterior cerebral artery aneurysms with the Pipeline embolization device (PED).MethodsThe neurointerventional databases of the four participating institutions were retrospectively reviewed for aneurysms treated with PED between October 2011 and January of 2016. All patients treated for anterior cerebral artery aneurysms were included in the analysis. Clinical presentation, location, type, vessel size, procedural complications, clinical and imaging follow-up were included in the analysis.ResultsTwenty patients (13 female) with 20 aneurysms met the inclusion criteria in our study. Fifteen aneurysms were classified as saccular and five as fusiform (mean size 7.3 mm). Thirteen aneurysms were located in the anterior communicating region (ACOM or A1/2 junction), six were A2-pericallosal, and one was located in the A1 segment. Six patients had presented previously with subarachnoid hemorrhage and had their aneurysms initially clipped or coiled. There was one minor event (a small caudate infarct) and one major event (intraparenchymal hemorrhage). Sixteen of the 20 patients had angiographic follow-up (mean 10 months). Eleven aneurysms were completely occluded, one had residual neck, and four had residual aneurysm filling.ConclusionsThe treatment of complex anterior cerebral artery aneurysms with the PED as an alternative for patients who are not good candidates for conventional methods is technically feasible and safe. Mid-term results are promising but larger series with long-term follow-up are required to assess its effectiveness.

OBJECTIVEThe incidence of already common chronic subdural hematomas (CSDHs) and other nonacute subdural hematomas (NASHs) in the elderly is expected to rise as the population ages over the coming decades. Surgical management is associated with recurrence and exposes elderly patients to perioperative and operative risks. Middle meningeal artery (MMA) embolization offers the potential for a minimally invasive, less morbid treatment in this age group. The clinical and radiographic outcomes after MMA embolization treatment for NASHs have not been adequately described in elderly patients. In this paper, the authors describe the clinical and radiographic outcomes after 151 cases of MMA embolization for NASHs among 121 elderly patients.METHODSIn a retrospective review of a prospectively maintained database across 15 US academic centers, the authors identified patients aged ≥ 65 years who underwent MMA embolization for the treatment of NASHs between November 2017 and February 2020. Patient demographics, comorbidities, clinical and radiographic factors, treatment factors, and clinical outcomes were abstracted. Subgroup analysis was performed comparing elderly (age 65–79 years) and advanced elderly (age > 80 years) patients.RESULTSMMA embolization was successfully performed in 98% of NASHs (in 148 of 151 cases) in 121 patients. Seventy elderly patients underwent 87 embolization procedures, and 51 advanced elderly patients underwent 64 embolization procedures. Elderly and advanced elderly patients had similar rates of embolization for upfront (46% vs 61%), recurrent (39% vs 33%), and prophylactic (i.e., with concomitant surgical intervention; 15% vs 6%) NASH treatment. Transfemoral access was used in most patients, and the procedure time was approximately 1 hour in both groups. Particle embolization with supplemental coils was most common, used in 51% (44/87) and 44% (28/64) of attempts for the elderly and advanced elderly groups, respectively. NASH thickness decreased significantly from initial thickness to 6 weeks, with additional decrease in thickness observed in both groups at 90 days. At longest follow-up, the treated NASHs had stabilized or improved in 91% and 98% of the elderly and advanced elderly groups, respectively, with > 50% improvement seen in > 60% of patients for each group. Surgical rescue was necessary in 4.6% and 7.8% of cases, and the overall mortality was 8.6% and 3.9% for elderly and advanced elderly patients, respectively.CONCLUSIONSMMA embolization can be used safely and effectively as an alternative or adjunctive minimally invasive treatment for NASHs in elderly and advanced elderly patients.

The video highlights a challenging case of bilateral vertebral artery dissection presenting with subarachnoid hemorrhage. The patient was found to have a critical flow-limiting stenosis in his dominant right vertebral artery and a ruptured pseudoaneurysm in his left vertebral artery. A single-stage endovascular treatment with stent reconstruction of the right vertebral artery and coil embolization sacrifice of the left side was performed. The case highlights the rationale for treatment and potential alternative strategies.The video can be found here: https://youtu.be/e0U_JE2jISw.

Background: There are limited data on the baseline characteristics and clinical outcomes of patients who have recurrent hemispheric syndromes in the territory of symptomatic atherosclerotic internal carotid artery occlusion (AICAO). Methods: Baseline characteristics and clinical outcomes were compared between patients with (rHEM+) and without (rHEM-) recurrent ipsilateral hemispheric syndromes at the time of randomization into the Carotid Occlusion Surgery Study (COSS) based on local investigator clinical impression. Results: Of 195 participants who were randomized, 100 (51%) were rHEM+ (50 in each study arm) and 95 were rHEM-(48 nonsurgical, 47 surgical). Baseline characteristics between rHEM+ and rHEM- participants were similar except that rHEM+ participants were more likely to have had a previous stroke prior to entry event (59% vs 22%, p < 0.001) and to have had TIA vs stroke as the entry event (61% vs 20%, p 0.10). For the nonsurgical participants, there was no statistically significant difference in the primary endpoint for those rHEM+ vs rHEM- (26.3% vs 18.9%, p=.410) Conclusion: Patients with recurrent hemispheric stroke syndromes enrolled in the COSS trial were more likely to have had previous stroke and to have TIAs as the entry event to randomization. Given the lack of surgical treatment benefit seen in these patients, early aggressive risk factor measures should be prioritized to reduce recurrent strokes, including blood pressure control which was associated with a 70% reduction in stroke in the nonsurgical group in COSS ( Neurology 2014; 82:1027-1032).

The presented case is of a 65-yr-old gentleman referred for thoracic myelopathy. He developed bilateral, nondermatomal foot dysesthesia 14 mo prior to presentation, which progressed to numbness below the L3 level. He reported progressive gait instability, bilateral lower extremity weakness, and required a cane for ambulation. He subsequently developed urinary incontinence, while bowel function was spared. The neurological examination upon presentation revealed lower extremity strength was reduced to 4/5 in all major muscle groups bilaterally, while sensation and proprioception were reduced below the L3 level. Patellar and Achilles reflexes were not elicited and clonus was absent. Gait was unsteady and slow. The patient was not able to perform heel, toe and tandem gait. MRI revealed abnormal T2 hyper-intense signal and spinal cord expansion from T6 through the conus medullaris. Angiography revealed a dural arteriovenous fistula (dAVF) originating from the left T9 radicomedullary pedicle, which also supplied the Artery of Adamkiewicz (AoA). The patient underwent T8-10 laminectomies. Prior to disconnection of the fistula, an aneurysm clip was applied to the fistulous point and an indocyanine green video angiogram was completed to show that the fistula no longer opacified, but that the AoA remained patent, which was later confirmed with angiography. As of discharge, the patient's motor exam had improved substantially, though his sensory deficits persisted. This case demonstrates that surgical disconnection is requisite in the treatment of spinal dAVF that have a shared blood supply with the AoA, as embolization risks spinal cord infarction. The patient consented to presentation of this case in a de-identified fashion.

Background Pericallosal, or A2 bifurcation, aneurysms are an infrequently encountered cause of subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). While the International Subarachnoid Aneurysm Trial showed improved outcomes for patients with any ruptured anterior circulation aneurysm treated with embolization, there was also a higher recurrence rate for embolized aneurysms. Notably, there were relatively few pericallosal aneurysms. Objective Specific analysis of pericallosal aneurysms may help guide therapeutic decisions. Methods Retrospective analysis of patients who presented with proven saccular pericallosal aneurysms was performed at two institutions from 1999 to 2009. Patients were stratified according to presentation Hunt and Hess grades and modified Fisher scores, treatment modality and outcomes as well as development of vasospasm, hydrocephalus and required treatment. Results Eighty-eight patients with pericallosal aneurysms were identified. Sixty-two presented with SAH and 26 in elective fashion, 2 of whom had a prior history of SAH. Fifty-four patients underwent microsurgical repair and 32 endovascular repair. Patients presenting with SAH due to pericallosal aneurysm treated with an endovascular approach were more likely to have a good modified Rankin scale (mRS) (mRS 0–2 vs 3–6) (p=0.028), to make a complete recovery (mRS=0) (p=0.017) and were less likely to die (mRS=6) (p=0.026). Patients with electively treated pericallosal aneurysms did not have statistically significant differences in outcome between surgical and endovascular cohorts. Differences in secondary endpoints did not reach significance. Conclusion Patients with ruptured pericallosal aneurysms fare better with endovascular therapy, with better chance of complete recovery. Surgical and endovascular treatments of unruptured pericallosal aneurysms have similar results and outcome.

Appropriate and adequate cognitive and technical training, proficiency and experience are essential for the safe performance of procedures that confer significant risk to patient well-being. This principle is the foundation of all medical education and is especially important when considering the cerebral vasculature, for which stroke is a defined risk for every endovascular procedure. Despite recent advances in noninvasive diagnostic neuroimaging, diagnostic cervicocerebral angiography remains the cornerstone and “gold standard” for the evaluation and treatment of patients with cerebrovascular disease.1 In addition to a high level of technical expertise, performance and interpretation of diagnostic cervicocerebral angiography requires in-depth cognitive knowledge of related neurological pathophysiology, neurovascular anatomy and pathology, and an understanding of the full range of neurodiagnostic possibilities. Expert diagnostic cervicocerebral angiography is the foundation for safe and successful cervicocerebral endovascular intervention, including carotid artery angioplasty and stenting for atherosclerosis, interventional stroke therapy, intracranial angioplasty and stenting, and embolization of cerebral aneurysms, epistaxis and vascular malformations. All of these procedures are increasing in volume and complexity with recent technological advances that further mandate the need for adequate cognitive acumen and technical skills. To ensure proper outcomes, formal neuroscience training, adequate procedural training and sufficient experience are all essential for competency in diagnostic cervicocerebral angiography and interventional procedures, including carotid stenting. These concepts have been delineated in training requirements by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) and by previously published official society statements. The purpose of this document is to define the minimum training and experience necessary to provide adequate quality of patient care for extracranial cerebrovascular interventions, particularly carotid artery stenting. Hospital credentialing is the mechanism by which competence is ensured. ### Risks of diagnostic cervicocerebral angiography. Stroke is recognized as the most disabling and costly of all medical conditions.2 Stroke is also the most feared of all iatrogenic medical and procedural …

The advent of endovascular therapy for intracranial aneurysms and the rapid advances in that field have supplanted microsurgical treatment for many intracranial aneurysms. Applying current outcome data and other parameters, nuances of selecting the modality of treatment for intracranial aneurysms are reviewed. Patient factors, such a age, co-morbidities, vasospasm and other medical conditions, are addressed. A custom-tailored multimodality treatment paradigm for the management of ruptured and unruptured aneurysms will maximize the favorable results seen in this difficult patient population.

Background and Purpose— To develop recommendations for the establishment of comprehensive stroke centers capable of delivering the full spectrum of care to seriously ill patients with stroke and cerebrovascular disease. Recommendations were developed by members of the Brain Attack Coalition (BAC), which is a multidisciplinary group of members from major professional organizations involved with the care of patients with stroke and cerebrovascular disease. Summary of Review— A comprehensive literature search was conducted from 1966 through December 2004 using Medline and Pub Med. Articles with information about clinical trials, meta-analyses, care guidelines, scientific guidelines, and other relevant clinical and research reports were examined and graded using established evidence-based medicine approaches for therapeutic and diagnostic modalities. Evidence was also obtained from a questionnaire survey sent to leaders in cerebrovascular disease. Members of BAC reviewed literature related to their field and graded the scientific evidence on the various diagnostic and treatment modalities for stroke. Input was obtained from the organizations represented by BAC. BAC met on several occasions to review each specific recommendation and reach a consensus about its importance in light of other medical, logistical, and financial factors. Conclusions— There are a number of key areas supported by evidence-based medicine that are important for a comprehensive stroke center and its ability to deliver the wide variety of specialized care needed by patients with serious cerebrovascular disease. These areas include: (1) health care personnel with specific expertise in a number of disciplines, including neurosurgery and vascular neurology; (2) advanced neuroimaging capabilities such as MRI and various types of cerebral angiography; (3) surgical and endovascular techniques, including clipping and coiling of intracranial aneurysms, carotid endarterectomy, and intra-arterial thrombolytic therapy; and (4) other specific infrastructure and programmatic elements such as an intensive care unit and a stroke registry. Integration of these elements into a coordinated hospital-based program or system is likely to improve outcomes of patients with strokes and complex cerebrovascular disease who require the services of a comprehensive stroke center.

Despite the improvements in increasing popularity of endovascular therapy for intracranial aneurysms, there remain a large number of these lesions that currently are not amenable to endovascular therapy. As endovascular therapy becomes more popular, those aneurysms requiring surgical intervention will become increasingly complex. To manage these challenging lesions, neurosurgeons must use all available innovations and advances, including diagnostic, technical and perioperative adjuncts. In this review article, we discuss limitations of endovascular therapy, the populations of aneurysms that continue to require surgical treatment, the factors that make an aneurysm complex and the multiple adjuncts utilized to successfully treat these challenging lesions.

Object. The blood supply of the lower spinal cord is heavily dependent on the artery of Adamkiewicz, which characteristically originates from one of the thoracolumbar segmental arteries. The aforementioned artery is of enormous clinical, surgical, and radiological importance, and the goal of this study was to elucidate the course and branches of the segmental artery that gives rise to this important vessel. Methods. In this cadaveric, microsurgical anatomical study, the authors investigate and describe the course and branches of the artery of Adamkiewicz and the segmental branch from which it ultimately originates. A review of the literature is provided. Conclusions. By documenting the microsurgical anatomy of these important vessels, this study facilitates an understanding of the anatomy that will aid in treatment planning for surgery of various lesions in this area.