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Growing evidence suggests that three-dimensional digital subtraction angiography (3D-DSA) is superior to 2D-DSA in detection of intracranial aneurysm (IA) remnants after clipping. With a simple, practical quantitative scale proposed to measure maximal remnant dimension on 3D-DSA, this study provides a rigorous interrater and intrarater reliability and agreement study comparing this newly established scale with a commonly used (Sindou) 2D-DSA scale.Records of 43 patients with clipped IAs harboring various sized remnants who underwent 2D- and 3D-DSA between 2012 and 2018 were evaluated. Using the 2D and 3D scales, six raters scored these remnants and repeated the scoring task 8 weeks later. Interrater and intrarater agreement for both grading schemes were calculated using kappa (κ) statistics.Interrater agreement was highly significant, yielding κ-values at 95% CI (p = 0.000) of 0.225 for the first [0.185; 0.265] and 0.368 s [0.328; 0.408] time points for 2D-DSA and values of 0.700 for the first [0.654; 0.745] and 0.776 s [0.729; 0.822] time points for 3D-DSA. Intrarater agreement demonstrated κ-values between 0.139 and 0.512 for 2D-DSA and between 0.487 and 0.813 for 3D-DSA scores.Interrater and intrarater agreement was minimal or weak for 2D-DSA scores, but strong for 3D-DSA scores. We propose that baseline 3D-DSA characterization may prove more reliable when categorizing clipped IA remnants for purposes of risk stratification and lifelong follow-up.

Background Spinal dural arteriovenous fistula (SDAVF) is a rare cause of progressive myelopathy in predominantly middle-aged men. Treatment modalities include surgical obliteration and endovascular embolization. In surgically treated cases, failure of obliteration is reported in up to 5%. The aim of this technical note is to present a safe procedure with complete SDAVF occlusion, verified by intraoperative digital subtraction angiography (DSA). Methods We describe four patients with progressive leg weakness who underwent surgical obliteration of SDAVF with spinal intraoperative DSA in the prone position after cannulation of the popliteal artery. All surgeries took place in our hybrid operating room (OR) and were accompanied by electrophysiologic monitoring. Surgeries and cannulation of the popliteal artery were performed in the prone position. Ultrasound was used to guide the popliteal artery puncture. A 5-Fr sheath was inserted and the fistula was displayed using a 5-Fr spinal catheter. Spinal intraoperative DSA was performed prior to and after temporary clipping of the fistula point as well after the final SDAVF occlusion. Results The main feeder of the SDAVF fistula in the first patient arose from the right T11 segmental artery, which also supplied the artery of Adamkiewicz. The second patient initially underwent endovascular treatment and deteriorated 5 months later due to recanalization of the SDAVF via a small branch of the T12 segmental artery. The third and fourth cases were primarily scheduled for surgical occlusion. Access through the popliteal artery for spinal intraoperative DSA proved to be beneficial and safe in the hybrid OR setting, allowing the sheath to be left in place during the procedure. During exposure and after temporary and permanent occlusion of the fistulous point, intraoperative indocyanine green (ICG) video angiography was also performed. In one case, the addition of intraoperative DSA showed failure of fistula occlusion, which was not visible with ICG angiography, leading to repositioning of the clip. Complete fistula occlusion was documented in all cases. Conclusion Spinal intraoperative DSA in the prone position is a feasible and safe intervention for rapid localization and confirmation of surgical SDAVF occlusion.

OBJECTIVE Temporary parent vessel occlusion performed to establish a high-flow interpositional bypass carries the risk of infarcts. The authors investigated the feasibility of a novel technique to establish a high-flow bypass without temporary parent vessel occlusion in order to lower the risk of ischemic complications. METHODS In 10 New Zealand white rabbits, a carotid artery side-to-end anastomosis was performed under parent artery patency with a novel endovascular balloon device. Intraoperative angiography, postoperative neurological assessments, and postoperative MRI/MRA were performed to evaluate the feasibility and safety of the novel technique. RESULTS A patent anastomosis was established in 10 of 10 animals; 3 procedure-related complications occurred. No postoperative focal neurological deficits were observed. The MRI/MRA findings include no infarcts and bypass patency in 50% of the animals. CONCLUSIONS The authors demonstrated the feasibility of an endovascular assisted, nonocclusive high-flow bypass. Future refinement of the device and technique in an animal model is necessary to lower the complication rate and increase patency rates.

BACKGROUND The current gold standard for evaluation of the surgical result after intracranial aneurysm (IA) clipping is two-dimensional (2D) digital subtraction angiography (DSA). While there is growing evidence that postoperative 3D-DSA is superior to 2D-DSA, there is a lack of data on intraoperative comparison. OBJECTIVE To compare the diagnostic yield of detection of IA remnants in intra- and postoperative 3D-DSA, categorize the remnants based on 3D-DSA findings, and examine associations between missed 2D-DSA remnants and IA characteristics. METHODS We evaluated 232 clipped IAs that were examined with intraoperative or postoperative 3D-DSA. Variables analyzed included patient demographics, IA and remnant distinguishing characteristics, and 2D- and 3D-DSA findings. Maximal IA remnant size detected by 3D-DSA was measured using a 3-point scale of 2-mm increments. RESULTS Although 3D-DSA detected all clipped IA remnants, 2D-DSA missed 30.4% (7 of 23) and 38.9% (14 of 36) clipped IA remnants in intraoperative and postoperative imaging, respectively (95% CI: 30 [ 12, 49] %; P-value .023 and 39 [23, 55] %; P-value =

Background: Endovascular treatment in large artery occlusion stroke reduces disability. However, the impact of anesthesia type on clinical outcomes remains uncertain. Methods: We compared consecutive patients in the Swiss Stroke Registry with anterior circulation stroke receiving endovascular treatment with or without general anesthesia (GA). The primary outcome was disability on the modified Rankin Scale after 3 months, analyzed with ordered logistic regression. Secondary outcomes included dependency or death (modified Rankin Scale score ≥ 3), National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale after 24 hours, symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage with ≥ 4 points worsening on National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale within 7 days, and mortality. Coarsened exact matching and propensity score matching were performed to adjust for indication bias. Results: One thousand two hundred eighty-four patients (GA: n=851, non-GA: n=433) from 8 Stroke Centers were included. Patients treated with GA had higher modified Rankin Scale scores after 3 months than patients treated without GA, in the unmatched (odds ratio [OR], 1.75 [1.42–2.16]; P P =0.020), and the propensity score matching analysis (n=568; OR, 1.61 [1.20–2.15]; P =0.001). In the coarsened exact matching analysis, there were no significant differences in National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale after 1 day (estimated coefficient 2.61 [0.59–4.64]), symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (OR, 1.06 [0.30–3.75]), dependency or death (OR, 1.42 [0.91–2.23]), or mortality (OR, 1.65 [0.94–2.89]). In the propensity score matching analysis, National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale after 24 hours (estimated coefficient, 3.40 [1.76–5.04]), dependency or death (OR, 1.49 [1.07–2.07]), and mortality (OR, 1.65 [1.11–2.45]) were higher in the GA group, whereas symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage did not differ significantly (OR, 1.77 [0.73–4.29]). Conclusions: This large study showed worse functional outcome after endovascular treatment of anterior circulation stroke with GA than without GA in a real-world setting. This finding appears to be independent of known differences in patient characteristics between groups.

Purpose The indication of whole body computed tomography (WBCT) in the emergency treatment of trauma is still under debate. We were interested in the detailed information gain obtained from WBCT following standardized conventional imaging (CI). Methods Prospective study including all emergency trauma centre patients examined by CI (focused assessment of sonography in trauma, chest and pelvic X-ray) followed by WBCT from 2011 to 2017. Radiology reports were compared per patient for defined body regions for number and severity of injuries (Abbreviated Injury Scale, AIS; Injury Severity Score, ISS), incidental findings and treatment consequences (Wilcoxon signed rank test, Spearman rho, Chi-square). Results 1271 trauma patients (ISS 11.3) were included in this study. WBCT detected more injury findings than CI in the equivalent body regions (1.8 vs. 0.6; p 25 at final evaluation, thereby demonstrating a significant improvement in the NNP with increasing ISS (rho = 0.33, p p Conclusions The application of WBCT in addition to CI in the emergency treatment of trauma had therapy consequences for almost every third patient. On the other hand, WBCT appeared not to be indicated (ISS

Purpose Tigertriever is a novel operator-adjustable clot retriever designed to enhance the operator's options to control the interaction of retriever and clot. The aim of this study was to assess the feasibility, safety and efficacy of the Tigertriever device system. Methods Prospective multi-center registry study at three comprehensive stroke centers in Switzerland from 2017 to 2019 of patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS) and large vessel occlusion (LVO) using Tigertriever as a first-line device. Results 30 AIS patients (median age 72.5 years (IQR 64–79), 50% women) with a median NIHSS on admission of 11 (IQR 6-13) and a median ASPECT score of 9 (IQR 7–10) were treated with the new Tigertriever and included in this study. The first-pass effect was 24% (n = 7). A good recanalization (eTICI 2 b/2c/3) was achieved in 94% of the cases. Median mRS at 90 days was 1 (IQR 1–2). Conclusion This study demonstrated feasibility, safety and effectiveness of the Tigertriever in AIS patients with LVO with a high reperfusion rate.

Background Accuracy of intraoperative cerebrovascular neuronavigation is difficult to maintain because of the ongoing need for brain shift correction. By including 3-dimensional rotational intraoperative digital subtraction angiography (3D-iDSA), the intraoperative cerebrovascular neuronavigation can be updated and upgraded throughout the microneurosurgical procedure. The aim of this technical note is to demonstrate the feasibility and advantage of updating and upgrading the accuracy of targeted cerebrovascular neuronavigation with an intraoperative 3D-DSA dataset. Methods A preoperative diagnostic selective 3D-DSA was registered with the neuronavigation software, followed by the automated segmentation of the vascular object of interest (an aneurysm in this case). After acquiring additional 3D-iDSA volumes, these steps were repeated, thereby updating the cerebrovascular roadmap and neuronavigation accuracy (i.e., brain shift correction). Results This technique was applied successfully in a patient who underwent elective microneurosurgical clipping of a right-sided middle cerebral artery (MCA) bifurcation aneurysm in a hybrid neurosurgical operating setting. After clipping of the MCA aneurysm, a selective 3D iDSA was performed that was then used to update the projection and accuracy of the initial 3D neurovascular object of interest (i.e., the aneurysm). In this revised rotational view, the projection refined the target segments of the clipped MCA aneurysm, the accuracy of clipping, and brain shift correction. Conclusions 3D-iDSA vascular segmentations can update und upgrade the intraoperative neurovascular roadmap by thereby enhancing accuracy of cerebrovascular neuronavigation, as well as correcting brain shift. This technique is feasible within the hybrid operation room. Evaluation in larger series is required to support these findings.

Summary Background Among asymptomatic patients with severe carotid artery stenosis but no recent stroke or transient cerebral ischaemia, either carotid artery stenting (CAS) or carotid endarterectomy (CEA) can restore patency and reduce long-term stroke risks. However, from recent national registry data, each option causes about 1% procedural risk of disabling stroke or death. Comparison of their long-term protective effects requires large-scale randomised evidence. Methods ACST-2 is an international multicentre randomised trial of CAS versus CEA among asymptomatic patients with severe stenosis thought to require intervention, interpreted with all other relevant trials. Patients were eligible if they had severe unilateral or bilateral carotid artery stenosis and both doctor and patient agreed that a carotid procedure should be undertaken, but they were substantially uncertain which one to choose. Patients were randomly allocated to CAS or CEA and followed up at 1 month and then annually, for a mean 5 years. Procedural events were those within 30 days of the intervention. Intention-to-treat analyses are provided. Analyses including procedural hazards use tabular methods. Analyses and meta-analyses of non-procedural strokes use Kaplan-Meier and log-rank methods. The trial is registered with the ISRCTN registry, ISRCTN21144362. Findings Between Jan 15, 2008, and Dec 31, 2020, 3625 patients in 130 centres were randomly allocated, 1811 to CAS and 1814 to CEA, with good compliance, good medical therapy and a mean 5 years of follow-up. Overall, 1% had disabling stroke or death procedurally (15 allocated to CAS and 18 to CEA) and 2% had non-disabling procedural stroke (48 allocated to CAS and 29 to CEA). Kaplan-Meier estimates of 5-year non-procedural stroke were 2·5% in each group for fatal or disabling stroke, and 5·3% with CAS versus 4·5% with CEA for any stroke (rate ratio [RR] 1·16, 95% CI 0·86–1·57; p=0·33). Combining RRs for any non-procedural stroke in all CAS versus CEA trials, the RR was similar in symptomatic and asymptomatic patients (overall RR 1·11, 95% CI 0·91–1·32; p=0·21). Interpretation Serious complications are similarly uncommon after competent CAS and CEA, and the long-term effects of these two carotid artery procedures on fatal or disabling stroke are comparable. Funding UK Medical Research Council and Health Technology Assessment Programme.

BACKGROUND Postoperative three-dimensional digital subtraction angiography (3D-DSA) is the gold standard in evaluating intracranial aneurysm (IA) remnants after clipping. Should intraoperative 3D-DSA image quality be equally good as postoperative 3D-DSA, it could supplant the latter as standard of care for follow-up of clipped IA. OBJECTIVE To directly compare the quality of assessment of clipped IA by intraoperative and postoperative 3D-DSA. METHODS From a prospective cohort of 221 consecutive patients who underwent craniotomy for IA treatment in a hybrid operating room, we retrospectively studied 26 patients who had both intraoperative and postoperative 3D-DSA imaging of their clipped aneurysm. Comparison of intraoperative and postoperative 3D-DSA images (blinded for review) included parameters that affected image quality and differences between the 2 periods. RESULTS In the 26 patients with 32 clipped IAs, the mean interval was 11 ± 7 mo between intraoperative and postoperative imaging 3D-DSA examinations. Reconstruction with multiple clips was used in 14 (44%) cases. Of 15 remnants, 9 (60%) were small (

Objective Dural arteriovenous fistulas (dAVFs) are abnormal direct shunts between the occipital or meningeal artery and a meningeal vein or dural venous sinus. Treatment strategies include endovascular, microsurgical, stereotactic radiosurgical, or combined interventions. With few previous reports focused on dAVF treatment in a hybrid operating room (hOR), the authors reviewed their 6-year experience in this unique setting for these complex fistulas. Methods Patients with complex cerebral dAVFs underwent endovascular and microsurgical treatment in the hOR. In this retrospective review, 8 consecutive patients with cerebral dAVFs (Borden type 2 or higher) underwent endovascular and microsurgical treatment. Demographic characteristics, symptoms related to the dAVF, preoperative angiographic features, preinterventional therapies, intraoperative digital subtraction angiography (iDSA), and postoperative clinical and radiologic findings were reviewed. Results Of these 8 patients, 5 patients underwent multiple embolizations (up to 3) and hybrid procedures, with no procedure-related complications. After microsurgical resection, iDSA revealed remnants of the fistula, which was then immediately re-resected, in 2 patients. At closing of the hybrid procedure, iDSA revealed no fistula remnants in 7 patients (88%). At mean follow-up examination (58 months), 5 patients (62%) had cure of the dAVF, confirmed by noninvasive angiography. Two patients (25%) experienced a recurrence of the dAVF within 5 months. Conclusions Our hybrid techniques achieved high rates of dAVF obliteration, with all 8 patients achieving good or excellent outcomes and symptom relief. Angiographic follow-up within 6 months after the hybrid procedure is recommended for all patients even when intraoperative findings do not show remnants.

Von der Schweizerischen Hirnschlag Gesellschaft und ihren Partnergesellschaften unter Berucksichtigung der neuen wissenschaftlichen Daten uberarbeitete Schweizer Leitlinien.

Lignes directrices suisses revisees de la Societe Cerebrovasculaire Suisse et ses societes partenaires suite aux nouvelles donnees scientifiques.

Long-term tumor control of pituitary adenomas may be achieved by gross total resection (GTR). Factors, which influence the extent of resection, are invasiveness, tumor size, and possibly tumor shape. Nevertheless, the latter factor has not been assessed so far and there is no classification for the different shapes. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of different tumor shapes on GTR rates and outcome according to our proposed “Shape grading system.” In this retrospective single center study, the radiological outcome of nonfunctioning pituitary adenomas was assessed with respect to the following previously defined growth patterns: spherical (Shape I), oval (Shape II), dumbbell (Shape III), mushroom (Shape IV), and polylobulated (Shape V). A total of 191 patients were included (Shape I, n = 28 (15%); Shape II, n = 91 (48%); Shape III, n = 37 (19%); Shape IV, n = 12 (6%); Shape V, n = 23 (12%)). GTR was achieved in 101 patients (53%) with decreasing likelihood of GTR in higher shape grades (Shape I, n = 23 (82%); Shape II, n = 67 (74%); Shape III, n = 9 (24%); Shape IV, n = 2 (17%); Shape V, n = 0 (0%)). This correlated with larger tumor remnants, a higher risk of tumor recurrence/regrowth and therefore necessity of re-surgery and/or radiotherapy/radiosurgery. The “Shape grading system” may be used as a predictor of the outcome in nonfunctioning pituitary adenomas. The higher the “Shape grade,” the higher the likelihood for lower GTR rates, larger tumor remnants, and need for further therapies.

In acute ischemic stroke, intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) and acute endovascular therapy (EVT) have been shown to reduce long-term disability in randomized trials. International guidelines are partially not up to date and may not address situations for which there is limited scientific evidence. The goals of the present guidelines are to summarize the current scientific data for acute revascularization treatments to make sure that all Swiss Centers apply a similar, evidence, or consensus-based treatment standard. A multidisciplinary working group of the Swiss Stroke Society (SSS) searched and reviewed the literature on new randomized controlled trials (RCTs), large case series, meta-analyses, and other guidelines since the previous recommendations in 2009 to elaborate the consensus guidelines. The new RCTs have confirmed the effectiveness of IVT in various populations up to 4.5 h and proven the benefit of acute EVT up to approximately 8 h. For patients with unknown onset (including wake-up stroke), IVT and EVT can be effective up to 24 h after last proof of good health if patients are selected with advanced neuroimaging. Multiple case series and meta-analyses allow narrowing down the indications and relative and absolute contraindications to optimize the benefit&ndash, risk ratio of acute revascularization.

Background and Purpose: The purpose of this study was to assess nationwide incidence and outcomes of aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH). The Swiss SOS (Swiss Study on Subarachnoid Hemorrhage) was established in 2008 and offers the unique opportunity to provide this data from the point of care on a nationwide level. Methods: All patients with confirmed aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage admitted between January 1, 2009 and December 31, 2014, within Switzerland were recorded in a prospective registry. Incidence rates were calculated based on time-matched population data. Admission parameters and outcomes at discharge and at 1 year were recorded. Results: We recorded data of 1787 consecutive patients. The incidence of aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage in Switzerland was 3.7 per 100 000 persons/y. The number of female patients was 1170 (65.5%). With a follow-up rate of 91.3% at 1 year, 1042 patients (58.8%) led an independent life according to the modified Rankin Scale (0–2). About 1 in 10 patients survived in a dependent state (modified Rankin Scale, 3–5; n=185; 10.4%). Case fatality was 20.1% (n=356) at discharge and 22.1% (n=391) after 1 year. Conclusions: The current incidence of aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage in Switzerland is lower than expected and an indication of a global trend toward decreasing admissions for ruptured intracranial aneurysms. Registration: URL: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov . Unique identifier: NCT03245866.

One of the major periprocedural risks of carotid artery stenting is embolism caused either by plaque debris or by local thrombus forming. Double-layer micromesh stent design has shown to lower the chance of debris embolism but might have a slightly higher risk of local thrombus forming. Thus, we compared two different stent designs regarding safety and outcome profile in elective patients with high-grade carotid artery stenosis using a self-expanding, double-layer micromesh carotid stent system (DLCS) or a self-expanding hybrid carotid stent system (HCS). A single-center, open-label, retrospective cohort study of 67 consecutive, elective patients with high-grade symptomatic and asymptomatic carotid stenosis was executed at a comprehensive stroke center. Outcome measures were reocclusion rate, periprocedural symptomatic ischemic events, as well as other periprocedural complications, and recurrent stroke and mortality at 30 days&rsquo, follow-up. Thirty-two patients (24% women, median age 75 years (interquartile range (IQR) 71&ndash, 80) were treated with DLCS, and 35 patients (29% women, median age 71 years (IQR 63&ndash, 76) years) with HCS. In both groups, pretreatment carotid stenosis degree was similar (median NASCET of 80%). Successful deployment was achieved in all cases without technical failure, and both groups did not differ in reocclusion rates, recurrent stroke, and mortality within 30 days. DCLS and HCS revealed to have similar safety and outcome profile in elective patients with high-grade symptomatic as well as asymptomatic carotid artery stenosis.

Based on the relationship between the posterior clinoid process and the basilar artery (BA) apex it may be difficult to obtain proximal control of the BA using temporary clips. Endovascular BA temporary balloon occlusion (TBO) can reduce aneurysm sac pressure, facilitate dissection/clipping, and finally lower the risk of intraoperative rupture. We present our experience with TBO during aneurysm clipping of posterior circulation aneurysms within the setting of a hybrid operating room (hOR). We report one case each of a basilar tip, posterior cerebral artery, and superior cerebellar artery aneurysm that underwent surgical occlusion under TBO within an hOR. Surgical exposure of the BA was achieved with a pterional approach and selective anterior and posterior clinoidectomy. Intraoperative digital subtraction angiography (iDSA) was performed prior, during, and after aneurysm occlusion. Two patients presented with subarachnoid hemorrhage and one patient presented with an unruptured aneurysm. The intraluminal balloon was inserted through the femoral artery and inflated in the BA after craniotomy to allow further dissection of the parent vessel and branches needed for the preparation of the aneurysm neck. No complications during balloon inflation and aneurysm dissection occurred. Intraoperative aneurysm rupture prior to clipping did not occur. The duration of TBO varied between 9 and 11 min. Small neck aneurysm remnants were present in two cases (BA and PCA). Two patients recovered well with a GOS 5 after surgery and one patient died due to complications unrelated to surgery. Intraoperative TBO within the hOR is a feasible and safe procedure with no additional morbidity when using a standardized protocol and setting. No relevant side effects or intraoperative complications were present in this series. In addition, iDSA in an hOR facilitates the evaluation of the surgical result and 3D reconstructions provide documentation of potential aneurysm remnants for future follow-up.

Endovascular therapy (EVT) represents an alternative treatment modality for symptomatic intracranial high-grade atherosclerotic stenosis (sICAS); however, periprocedural complication rates as well as midterm restenosis rates represent relevant limitations of EVT. Drug-coated balloon percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (DCB-PTA) may overcome some of these shortcomings. The aim of this study was to assess feasibility and safety as well as the stroke recurrence rate in 33 patients. A retrospective, monocentric cohort study of sICAS patients treated with DCB-PTA. Outcome measures were the periprocedural intracranial complication rate, the recurrent stroke rate and mortality during follow-up. This cohort study included 33 patients with 35 sICAS treated with DCB-PTA. The median age was 72 years (interquartile range, IQR 66–77 years); median clinical and mean radiological follow-up time was 9 months (IQR 3–22 months). Median preprocedural degree of stenosis (WASID) was 80% (IQR 73–80%) and median postprocedural residual stenosis degree (WASID) was 50% (IQR 33–60%). Intracranial periprocedural complications occurred in 2 (6%) patients. The overall restenosis rate was 15% (n = 5). In four patients a symptomatic ischemic re-event occurred within 7 months after the initial treatment. None of the patients died. This DCB-PTA cohort study showed a relatively low intracranial complication rate of 6% with a symptomatic recurrence rate of 12%. Larger trials are needed to validate these promising observations.

Background Advances in the endovascular armamentarium, such as flow diversion and stenting devices, provide treatment options for posterior circulation intracranial aneurysms (IAs) with complex angioarchitecture. Delayed IA rupture following flow diversion is a rare but often fatal complication. Giant IAs likely pose a higher risk because of the extensive clot formation and its suspected detrimental effect on the aneurysmal wall. However, mechanisms that lead to delayed rupture are poorly understood, and few cases provide thorough documentation of macroscopic and histologic findings. Clinical Presentation After our 60-year-old patient with a giant basilar aneurysm underwent treatment with a LEO stent, the postoperative clinical course remained uneventful until day 4 when he suffered an unexpected fatal subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). Autopsy demonstrated extensive hemorrhage, large intraluminal thrombus, and ruptured IA wall. The aneurysm, which ruptured linearly, was completely filled with a clot that seemed to have outgrown the thin aneurysm wall. Histologic specimens revealed thinning and degenerative changes of the aneurysm's wall, and sparse neutrophilic and histiocytic inflammatory infiltrate adjacent to the rupture site, a finding consistent with recently published cases of IA rupture. Conclusions Our case report highlighting the clinical course and autopsy findings of a fatal SAH shortly after stenting this giant basilar artery aneurysm adds to the few previously reported fatal cases of IA rupture after endovascular treatment. Our macroscopic and histologic findings suggested that multimodal changes of inflammation, wall sheer tress (mechanical), and recanalization were involved.

Background Radical treatment of brain arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) remains a challenge despite recent advances in endovascular, microsurgical, and stereotactic radiosurgery treatments. The radical removal of AVMs with prevention of hemorrhage can be achieved through either single or combined modalities. Our retrospective study summarizes the safety and efficacy of combined endovascular embolization and microsurgical removal of AVMs in 49 consecutive patients in the hybrid operating room (hOR). Methods Patients underwent nonhybrid (i.e., endovascular, stereotactic radiosurgery, observation, combination) or hybrid (i.e., endovascular with microsurgery in hOR) treatment. The variables analyzed included age, sex, hospitalization time, Spetzler-Martin/Buffalo grades, clinical symptoms, previous treatment, intraoperative digital angiographic (iDSA) findings, postsurgical treatment, operation duration, complications, obliteration rate, and remnants. Results Of 18 patients treated in the hOR, 15 (83%) presented with Spetzler-Martin grades I and II and were younger than those treated with other modalities (mean age, 41 vs. 46 years). Thirteen (87%) patients were admitted with signs of hemorrhage after AVM rupture. The initial surgical plan was modified in 3 (17%) of 18 cases based on iDSA findings. All patients who eventually underwent microsurgical removal of AVMs showed neither postinterventional remnant nor new neurologic signs and symptoms. Complications included 1 postoperative epidural hematoma and 1 vasospasm during endovascular treatment. Conclusions Treatment of AVMs in the hOR offers the possibility to adapt surgical approaches based on iDSA findings after intraoperative embolization, thus achieving better clinical and radiologic results. Radical treatment of AVMs with low Spetzler-Martin grades by combining endovascular and microsurgical techniques in the hOR was technically feasible, effective, and safe.

Background and purpose Carotid stenosis (CS) with intraluminal carotid artery thrombus (ICAT) is rare but ominous finding. The optimal treatment modality is unclear. The aim of this study was to analyze the feasibility and outcome of acute endovascular intervention and delayed elective endovascular therapy after initial anticoagulation in these delicate cases. Moreover, both treatment points were compared and several parameters discussed to facilitate the determination of the optimal time modality in future cases. Materials and methods A series of 11 consecutive cases with acute symptomatic CS with ICAT that received endovascular treatment was retrospectively analyzed. General patient data, pre and post-interventional symptoms and imaging were evaluated in an overall mean follow-up of 84 weeks. Results Urgent stenting and mechanical thrombectomy was performed in 6 patients. In the remaining 5 cases, elective endovascular treatment was planned after initial anticoagulation therapy with thrombus resolution. One case received secondary urgent treatment due to clinical deterioration. Overall outcome at three months follow-up was excellent (Modified Ranking Scale [mRS] 0–1) in 5 cases, good (mRS 2) in 4 and unfavorable in the remaining 2. Important differences between the two treatment arms were seen in 3 parameters (stenosis degree, thrombus length, and NIHSS score). Conclusions This is one of the largest studies analysing endovascular treatment in patients with acute symptomatic CS and additional ICAT only. Both endovascular treatment strategies seem feasible. Parameters such as size of intraluminal thrombus and clinical symptoms should be included in the decision-making process regarding the optimal individual treatment time.

Background Ostial vertebral artery stenosis (OVAS) is a relevant cause of acute ischemic posterior circulation stroke. Percutaneous trans-luminal angioplasty (PTA) might offer a promising treatment modality, but restenosis rate is high. So far, little is known about recanalization using drug-coated balloons (DCB) in OVAS. We aimed to show feasibility and safety of DCB-PTA in OVAS. Methods Retrospective, monocenter case series of 12 patients with ostial vertebral artery stenosis (≥50%) treated with PTA using a drug-coated balloon. Results Median age was 69.5 years (IQR 57–78.5) with a female rate of 41%. Patients were treated either with a SeQuent Please NEO or Neuro Elutax SV DEB. Median preinterventional stenosis degree was 75% (IQR 70–85) with a median lesion length of 4.5 mm (IQR 4–7.5). Median postinterventional stenosis degree was 40% (IQR 27–50). All treated vessels remained patent. No major complications such as dissection, vessel perforation, hemorrhage, or ischemic events occurred. Moreover, we did not detect any restenosis during a median follow-up period of 6.1 months. The clinical outcome was excellent with median mRS scale of 0 (IQR 0–1). Conclusions PTA using drug-coated balloons is feasible and safe in patients with ostial vertebral artery stenosis.

NOVOCART® Disk plus, an autologous cell compound for autologous disk chondrocyte transplantation, was developed to reduce the degenerative sequel after lumbar disk surgery or to prophylactically avoid degeneration in adjacent disks, if present. The NDisc trial is an ongoing multi-center, randomized study with a sequential phase I study within the combined phase I/II trial with close monitoring of tolerability and safety. Twenty-four adult patients were randomized and treated with the investigational medicinal product NDisc plus or the carrier material only. Rates of adverse events in Phase I of this trial were comparable with those expected in the early time course after elective disk surgery. There was one reherniation 7 months after transplantation, which corresponds to an expected reherniation rate. Immunological markers like CRP and IL-6 were not significantly elevated and there were no imaging abnormalities. No indications of harmful material extrusion or immunological consequences due to the investigational medicinal product NDplus were observed. Therefore, the study appears to be safe and feasible. Safety analyses of Phase I of this trial indicate a relatively low risk considering the benefits that patients with debilitating degenerative disk disease may gain.

Background Carotid artery stenting requires antiplatelet therapy for prevention of in-stent thrombosis. Patients suffering from acute ischemic stroke undergoing intravenous thrombolysis and emergent carotid artery stenting (eCAS) are at high risk for intracranial bleeding. We assessed efficacy and safety of acute administration of intravenous tirofiban versus aspirin in these patients. Methods A retrospective, single center, cohort study was carried out of 32 patients who underwent eCAS (18 received tirofiban, 14 received aspirin) at our comprehensive stroke center (2008–2016). Results Of our 32 consecutive eCAS patients, favorable clinical outcomes (modified Rankin scale ≤ 2) were achieved in eight (47%) tirofiban patients and six (46%) aspirin patients ( p = 0.96). Overall rates were similar for symptomatic intracranial bleeding (tirofiban 22%, aspirin 29%, p = 0.68) and mortality (tirofiban 18%, aspirin 23%, p = 0.71). Conclusions Tirofiban and aspirin demonstrated similar efficacy and safety in thrombolyzed stroke patients who underwent eCAS in our cohort. Intravenous tirofiban with its short half-life might represent an alternative to aspirin in select patients.

Microsurgical clip ligation is considered a definitive treatment for intracranial aneurysms (IAs), resulting in low rates of local recurrence that range from 0.2 to 0.5% and a latency period that averages about a decade. Our case report describes an early asymptomatic recurrence (i.e., without sentinel headache or seizure) less than 1 year after this 20-year-old woman underwent clip ligation of a ruptured anterior communicating artery (AComA) aneurysm. At recurrence, the patient underwent coiling of the regrowth; follow-up imaging at 6 and 18 months demonstrated complete IA occlusion. To review the putative risk factors of this rare phenomenon, the authors searched the PubMed database using the keywords “intracranial aneurysm,” “recurrence,” and “clipping” in various combinations. In the seven cases identified, all occurred in initially ruptured IA, which was often at the AComA, and six of seven patients were younger than 50 years old. Although most IA remnants grow slowly, early recurrence may represent a more aggressive biological behavior that warrants special attention in younger patients, positive rupture status, and unintended remnant of any size. In such a constellation, early imaging follow-up within the first 6 months may be warranted to rule out early IA recurrence

ObjectivesIntracranial arteriosclerotic disease is a relevant cause of ischemic stroke worldwide with a high recurrence rate despite best medical treatment. Following the SAMMPRIS trial, endovascular treatment has remained a second-line therapy. Meanwhile, there has been significant advances in device technology. SeQuent Please NEO is a novel polymer-free, drug-coated (paclitaxel/iopromide) balloon (DCB) primarily designed for cardiology. Because of its high flexibility and pushability, it may also be suitable for intracranial use. The aim of this study was to assess the feasibility and safety of SeQuent Please NEO DCB in symptomatic intracranial severe stenosis.MethodsA single-center retrospective cohort study of patients with symptomatic intracranial severe stenosis treated with SeQuent Please NEO DCB was performed at a tertiary stroke center.ResultsTen patients (all men, median age 73 years (IQR 69–77)) were included. Median pre-treatment stenosis grade was 78% (IQR 75–80%) with four internal carotid artery, two mid-basilar artery, and four vertebral artery lesions. Median post-treatment stenosis grade was 50% (IQR 45–53%). Successful angioplasty was achieved in all cases without technical failure. There were no cases of peri-procedural reocclusion and no deaths at median follow-up of 3 months (IQR 2–3).ConclusionIn this pilot study, SeQuent Please NEO DCB was feasible and safe in the treatment of symptomatic intracranial severe stenosis. It might represent a promising alternative to medical treatment in selected cases.

Objective To describe longitudinal image changes in supratentorial hemispheric meningiomas based on magnetic resonance imaging after preoperative embolization using calibrated microspheres. Methods A total of 14 patients with symptomatic supratentorial meningiomas were included in a prospective, mono-centric, mono-arm study. Magnetic resonance imaging changes on diffusion-weighted imaging, dynamic contrast susceptibility–perfusion-weighted imaging, susceptibility-weighted imaging, and magnetization-prepared rapid acquisition gradient-echo sequence T1-weighted postcontrast sequences 6 and 48 hours after embolization were evaluated and correlated with angiographic and clinical data. Results The mean age of the patients was 63 ± 12.7 years with an equal female/male ratio. Twelve meningiomas were World Health Organization grade I and II tumors. After embolization, baseline apparent diffusion coefficient (901 ± 166 mm2/s) decreased significantly within 6 hours (696 ± 115 mm2/s, P = 0.0008) as well within 48 hours (752 ± 134 mm2/s; P = 0.0147). Baseline mean ratio of relative cerebral blood volume (rCBV)tumor/rCBVwhite matter (3.67 ± 1.83) and relative cerebral blood flow (rCBF)tumor/rCBFwhite matter (2.89 ± 1.57) significantly decreased after embolization within 6 hours (rCBVtumor/rCBVwhite matter of 1.45 ± 0.9; P = 0.0007, rCBF of 1.16 ± 0.68; P = 0.0029) and 48 hours (rCBV of 1.50 ± 1.07; P = 0.0009, rCBFtumor/rCBFwhite matter of 1.19 ± 0.8; P = 0.003). The viable enhanced baseline mean tumor volume (54.3 ± 34.9 mm3) was sustainably and significantly diminished within 6 hours (26.6 ± 20.8 mm3; P = 0.02) and 48 hours (29.7 ± 22.5 mm3; P = 0.035) after embolization. There was a good correlation between angiographic devascularization rate and the embolized tumor volume at 6 hours (r = 0.7; P = 0.03) and 48 hours (r = 0.78; P = 0.041). Conclusions Preoperative meningioma embolization with calibrated microspheres is safe and effectively induces a significant and sustainable tissue transformation over 48 hours.

Background and purposeGiven the promising performance of the new Embolus Retriever with Interlinked Cages (ERIC) in smaller case series, we sought to assess the efficacy and safety of mechanical thrombectomy (MT) with ERIC compared with other stent retrievers (SRs) in acute ischemic stroke due to large vessel occlusion (LVO).MethodsWe reviewed the databases of two comprehensive stroke centers in in Germany and Switzerland for MT due to LVO in the anterior circulation with either ERIC or another SR as a first device. Co-primary outcome was defined as successful recanalization (Thrombolysis in Cerebral Infarction 2b/3) after the first device and favorable outcome (modified Rankin Scale score 0–2) at 90 days' follow-up. Multiple logistic regression analysis was applied to adjust for potential confounders.Results183 consecutive patients with stroke were treated with either ERIC (49%) or a SR (51%) as the first device and successful recanalization was seen in 82% and 57%, respectively (PConclusionThe use of ERIC as a first device appeared to be associated with higher rates of successful recanalization and resulted in better functional outcome. However, favorable outcome was not attributable to ERIC. Most importantly, both device types complemented one another and improved final recanalization rates when used successively.

BackgroundIntracranial atherosclerotic disease is a well-known cause of ischemic stroke. Following the SAMMPRIS trial, medical treatment is favored over stenting. Drug-eluting balloons (DEB) are widely used in coronary angioplasty, showing better results than bare-surface balloons. There is little evidence of DEB employment in intracranial stenosis, especially of paclitaxel-eluted balloons (pDEB). The Neuro Elutax SV (Aachen Resonance) is the first CE certificated pDEB for intracranial use.ObjectiveTo compare pDEB Neuro Elutax SV (ElutaxDEB) with the Wingspan/Gateway stent system (WingspanStent).Materials and methodsA single-center, open-label, retrospective cohort study of 19 patients with symptomatic atherosclerotic intracranial high-grade stenosis treated with either ElutaxDEB or WingspanStent from a tertiary stroke center in Switzerland.ResultsEight patients (42%) received ElutaxDEB. Median clinical follow-up was 10 months for the WingspanStent and 9.5 months for ElutaxDEB (P=0.36). No differences were found in the clinical baseline characteristics, with a median stenosis grade of 80% for the WingspanStent and 81% for the ElutaxDEB (P=0.87). The compound endpoint ‘ischemic re-event and/or restenosis’ was significantly lower for ElutaxDEB (13% vs 64%; P=0.03, OR 0.08 (95% CI 0.007 to 0.93; P=0.043) than for the WingspanStent.ConclusionsThe ElutaxDEB may be a promising alternative treatment for patients with symptomatic high-grade intracranial stenosis showing a significantly lower rate of ischemic re-events or restenosis in comparison with the WingspanStent-treated patients with a similar safety profile. Further studies will be needed to definitively elucidate the role of pDEB in the management of symptomatic intracranial high-grade stenosis.

OBJECTIVEDuring the last decade, improvements in real-time, high-resolution imaging of surgically exposed cerebral vasculature have been realized with the successful introduction of intraoperative indocyanine green video angiography (ICGVA) and technical advances in intraoperative digital subtraction angiography (DSA). With the availability of 3D intraoperative DSA (3D-iDSA) in hybrid operating rooms, the present study offers a contemporary comparison for rates of accuracy and discordance.METHODSIn this retrospective study of prospectively collected data, 140 consecutive patients underwent microsurgical treatment of intracranial aneurysms (IAs) in a hybrid operating room. Variables analyzed included patient demographics, aneurysm-specific characteristics, intraoperative ICGVA and 3D-iDSA findings, and the need for intraoperative clip readjustment. The authors defined the discordance rate of the two modalities as a false-negative finding that necessitated clip repositioning after 3D-iDSA.RESULTSIn 120 patients, ICGVA and 3D-iDSA were used to evaluate 134 IA obliterations. Of 215 clips used, 29 (14%) were repositioned intraoperatively, improving the surgical result in all 29 patients (24%). Repositioning was prompted by visual inspection and microvascular Doppler ultrasonography in 8 (28%), ICGVA in 13 (45%), and 3D-iDSA in 7 (24%) patients. Clip repositioning was needed in 7 patients (6%) based on 3D-iDSA, yielding an ICGVA accuracy rate of 94%. Five (71%) of the ICGVA–3D-iDSA discordances that prompted clip repositioning occurred at the anterior communicating artery complex.CONCLUSIONSA combination of vascular monitoring techniques most often achieved correct intraoperative interpretation of complete IA occlusion and parent artery integrity. Compared with 3D-iDSA imaging, ICGVA demonstrated high accuracy. Despite the relatively low discordance rate, iDSA was confirmed to be the gold standard. Improved imaging quality, including 3D-iDSA, supports its routine use in IA surgery, obviating the need for postoperative DSA.

Rupture of an intracranial aneurysm is a life-threatening event. Only one third of intracranial aneurysms rupture during a patient's lifetime. Accurate markers that predict which intracranial aneurysms rupture and which do not are currently lacking in routine clinical practice. Therefore, the treatment decision is a careful balance between the natural history of the intracranial aneurysm and the risk of intervention based on aneurysm- and patient-specific risk factors. Many of these risk factors are also used to determine the modality of intervention. In this review, the authors discuss the interdisciplinary decision-making process and treatment approach in the era of complementary techniques for intracranial aneurysm obliteration.

NOVOCART

It has been hypothesized that vasospasm is the prime mechanism of delayed cerebral ischemia (DCI) after aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH). Recently, it was found that clusters of spreading depolarizations (SDs) are associated with DCI. Surgical placement of nicardipine prolonged-release implants (NPRIs) was shown to strongly attenuate vasospasm. In the present study, we tested whether SDs and DCI are abolished when vasospasm is reduced or abolished by NPRIs. After aneurysm clipping, 10 NPRIs were placed next to the proximal intracranial vessels. The SDs were recorded using a subdural electrode strip. Proximal vasospasm was assessed by digital subtraction angiography (DSA). 534 SDs were recorded in 10 of 13 patients (77%). Digital subtraction angiography revealed no vasospasm in 8 of 13 patients (62%) and only mild or moderate vasospasm in the remaining. Five patients developed DCI associated with clusters of SD despite the absence of angiographic vasospasm in three of those patients. The number of SDs correlated significantly with the development of DCI. This may explain why reduction of angiographic vasospasm alone has not been sufficient to improve outcome in some clinical studies.

Background: To assess the efficiency of IIb/IIIa platelet receptor inhibition by abciximab in the prevention of silent embolism during digital subtraction angiography. Methods: In this randomized, double-blind, prospective study, pre- and postangiographic diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (DWI) of 184 participants was evaluated for the occurrence of silent embolism. Results: No significant relationship was found between the patients receiving abciximab before digital subtraction angiography (15 of 90; 16.7%) and patients in the placebo group (16 of 94; 17.0%) regarding postangiographic appearance of silent emboli (p = 0.9). Conclusions: IIb/IIIa receptor inhibition by abciximab does not diminish the occurrence of silent embolism during digital subtraction angiography. Our findings indicate that solid blood clots are not the origin of hyperintense lesions observed on DWI and enhance the role of alternative mechanisms.

Impaired cerebrovascular reactivity (CR) has been reported to be associated with adverse outcome in patients with aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH). However, CR may be determined using different paradigms and it is unclear, which measurement method most suitable reflects the clinical course or is able to predict clinical deterioration.Twenty-one aSAH patients were included in this study. Following occlusion of the aneurysms with or without implantation of nicardipine prolonged release implants (NPRIs), mean arterial and mean intracranial pressure, regional tissue oxygenation, and regional cerebral blood flow was determined. Based on these data, pressure-, oxygen-, and flow-related autoregulatory indices (PRx, ORx, FRx) were simultaneously calculated and correlated with outcome parameters including the Glasgow outcome score (GOS) and the modified Rankin (mRankin) scale.Eight patients showed newly developed cerebral infarcts. Low values of GOS and mRankin scale highly correlated with the incidence of cerebral infarcts (GOS, P = 0.001; mRankin, P = 0.003). However, indices of CR did not differ significantly between the infarction (I) and the noninfarction group (NI) (PRx, I, 0.058 +/- 0.096, NI, 0.097 +/- 0.203, P = 0.538; ORx, I, 0.162 +/- 0.316, NI, 0.094 +/- 0.176, P = 0.690; FRx, I, 0.395 +/- 0.200, NI, 0.265 +/- 0.177, P = 0.119). No correlation was found between indices and clinical outcome parameters (all not significant). However, ORx and FRx correlated well (P = 0.016).Due to the low number of included subjects, the obtained results are preliminary. However, they indicate that either the present technique of index-determination is not sensitive enough or that there is no strong relation between the measured indices and clinical outcome. Future verification is required of continuous against already established non-continuous monitoring techniques of CR in order to relate both to clinical outcome.

Objective To assess the effect of a single levodopa dose (200 mg levodopa, 50 mg carbidopa = sdLD) on cortical and subcortical motor-circuit activation during bimanual grip force in patients with Parkinson's disease (PD). Patients and methods We studied 12 right-handed patients with PD (Hoehn–Yahr stages I–II) after a period of at least 12 h without medication (OFF state) and a second time 1 h after oral administration of sdLD (ON state) using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). Blood-oxygenation-level-dependency (BOLD) fMRI was measured while participants underwent two unilateral and two bimanual grip force movements with a defined movement amplitude and force (10 N) in a block design. 12 age matched healthy subjects were studied as controls (without administration of sdLD). Results Bimanual grip force tasks activated a specific pattern of cortical and subcortical structures in all patients during the OFF state and after levodopa administration with statistically significant differences in putamen and thalamus comparing the OFF and ON condition. In contrast, no such significant changes were observed in cortical structures. Between-group analysis revealed higher putaminal activity in controls compared to OFF state in bimanual tasks, while these differences disappeared after administration of levodopa. Conclusions Our results indicate that the putamen and thalamus are the regions within the cortico-subcortical motor-circuit with most prominent response to levodopa. In our study, cortical motor areas did not respond to levodopa as one could have expected from previous studies. These findings contribute to the increasing evidence that an extended model of the underlying pathophysiology of motor dysfunctions in PD is warranted.