Chemical Angioplasty with Nitroglycerin for Vasospasm after Subarachnoid Hemorrhage: Case Series and Review

Introduction Vasospasm is a common and potentially devastating complication in patients with subarachnoid hemorrhage, causing high morbidity and mortality. There is no effective and consistent way to prevent or treat cerebral vasospasm capable of altering the morbidity and mortality of this complication. Animal and human studies have attempted to show improvement in aneurysmal vasospasm. Some sought their prevention; others, the treatment of already installed vasospasm. Some achieved only angiographic improvement without clinical correlation, others achieved both, but with ephemeral duration or at the expense of very harmful associated effects. Endovascular techniques allow immediate and aggressive treatment of cerebral vasospasm and include methods such as mechanical and chemical angioplasty. These methods have risks and benefits. Objectives To analyze the results of chemical angioplasty using nitroglycerin (GTN). In addition, to performa comprehensive review and analysis of aneurysmal vasospasm. Methods We describe our series of 77 patients treated for 8 years with angioplasty for vasospasm, either mechanical (with balloon), chemical (with GTN) or both. Results Eleven patients received only balloon; 37 received only GTN; 29 received both. Forty-four patients (70.1%) evolved with delayed cerebral ischemia and 19 died (mortality of 24.7%). Two deaths were causally related to the rupture of the vessel by the balloon. The only predictors of poor outcome were the need for external ventricular drainage in the first hours of admission, and isolated mechanical angioplasty. Conclusions Balloon angioplasty has excellent results, but it is restricted to proximal vessels and is not without complications. Chemical angioplasty using nitroglycerin has reasonable but short-lived results and further research is needed about it. It is restricted to vasospasm angioplasties only in hospitals, like ours, where better and more potent vasodilator agents are not available.

Internações hospitalares para tratamento de aneurismas cerebrais rotos e não rotos no Sistema Único de Saúde do Brasil, 2009-2018: um estudo descritivo / Ingresos hospitalarios para el tratamiento de aneurismas cerebrales rotos y no rotos en el Sistema Único de Salud de Brasil, 2009-2018: un estudio descriptivo / Hospital admissions for treatment of ruptured and unruptured cerebral aneurysms within the Brazilian National Health System, 2009-2018: a descriptive study

Objetivo: Analisar internações para tratamento de aneurismas cerebrais rotos e não rotos com realização de embolização e de microcirurgia cerebral no Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS), Brasil, 2009-2018. Métodos: Estudo descritivo, utilizando dados do Sistema de Informações Hospitalares do SUS. Descreveu-se a frequência das internações, procedimentos, utilização de unidade de tratamento intensivo (UTI), letalidade e gastos. Resultados: Das 43.927 internações, 22.622 (51,5%) resultaram em microcirurgia. Embolização e microcirurgia foram mais frequentes no sexo feminino. A duração das internações com embolização foi de 7,7 dias (±9,0), e com microcirurgia, 16,2 (±14,2) dias, a frequência de admissão em UTI, 58,6% e 85,3%, e a letalidade, 5,9% e 10,9%, respectivamente. Do gasto total, US$ 240 milhões, 66,3% corresponderam às internações com embolização. Conclusão: As internações com embolização para tratamento de aneurismas cerebrais no SUS apresentaram menor duração, menor frequência de utilização de UTI e menor letalidade, porém maior gasto em relação à microcirurgia cerebral.

Objetivo: Analizar las internaciones para tratamiento de aneurismas cerebrales rotos y no rotos en cuanto a embolización y microcirugía cerebral en el Sistema Único de Salud (SUS), Brasil, de 2009 a 2018. Métodos: Estudio descriptivo utilizando datos del Sistema de Información Hospitalaria (SIH)/SUS relacionados con la frecuencia de hospitalizaciones, procedimientos, uso de la unidad de cuidados intensivos (UCI), letalidad y gastos. Resultados: De los 43.927 ingresos, 22.622 (51,5%) correspondieron a microcirugía. Hubo una mayor frecuencia de procedimientos de embolización y microcirugía entre las personas del sexo femenino. De las hospitalizaciones con embolización y microcirugía, respectivamente, la duración de la estadía fue de 7,7 (±9,0) y 16,2 (±14,2) días, la frecuencia de ingreso en la UCI fue del 58,6% y el 85,3% y la letalidad del 5,9% y el 10,9%. El gasto total fue de US$ 240 millones, de los cuales el 66,3% correspondió a hospitalizaciones con embolización. Conclusión: Las hospitalizaciones con embolización, para el tratamiento de aneurismas cerebrales en el SUS, tuvieron menor tiempo de estadía, menor frecuencia de uso de la UCI y menor letalidad, pero mayores gastos en relación a la microcirugía cerebral.

Objective: To analyze hospital admissions for treatment of ruptured and unruptured cerebral aneurysms with embolization and brain microsurgery performed within the Brazilian National Health System (SUS), 2009-2018. Methods: This was a descriptive study, using data from the SUS's Hospital Information System. Frequency of hospital admissions, procedures, use of intensive care unit (ICU), case fatality ratio and expenditures were described. Results: Of the 43,927 hospital admissions, 22,622 (51.5%) resulted in microsurgery. Embolization and cerebral microsurgery were more frequent among females. Length of hospital stay with embolization procedure was 7.7 days (±9.0), and with microsurgery, 16.2 (±14.2) days, frequency of ICU admission, 58.6% and 85.3%, and case fatality ratio, 5.9% and 10.9% respectively. Of the total expenditure, USD 240 million, 66.3% corresponded to hospitalizations with embolization procedure. Conclusion: Hospital admissions with embolization procedure for treatment of cerebral aneurysms within the SUS showed a shorter length of stay, less frequent use of ICU and lower case fatality ratio, but higher expenditure when compared to brain microsurgery.

Increased blood pressure variability predicts poor outcomes from endovascular treatment for aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage / Aumento da variabilidade da pressão arterial prediz resultados ruins de tratamento endovascular para hemorragia subaracnóide aneurismática

ABSTRACT Background: Predictors of outcomes following endovascular treatment (ET) for aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) are not well-defined. Identifying them would be beneficial in determining which patients might benefit from ET. Objective: To identify the predictive factors for poor outcomes following ET for aSAH. Methods: 120 patients with ruptured cerebral aneurysms underwent endovascular embolization between January 2017 and December 2018. Blood pressure variability was examined using the standard deviation of the 24-hour systolic blood pressure (24hSSD) and 24-hour diastolic blood pressure (24hDSD). Predictors were identified through univariate and multivariate regression analysis. All patients were followed up for three months. Results: At follow-up, 86 patients (71.7%) had good outcomes and 34 (28.3%) had poor outcomes. Patients with poor outcomes had significantly higher 24hSSD than those with good outcomes (19.3 ± 5.5 vs 14.1 ± 4.8 mmHg; P < 0.001). The 24hDSD did not differ significantly between patients with good outcomes and those with poor outcomes (9.5 ± 2.3 vs 9.9 ± 3.5 mmHg; P = 0.464). The following were significant risk factors for poor outcomes after endovascular embolization: age ≥ 65 years (odds ratio [OR] = 23.0; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 3.0-175.9; P = 0.002); Hunt-Hess grade 3-4 (OR = 6.8; 95% CI: 1.1-33.7; P = 0.039); Fisher grade 3-4 (OR = 47.1; 95% CI: 3.8-586.5; P = 0.003); postoperative complications (OR = 6.1; 95% CI: 1.1-34.8; P = 0.042); and 24hSSD ≥ 15 mmHg (OR = 14.9; 95% CI: 4.0-55.2; P < 0.001). Conclusion: Elevated 24hSSD is a possibly treatable predictive factor for poor outcomes after ET for aSAH.

RESUMO Antecedentes: Fatores preditores de resultados após tratamento endovascular (TE) para hemorragia subaracnóide aneurismática (HSA) não estão bem definidos. Identificá-los seria útil para determinar quais pacientes podem se beneficiar de TE. Objetivo: Identificar os fatores preditivos de resultados ruins após TE para HSA. Métodos: 120 pacientes com aneurismas cerebrais rompidos foram submetidos à embolização endovascular entre janeiro de 2017 e dezembro de 2018. A variabilidade da pressão arterial foi examinada usando-se o desvio padrão da PA sistólica de 24 horas (DPPAS- 24h) e da PA diastólica de 24 horas (DPPAD-24h). Os fatores preditores foram identificados por meio de análises de regressão univariada e multivariada. Todos os pacientes foram acompanhados por três meses. Resultados: No acompanhamento, 86 pacientes (71,7%) tiveram bons resultados e 34 (28,3%) tiveram resultados ruins. Pacientes com resultados ruins apresentaram DPPAS-24h significativamente maior do que aqueles com bons resultados (19,3 ± 5,5 vs 14,1 ± 4,8 mmHg; P <0,001). O DPPAD-24h não diferiu significativamente entre os pacientes com bons resultados e aqueles com resultados ruins (9,5 ± 2,3 vs 9,9 ± 3,5 mmHg; P = 0,464). Os fatores de risco significativos para resultados ruins após embolização endovascular foram os seguintes: idade ≥ 65 anos (razão de probabilidade [OR] = 23,0; intervalo de confiança de 95% [IC]: 3,0-175,9; P = 0,002); escala de Hunt-Hess 3-4 (OR = 6,8; IC 95%: 1,1-33,7; P = 0,039); escala de Fisher 3-4 (OR = 47,1; IC 95%: 3,8-586,5; P = 0,003); complicações pós-operatórias (OR = 6,1; IC 95%: 1,1-34,8; P = 0,042); e DPPAS 24h ≥ 15 mmHg (OR = 14,9; IC 95%: 4,0-55,2; P <0,001). Conclusão: O DPPAS 24h elevado é um fator preditivo possivelmente tratável para resultados ruins após TE para HSA.

Ultra-Early Versus Early Aneurysm Surgery After Subarachnoid Hemorrhage: A Retrospective Outcome Analysis

Object The timing of definitive management of ruptured intracranial aneurysms has been the subject of considerable debate, although the benefits of early surgery (until 72 hours postictus) are widely accepted. The aim of the present study is to evaluate the potential benefit of ultra-early surgery (until 24 hours) when compared with early surgery, in those patients who were treated by surgical clipping at the Neurosurgery Department of the Coimbra Hospital and University Centre. Methods A 17-year database of consecutive ruptured and surgically treated intracranial aneurysms was analyzed. Outcome was measured by the Glasgow Outcome Scale (GOS). Baseline characteristics were analyzed by the Fisher exact test, the chi-squared and Mann-Whitney tests. Logistic regression was used to assess the impact of good grade according to the World Federation of Neurological Surgeons (WFNS) scale and ultra-early surgery in a good GOS outcome. Results 343 patients who were submitted to surgical clipping in the first 72 hours postictus were included, 165 of whom have undergone ultra-early surgery. Demographics and preoperative characteristics of ultra-early and early surgery patients were similar. Goodgrade patients according to the WFNS scale submitted to ultra-early surgery demonstrated an improvedGOS at discharge and at 6months. Poor-grade patients according to theWFNS scale submitted to ultra-early surgery demonstrated an improved GOS at discharge. Conclusions Ultra-early surgery for aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage patients improves outcome mainly on good-grade patients. Efforts should be made on the logistics of emergency departments to consider achieving treatment on this timeframe as a standard of care.

Aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage: current concepts and updates / Hemorragia subaracnoidea aneurismática: conceitos atuais

ABSTRACT Aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage is a condition with a considerable incidence variation worldwide. In Brazil, the exact epidemiology of aneurysmal SAH is unknown. The most common presenting symptom is headache, usually described as the worst headache ever felt. Head computed tomography, when performed within six hours of the ictus, has a sensitivity of nearly 100%. It is important to classify the hemorrhage based on clinical and imaging features as a way to standardize communication. Classification also has prognostic value. In order to prevent rebleeding, there still is controversy regarding the ideal blood pressure levels and the use of antifibrinolytic therapy. The importance of definitely securing the aneurysm by endovascular coiling or surgical clipping cannot be overemphasized. Hydrocephalus, seizures, and intracranial pressure should also be managed. Delayed cerebral ischemia is a severe complication that should be prevented and treated aggressively. Systemic complications including cardiac and pulmonary issues, sodium abnormalities, fever, and thromboembolism frequently happen and may have na impact upon prognosis, requiring proper management.

RESUMO Hemorragia subaracnoidea aneurismática (aHSA) é uma condição com grande variação de incidência mundialmente. No Brasil, não dispomos de números epidemiológicos exatos. A apresentação clínica mais comum da HSA é a cefaleia, usualmente descrita como a pior da vida. A tomografia de crânio, quando feita nas primeiras 6 horas do ictus, tem uma sensibilidade próxima a 100%. É importante classificar a hemorragia utilizando escalas clínicas e radiológicas, como forma de padronizar a comunicação, e também predizer prognóstico. Para prevenção de ressangramento, ainda há controvérsias quanto aos níveis pressóricos ideais e uso de antifibrinolíticos. O tratamento definitivo do aneurisma, por sua vez, é fundamental, seja por meio endovascular ou cirúrgico. Hidrocefalia, crises epilépticas e a pressão intracraniana devem ser manejadas de forma apropriada. Isquemia cerebral tardia é uma complicação grave que deve ser prevenida e tratada agressivamente. Complicações sistêmicas, incluindo cardíacas, pulmonares, anormalidades de sódio, febre e tromboembolismo ocorrem frequentemente e podem ter impacto no prognóstico, necessitando de manejo adequado.

Palliative approach in acute neurological events: a five-year study

SUMMARY INTRODUCTION Acute neurological illness often results in severe disability. Five-year life expectancy is around 40%; half the survivors become completely dependent on outside help. OBJECTIVE Evaluate the symptoms of patients admitted to a Hospital ward with a diagnosis of stroke, subarachnoid hemorrhage or subdural hematoma, and analyze the role of an In-Hospital Palliative Care Support Team. MATERIAL AND METHODS Retrospective, observational study with a sample consisting of all patients admitted with acute neurological illness and with a guidance request made to the In-Hospital Palliative Care Support Team of a tertiary Hospital, over 5 years (2012-2016). RESULTS A total of 66 patients were evaluated, with an age median of 83 years old. Amongst them, there were 41 ischaemic strokes, 12 intracranial bleedings, 12 subdural hematomas, and 5 subarachnoid hemorrhages. The median of delay between admission and guidance request was 14 days. On the first evaluation by the team, the GCS score median was 6/15 and the Palliative Performance Scale (PPS) median 10%. Dysphagia (96.8%) and bronchorrhea (48.4%) were the most prevalent symptoms. A total of 56 patients had a feeding tube (84.8%), 33 had vital sign monitoring (50.0%), 24 were hypocoagulated (36.3%), 25 lacked opioid or anti-muscarinic therapy for symptom control (37,9%); 6 patients retained orotracheal intubation, which was removed. In-hospital mortality was 72.7% (n=48). DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION Patients were severely debilitated, in many cases futile interventions persisted, yet several were under-medicated for symptom control. The delay between admission and collaboration request was high. Due to the high morbidity associated with acute neurological illness, palliative care should always be timely provided.

RESUMO INTRODUÇÃO Eventos neurológicos agudos resultam frequentemente em incapacidade grave que impede o doente de participar ativamente nas decisões do seu próprio tratamento. A sobrevida a cinco anos ronda os 40%; metade dos sobreviventes fica dependente de terceiros. Objetivo Avaliar a sintomatologia de doentes internados com acidente vascular cerebral (AVC), hemorragia subarcnoideia (HSA) ou subdural (HSD) e analisar a intervenção de uma Equipe Intra-Hospitalar de Suporte em Cuidados Paliativos (EIHSCP). MATERIAL E MÉTODOS Estudo retrospetivo observacional dos doentes com diagnóstico principal de evento neurológico agudo com pedido de colaboração à EIHSCP, num hospital terciário, durante cinco anos (2012-2016). RESULTADOS Avaliados 66 doentes, com média de idade de 83 anos. Destacam-se 41 AVC isquêmicos, 12 hemorrágicos, 12 HSD e 5 HSA. A média da demora entre internamento e pedido de colaboração à EIHSCP foi de 14 dias. Na primeira observação, a média na escala de coma de Glasgow foi de 6/15 e na Palliative Performance Scale (PPS) foi de 10%. Disfagia (96,8%) e broncorreia (48,4%) foram os sintomas mais frequentes. A maioria dos doentes (56/66) mantinha sonda nasogástrica (84,8%); 33 encontravam-se em monitorização cardiorrespiratória (50,0%); 24 estavam sob hipocoagulação (36,3%); 25 necessitavam de opioide e antimuscarínico que não estavam prescritos (37,9%); seis tinham tubo orotraqueal, que foi retirado. A mortalidade intra-hospitalar foi de 72,7% (n=48). DISCUSSÃO E CONCLUSÃO Destaca-se o estado debilitado dos doentes; em muitos casos, intervenções fúteis persistiam, mas várias foram submedicadas para o controle dos sintomas. Verificou-se um tempo de espera elevado até o pedido de colaboração. Pela elevada morbilidade associada a esses eventos, cuidados paliativos diferenciados deveriam ser oferecidos no tempo adequado.

Seizures and Epilepsy following Subarachnoid Hemorrhage: A Review on Incidence, Risk Factors, Outcome and Treatment

The mortality rates of subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) average 51%, and survivors frequently experience acute and long-term neurological conditions, including seizures and epilepsy. The incidence of post SAH-related seizures and epilepsy, its risk factors, outcomes and management are controversial. The present paper aims to discuss these aspects, to provide the pros and cons of different management options of this condition. A review on PubMed was performed encompassing the incidence of seizures and epilepsy following SAH, the risk factors for its occurrence, its related outcomes, and treatment. The incidence of seizures and epilepsy following SAH varies widely in the literature (from 6 to 26%). Some possible risk factors were identified, such as middle cerebral artery (MCA) aneurysm, Hunt and Hess grade III, aneurysm clipping, thick subarachnoid clot, intracerebral hemorrhage, rebleeding, ischemic brain infarction, Fisher grade III or IV, acute hydrocephalus, hypertension history and poorWorld Federation of Neurosurgical Societies (WFNS) grade. Nevertheless, these relations are frequently uncertain. Also, it appears that the outcome of patients who suffered SAH is worsened by seizures. Given these uncertainties, the need for antiepileptic drug (AED) prophylaxis, the choice of the best drug and dose, as well as the duration of the treatment are controversial topics. However, some recommendations based on low quality evidence are reasonable to be adopted. These include considering AED prophylaxis when a seizure occur after SAH, considering routine long-term AED prophylaxis in specific populations, considering electroencephalogram (EEG) monitoring, and avoiding phenytoin prescription. That is, an individualized approach appears to be the best option, since there is no high-quality evidence.

Risk factors for early-onset ventilator-associated pneumonia in aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage patients

This study aimed to investigate the risk factors related to ventilator-acquired pneumonia (VAP) in aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) patients. From January 2011 to December 2015, a single-center retrospective study including 200 SAH patients requiring mechanical ventilation (MV) ≥48 h was performed. The clinical data of these patients were collected and analyzed. The age range of the patients were 41-63 and 72 (36%) were male. The Glasgow coma scale score range was 5-15 and the Simplified Acute Physiology Score II range was 31-52. One hundred and forty-eight (74%) patients had a World Federation of Neurosurgeons (WNFS) score ≥III. Aneurysm was secured with an endovascular coiling procedure in 168 (84%) patients and 94 (47%) patients presented VAP. Male gender (OR=2.25, 95%CI=1.15-4.45), use of mannitol (OR=3.02, 95%CI=1.53-5.94) and enteral feeding above 20 kcal·kg−1·day−1 (OR=2.90, 95%CI=1.26-6.67) after day 7 were independent factors for VAP. Patients with early-onset VAP had a longer duration of sedation (P=0.03), MV (P=0.001) and ICU length of stay (P=0.003) and a worse Glasgow Outcome Scale score (P<0.001), but did not have a higher death rate.

Contrast-Induced Acute Kidney Injury after Coil Embolization for Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage

PURPOSE: Contrast-induced acute kidney injury (CI-AKI) is associated with poor outcomes after percutaneous coronary intervention. However, CI-AKI has rarely been evaluated within the neurovascular field. The aim of this study was to investigate the incidence and clinical implication of CI-AKI after coil embolization in patients with an aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Between January 2005 and March 2016, 192 patients who underwent coil embolization were enrolled in this study. CI-AKI was defined as an increase from baseline serum creatinine concentration of >25% or >0.5 mg/dL within 72 hours after coil embolization. A poor clinical outcome was defined as a score of ≥3 on the modified Rankin Scale at one-year post-treatment. RESULTS: A total of 16 patients (8.3%) died as a result of medical problems within one year. CI-AKI was identified in 14 patients (7.3%). Prominent risk factors for one-year mortality included CI-AKI [odds ratio (OR): 16.856; 95% confidence interval (CI): 3.437–82.664] and an initial Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score ≤8 (OR: 5.565; 95% CI: 1.703–18.184). A poor clinical outcome was associated with old age (≥65 years) (OR: 7.921; 95% CI: 2.977–21.076), CI-AKI (OR: 11.281; 95% CI: 2.138–59.525), an initial GCS score ≤8 (OR 31.02; 95% CI, 10.669–90.187), and a ruptured aneurysm (p=0.016, OR: 4.278) in posterior circulation. CONCLUSION: CI-AKI seems to be an independent predictor of the overall outcomes of aSAH after endovascular treatment.

Guía de practica clínica minsal: hemorragia subaracnoidea a rotura de aneurismas cerebrales / Clinical practice guide Minsal: subarachnoid hemorrhage to rupture cerebral aneurysms

Objetivo: Generar recomendaciones basadas en la mejor evidencia disponible acerca del manejo de personas con hemorragia subaracnoidea a rotura de aneurismas cerebrales. Tipo de pacientes y escenario clínico: Personas con hemorragia subaracnoidea a rotura de aneurismas cerebrales que reciben atención en el nivel secundario y terciario de salud en el sector público y privado de salud.

Hemofiltração de alto volume e ventilação em posição prona em hemorragia subaracnóidea complicada por grave síndrome do desconforto respiratório agudo e choque séptico refratário / High-volume hemofiltration and prone ventilation in subarachnoid hemorrhage complicated by severe acute respiratory distress syndrome and refractory septic shock

Relatamos o tratamento bem-sucedido de dois pacientes com hemorragia subaracnóidea complicada com grave falência respiratória e choque séptico refratário, utilizando, simultaneamente, ventilação em posição prona e hemofiltração de alto volume. Esses tratamentos de resgate permitiram que os pacientes superassem a grave situação sem complicações associadas ou efeitos deletérios na pressão intracraniana e de perfusão cerebral. A ventilação em posição prona é, hoje, um tratamento aceito para síndrome de desconforto respiratório agudo grave, e a hemofiltração de alto volume é um suporte hemodinâmico não convencional, que tem diversos mecanismos potenciais para melhorar o choque séptico. Neste artigo revisamos brevemente esses tratamentos e as evidências relacionadas. Quando outras terapias convencionais são insuficientes para proporcionar oxigenação e perfusão como parte do cuidado neuroprotetor básico dentro de limites seguros em pacientes com hemorragia subaracnóidea, esses tratamentos de resgate podem ser considerados caso a caso por uma equipe com experiência em cuidados críticos.

We report the successful treatment of two patients with aneurismal subarachnoid hemorrhage complicated by severe respiratory failure and refractory septic shock using simultaneous prone position ventilation and high-volume hemofiltration. These rescue therapies allowed the patients to overcome the critical situation without associated complications and with no detrimental effects on the intracranial and cerebral perfusion pressures. Prone position ventilation is now an accepted therapy for severe acute respiratory distress syndrome, and high-volume hemofiltration is a non-conventional hemodynamic support that has several potential mechanisms for improving septic shock. In this manuscript, we briefly review these therapies and the related evidence. When other conventional treatments are insufficient for providing safe limits of oxygenation and perfusion as part of basic neuroprotective care in subarachnoid hemorrhage patients, these rescue therapies should be considered on a case-by-case basis by an experienced critical care team.

Early brain injury and subarachnoid hemorrhage: where are we at present?

The current era has adopted many new innovations in nearly every aspect of management of subarachnoid hemorrhage [SAH]; however, the neurological outcome has still not changed significantly. These major therapeutic advances mainly addressed the two most important sequels of the SAH-vasospasm and re-bleed. Thus, there is a possibility of some different pathophysiological mechanism that would be responsible for causing poor outcome in these patients. In this article, we have tried to compile the current role of this different yet potentially treatable pathophysiological mechanism in post-SAH patients. The main pathophysiological mechanism for the development of early brain injury [EBI] is the apoptotic pathways. The macro-mechanism includes increased intracranial pressure, disruption of the blood-brain barrier, and finally global ischemia. Most of the treatment strategies are still in the experimental phase. Although the role of EBI following SAH is now well established, the treatment modalities for human patients are yet to be testified

Eficacia de la fenestración de la lámina terminalis en la prevención de la hidrocefalia dependiente de shunt post hemorragia subaracnoídea / Effectiveness of lamina terminalis fenestration in preventing post-dependent hydrocephalus shunt subarachnoid hemorrhage

La hidrocefalia es una complicación frecuente de la hemorragia subaracnoídea (HSA); se ha propuesto la fenestración de la lamina terminalis en el momento del clipaje aneurismático como un medio de facilitar la dinámica del flujo de líquido cefaloraquídeo (LCR) y de reducción de la incidencia de HCF dependiente de shunt. Realizamos un analisis retrospectivo para probar la hipótesis de que la fenestración de la lamina terminalis efectivamente reduce la incidencia de HCF dependiente de shunt y de complicaciones isquémicas en pacientes con hemorragia subaracnoídea aneurismática (grado de Fisher modificado III o IV). Las fichas clínicas de 145 pacientes con hemorragia subaracnoídea aneurismática fueron analizadas; 48 de estos pacientes recibieron tratamiento con coiling endovascular y 97 fueron tratados con clipaje microquirúrgico. De estos últimos, 9 pacientes fueron sometidos a fenestración de la lamina terminalis. En los 9 pacientes con fenestración de la lamina terminalis. No hubo ningún caso de HCF dependiente de shunt. En los 104 pacientes con HSA grado 3 o 4 en los cuales el aneurisma fue tratado pero la lamina terminalis no fue fenestrada, la incidencia de HCF dependiente de shunt fue de 5,3 por ciento; esta diferencia no fue estadísticamene significativa (p=0,378). Pese a que los resultados de este estudio no apoyan la real efectividad de la FLT en la reducción de la incidencia de HCF dependiente de shunt, la tasa de complicaciones isquémicas o la mortalidad a 6 meses en pacientes con HAS aneurismática, observamos una tendencia en el grupo con FLT a mostrar una menor incidencia de HCF post HAS. No hubo en esta casuística complicaciones directamente atribuíbles a la FLT. El bajo riesgo de la FLT la convierte en una opción válida como parte del manejo integral de la HAS aneurismática, a la espera de estudios prospectivos que clarifiquen el rol de esta intervención.

Hemorragia subaracnoídea por aneurisma cerebral roto: guías de manejo clínico actualizadas 2010: una propuesta al capítulo vascular de la FLANC / Cortical spreading depressions and their role in the pathophysiology of neuronal damage subsequent to aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage

El vasoespasmo cerebral es la principal causa potencialmente tratable de mortalidad e incapacidad en pacientes que sufren hemorragia subaracnoidea aneurismática (HSA). Sin embargo, a la fecha no existe un tratamiento eficaz para el mismo. La reciente demostración de la falta de respuesta clínica a la reversión farmacológica del espasmo arterial a consecuencia de HSA ha obligado un replanteo de los fundamentos fisiopatológicos de los déficits neurológicos isquémicos tardíos (“delayed ischemic neurologic déficit”, DIND) a consecuencia de HSA, los cuales se creían en relación al espasmo arterial observado en pacientes con HSA. Desde la demostración de hallazgos electrocorticográficos de depresión cortical propagada (“cortical spreading depression”, CSD) en pacientes con HSA, un interés creciente se ha despertado respecto del rol de estos fenómenos en la fisiopatologíade los DIND observados en pacientes con HSA. Cuando inducidas en un cerebro saludable, las CSD se asocian con un aumento del flujo sanguíneo cerebral, facilitando la entrega del cerebro de los sustratos energéticos necesarios. En un cerebro que ha sido lesionado, sin embargo, la CSD se asocia con una reducción en flujo sanguíneo cerebral, lo cual, en el contexto deun aumento de las necesidades de energía, conduce a la insuficiencia energética y la hipoxia, empeorando así el daño cerebral. Estas observaciones sugieren que el déficit de energía producida por la CSD es un factor clave en la patogénesis de los DINDobservados a consecuencia de HSA. Este resumen detalla características sobresalientes de las CSD y su potencial relevancia en la fisiopatología del vasoespasmo.

Cerebral vasospasm is the leading potentially treatable cause of mortality and disability in patients with aneurysmatic subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). However, to date there is no effective treatment for this entity. The recently demonstrated lack of clinical response to pharmacologic reversal of arterial spasm as a result of SAH has spurred a reassessment of the pathophysiological concepts on delayed ischemic neurologic deficits (DIND) that follow SAH, which were long believed the effect of the arterial spasm observed in patients with SAH. Since the discovery of electrocorticographic cortical spreading depressions (CSD) in patients with SAH, increasing interest has been shown on the role of these phenomena in the pathophysiology of DIND observed in patients with HSA. When induced in a healthy brain, CSD are associated with an increase in cerebral blood flow by facilitating the delivery of the necessary energy substrates. In a brain that has been injured, however, CSD are associated with a reduction in cerebral blood flow, which, in the context of increased energy requirements leads to energy shortage and hypoxia, thus worsening brain damage. These observations suggest that the energetic deficit produced by the CSD is a key factor inthe pathogenesis of DIND observed as a result of HSA. This review details striking characteristics of CSD and their potential relevance in the pathophysiology of vasospasm.

Hemorragia subaracnoidea grave (grados IV y V): mejoría del pronóstico con el tratamiento agresivo en agudo / Severe subarachnoid hemorrhage (IV and V degrees): improved prognosis with aggressive treatment in acute

La Hemorragia Subaracnoidea continua siendo una enfermedad muy grave, con elevada morbimortalidad a pesar de los continuos avances en el diagnóstico y tratamiento. Sea cual sea la opción terapéutica que se tome en consideración para cada caso en particular, lo que queda por definir y continua siendo motivo de discusión, es si tratar o no a los pacientes que ingresan con HSA muy graves, o sea los catalogados como grados IV y V. Muchos trabajos se han publicado en los últimos años al respecto, con resultados contradictorios. Los autores han puesto en práctica en los últimos 10 años un tratamiento agresivo de los pacientes con HSA graves, estableciéndose algunos criterios de selección de pacientes para cirugía y otros para terapia endovascular. Los resultados se exponen a continuación, así como también se hace una revisión de la bibliografía al respecto.

Spontaneous subarachnoid hemorrhage as the primary manifestation of carotid cavernous fistulas: case report

We report the case of a 19-year old male patient initially admitted to our service after a motor vehicle accident with a normal neurologic evaluation and a CT scan that revealed no abnormalities. Nineteen months later, he was readmitted after a subtle headache episode, followed by a brief loss of consciousness. He was submitted to a complete evaluation, which revealed no abnormalities (even in the neurologic and ophthalmologic exams). A CT was performed revealing a diffuse subarachnoid hemorrhage. Contrast enhancement displayed a right paraselar lesion, which was first interpreted as a giant aneurysm. The patient underwent a cerebral angiography which showed a right carotid-cavernous fistula with retrograde venous drainage through the superior and inferior petrosal sinuses. Filling of various cortical vessels was observed. The patient was treated with endovascular technique and a control angiographic study assured the complete closure of the fistula. He had an excellent clinical recovery, being discharged in good conditions

Resultados del tratamiento quirúrgico de los aneurismas del complejo cerebral anterior-arteria comunicante anterior / Results of the surgical treatment of the aneurismas of the complex cerebral previous communicating previous-artery

Se realiza un estudio de 30 pacientes con aneurismas localizados en el complejo de la arteria cerebral anterior-arteria comunicante anterior (ACoA), operados en el Servicio de Neurocirugía del Hospital Universitario "Arnaldo Milián Castro", durante un período de 7 años. Se analizan variables tales como edad, sexo, estado neurológico preoperatorio, momento quirúrgico, complicaciones y estado al egreso. La mortalidad general fue del 10 por ciento(AU)

The authors carried out a study in 30 patients with aneurysms located in the anterior communicating artery-anterior cerebral complex (ACA-ACC), that were operated on at the Neurosurgery Service of "Arnaldo Milián Castro" Teaching Hospital, during a period of 7 years. Variables such as age, sex, preoperative neurologic state, surgical moment, complications and status on discharge were analyzed. General mortality was 10 percent(AU)

Tratamiento endovascular de remanentes aneurismáticos / Endovascular treatment of partially clipped aneurysms

El pinzado ("clipado") parcial de un aneurisma ocurre en aproximadamente el 4 porciento de las intervenciones quirúrgicas. Debido al riesgo de crecimiento y ruptura del remanente aneurismático, se reconoce la necesidad de una intervención quirúrgica. Sin embargo, este procedimiento puede resultar técnicamente complejo y con un elevado índice de complicaciones . En este artículo describimos nuestra experiencia con 9 pacientes portadores de remanentes aneurismático postclipado tratados por vía endovascular. Cinco pacientes (88.9 porciento) se localizaron en la circulación anterior. La angiografía de control postoperatorio mostró la oclusión total del remanente aneurismático en 8 casos (88.9 porciento). El clipado parcial del cuello o cuerpo aneurismático puede permitir la colocación estable de coils. El clip puede limitar la adecuada visualización angiográfica del cuello aneurismático. No se presentaron complicaciones neurológicas asociadas al procedimiento ni hemorragias durante o posteriormente a la embolización. Concluimos que el tratamiento endovascular de remanentes aneurismáticos puede ser efetuado con seguridad y eficacia. Se identifican tipos de clipado que favorecen el tratamiento endovascular.

Enfermedad cerebrovascular hemorrágica en la región central de Cuba / The hemorrhagic cerebrovascular disease in the central region of Cuba

Se realizó un estudio para determinar el comportamiento de la enfermedad cerebrovascular hemorrágica en la región central del país y definir sus tasas, curvas de tendencia, meteorolabilidad, porcentajes según sus tipos, marcadores de riesgo principales, evolución, pilares de tratamiento más empleados, unidades de atención y complicaciones. Es un estudio, descriptivo, retrospectivo, con revisión de 1 401 expedientes clínicos para obtención de datos procesados por sistema EPI 6.0 con determinación de media, desviación estándar y chi cuadrado, los principales resultados se expresaron en figuras y tablas. Se observó una tasa media total de 8,76 por 10 000 habitantes con una curva de tendencia variable por número de enfermos durante los 3 años analizados. Se asoció la enfermedad con posibles factores meteorológicos y el mayor porcentaje correspondió a la hemorragia intraparenquimatosa con 38,54 porciento y las edades avanzadas de la vida (p<0,001), el marcador de riesgo más reportado fue la hipertensión arterial (p<0,01). Se empleó el tratamiento quirúrgico en 81 enfermos con hemorragia subaracnoidea, predominaron las malformaciones de arteria cerebral media y anterior, los pilares de tratamiento más empleados fueron depletantes y anticálcicos, la ventilación mecánica y el apoyo vasoactivo fueron necesarios en considerable número de casos, la mayoría fueron atendidos en unidades de Terapia Intermedia Polivalente y la principal complicación fue la sepsis