Clinical outcomes following microsurgery and endovascular embolization in the management of spinal dural arteriovenous fistula: A meta-analysis study / 北京大学学报(医学版)

OBJECTIVE@#To compare the clinical effect of microsurgery and endovascular embolization in the treatment of spinal dural arteriovenous fistula (SDAVF) by meta-analysis.@*METHODS@#A systematic review was performed to retrieve all relevant literature about surgical treatment or endovascular embolization of SDAVF up to December 2019 through PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials Results, CNKI, Wanfang Data, and SinoMed. The Chinese and English key words included: "SDAVF", "spinal dural arteriovenous fistula", "spinal AVM", "spinal vascular malformation and treatment". The included studies were evaluated using the Newcastle-Ottawa scale. The early failure rate, long-term recurrence, neurological recovery, and complications were evaluated and the clinical effects of the two methods in the treatment of SDAVF were compared by using RevMan 5.3 software. And a further subgroup analysis of the therapeutic effect of endovascular embolization with different embolic agents was conducted.@*RESULTS@#A total of 46 studies involving 1 958 cases of SDAVF were included, in which 935 cases were treated by microsurgery and 1 023 cases were treated by endovascular embolization. The funnel plot demonstrated that there was no publication bias. The results of meta-analysis showed that the incidence of early surgical failure was lower than that of endovascular embolization (OR=0.20, 95%CI: 0.13-0.30, P < 0.05), and the long-term recurrence was also lower than that of endovascular embolization (OR=0.36, 95%CI: 0.22-0.58, P < 0.05). The improvement of neurological function in the surgical patients is significantly higher than that in the patients treated with endovascular embolization (OR=2.86, 95%CI: 1.36-5.99, P < 0.05). There was no significant difference in the occurrence of complications in these two groups (OR=1.52, 95%CI: 0.88-2.64, P=0.14). In the cases of endovascular embolization, the risk of treatment failure or recurrence was higher with Onyx glue than with n-butyl 2-cyanoacrylate (NBCA), and the difference was statistically significant (OR=4.70, 95%CI: 1.55-14.28, P < 0.05).@*CONCLUSION@#Although the treatment of dural arteriovenous fistulas by intravascular embolization has been widely used, the clinical effect of microsurgery is still better than that of endovascular embolization. Large scale and high-quality randomized controlled trials are required to validate the efficacy and safety of endovascular treatment in SDAVF patients.

Cavernoma Paraventricular / Paraventricular Cavernoma

Introducción: Los cavernomas representan el 5 al 13% de las malformaciones cerebrales y suelen tener una localización supratentorial. Clínicamente pueden permanecer asintomáticos o presentar síntomas neurológicos progresivos. Para estos últimos, así como los que presentan hemorragia recurrente, la resección quirúrgica es el tratamiento de elección. Sin embargo, para aquellos que presentan una localización profunda es menester estudiar la relación que existe entre la lesión y las estructuras cerebrales adyacentes. La tractografía (DTI) y las técnicas de navegación intraoperatoria son herramientas fundamentales para planificar y guiar el abordaje a la lesión y realizar un mapeo de las vías de proyección, asociación y comisurales, permitiendo un acceso seguro mediante corticotomías pequeñas y mínima retracción del parénquima cerebral. Objetivo: Describir la técnica quirúrgica guiada por neuronavegación para la resección de un cavernoma frontal derecho profundo yuxtaventricular a través de una pequeña corticotomía. Caso: Paciente de sexo masculino de 20 años de edad, deportista profesional, con parestesias miembro superior izquierdo y cefalea severa. Resonancia magnética evidencia lesión heterogénea en T1 y T2 y presencia de un halo de hemosiderina, compatible con cavernoma a nivel del techo del cuerpo en el ventrículo lateral derecho. Mide 28 mm x 31 mm x 28 mm en sus diámetros transversal, dorso-ventral y rostro-caudal. Tractografía evidencia lesión en íntima relación con el tracto corticoespinal en su recorrido por la corona radiada. Resultados: Exéresis completa de la lesión. El paciente evolucionó sin déficit neurológico y fue dado de alta a las 72 horas del postoperatorio. Conclusión: El uso de la tractografía y de la navegación intraoperatorio, permite abordar lesiones profundas, en contacto con áreas elocuentes, mediante corticotomías pequeñas con mínima retracción cerebral

Introduction: Cavernous malformation represents among 5 to 13% of brain vascular malformations, most of them have a supratentorial location. Clinically they can remain asymptomatic or present with neurological symptoms. In cavernomas with recurrent hemorrhage, located in safe areas, surgical resection is the treatment of choice. However, for those which have a deep yuxta-ventricular localization it is necessary to know the relationship between the lesion and eloquent cerebral structures. Fiber tractography and intraoperative navigation systems are essentials tools to plan and guide the surgical approach and make a mapping of the projection, association and commissural fibers in order to have a safe access to the lesion. Objective: To describe the surgical technique using neuronavigation for the resection of a right frontal yuxta-ventricular cavernous malformation through a minimal approach. Case: A 20-year-old man, professional athlete with left arm paresthesia and severe headache. Magnetic resonance shows a heterogeneous lesion in T1 and T2 with a hemosiderin in the roof of the right lateral ventricle, compatible with a cavernous malformation. Its size was 28 mm x 31mm x 28 mm in the transversal, dorsoventral and rostrocaudal diameter. The fiber tractography shows an intimate relationship with the corticospinal tract on its path through the corona radiata. Results: Complete resection of the lesion. The patient evolved without a neurological deficit and was discharged 72 hours later. Conclusion: The fiber tractography and the intraoperative navigation system allow the deep lesions approach, especially for those who have an intimal relationship with eloquent ́s areas, using minimally corticotomy with less parenchymal retraction.

Microcirugía de las fístulas durales arteriovenosas espinales, más un repaso de la anatomía vascular vertebromedular / Microsurgery of spinal dural arteriovenous fistulas, plus a review of the vertebromedullary vascular anatomy

Introducción: la fístula dural arteriovenosa espinal (FDAVE) es una enfermedad vascular rara, de etiología desconocida y frecuentemente subdiagnosticada. El tratamiento puede ser microquirúrgico o endovascular. Material y Método: Análisis retrospectivo de una serie de 8 pacientes consecutivos con FDAVE tratados por microcirugía entre 2010 y 2020. Fueron evaluados parámetros como edad, sexo, cuadro clínico pre y postoperatorio medido con las escalas de Aminoff-Logue y Rankin modificada. Los estudios diagnósticos con RMN (Resonancia Magnética Nuclear), ARM (Angio Resonancia Magnética) y ADM (Angiografía Digital Medular) se utilizaron para determinar nivel lesional y resultados quirúrgicos. Resultados: Fueron operados 8 pacientes (7 masculinos y 1 femenino) con un promedio de edad de 58 años. El tiempo de evolución del cuadro clínico al diagnóstico fue menor a 12 meses salvo un caso de 32 meses. Las FDAVE fueron localizadas en: 6 a nivel dorsal entre D6 y D12, una en L2 y la última en S1 (5 derechas y 3 izquierdas). La arteria de Adamkiewicz se identificó en: 4 casos en L1, 2 en D12, 1 en D10 y un caso en D7 (6 izquierdas y 2 derechas). De los 8 pacientes operados, 3 fueron embolizados previamente. La evolución postoperatoria del cuadro neurológico fue: 2 de 8 permanecieron estables y 6 de 8 mejoraron uno o más puntos en la escala de Rankin modificada; no hubo complicaciones en el postoperatorio. Todos los pacientes mejoraron las imágenes en RMN diferida y la ADM luego de los 6 meses fue negativa. El seguimiento promedio fue de 48 meses con un rango de 11 a 116 meses, ningún paciente presentó recidiva de la FDAVE. Conclusiones: El tratamiento quirúrgico de las FDAVE es un método muy eficaz, de baja morbilidad y menor tasa de recurrencia comparado con el tratamiento endovascular.

Introduction: Spinal dural arteriovenous fistula (SDAVF) is a rare vascular disease, of unknown etiology and frequently underdiagnosed. Treatment can be microsurgical or endovascular. Material and Method: Retrospective analysis of a series of 8 SDAVF patients treated by microsurgery between 2010 and 2020. Parameters including age, sex, pre and postoperative clinical condition were analyzed according to modified Aminoff-Logue and modified Rankin scales. Diagnostic studies such as MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging), MRA (Magnetic Resonance Angiogram) and spinal DSA (Digital Subtraction Angiography), were evaluated for lesion level, as were surgical results. Results: Eight patients (7 male and 1 female), average age of 58 years were operated. The interval from symptom onset to diagnosis was less than 12 months in all cases except one (32 months). SDAVF locations were thoracic in 6 cases between T6 and T12, at L2 in one and at S1 in one case (5 on the right and 3 on the left). The Adamkiewicz artery was identified in: 4 cases at L1, 2 at D12, 1 at D10 and in one case at D7 (6 left-sided and 2 right-sided). Three of the 8 patients operated had undergone prior embolization. Postoperative neurological outcomes showed: 2 patients remained stable and 6 had improved one or more points on the modified Rankin scale; no postoperative complications were observed. Follow-up MRI images improved in all cases and spinal DSA was negative at six months. Average follow-up was 48 months (range 11 to 116 months), no patient presented recurrence. Conclusions: Microsurgical treatment of SDAVF proved to be efficient, with low morbidity and lower recurrence rates compared to endovascular results.

Malformación vascular oculta: telangiectasia capilar. Reporte de un caso / Occult vascular malformation: capillary telangiectasia. A case report

RESUMEN: La telangiectasia capilar es una alteración vascular caracterizada por una colección de capilares dilatados que carecen de componente muscular y elástico; se presenta entre el parénquima cerebral normal y constituye el 16 a 20% de todas las malformaciones vasculares intracraneales; ocupa el segundo lugar en frecuencia. Su localización más habitual es la protuberancial; es asintomática, excepto cuando se acompaña de otras malformaciones vasculares o son parte de síndromes de tipo vascular. Su diagnóstico, en casi todos los casos se lo efectúa por los hallazgos incidentales de los estudios de imagen realizados por otras causas. Aunque la telangiectasia capilar pasa desapercibida tanto en la tomografía axial computarizada (TAC) como en la resonancia magnética nuclear (RMN) sin contraste, con el gadolinio endovenoso se observa una lesión hiperintensa, irregular, con apariencia de "cepillo", sin definición individual de los vasos. Se presenta el caso de un paciente de 1 año 2 meses de edad, previamente sano, que ingresó con sintomatología de meningoencefalitis y estatus convulsivo. Se realizó los estudios de resonancia magnética simple, contrastada y angiorresonancia, en los cuales se identificó, de manera incidental, telangiectasia capilar protuberancial, visible únicamente en el estudio contrastado. Se realiza una revisión bibliográfica de dicha patología.Palabras claves: telangiectasia capilar, malformaciones vasculares, resonancia magnética.

ABSTRACT: Capillary telangiectasia is defined as a collection of dilated capillary vessels, without muscular and elastic components, situated within otherwise normal brain parenchyma and accounts for 16-20% of all intracranial vascular malformations, representing the second most common one. It is most frequently found in the pons and it has an asymptomatic natural course, except when the lesions are associated with other vascular malformations or are part of a vascular syndrome. Most are diagnosed as incidental findings in imaging studies performed for other causes. Capillary Telangiectasia is invisible in Computed Tomography and Magnetic Resonance without contrast, however, after intravenous administration of Gadolinium, it will present as a hyperintense, irregular, "brush-like" enhancing lesion, without individual definition of the vessels. We describe the case of a 1 year and 2 months old patient, previously healthy, who presented with signs of meningo-encephalitis and epileptic status. A Magnetic Resonance Image with and without contrast and an angioresonance were performed, in which, as an incidental finding, a pontine Capillary Telangiectasia, visible only in contrasted images was found. A bibliographic review of said pathology is presented in this article.Keywords:capillary telangiectasia, vascular malformations, magnetic resonance.

Profile and management of central nervous system malformations in a tertiary hospital

Background: Central Nervous System (CNS) malformations rank among the commonest malformations. These may be identified in utero or noticed immediately after birth. Most studies showed Myelomeningocoele, a Neural Tube Defect (NTD) to be the commonest. Severe defects have a significant impact on long term disability. While some are preventable, most are surgically managed. Objective: To study the profile and management of CNS malformation in a tertiary hospital. Method: we undertook a 3-year retrospective study of the profile and surgical management, including the postoperative complications among Neonates admitted into the Special Care Baby Unit (SCBU). Data on place of delivery, Gender, Gestational age, Mode of delivery, Prenatal Diagnosis (Ultrasound Scan), types of malformations, types of surgeries, and postoperative complications were retrieved. Result: We found 71 patients with CNS anomalies (31.8% of all congenital anomalies), in delivery 10 (14.1%), out delivery 46(64.8%). Male=43, females=28. Term gestation 66 (93%), preterm 3(4.2%), post-term 2(2.8%). Delivered by Vagina (SVD) in 65(91.6%), Caesarean section 4(5.6%), and undocumented in 4(5.6%). Prenatal diagnosis in only 3(4.2%). Myelomeningocoele was 35(49.3%), meningocoele was 9(12.7%), Hydrocephalus was 18(25.3%), anencephaly was 1(1.4%), occipital Encephalocoele was 6(8.5%), Sincipital Encephalocoele was 2(2.8%). Operated on 53(75%), LAMA/lost to follow was 13(18%), preoperative death was 5(7%). Excision and closure of Neural Tube Defect were 34(64.2%), VP Shunt was 13(24.5%), Excision and closure of occipital Encephalocoele were 5(9.4%) craniofacial excision and repair of Sincipital Encephalocoele was 1(1.9%). CSF leak in 4(28.6%), wound infection in 3(21.4%), shunt infection and obstruction in 2(14.3%) each. meningitis, hypertrophied scar, and pseudo meningocoele in 1(7.1%) each. Conclusion: The commonest CNS anomaly is a Myelomeningocoele a preventable condition, Sincipital Encephalocoele is not common in our environment. Concomitant treatment of hydrocephalus averts post excision CSF Leak

Stereotactic Radiosurgery for Dural Arteriovenous Fistulas Involving the Transverse-Sigmoid Sinus: A Single Center Experience and Review of the Literatures

OBJECTIVE: We retrospectively assessed the efficacy of stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) for dural arteriovenous fistulas (DAVFs) involving the transverse-sigmoid sinus and analyzed the angiographic and clinical results with our 8-year experience.METHODS: Nine patients with intracranial DAVFs involving the transverse-sigmoid sinus underwent SRS using a Gamma Knife® (Elekta Inc., Atlanta, GA, USA) between 2009 and 2016. Five patients underwent SRS for residual DAVFs after embolization and four patients were treated with SRS alone. The median target volume was 1.9 cm3 (range, 0.8–14.2) and the median radiation dose of the target was 17 Gy (range, 16–20). The median follow-up period was 37 months (range, 7–81).RESULTS: Pulsating tinnitus (33%) was the most common symptom. DAVFs were completely obliterated in four patients (44%) and subtotally obliterated in five (56%). Six patients (67%) showed complete recovery of symptoms or signs, and three (33%) showed incomplete recovery. One patient experienced a recurrent seizure. Adverse radiation effects after SRS occurred in one patient (11%). The total obliteration rates after SRS were 16.7%, 37.5%, and 68.7% at 1, 2, and 3 years, respectively. The median interval from SRS to total obliteration of the fistula was 31 months (range, 12–38). The rates at which the symptoms started to improve were 40% at 1 month and 80% at 2 months after SRS. Symptoms started to improve at a median of 5 weeks after SRS (range, 3–21).CONCLUSION: SRS with or without embolization is a safe and effective treatment to relieve symptoms and obliterate DAVFs on the transverse-sigmoid sinus.

Stereotactic Radiosurgery for Dural Arteriovenous Fistulas Involving the Transverse-Sigmoid Sinus: A Single Center Experience and Review of the Literatures

OBJECTIVE: We retrospectively assessed the efficacy of stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) for dural arteriovenous fistulas (DAVFs) involving the transverse-sigmoid sinus and analyzed the angiographic and clinical results with our 8-year experience. METHODS: Nine patients with intracranial DAVFs involving the transverse-sigmoid sinus underwent SRS using a Gamma Knife® (Elekta Inc., Atlanta, GA, USA) between 2009 and 2016. Five patients underwent SRS for residual DAVFs after embolization and four patients were treated with SRS alone. The median target volume was 1.9 cm3 (range, 0.8–14.2) and the median radiation dose of the target was 17 Gy (range, 16–20). The median follow-up period was 37 months (range, 7–81). RESULTS: Pulsating tinnitus (33%) was the most common symptom. DAVFs were completely obliterated in four patients (44%) and subtotally obliterated in five (56%). Six patients (67%) showed complete recovery of symptoms or signs, and three (33%) showed incomplete recovery. One patient experienced a recurrent seizure. Adverse radiation effects after SRS occurred in one patient (11%). The total obliteration rates after SRS were 16.7%, 37.5%, and 68.7% at 1, 2, and 3 years, respectively. The median interval from SRS to total obliteration of the fistula was 31 months (range, 12–38). The rates at which the symptoms started to improve were 40% at 1 month and 80% at 2 months after SRS. Symptoms started to improve at a median of 5 weeks after SRS (range, 3–21). CONCLUSION: SRS with or without embolization is a safe and effective treatment to relieve symptoms and obliterate DAVFs on the transverse-sigmoid sinus.

Feasibility and Effectiveness of Direct Puncture and Onyx Embolization for Transverse Sinus Dural Arteriovenous Fistula

Direct puncture and embolization of the transverse sinus (TS) for treatment of dural arteriovenous fistula (DAVF) is typically performed with coils with or without glue. We report a case of DAVF at the left TS that was treated with Onyx embolization via direct puncture of the TS. A 75-year-old woman presented with tremor, festinating gait, and dysarthria. A left TS-DAVF with retrograde superior sagittal sinus and cortical venous reflux (Cognard type IIa+b) was identified on cerebral angiography, and both TSs were occluded with thrombi. We considered that achieving complete cure by transvenous embolization via the femoral vein or transarterial embolization via occipital feeders would be difficult. Thus, we performed a small craniotomy at the occipital bone to puncture the TS. The midportion of the TS was directly punctured with a 21-G microneedle under fluoroscopic guidance. We inserted a 5-F sheath into the TS. A microcatheter was then navigated into the affected sinus. Coils were placed through the microcatheter to support Onyx formation by reducing the pressure of shunting flow. Onyx embolization was performed with the same microcatheter. The DAVF was almost completely occluded except for the presence of minimal shunting flow to the proximal TS. After 1 week, time-of-flight magnetic resonance angiography showed complete resolution of DAVF. The patient showed resolved tremor and markedly improved mental status at 1-month follow up. Direct puncture and embolization of the TS using coils and Onyx is effective and feasible method for the treatment of DAVF when other approaches seem difficult.

Isolated Abducens Nerve Palsy due to a Dural Arteriovenous Fistula with Drainage into the Inferior Petrosal Sinus

No abstract available.

Embryological Consideration of Dural AVFs in Relation to the Neural Crest and the Mesoderm / 신경중재치료의학

Intracranial and spinal dural arteriovenous fistulas (DAVFs) are vascular pathologies of the dural membrane with arteriovenous shunts. They are abnormal communications between arteries and veins or dural venous sinuses that sit between the two sheets of the dura mater. The dura propria faces the surface of brain, and the osteal dura faces the bone. The location of the shunt points is not distributed homogeneously on the surface of the dural membrane, but there are certain areas susceptible to DAVFs. The dura mater of the olfactory groove, falx cerebri, inferior sagittal sinus, tentorium cerebelli, and falx cerebelli, and the dura mater at the level of the spinal cord are composed only of dura propria, and these areas are derived from neural crest cells. The dura mater of the cavernous sinus, transverse sinus, sigmoid sinus, and anterior condylar confluence surrounding the hypoglossal canal are composed of both dura propria and osteal dura; this group is derived from mesoderm. Although the cause of this heterogeneity has not yet been determined, there are some specific characteristics and tendencies in terms of the embryological features. The possible reasons for the segmental susceptibility to DAVFs are summarized based on the embryology of the dura mater.

Experiencia de embolización de malformaciones arterio-venosas cerebrales en Hospital de Especialidades Carlos Andrade Marín, 2016-2017 / Experience of embolization of cerebral arteriovenous malformations in Carlos Andrade Marín Specialties Hospital, 2016-2017

INTRODUCCIÓN. La morbimortalidad de las malformaciones arterio-venosas cerebrales se encuentra dada principalmente por hemorragias. OBJETIVO. Conocer la situación de la embolización de malformaciones arterio-venosas en el Hospital de Especialidades Carlos Andrade Marín. MATERIALES Y MÉTODOS. Estudio observacional, retrospectivo en pacientes con diagnóstico de malformaciones arterio-venosas cerebral que fueron sometidos a intervención radiológica, durante el período de enero 2016 a diciembre 2017, en el Hospital de Especialidades Carlos Andrade Marín. RESULTADOS. 17 pacientes con criterios de inclusión, la mayoría con malformaciones arterio-venosas única y clasificación Spetzler Martin tipo I y II. El 52,9% fue sometido al procedimiento con antecedente de hemorragia intracerebral. Luego del procedimiento se alcanzó el 61,5% de obliteración en promedio, con 5,8% de pacientes que tuvo hemorragia intracerebral postprocedimiento. DISCUSIÓN. El uso de la embolización permite la oclusión del nido vascular displásico y del flujo de arterias nutricias profundas, disminuyendo la hemorragia intracerebral como complicación, siendo un tratamiento precursor de complementos quirúrgicos o como tratamiento único. El promedio de obliteración se encuentra dentro del rango reportado en la literatura, con un solo caso que tuvo complicación post procedimiento. Son necesarios estudios complementarios donde se especifiquen las variables de los tratamientos post procedimiento y un seguimiento para valorar supervivencia. CONCLUSIÓN. Resultados similares a los reportados en la literatura, se consideró la embolización como una alternativa del tratamiento, principalmente como precursor a la cirugía en malformaciones arterio-venosas con clasificación Spetzler Martin mayor a III.

INTRODUCTION. The morbidity and mortality of cerebral arteriovenous malformations is mainly due to hemorrhages. OBJECTIVE. To know the situation of the embolization of arterio-venous malformations in the Carlos Andrade Marín Specialties Hospital. MATERIALS AND METHODS. Observational, retrospective study in patients with a diagnosis of cerebral arteriovenous malformations who underwent radiological intervention, during the period from January 2016 to December 2017, at the Carlos Andrade Marín Specialties Hospital. RESULTS 17 patients with inclusion criteria, most with single arteriovenous malformations and Spetzler Martin type I and II classification. 52,9% underwent the procedure with a history of intracerebral hemorrhage. After the procedure, 61,5% of obliteration was achieved on average, with 5,8% of patients having post-procedural intracerebral hemorrhage. DISCUSSION. The use of embolization allows the occlusion of the dysplastic vascular nest and the flow of deep nutritional arteries, decreasing intracerebral hemorrhage as a complication, being a precursor treatment of surgical complements or as a single treatment. The average of obliteration is within the range reported in the literature, with only one case that had post procedure complication. Complementary studies are needed where the variables of the post-procedure treatments and a follow-up to assess survival are specified. CONCLUSION. Results similar to those reported in the literature, embolization was considered as an alternative treatment, mainly as a precursor to surgery in arteriovenous malformations with Spetzler Martin classification greater than III.

Caso de desafío diagnóstico: fístula dural / Diagnostic challenge case: dural fistula

Se presenta el caso de una paciente de sexo femenino, de 69 años, que refiere tinnitus pulsátil de dos meses de evolución percibido en la región retroauricular derecha. Se presentan los hallazgos en estudios de imágenes, diagnóstico y se presenta una corta revisión del tema.

We present the case of a female patient, 69 years old, who reported pulsatile tinnitus since two months ago perceived in the right retroauricular region. We present the findings in image studies, diagnosis and a short review about the topic.

Magnetic resonance imaging pattern of congenital brain anomalies in the neurosurgery department of a teaching hospital in Nigeria: An initial experience

Context: Congenital brain anomalies are of diverse types however few are seen in clinical practice. They are associated with high morbidity and mortality; prompt diagnosis and management aid in mitigating some of their adverse effects. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is ideal for imaging these conditions, especially in pediatric cases due to its lack of ionizing radiation and excellent soft-tissue delineation. Not much literature exists for Nigeria due to challenges with statistics and record keeping. Aim: The aim of this study is to document the common congenital brain anomalies encountered using MRI in our environment. Settings and Design: A 5-year retrospective study of all pediatric brain MRI conducted and reviewed in Lagos University Teaching Hospital. 73 pediatric brain MRI scans were reviewed. Materials and Methods: Morphologic evaluation of all pediatric brain MRI conducted in the last 5 years (March 2012­February 2016) was reviewed, retrospectively, by three independent radiologists. Clinical presentations were also documented. Statistical Analysis Used: Descriptive statistics was done using SPSS: PASW Statistics for Windows, Version 18.0 Results: Seventy-three pediatric brain MRI scans were conducted in the last 5 years with congenital brain anomalies seen in 19 (26.0%) of the cases. Their ages ranged from 3 months to 17 years with a mean age of 6.7 ± 6.1 years. There were 9 (47.4%) males and 10 (52.6%) females. The common anomalies are congenital hydrocephalus 7 (35%), of which aqueductal stenosis was 6 (32%), arteriovenous malformations 3 (16%), cerebral atrophy 3 (16%), and arachnoid cysts 2 (11%). Predominant clinical features were delayed developmental milestones, macrocephaly, seizures, headaches, and vomiting. Conclusion: The common congenital brain anomalies in our environment are congenital hydrocephalus, aqueductal stenosis, arteriovenous malformations, cerebral atrophy and arachnoid cysts. MRI is useful in evaluating these anomalies; early diagnosis and prompt intervention can be offered to mitigate adverse effects

Clinical Outcome of Nonfistulous Cerebral Varices: the Analysis of 39 Lesions

OBJECTIVE: Cerebral varices (CVs) without an arteriovenous shunt, so called nonfistulous CVs, are very rare, and their etiology and natural course are not well understood. The aim of this study is to evaluate the clinical outcomes of nonfistulous CVs by the analysis of 39 cases.METHODS: From 2000 to 2015, 22 patients with 39 nonfistulous CVs (≥5 mm) were found by searching the medical and radiologic records of our institute. Clinical data and radiological data including numbers, sizes and locations of CVs and associated anomalies were retrospectively collected and analyzed. Previously reported cases in literature were reviewed as well.RESULTS: The mean age of the patients was 21 years (range, 0–78 years). On average, 1.8±1.2 CVs were found per patient. CVs were categorized as either fusiform or saccular depending on their shapes. Two patients had saccular type CVs, seventeen patients had fusiform types, and three patients had both fusiform and saccular CVs. Eight patients had associated compromise of the vein of Galen and the straight sinus. Four of those patients had sinus pericranii, as well. Five patients had CVs that were distal draining veins of large developmental venous anomalies. One patient had associated migration anomaly, and two patients had Sturge- Weber syndrome. Six patients with an isolated cerebral varix were observed. Of the 39 CVs in 22 patients, 20 lesions in 14 patients were followed up in outpatient clinics with imaging studies. The average follow-up duration was 6.6 years. During this period, no neurological events occurred, and all the lesions were managed conservatively.CONCLUSION: Nonfistulous CVs seemed to be asymptomatic in most cases and remained clinically silent. Hence, we suggest conservative management.

Clinical Outcome of Nonfistulous Cerebral Varices: the Analysis of 39 Lesions

OBJECTIVE: Cerebral varices (CVs) without an arteriovenous shunt, so called nonfistulous CVs, are very rare, and their etiology and natural course are not well understood. The aim of this study is to evaluate the clinical outcomes of nonfistulous CVs by the analysis of 39 cases. METHODS: From 2000 to 2015, 22 patients with 39 nonfistulous CVs (≥5 mm) were found by searching the medical and radiologic records of our institute. Clinical data and radiological data including numbers, sizes and locations of CVs and associated anomalies were retrospectively collected and analyzed. Previously reported cases in literature were reviewed as well. RESULTS: The mean age of the patients was 21 years (range, 0–78 years). On average, 1.8±1.2 CVs were found per patient. CVs were categorized as either fusiform or saccular depending on their shapes. Two patients had saccular type CVs, seventeen patients had fusiform types, and three patients had both fusiform and saccular CVs. Eight patients had associated compromise of the vein of Galen and the straight sinus. Four of those patients had sinus pericranii, as well. Five patients had CVs that were distal draining veins of large developmental venous anomalies. One patient had associated migration anomaly, and two patients had Sturge- Weber syndrome. Six patients with an isolated cerebral varix were observed. Of the 39 CVs in 22 patients, 20 lesions in 14 patients were followed up in outpatient clinics with imaging studies. The average follow-up duration was 6.6 years. During this period, no neurological events occurred, and all the lesions were managed conservatively. CONCLUSION: Nonfistulous CVs seemed to be asymptomatic in most cases and remained clinically silent. Hence, we suggest conservative management.

Endovascular Treatment of Bilateral Cavernous Sinus Dural Arteriovenous Fistula: Therapeutic Strategy and Follow-Up Outcomes

OBJECTIVE: Bilateral cavernous sinus dural arteriovenous fistula (CSdAVF) is very rare, even in Asian countries. The research intended to present clinical and radiologic outcomes of treating such fistulas through endovascular embolization. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Data was obtained from 220 consecutive patients, with CSdAVF, who were treated from January 2004 to December 2015. Bilateral CSdAVF was identified in 17 patients (7.7%). The clinical and radiologic outcomes of the fistulas were assessed with an emphasis on the technical aspects of treatment. RESULTS: At the time of treatment, 7 and 10 patients presented with bilateral and unilateral symptoms, respectively. In the former cases, 4 patients had progressed from unilateral to bilateral symptoms. Bilateral fistulas were treated with a single-stage transvenous embolization (TVE) in 15 patients, via bilateral inferior petrosal sinuses (IPS) (n = 9) and unilateral IPS (n = 6). In the other 2 patients with one-sided dominance of shunting, only dominant fistula was treated. Two untreated lesions were found on follow-up to have spontaneously resolved after treatment of the dominant contralateral fistula. Of the 34 CSdAVF lesions, complete occlusion was achieved in 32 lesions after TVE. Seven patients (41.2%) developed worsening of cranial nerve palsy after TVE. During the follow-up period, 4 patients obtained complete recovery, whereas the other 3 remained with deficits. CONCLUSION: With adjustments of endovascular procedures to accommodate distinct anatomical configurations, endovascular treatment for bilateral CSdAVF can achieve excellent angiographic occlusion results. However, aggravation of symptoms after TVE may occur frequently in bilateral CSdAVF. In the patients with one-sided dominance of shunt, treatment of only dominant fistula might be an alternative option.

A Rare Case of Subarachnoid Hemorrhage caused by Ruptured Venous Varix Due to Dural Arteriovenous Fistula at the Foramen Magnum Fed Solely by the Ascending Pharyngeal Artery

Dural arteriovenous fistula (D-AVF) at the foramen magnum is an extremely rare disease entity. It produces venous hypertension, and can lead to progressive cervical myelopathy thereafter. On the other hand, the venous hypertension may lead to formation of a venous varix, and it can rarely result in an abrupt onset of subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) when the venous varix is ruptured. The diagnosis of D-AVF at the foramen magnum as a cause of SAH may be difficult due to its low incidence. Furthermore, when the D-AVF is fed solely by the ascending pharyngeal artery (APA), it may be missed if the external carotid angiography is not performed. The outcome could be fatal if the fistula is unrecognized. Herein, we report on a rare case of SAH caused by ruptured venous varix due to D-AVF at the foramen magnum fed solely by the APA. A review of relevant literatures is provided, and the treatment modalities and outcomes are also discussed.

Cirugía precoz en la prevención de la sepsis del recién nacido con mielomeningocele / Precocious surgery in preventing the sepsis of newborn with meningomyelocele

El mielomeningocele es una malformación congénita por defecto del cierre del tubo neural, se produce en las primeras semanas de crecimiento intrauterino. Consiste en una masa quística que incluye tejido nervioso y meninges, acompañadas de una fusión incompleta de los arcos vertebrales. Produce severos daños neurales y puede asociarse a otras malformaciones. Su reparación, en las primeras horas de vida, es necesaria para evitar complicaciones que pueden comprometer la vida del niño o causar mayor discapacidad. Se reportó un caso de un recién nacido con diagnóstico de mielomeningocele fisurado, a nivel lumbar. Se intervino quirúrgicamente en las primeras 6 h de vida; se disecó el saco dural y se separaron las raíces, logrando el cierre completo de la duramadre. Se reparó la piel con afrontamiento de los bordes y adecuada cicatrización de la herida. Fue aplicada antibioticoterapia profiláctica con cefalosporina de tercera generación. El infante egresó a los 10 días de operado sin complicaciones neuroquirúgicas asociadas (AU).

Meningomyelocele is a congenital malformation by defect of neural tube closing, produced in the first weeks of intrauterine grow. It is a cystic mass that includes nervous tissues and meninges, together with an incomplete fusion of the vertebral arches. It produces severe neural damages and could be associated to other malformations. It is necessary to repair it during the first hours after birth to avoid complications that could compromise the child’s life or cause more disability. The case of a new-born child diagnosed with fissured meningomyelocele at the lumbar level is presented. He was operated in the first six hours after birth; the dural sac was dissected and the roots separated, reaching the complete dura mater closure. The skin was repaired with edges affronting and adequate wound healing. Prophylactic antibiotic therapy with third generation cephalosporin was applied. The child was discharged 10 days alter the surgery without associated neurosurgical complications (AU).