Craniectomy Versus Craniotomy for Posterior Fossa Metastases: Complication Profile

PEG hydrogel sealant versus fibrin glue in posterior fossa surgery: an economic comparison across five European countries

Aim: Posterior cranial fossa (PCF) surgery is associated with complications, including cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage. Dural sealants such as polyethylene glycol (PEG)-based hydrogels and fibrin glue can prevent CSF leaks, with evidence suggesting PEG hydrogels may outperform fibrin glue. However, the budget impact of using PEG hydrogels in PCF surgeries in Europe is unclear. Materials & methods: A decision tree was developed based on a previous US model, to assess the budget impact of switching from fibrin glue to PEG hydrogel in PCF surgery across five European countries. Input costs were derived from published sources for the financial year 2022/2023. Health outcomes, including CSF leaks, were considered. Results: The model predicted that using PEG hydrogel instead of fibrin glue in PCF surgery can lead to cost savings in five European countries. Cost savings per patient ranged from EUR 419 to EUR 1279, depending on the country. Sensitivity analysis showed that the incidence of CSF leaks and pseudomeningoceles had a substantial impact on the model's results. Conclusion: PEG hydrogels may be a cost-effective alternative to fibrin glue in PCF surgery. The model predicted that cost savings would be mainly driven by a reduction in the incidence of postoperative CSF leaks, resulting in reduced reliance on lumbar drains, reparative surgery and shortened hospital stays.

Safe and time-saving treatment method for acute cerebellar infarction: Navigation-guided burr-hole aspiration - 6-years single center experience

OBJECTIVE

While patients with medically intractable acute cerebellar infarction typically undergo suboccipital craniectomy and removal of the infarcted tissue, this procedure is associated with long operating times and postoperative complications. This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of minimally invasive navigationguided burr hole aspiration surgery for the treatment of acute cerebellar infarction.

METHODS

Between January 2015 and December 2021, 14 patients with acute cerebellar infarction, who underwent navigation-guided burr hole aspiration surgery, were enrolled in this study.

RESULTS

The preoperative mean Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score was 12.7, and the postoperative mean GCS score was 14.3. The mean infarction volume was 34.3 cc at admission and 23.5 cc immediately following surgery. Seven days after surgery, the mean infarction volume was 15.6 cc. There were no surgery-related complications during the 6-month follow-up period and no evidence of clinical deterioration. The mean operation time from skin incision to catheter insertion was 28 min, with approximately an additional 13 min for extra-ventricular drainage. The mean Glasgow Outcome Scale score after 6 months was 4.8.

CONCLUSIONS

Navigation-guided burr hole aspiration surgery is less time-consuming and invasive than conventional craniectomy, and is a safe and effective treatment option for acute cerebellar infarction in selected cases, with no surgery-related complication.

Recent Updates on Controversies in Decompressive Craniectomy and Cranioplasty: Physiological Effect, Indication, Complication, and Management

Decompressive craniectomy (DCE) and cranioplasty (CP) are surgical procedures used to manage elevated intracranial pressure (ICP) in various clinical scenarios, including ischemic stroke, hemorrhagic stroke, and traumatic brain injury. The physiological changes following DCE, such as cerebral blood flow, perfusion, brain tissue oxygenation, and autoregulation, are essential for understanding the benefits and limitations of these procedures. A comprehensive literature search was conducted to systematically review the recent updates in DCE and CP, focusing on the fundamentals of DCE for ICP reduction, indications for DCE, optimal sizes and timing for DCE and CP, the syndrome of trephined, and the debate on suboccipital CP. The review highlights the need for further research on hemodynamic and metabolic indicators following DCE, particularly in relation to the pressure reactivity index. It provides recommendations for early CP within three months of controlling increased ICP to facilitate neurological recovery. Additionally, the review emphasizes the importance of considering suboccipital CP in patients with persistent headaches, cerebrospinal fluid leakage, or cerebellar sag after suboccipital craniectomy. A better understanding of the physiological effects, indications, complications, and management strategies for DCE and CP to control elevated ICP will help optimize patient outcomes and improve the overall effectiveness of these procedures.

Rates of cerebrospinal fluid leak and pseudomeningocele formation after posterior fossa craniotomy versus craniectomy: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

Postoperative cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak is a major concern after posterior fossa surgery with significant clinical implications. It has been postulated that replacing the bone flap, performing a craniotomy, would reinforce the surgical closure and decrease rates of CSF leak. This systematic review and meta-analysis compared the rate of CSF leak after posterior fossa craniotomies versus craniectomies.

Methods

Three databases were searched for English studies comparing the primary outcome, rate of CSF leak, after adult posterior fossa craniotomies versus craniectomies. Secondary outcomes included the rate of postoperative pseudomeningocele formation, CSF leak and pseudomeningocele formation, CSF diversion, revision surgery, and infection. Pooled estimates and relative risks for dichotomous outcomes were calculated using Review Manager 5.4, with corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

Results

A total of 1250 patients (635 craniotomies and 615 craniectomies), from nine studies, were included in the final analysis. Even though rates of CSF leak favored craniotomies, the difference did not reach statistical significance in our pooled analysis (Risk Ratio: 0.71, 95% Confidence Interval: 0.45-1.14, p-value = 0.15, Heterogeneity I-squared = 0%). On the other hand, comparing the rates of pseudomeningocele formation and CSF leak, as a combined outcome, or pseudomeningocele formation only showed a significant difference favoring craniotomies. The quality of evidence in this meta-analysis was graded as having a high risk of bias based on the risk of bias in non-randomized studies - of exposure criteria.

Conclusion

Based on evidence with high risk of bias, rates of postoperative CSF leak and pseudomeningocele formation favored posterior fossa craniotomies over craniectomies. Further research with more robust methodology is required to validate these findings.

Surgical Treatment of Cerebellar Metastases: Survival Benefits, Complications and Timing Issues

Simple Summary

Cerebellar metastases are often considered to have a poor prognosis. This retrospective study investigated the clinical course and functional outcome of 73 patients who underwent surgical treatment for cerebellar metastases. Median overall survival was 9.2 months which compares favorably with the more recent literature. Prognosis varied strikingly between individuals. This suggests a policy of individualized decision-making which includes offering surgery also in selected cases with adverse prognostic parameters. The presence of extracerebral metastases did not significantly influence survival which may justify expedited surgery in selected cases prior to the oncological work-up. Systemic therapy was associated with substantially better survival indicating that recent advances in medical oncology might amplify any survival benefit derived from surgery. Surgery was found to carry significant morbidity and even mortality. Major complications often precluded adjuvant treatment and correlated with markedly reduced survival. Complication avoidance is therefore of utmost importance.

Abstract

We retrospectively studied 73 consecutive patients who underwent surgery 2015–2020 for removal of cerebellar metastases (CM). Median overall survival (medOS) varied widely between patients and compared favorably with the more recent literature (9.2, 25–75% IQR: 3.2–21.7 months vs. 5–8 months). Prognostic factors included clinical (but not radiological) hydrocephalus (medOS 11.3 vs. 5.2 months, p = 0.0374). Of note, a third of the patients with a KPI <70% or multiple metastases survived >12 months. Chemotherapy played a prominent prognostic role (medOS 15.5 vs. 2.3, p < 0.0001) possibly reflecting advances in treating systemic vis-à-vis controlled CNS disease. Major neurological (≥30 days), surgical and medical complications (CTCAE III–V) were observed in 8.2%, 13.7%, and 9.6%, respectively. The occurrence of a major complication markedly reduced survival (10.7 vs. 2.5 months, p = 0.020). The presence of extracerebral metastases did not significantly influence OS. Postponing staging was not associated with more complications or shorter survival. Together these data argue for individualized decision making which includes offering surgery in selected cases with a presumably adverse prognosis and also occasional urgent operations in cases without a preoperative oncological work-up. Complication avoidance is of utmost importance.

Evaluation of Surgical Approaches for Tumor Resection in the Deep Infratentorial Region and Impact of Virtual Reality Technique for the Surgical Planning and Strategy

OBJECTIVE

Tumors in the deep infratentorial region can be accessed via the supracerebellar-infratentorial (SCIT) or suboccipital-transcerebellar (SOTC) approaches in the sitting or prone position. Diagnosis of tumors in this region and review of their therapies are inseparably connected with cranial tomographic imaging. We retrospectively evaluate a cohort of patients who underwent tumor resection in this region and correlate complication rates to the literature, and evaluate the potential influence of a virtual reality (VR) visualization technique on surgery planning and strategy.

METHODS

Patient files were retrospectively analyzed regarding operative performance parameters, histopathological findings, surgical outcomes, and complications. Preoperative magnetic resonance imaging scans were visualized via VR software. The influence of 3-dimensional VR images compared to 2-dimensional magnetic resonance imaging scans on surgical planning and surgical strategy was evaluated using a questionnaire.

RESULTS

Ninety-three patients were included, 80% placed in a sitting and 20% in a prone position. The SCIT approach was performed in 59% patients and SOTC approach in 41%. Surgical tumor resections were associated with an overall complication rate comparable to the literature. Image presentation using VR had a significant influence on the recommended surgical approach (P = 0.02), but no influence on the recommended patient positioning (P = 0.37) or placement of craniotomy (P = 0.09).

CONCLUSION

Tumor resection in the deep infratentorial region, despite frequent use of the sitting position and SCIT approach, was associated with a complication rate comparable to the literature. Preoperative surgical planning using VR technology may increase understanding of the anatomy and pathology, and thus influence operation planning.

A hospital-based analysis of pseudomeningoceles after elective craniotomy in children: what predicts need for intervention?

OBJECTIVE

In pediatric patients, the development of a postoperative pseudomeningocele after an elective craniotomy is not unusual. Most will resolve with time, but some may require intervention. In this study, the authors analyzed patients who required intervention for a postoperative pseudomeningocele following an elective craniotomy or craniectomy and identified factors associated with the need for intervention.

METHODS

An institutional operative database of elective craniotomies and craniectomies was queried to identify all surgeries associated with development of a postoperative pseudomeningocele from January 1, 2010, to December 31, 2017. Demographic and surgical data were collected, as were details regarding postoperative events and interventions during either the initial admission or upon readmission. A bivariate analysis was performed to compare patients who underwent observation with those who required intervention.

RESULTS

Following 1648 elective craniotomies or craniectomies, 84 (5.1%) clinically significant pseudomeningoceles were identified in 82 unique patients. Of these, 58 (69%) of the pseudomeningoceles were diagnosed during the index admission (8 of which persisted and resulted in readmission), and 26 (31%) were diagnosed upon readmission. Forty-nine patients (59.8% of those with a pseudomeningocele) required one or more interventions, such as lumbar puncture(s), lumbar drain placement, wound exploration, or shunt placement or revision. Only race (p < 0.01) and duraplasty (p = 0.03, OR 3.0) were associated with the need for pseudomeningocele treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

Clinically relevant pseudomeningoceles developed in 5% of patients undergoing an elective craniotomy, with 60% of these pseudomeningoceles needing some form of intervention. The need for intervention was associated with race and whether a duraplasty was performed.

Duraplasty with Cervical Fascia Autograft to Reduce Postoperative Complications of Posterior Fossa Tumor Surgery with Suboccipital Midline Approach

BACKGROUND

The suboccipital midline approach is common dealing with posterior fossa tumors but has a high risk of postoperative complications, such as pseudomeningocele, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak, and meningitis. Neurosurgeons used various kinds of method to lower its rate.

METHODS

A retrospective, single-center review of patients diagnosed with posterior fossa tumor underwent a suboccipital midline approach. Compare the rates of pseudomeningocele, CSF leak, and meningitis between 2 groups (artificial dura mater or cervical fascia autograft). We get the cervical fascia autograft from the superficial layer of deep cervical fascia just above the trapezius.

RESULTS

Our retrospective review involved 123 patients matching the inclusion criteria between January 2009 and April 2019. The complication rate of pseudomeningocele, CSF leak and meningitis were 8.9%, 4.9%, and 17.9%, respectively. The presence of pseudomeningocele or CSF leak for group "artificial" was 11 of 75 (14.67%) and for group "autograft" it was 3 of 48 (6.25%). The rate of meningitis for group "artificial" (24.0%, 18 of 75) was significantly higher (P = 0.027) than the one for group "autograft" (8.33%, 4 of 48). Multivariate regression analysis suggested that the age was negatively correlated with postoperative pseudomeningocele or CSF leak (P = 0.006), with meningitis (P < 0.001). Using cervical fascia autograft decreased the rate of meningitis (P = 0.021) while showing no statistically significant clinical impact on pseudomeningocele or CSF leak.

CONCLUSIONS

Applying the cervical fascia autograft to reconstruct the dura during posterior fossa surgery is a simple and effective method to reduce the rate of meningitis as compared with artificial dura mater.

Posterior cranial fossa and spinal local infections

OBJECT

The aim of this paper is to review the current knowledge on the management of local infections in posterior cranial fossa (PCF) and spinal surgery; the center of our paper will be the diagnosis and management of infections of the wound, the subcutaneous tissue, and muscle strata.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS

Very few papers address the problem of local infections in posterior cranial fossa and spinal surgery. The largest amount of the literature data is indeed centered on how to deal with deep infections, CSF leak, and secondary meningitis or hardware infection. Concerning PCF surgery, a higher rate of local infections has been reported, compared with supratentorial surgery. To prevent such complications, prophylaxis remains the most important tool in dealing with local infections; a careful surgical planning and patient selection are also important. On the other hand, in dealing with local infection in spinal setting, there are several evidences that local vancomycin might help reducing them in adults as well as in children. The treatment protocol consists in antibiotic therapy and, whenever needed, wound revision to remove infectious material or to obtain a microbiological diagnosis. Prognosis has overall to be considered favorable both in the short term as well as in the long term.

Surgical Evacuation of Spontaneous Cerebellar Hemorrhage: Comparison of Safety and Efficacy of Suboccipital Craniotomy, Stereotactic Aspiration, and Thrombolysis and Endoscopic Surgery

BACKGROUND

Current surgical therapies for spontaneous intracerebellar hemorrhage (SCH) include suboccipital craniotomy (SC), stereotactic aspiration and thrombolysis (SAT), and endoscopic surgery (ES). Evidence comparing the therapeutic effects of these 3 methods is scarce. The safety and efficacy of SC, SAT, and ES for SCH are still uncertain.

METHODS

75 patients with SCH who received SC, SAT, or ES were reviewed retrospectively. Baseline parameters before the operation, evacuation rate, perihematoma edema, postoperative complications, and cumulative case fatalities were collected. Also, 12 months after ictus, the long-term functional outcomes in patients with regard to fourth ventricle compression and age were judged, respectively, by the modified Rankin Scale (mRS).

RESULTS

The SAT was less effective in evacuating hematoma than were SC and ES. The perihematoma edema on postoperative day 7 and surgical complications were highest in the SC group. The functional outcome represented by mRS was better in the SAT group than in the SC and ES groups for patients with fourth ventricle compression grade 1. For patients with fourth ventricle compression grades 2 and 3, the ES group achieved the best functional outcome. Patients older than 60 years benefited less from SC than from ES and SAT.

CONCLUSIONS

SAT may be suitable for SCH patients with fourth ventricle compression grade 1, and ES may be suitable for SCH patients with fourth ventricle compression grades 2 and 3. Aged patients benefit less from SC than from SAT and ES.

The role of radiosurgery in the acute management of fourth ventricle compression due to brain metastases

Background:

Approximately 20–30% of all intracranial metastases are located in the posterior fossa. The clinical evolution hinges on factors such as tumor growth dynamics, local topographic conditions, performance status, and prompt intervention. Fourth ventricle (V4) compression with secondary life-threatening obstructive hydrocephalus remains a major concern, often requiring acute surgical intervention. We have previously reported on the application of adaptive hypofractionated Gamma Knife Radiosurgery in the acute management of critically located metastases, a technique known to us as rapid rescue radiosurgery (3R). We report the results of 3R in the management of posterior fossa lesions and ensuing V4 decompression.

Case Descriptions:

Four patients with V4 compression due to posterior fossa metastases were treated with 3R by three separate gamma knife radiosurgical sessions (GKRS) over a period of seven days. Mean V4 volume was 1.02 cm³ at GKRS 1, 1.13 cm³ at GKRS 2, and 1.12 cm³ at GKRS 3. Mean tumor volume during the week of treatment was 10 cm³ at both GKRS 1 and 2 and 9 cm³ at GKRS 3. On average, we achieved a tumor volume reduction of 52% and a V4 size increase of 64% at the first follow-up (4 weeks after GKRS 3). Long-term follow-up showed continued local tumor control, stable V4 volume, and absence of hydrocephalus.

Conclusion:

For this series, 3R was effective in terms of rapid tumor ablation, V4 decompression, and limited radiation-induced toxicity. This surgical procedure may become an additional tool in the management of intractable posterior fossa metastasis with V4 compression.

Cerebellar hemisphere herniation in the neck: Case report of a very rare complication following a posterior fossa craniectomy

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Cerebellar herniation following a craniectomy to the posterior fossa is a rare complication.

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Surgery was necessary to push the cerebellum back inside and plastic surgery to the bone was carried out.

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Possible causes were discussed.

This article presents a very rare late complication of surgery to the posterior fossa involving a craniectomy: cerebellar hemisphere herniation in the neck, through the craniectomy site. Here we also analyse the possible causes of such complication.