Surgical Performance Determines Functional Outcome Benefit in the Minimally Invasive Surgery Plus Recombinant Tissue Plasminogen Activator for Intracerebral Hemorrhage Evacuation (MISTIE) Procedure

Stress hyperglycemia is associated with longer ICU length of stay after endoscopic intracerebral hemorrhage evacuation

BACKGROUND

Stress hyperglycemia has been linked to poor outcomes in intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). Recent studies using the ratio of blood glucose to glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) as a marker for stress hyperglycemia have demonstrated greater discriminative power in predicting poor outcomes for stroke inpatients compared to blood glucose alone. Therefore, we aimed to investigate whether the preoperative glucose-to-HbA1c ratio is a predictor of postoperative outcomes in patients who have undergone minimally invasive ICH evacuation.

METHODS

Retrospective chart review was performed on ICH patients treated with minimally invasive surgery (MIS) in a single health system from 2015 to 2022. Stress hyperglycemia was defined as preoperative glucose-to-HbA1c ratio > calculated-median. Postoperative outcomes including modified Rankin Score (mRS) and length of stay (LOS) were collected. Univariate analyses were conducted to determine associations. Variables with p<0.05 were included in multivariate analyses.

RESULTS

Of 192 patients who underwent minimally invasive ICH evacuation and had available glucose data, 96 demonstrated stress hyperglycemia (glucose-to-HbA1c ratio > 1.23). Patients with stress hyperglycemia were more likely to have a history of diabetes (43 % vs. 27 %, p=0.034), IVH (54 % vs. 33 %, p=0.007), higher preoperative hematoma volumes (46.8 ml vs. 38.6 mL, p=0.02), higher postoperative hematoma volumes (6 ml vs. 2.9 mL, p=0.008), smaller evacuation percentages (86.7 % vs. 92.7 %, p=0.048), longer procedure lengths (2.78 hrs vs. 2.23 hrs, p=0.015), and prolonged ICU LOS (9.44 days vs. 5.68 days, p=0.003). In a multivariate analysis, stress hyperglycemia remained predictive of prolonged ICU LOS (OR=2.44; p=0.026) when controlling for initial NIHSS, IVH, time to evacuation, procedure time, and diabetes.

CONCLUSIONS

Stress hyperglycemia was strongly associated with prolonged ICU LOS after MIS for ICH. Understanding factors associated with LOS may provide predictive value for a patient's hospital course after minimally invasive ICH evacuation and further guide clinician expectations of recovery.

Does stereotactic thrombolysis with alteplase for intracerebral haemorrhage alter intraventricular haematoma volume? A secondary analysis of the MISTIE-III trial

BACKGROUND

Stereotactic thrombolysis reduces intracerebral haemorrhage (ICH) volume in patients with spontaneous ICH. Whether intrahaematomal alteplase administration is associated with a change in intraventricular haemorrhage volume (deltaIVH) and functional outcomes is unknown.

METHODS

Post hoc secondary analysis of the Minimally Invasive Surgery plus Alteplase for Intracerebral Hemorrhage Evacuation Phase III (MISTIE-III) trial in patients with IVH on the stability CT scan. Exposure was minimally invasive surgery plus alteplase (MIS+alteplase). Primary outcome was deltaIVH defined as IVH volume on end-of-treatment CT minus IVH volume on stability CT scan. Secondary outcomes were favourable functional outcome (modified Rankin Scale 0-3) and mortality at 365 days. We assessed the relationship between MIS+alteplase and deltaIVH in the primary analysis using multivariable linear regression, and between deltaIVH and functional outcomes in secondary analyses using multiple logistic regression.

RESULTS

Of 499 patients in MISTIE-III, 310 (62.1%) had IVH on stability scans; mean age (SD) was 61.2±12.3 years. A total of 146 (47.1%) received the MISTIE procedure and 164 (52.9%) standard medical care (SMC) only. The MIS+alteplase group had a greater mean reduction in IVH volume compared with the SMC group (deltaIVH: -2.35 (5.30) mL vs -1.15 (2.96) mL, p=0.02). While IVH volume decreased significantly in both treatment groups, in the primary analysis, MIS+alteplase was associated with greater deltaIVH in multivariable linear regression analysis adjusted for potential confounders (β -0.80; 95% CI -1.37 to -0.22, p=0.007). Secondary analysis demonstrated no associations between IVH reduction and functional outcomes (adjusted OR (aOR) for poor outcome 1.02; 95% CI 0.96 to 1.08, p=0.61; aOR for mortality 0.99; 95% CI 0.92 to 1.06, p=0.77).

CONCLUSIONS

Alteplase delivered into the ICH in MISTIE-III subjects with IVH was associated with a small reduction in IVH volume. This reduction did not translate into a significant benefit in mortality or functional outcomes at 365 days.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT01827046.

Early and effective intracerebral hemorrhage evacuation is associated with a lower 1-year residual cavity volume and better functional outcomes

BACKGROUND

We explored the clinical significance of the residual hematoma cavity 1 year after minimally invasive intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) evacuation.

METHODS

Patients presenting with spontaneous supratentorial ICH were evaluated for minimally invasive surgical evacuation. Inclusion criteria included age ≥18 years, preoperative hematoma volume (Hv) ≥15 mL, presenting National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score ≥6, and premorbid modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score ≤3. Patients with longitudinal CT scans at least 3 months after evacuation were included in the study. Remnant cavity volumes (Cv) after evacuation were computed using semi-automatic volumetric segmentation software. Relative cavity volume (rCv) was defined as the ratio of the preoperative Hv to the remnant Cv.

RESULTS

108 patients with a total of 484 head CT scans were included in the study. The median postoperative Cv was 2.4 (IQR 0.0-11) mL, or just 6% (0-33%) of the preoperative Hv. The median residual Cv on the final head CT scan a median of 13 months (range 11-27 months) after surgery had increased to 9.4 (IQR 3.1-18) mL, or 25% (10-60%) of the preoperative Hv. rCv on the final head CT scan was negatively associated with measures of operative success including evacuation percentage, postoperative Hv ≤15 mL, and decreased time from ictus to evacuation. rCv on the final head CT scan was also associated with a worse 6-month functional outcome (β per mRS point 17.6%, P<0.0001; area under the receiver operating characteristic curve 0.91).

CONCLUSION

After minimally invasive ICH evacuation the hematoma lesion decompresses significantly, with a residual Cv just 6% of the original lesion, but then gradually increases in size over time. Early and high percentage ICH evacuation may reduce the remnant Cv over time which, in turn, is associated with improved functional outcomes.

Traditional craniotomy versus current minimally invasive surgery for spontaneous supratentorial intracerebral haemorrhage: A propensity-matched analysis

BACKGROUND

Minimally invasive surgery (MIS) and craniotomy (CI) are the current treatments for spontaneous supratentorial cerebral haemorrhage (SSTICH).

AIM

To compare the efficacy and safety of MIS and CI for the treatment of SSTICH.

METHODS

Clinical and imaging data of 557 consecutive patients with SSTICH who underwent MIS or CI between January 2017 and December 2022 were retrospectively analysed. The patients were divided into two subgroups: The MIS group and CI group. Propensity score matching was performed to minimise case selection bias. The primary outcome was a dichotomous prognostic (favourable or unfavourable) outcome based on the modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score at 3 months; an mRS score of 0-2 was considered favourable.

RESULTS

In both conventional statistical and binary logistic regression analyses, the MIS group had a better outcome. The outcome of propensity score matching was unexpected (odds ratio: 0.582; 95%CI: 0.281-1.204; P = 0.144), which indicated that, after excluding the interference of each confounder, different surgical modalities were more effective, and there was no significant difference in their prognosis.

CONCLUSION

Deciding between MIS and CI should be made based on the individual patient, considering the hematoma size, degree of midline shift, cerebral swelling, and preoperative Glasgow Coma Scale score.

Surgical Management for Primary Intracerebral Hemorrhage

The incidence of primary intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) is increasing, particularly in younger patients, in part, because of increased prescription of anticoagulants. The ICH incidence rate from 2016 to 2018 in the United States was nearly 79 per 100,000 person-years and as high as 367 per 100,000 person-years among those 75 years or older. Worldwide, ICH comprises 28% of all new strokes, but a higher disease burden than ischemic stroke because of its higher morbidity and mortality. While mortality seems to be decreasing, functional outcomes are not improving. After negative trials of open surgical evacuation, recent trials of medical management strategies including intensive blood pressure control and prothrombotic agents intended to reduce hematoma expansion failed to demonstrate efficacy. Concomitantly, continued interest in minimally invasive surgical approaches arose from appreciation of secondary iatrogenic injury incurred to subcortical white matter tracts from open surgical techniques. A positive trial of minimally invasive surgery for lobar hemorrhage has recently been reported, bringing new optimism and demanding a reconsideration of surgical management of ICH. In this narrative review, we summarize the landmark studies, review recent literature, and consider the outstanding questions surrounding surgical management of ICH.

Incidence, surgical eligibility and outcome of spontaneous intracerebral haemorrhage in Southwest Finland - A retrospective study

Introduction

Spontaneous intracerebral haemorrhage (sICH) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality. Large-scale trials have shown neutral outcomes for surgical interventions. The recent trial suggested functional benefits from surgical intervention. Surgical treatment for sICH is likely increasing.

Research question

To determine the incidence of sICH in Southwest Finland, standardized to the European population, and to identify the proportion of large sICH patients eligible for surgery based on previously published trial criteria. We also examined factors associated with outcomes, including the effects of anticoagulant and antithrombotic medications.

Material and methods

A retrospective clinical study identified 596 ICH cases treated at Turku University Hospital (2018-2019), of which 286 were supratentorial sICHs. Variables were analysed using a t-test, chi-squared or Fisher's exact test. A multivariate logistic modelling was performed to evaluate outcome differences.

Results

The sICH incidence was 29.9/100,000 persons per year, with the highest European population age and sex standardized rates in individuals over 80 years old (110/100,000 males, 142/100,000 females). The incidence of sICH patients meeting surgical criteria was 2.7/100,000 persons per year. Out of 286 patients, 26 were eligible for surgery and had unfavourable outcomes (p = 0.0049). Multivariate analysis indicated a significant decrease in favourable outcomes with warfarin (p = 0.016, OR 0.42) and direct-acting anticoagulants (DOACs) (p = 0.034, OR 0.38), while antithrombotic medications showed no significant effect.

Discussion and conclusion

We identified comparable incidence of sICH as European average. A small proportion of sICH cases were identified to be candidates for surgical intervention. Anticoagulants were associated with increased risk of unfavourable outcomes.

Neuroendoscopic Parafascicular Evacuation of Spontaneous Intracerebral Hemorrhage (NESICH Technique): A Multicenter Technical Experience with Preliminary Findings

INTRODUCTION

Intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) is a severe manifestation of stroke, demonstrating notably elevated global mortality and morbidity. Thus far, effective therapeutic strategies for ICH have proven elusive. Currently, minimally invasive techniques are widely employed for ICH management, particularly using endoscopic hematoma evacuation in cases of deep ICH. Exploration of strategies to achieve meticulous surgery and diminish iatrogenic harm, especially to the corticospinal tract, with the objective of enhancing the neurological prognosis of patients, needs further efforts.

METHODS

We comprehensively collected detailed demographic, clinical, radiographic, surgical, and postoperative treatment and recovery data for patients who underwent endoscopic hematoma removal. This thorough inclusion of data intends to offer a comprehensive overview of our technical experience in this study.

RESULTS

One hundred fifty-four eligible patients with deep supratentorial intracerebral hemorrhage who underwent endoscopic hematoma removal were included in this study. The mean hematoma volume was 42 ml, with 74 instances of left-sided hematoma and 80 cases of right-sided hematoma. The median Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score at admission was 10 (range from 4 to 15), and the median time from symptom onset to surgery was 18 (range 2 to 96) h. The mean hematoma clearance rate was 89%. The rebleeding and mortality rates within 1 month after surgery were 3.2% and 7.8%, respectively. At the 6-month mark, the proportion of patients with modified Rankin Scale (mRS) scores of 0-3 was 58.4%.

CONCLUSION

Both the reduction of surgery-related injury and the protection of the residual corticospinal tract through endoscopic hematoma removal may potentially enhance neurological functional outcomes in patients with deep ICH, warranting validation in a forthcoming multicenter clinical study.

The Role of Neurosurgical Techniques in Management of Acute and Chronic Stroke: A Comprehensive Literature Review

Stroke is a medical condition that results from a decreased or completely diminished supply of blood to the brain, and it is considered one of the major causes of morbidity and mortality globally. Stroke is categorized as ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke, both of which demand prompt and particular timely intervention. This extensive review is done to investigate the precise management of acute and chronic manifestations of stroke in relation to neurosurgical interventions, ultimately providing a thorough analysis regarding indications, procedures, outcomes, and complications that are associated with it. In this regard, a pervasive review of literature was carried out, which was primarily sourced from literature databases such as PubMed. This paper particularly outlines a sound relative analysis of anticipating the competence of each neurosurgical technique in use. Endovascular clot retrieval (ECR) has been particularly highlighted, as its effectiveness has been profoundly observed when selected as a treatment option within a time period of 6-24 hours following an ischemic stroke. In less than a time frame of 48 hours, decompressive hemicraniectomy (DH) is usually considered the most suitable treatment for cases of intracranial hypertension resulting from middle cerebral artery (MCA) infarction. Hemorrhages that occur due to ruptured aneurysms are most commonly dealt with clipping and neuroendovascular techniques. Additionally, considering that revascularization surgery is time-sensitive, the results can ultimately vary. Competent results have been linked with stereotactic surgery, which includes deep brain stimulation (DBS) and focused ultrasound ablation (FUSA), which are also famous for being minimally invasive in nature. However, the broader application of these techniques is hindered by the absence of established protocols. This review highlights the importance of timely interventions, advanced equipment, and precise medical protocols to optimize treatment outcomes.

Efficacy and safety of NeuroEndoscopic Surgery for IntraCerebral Hemorrhage: A randomized, controlled, open-label, blinded endpoint trial (NESICH)

BACKGROUND

Neuroendoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure for clot evacuation in intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) which may have advantages compared with open surgical evacuation procedures. The application of neuroendoscopy in ICH has attracted increasing attention in recent years. However, it remains unclear whether it could improve outcomes in patients with ICH.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study is to explore the efficacy and safety of neuroendoscopic hematoma evacuation surgery compared with standard conservative treatment for spontaneous deep supratentorial cerebral hemorrhage.

METHODS

The Efficacy and safety of NeuroEndoscopic Surgery for IntraCerebral Hemorrhage (NESICH) Trial is a multicenter, randomized, controlled, open-label, blinded-endpoint clinical trial. Up to 560 eligible subjects with acute deep supratentorial ICH will be randomly assigned (1:1) to receive either neuroendoscopic hematoma evacuation or standard conservative treatment at more than 30 qualified neurosurgery centers in China.

OUTCOMES

The primary endpoint is the proportion of patients with a good functional outcome (mRS score 0-3) in both groups at 180 days after onset. The main safety endpoints include all-cause mortality at 7, 30, and 180 days, rebleeding at 3, 7, and 30 days, and serious complications within 180 days.

DISCUSSION

NESICH will provide high-quality evidence for the efficacy and safety of neuroendoscopic hematoma evacuation surgery in ICH patients.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05539859.

IV Flat Detector CT Angiography in Flat Detector CT Image-Guided Minimally Invasive Surgery for the Treatment of Intracerebral Hypertensive Hemorrhage

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage is a serious stroke subtype with high mortality and morbidity. Minimally invasive surgery plus thrombolysis is a promising treatment option, but it requires accurate catheter placement and real-time monitoring. The authors introduced IV flat detector CT angiography (ivFDCTA) into the minimally invasive surgery procedure for the first time, to provide vascular information and guidance for hematoma evacuation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Thirty-six patients with hypertensive intracerebral hemorrhage were treated with minimally invasive surgery under the guidance of ivFDCTA and flat detector CT (FDCT) in the angiography suite. The needle path and puncture depth were planned and calculated using software on the DSA workstation. The hematoma volume reduction, operation time, complications, and clinical outcomes were recorded and evaluated.

RESULTS

The mean preoperative hematoma volume of 36 patients was 35 (SD, 12) mL, the mean intraoperative volume reduction was 19 (SD, 11) mL, and the mean postoperative residual hematoma volume was 15 (SD, 8) mL. The average operation time was 59 (SD, 22) minutes. One patient had an intraoperative epidural hematoma, which improved after conservative treatment. The mean Glasgow Outcome Scale score at discharge was 4.3 (SD, 0.8), and the mean mRS score at 90 days was 2.4 (SD, 1.1).

CONCLUSIONS

The use of ivFDCTA in the evacuation of an intracerebral hemorrhage hematoma could improve the safety and efficiency of minimally invasive surgery and has shown great potential in hemorrhagic stroke management in selected patients.

Automated Preoperative and Postoperative Volume Estimates Risk of Retreatment in Chronic Subdural Hematoma: A Retrospective, Multicenter Study

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Several neurosurgical pathologies, ranging from glioblastoma to hemorrhagic stroke, use volume thresholds to guide treatment decisions. For chronic subdural hematoma (cSDH), with a risk of retreatment of 10%-30%, the relationship between preoperative and postoperative cSDH volume and retreatment is not well understood. We investigated the potential link between preoperative and postoperative cSDH volumes and retreatment.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective chart review of patients operated for unilateral cSDH from 4 level 1 trauma centers, February 2009-August 2021. We used a 3-dimensional deep learning, automated segmentation pipeline to calculate preoperative and postoperative cSDH volumes. To identify volume thresholds, we constructed a receiver operating curve with preoperative and postoperative volumes to predict cSDH retreatment rates and selected the threshold with the highest Youden index. Then, we developed a light gradient boosting machine to predict the risk of cSDH recurrence.

RESULTS

We identified 538 patients with unilateral cSDH, of whom 62 (12%) underwent surgical retreatment within 6 months of the index surgery. cSDH retreatment was associated with higher preoperative (122 vs 103 mL; P < .001) and postoperative (62 vs 35 mL; P < .001) volumes. Patients with >140 mL preoperative volume had nearly triple the risk of cSDH recurrence compared with those below 140 mL, while a postoperative volume >46 mL led to an increased risk for retreatment (22% vs 6%; P < .001). On multivariate modeling, our model had an area under the receiver operating curve of 0.76 (95% CI: 0.60-0.93) for predicting retreatment. The most important features were preoperative and postoperative volume, platelet count, and age.

CONCLUSION

Larger preoperative and postoperative cSDH volumes increase the risk of retreatment. Volume thresholds may allow identification of patients at high risk of cSDH retreatment who would benefit from adjunct treatments. Machine learning algorithm can quickly provide accurate estimates of preoperative and postoperative volumes.

Code ICH: A Call to Action

Intracerebral hemorrhage is the most serious type of stroke, leading to high rates of severe disability and mortality. Hematoma expansion is an independent predictor of poor functional outcome and is a compelling target for intervention. For decades, randomized trials aimed at decreasing hematoma expansion through single interventions have failed to meet their primary outcomes of statistically significant improvement in neurological outcomes. A wide range of evidence suggests that ultra-early bundled care, with multiple simultaneous interventions in the acute phase, offers the best hope of limiting hematoma expansion and improving functional recovery. Patients with intracerebral hemorrhage who fail to receive early aggressive care have worse outcomes, suggesting that an important treatment opportunity exists. This consensus statement puts forth a call to action to establish a protocol for Code ICH, similar to current strategies used for the management of acute ischemic stroke, through which early intervention, bundled care, and time-based metrics have substantially improved neurological outcomes. Based on current evidence, we advocate for the widespread adoption of an early bundle of care for patients with intracerebral hemorrhage focused on time-based metrics for blood pressure control and emergency reversal of anticoagulation, with the goal of optimizing the benefit of these already widely used interventions. We hope Code ICH will endure as a structural platform for continued innovation, standardization of best practices, and ongoing quality improvement for years to come.

Minimally invasive endoscopic evacuation with the novel, portable Axonpen neuroendoscopic system for spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage

Minimally invasive surgeries have shown potential to improve mortality and clinical outcomes of spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). The present study assessed the first-in-human outcomes of a novel, portable neuroendoscopic system for ICH evacuation at our single center. This neuroendoscopic system integrates real-time visualization into a handpiece which has controllable suction, irrigation, and coagulation to allow a neurosurgeon to conduct minimally invasive ICH evacuation independently with bimanual dexterity. Pre- and postoperative data of ten patients who had spontaneous basal ganglia hemorrhage (mean: 46.5 ± 12.2 mL) and underwent evacuation with the specified neuroendoscopic system were collected prospectively. The mean time to receive surgery was 12.1 ± 7.6 h. Mean operative time was 3.4 ± 0.9 h. The mean hematoma volume decreased to 6.0 ± 3.9 mL at postoperative 6 h, resulting in a mean volume reduction of 86.0 ± 11.2% (P = 0.005). The median length of intensive care unit stay was 3 days (IQR, 3-4 days). At discharge, the median Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score significantly improved to 11.5 (IQR, 11-15; P = 0.016), and the median modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score was 4 (IQR, 4-5). Six patients (60%) showed a favorable mRS score of ≤ 3 on their last return visit. Neither death nor rebleeding occurred during the follow-up periods. Integrated design of the innovative device is valuable to optimize minimally invasive endoscopic ICH evacuation procedure. Further studies are needed to clarify long-term benefits from such type of the innovative device to early intervention of ICH.

Characterization of length of stay after minimally invasive endoscopic intracerebral hemorrhage evacuation

BACKGROUND

Minimally invasive evacuation may help ameliorate outcomes after intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). However, hospital length of stay (LOS) post-evacuation is often long and costly.

OBJECTIVE

To examine factors associated with LOS in a large cohort of patients who underwent minimally invasive endoscopic evacuation.

METHODS

Patients presenting to a large health system with spontaneous supratentorial ICH qualified for minimally invasive endoscopic evacuation if they met the following inclusion criteria: age ≥18, premorbid modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score ≤3, hematoma volume ≥15 mL, and presenting National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score ≥6. Demographic, clinical, radiographic, and operative characteristics were included in a multivariate logistic regression for hospital and ICU LOS dichotomized into short and prolonged stay at 14 and 7 days, respectively.

RESULTS

Among 226 patients who underwent minimally invasive endoscopic evacuation, the median intensive care unit and hospital LOS were 8 (4-15) days and 16 (9-27) days, respectively. A greater extent of functional impairment on presentation (OR per NIHSS point 1.10 (95% CI 1.04 to 1.17), P=0.007), concurrent intraventricular hemorrhage (OR=2.46 (1.25 to 4.86), P=0.02), and deep origin (OR=per point 2.42 (1.21 to 4.83), P=0.01) were associated with prolonged hospital LOS. A longer delay from ictus to evacuation (OR per hour 1.02 (1.01 to 1.04), P=0.007) and longer procedure time (OR per hour 1.91 (1.26 to 2.89), P=0.002) were associated with prolonged ICU LOS. Prolonged hospital and ICU LOS were in turn longitudinally associated with a lower rate of discharge to acute rehabilitation (40% vs 70%, P<0.0001) and worse 6-month mRS outcomes (5 (4-6) vs 3 (2-4), P<0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

We present factors associated with prolonged LOS, which in turn was associated with poor long-term outcomes. Factors associated with LOS may help to inform patient and clinician expectations of recovery, guide protocols for clinical trials, and select suitable populations for minimally invasive endoscopic evacuation.

Volume reduction with surgery for ICH: when is it effective? Analysis of the CT scans from the STICH II trial

BACKGROUND

The surgical trial of lobar intracerebral haemorrhage (STICH II) was a randomised controlled trial evaluating early surgical removal of a clot. This paper investigates volume change in both arms of the trial with respect to Extended Glasgow Outcome Scale (GOSE) groups.

METHODS

Patients randomised into STICH II had an initial diagnostic CT and a second CT 5 days after randomisation. Each scan was anonymously assessed by at least two central readers. An analysis of agreement between the two readers was conducted using kappa tests and intraclass correlation. The change in volume in both the early surgery (ES) and the initial conservative treatment (ICT) arms were analysed with respect to the six-month GOSE outcome.

RESULTS

Of the 597 patients randomised in the trial there were 582 pre-randomisation scans and 566 5-day scans available for analysis of agreement. There was good agreement between the assessors for the radiological inclusion criteria including volume (ICC = 0.87) and this was better than the agreement between the assessor and local investigator (ICC = 0.73). There were 526 patients with two scans available for analysis of change in volume measurement. The median percentage change in volume for the ES group was a reduction of 92.4% (IQR 75.6%, 99.0%) while for the ICT group, in which some cases crossed over to delayed surgery, it was only 5.7% (IQR 16.4% increase, 29.5% reduction). ES patients with almost complete removal (99-100%) had the best outcome with only 30% dead or lower severely disabled. For the ICT group outcome was related to the final volume: the smaller the final volume the better the outcome.

CONCLUSIONS

This analysis provides evidence for central assessments of scans in exploratory analyses and further information regarding the potential advantage of early and more complete clot removal on outcome in ICH and should inform the planning of future trials.Clinical trials registration: ISRCTN22153967.

O2L-001, an innovative thrombolytic to evacuate intracerebral haematoma

Intracerebral haemorrhage is an unmet medical need affecting more than 3 million people worldwide every year and leading to the formation of an intracerebral haematoma. Updated guidelines (2022) for the management of intracerebral haemorrhage patients recognize that minimally invasive approaches for the evacuation of supratentorial intracerebral haemorrhage have demonstrated reductions in mortality compared with medical management alone. However, improvement of functional outcome with a procedure involving thrombolytic therapy was neutral in the last large phase 3 clinical trial and requires a more effective and safer thrombolytic agent than those currently available. Here, we demonstrate that O2L-001 allows for the extended release of W253R/R275S recombinant tissue-type plasminogen activator (rtPA). A new rtPA variant, called optimized tPA (OptPA), offers improved efficacy for haematoma evacuation as well as improved safety. OptPA was produced in a Chinese hamster ovary cell line before purification, nanoprecipitation using the NANOp2Lysis® technological platform followed by suspension in a solution of 17% poloxamer 407 to obtain O2L-001. Plasmin generation assays were performed to demonstrate O2L-001 safety. Ex vivo haematoma models using human blood were used to demonstrate O2L-001 thrombolysis properties and efficacy. For the best translational significance, a clinical sized haematoma was used to ensure catheter placement and to allow administration of the thrombolytic agent into the core of the haematoma via a minimally invasive procedure. The capacity of OptPA to convert plasminogen into plasmin is strongly decreased compared to rtPA, thereby reducing potential bleeding events. However, a clot lysis assay showed that OptPA had the same fibrinolytic activity as rtPA. We demonstrated that long-term exposure to a thrombolytic agent was essential to achieve high thrombolysis efficacy. Indeed, 24 h continuous exposure to 0.1 µg/ml rtPA had similar efficacy than repeated short exposure to 30 µg/ml rtPA. This finding led to the development of O2L-001, allowing the extended release of OptPA in the first 6 h following injection. An ex vivo model using human blood was used to demonstrate O2L-001 efficacy. Interestingly, unlike rtPA, O2L-001 was able to induce the complete lysis of the 5 ml haematoma. In clinical sized haematomas (obtained from 30 ml of human blood), a single injection of O2L-001 at 1 mg/ml into the core of the haematoma led to a 44% increase in thrombolysis compared to rtPA. Taken together, these results demonstrate that O2L-001 provides new hope for haematoma evacuation and the treatment of patients with intracerebral haemorrhage.

Surgical Robotics for Intracerebral Hemorrhage Treatment: State of the Art and Future Directions

Intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) is a stroke subtype with high mortality and disability, and there are no proven medical treatments that can improve the functional outcome of ICH patients. Robot-assisted neurosurgery is a significant advancement in the development of minimally invasive surgery for ICH. This review encompasses the latest advances and future directions of surgical robots for ICH. First, three robotic systems for neurosurgery applied to ICH are illustrated. Second, the key technologies of robot-assisted surgery for ICH are introduced in aspects of stereotactic technique and navigation, the puncture instrument, and hematoma evacuation. Finally, the limitations of current surgical robots are summarized, and the possible development direction is discussed, which is named "multisensor fusion and intelligent aspiration control of minimally invasive surgical robot for ICH". It is expected that the new generation of surgical robots for ICH will facilitate quantitative, precise, individualized, standardized treatment strategies for ICH.

Quamdiu? Time to proficiency in endoscope-assisted minimally invasive clot evacuation

INTRODUCTION

Spontaneous intraparenchymal brain hemorrhages are a devastating disease associated with significant disability or death. Minimally invasive clot evacuation (MICE) techniques can reduce mortality. We reviewed our experience with learning endoscope-assisted MICE to determine whether adequate results could be obtained in less than 10 cases.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective chart review of patients undergoing endoscope-assisted MICE at a single institution by a single surgeon from January 1, 2018 to January 1, 2023 using a neuro-endoscope, a commercial clot evacuation device, and frameless stereotaxis. Demographic data was collected along with surgical results and complications. Image analysis using software determined the degree of clot removal. Hospital length of stay and functional outcomes were assessed using the Glasgow Coma Scale score (GCS) and Glasgow Outcome Score (extended) (GOS-E).

RESULTS

Eleven patients were identified: average age 60.82 years old, 64 % male, all had hypertension. There was a clear improvement in IPH evacuation over the series. By case #7, greater than 80 % of clot volume was evacuated consistently. All patients remained neurologically stable or improved following surgery. In long-term follow-up, four patients (36.4 %) had good outcomes (GOS-E ≥ 6) and 2 patients had fair outcomes (GOS-E = 4) (18 %). There were no surgical mortalities, re-hemorrhages, or infections.

CONCLUSIONS

With an experience of less than 10 cases, it is possible to obtain results comparable to most published series of endoscope-assisted MICE. Benchmarks such as greater than 80 % volume removal, less than 15 mL residual, and 40 % good functional outcomes can be obtained.

Potential benefits of intraoperative ultrasound in neurosurgery

Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging are the most popular diagnostic tools to visualize intracranial pathology and help surgical planning in the neurosurgical practice. However, these preoperative techniques need to be supplemented with intraoperative methods, if the lesion size may increase or preoperative anatomy may change after the primary imaging due to rapid progression of the underlying intracranial disease. In such situations intraoperative ultrasound could be a valuable technique in real-time imaging of intracranial pathologic processes, real-time control of surgical procedure, assistance in drain or catheter placement, and real-time assessment of residual tumor or hematoma volume during neurosurgical interventions.

Safety and technical efficacy of early minimally invasive endoscopy-guided surgery for intracerebral haemorrhage: the Dutch Intracerebral haemorrhage Surgery Trial pilot study

BACKGROUND

Previous randomised controlled trials could not demonstrate that surgical evacuation of intracerebral haemorrhage (ICH) improves functional outcome. Increasing evidence suggests that minimally invasive surgery may be beneficial, in particular when performed early after symptom onset. The aim of this study was to investigate safety and technical efficacy of early minimally invasive endoscopy-guided surgery in patients with spontaneous supratentorial ICH.

METHODS

The Dutch Intracerebral Haemorrhage Surgery Trial pilot study was a prospective intervention study with blinded outcome assessment in three neurosurgical centres in the Netherlands. We included adult patients with spontaneous supratentorial ICH ≥10mL and National Institute of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score ≥2 for minimally invasive endoscopy-guided surgery within 8 h after symptom onset in addition to medical management. Primary safety outcome was death or increase in NIHSS ≥4 points at 24 h. Secondary safety outcomes were procedure-related serious adverse events (SAEs) within 7 days and death within 30 days. Primary technical efficacy outcome was ICH volume reduction (%) at 24 h.

RESULTS

We included 40 patients (median age 61 years; IQR 51-67; 28 men). Median baseline NIHSS was 19.5 (IQR 13.3-22.0) and median ICH volume 47.7mL (IQR 29.4-72.0). Six patients had a primary safety outcome, of whom two already deteriorated before surgery and one died within 24 h. Sixteen other SAEs were reported within 7 days in 11 patients (of whom two patients that already had a primary safety outcome), none device related. In total, four (10%) patients died within 30 days. Median ICH volume reduction at 24 h was 78% (IQR 50-89) and median postoperative ICH volume 10.5mL (IQR 5.1-23.8).

CONCLUSIONS

Minimally invasive endoscopy-guided surgery within 8 h after symptom onset for supratentorial ICH appears to be safe and can effectively reduce ICH volume. Randomised controlled trials are needed to determine whether this intervention also improves functional outcome.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Clinicaltrials.gov : NCT03608423, August 1st, 2018.

Functional Outcome Analysis of Stereotactic Catheter Aspiration for Spontaneous Intracerebral Hemorrhage: Early or Late Hematoma Evacuation?

BACKGROUND

Minimally invasive stereotactic catheter aspiration becoming a promising surgical alternative for intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) patients. Our goal is to determine the risk factors that lead to poor functional outcomes in patients undergoing this procedure.

METHODS

Clinical data of 101 patients with stereotactic catheter ICH aspiration were retrospectively reviewed. Univariate and multiple logistic analyses were used to identify risk factors for poor outcomes 3 months and 1 year after discharge. Univariate analysis was used to compare the functional outcome between early (<48 h after ICH onset) and late hematoma evacuation (≥48 h after ICH onset) groups, as well as for the odd ratios assessment in terms of rebleeding.

RESULTS

Independent factors for poor 3-month outcome included lobar ICH, ICH score > 2, rebleeding, and delayed hematoma evacuation. Factors for poor 1-year outcome included age > 60, GCS < 13, lobar ICH, and rebleeding. Early hematoma evacuation was linked to a lower likelihood of poor outcome both 3 months and 1 year post-discharge, but with higher risk of postoperative rebleeding.

CONCLUSIONS

Lobar ICH and rebleeding independently predicted both poor short- and long-term outcomes in patients with stereotactic catheter ICH evacuation. Early hematoma evacuation with preoperative rebleeding risk evaluation may benefit patients with stereotactic catheter ICH evacuation.

A Novel Stereotactic Aspiration Technique for Intracerebral Hemorrhage

BACKGROUND

Minimally invasive surgery is effective and recommended for treatment of intracerebral hemorrhage; however, neurosurgeons in grass-root hospitals in underdeveloped countries lack effective and precise minimally invasive surgery techniques. The aim of this study was to present a technique of computed tomography angiography-based three-dimensional-printed navigation mold-guided stereotactic aspiration and demonstrate its clinical application using a hard needle in a series of patients.

METHODS

The novel stereotactic aspiration technique was performed in 18 patients with spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage at our center, and clinical outcomes were reported. We compared the volume of hematoma measured by 3 different methods: ABC/2 formula, manual segmentation with OsiriX, and manual segmentation with 3D Slicer.

RESULTS

The surgery was completed safely within an average operative time of 15.11 minutes, achieving the goal of <15 mL residual clot volume or >70% clot removal in all patients. No intracranial rebleeding or infection was observed postoperatively. At the end of the 6-month follow-up, 61.11% (11/18) of patients achieved a modified Rankin Scale score <3. There was overall better agreement of hematoma measurement using segmentation with 3D Slicer rather than ABC/2 measurement or hematoma measurement using segmentation with OsiriX.

CONCLUSIONS

Our novel method of stereotactic aspiration benefited patients in this study with good percent clot removal, few surgery-related complications, and a favorable prognosis. Manual segmentation with 3D Slicer could be used to provide the neurosurgeon with dependable information about hematoma volume. This cheap and convenient technique may be applied in grass-root hospitals in underdeveloped countries. Assessment in multicenter prospective clinical trials is needed.

Long-term functional independence after minimally invasive endoscopic intracerebral hemorrhage evacuation

OBJECTIVE

Intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) is a devastating form of stroke with no proven treatment. However, minimally invasive endoscopic evacuation is a promising potential therapeutic option for ICH. Herein, the authors examine factors associated with long-term functional independence (modified Rankin Scale [mRS] score ≤ 2) in patients with spontaneous ICH who underwent minimally invasive endoscopic evacuation.

METHODS

Patients with spontaneous supratentorial ICH who had presented to a large urban healthcare system from December 2015 to October 2018 were triaged to a central hospital for minimally invasive endoscopic evacuation. Inclusion criteria for this study included age ≥ 18 years, hematoma volume ≥ 15 ml, National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score ≥ 6, premorbid mRS score ≤ 3, and time from ictus ≤ 72 hours. Demographic, clinical, and radiographic factors previously shown to impact functional outcome in ICH were included in a retrospective univariate analysis with patients dichotomized into independent (mRS score ≤ 2) and dependent (mRS score ≥ 3) outcome groups, according to 6-month mRS scores. Factors that reached a threshold of p < 0.05 in a univariate analysis were included in a multivariate logistic regression.

RESULTS

A total of 90 patients met the study inclusion criteria. The median preoperative hematoma volume was 41 (IQR 27-65) ml and the median postoperative volume was 1.2 (0.3-7.5) ml, resulting in a median evacuation percentage of 97% (85%-99%). The median hospital length of stay was 17 (IQR 9-25) days, and 8 (9%) patients died within 30 days of surgery. Twenty-four (27%) patients had attained functional independence by 6 months. Factors independently associated with long-term functional independence included lower NIHSS score at presentation (OR per point 0.78, 95% CI 0.67-0.91, p = 0.002), lack of intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH; OR 0.20, 95% CI 0.05-0.77, p = 0.02), and shorter time to evacuation (OR per hour 0.95, 95% CI 0.91-0.99, p = 0.007). Specifically, patients who had undergone evacuation within 24 hours of ictus demonstrated an mRS score ≤ 2 rate of 36% and were associated with an increased likelihood of long-term independence (OR 17.7, 95% CI 1.90-164, p = 0.01) as compared to those who had undergone evacuation after 48 hours.

CONCLUSIONS

In a single-center minimally invasive endoscopic ICH evacuation cohort, NIHSS score on presentation, lack of IVH, and shorter time to evacuation were independently associated with functional independence at 6 months. Factors associated with functional independence may help to better predict populations suitable for minimally invasive endoscopic evacuation and guide protocols for future clinical trials.

Continuous Tissue Plasminogen Activator Infusion Using a Minimally Invasive Irrigating Catheter for the Treatment of Intraparenchymal Hemorrhage Within the Basal Ganglia: Case Reports

BACKGROUND AND IMPORTANCE

Intraparenchymal hemorrhage (IPH) is a debilitating and highly morbid type of stroke with limited effective treatment modalities. Minimally invasive evacuation with tissue plasminogen activator (rt-PA) has demonstrated promise for mortality/functional improvements with adequate clot volume reduction. In this study, we report 2 cases of continuous rt-PA infusion using a closed circuit, dual lumen catheter, and irrigation system (IRRAflow) for IPH treatment.

CLINICAL PRESENTATION

A 55-year-old man was admitted for acute onset left hemiparesis; he was found to have right basal ganglia IPH. He was treated with continuous rt-PA irrigation using the IRRAflow device, at a rate of 30 mL/h for 119 hours, with a total volume reduction of 87.8 mL and post-treatment volume of 1.2 mL. At 3-month follow-up, he exhibited a modified Rankin score of 4 and improved hemiparesis. A 39-year-old woman was admitted for acute onset left facial droop, left hemianopsia, and left hemiparesis; she was diagnosed with a right basal ganglia IPH. She was treated with drainage and continuous rt-PA irrigation at 30 mL/h for 24 hours, with a total hematoma volume reduction of 41 mL and with a final post-treatment volume of 9.1 mL. At 3-month follow-up, she exhibited a modified Rankin score of 3 with some improvement in left hemiparesis.

CONCLUSION

Continuous rt-PA infusion using a minimally invasive catheter with saline irrigation was feasible and resulted in successful volume reduction in 2 patients with IPH. This technique is similar to the Minimally Invasive Surgery Plus rt-PA for Intracerebral Hemorrhage Evacuation (MISTIE) approach but offers the potential advantages of less breaks in the sterile circuit, continuous intracranial pressure monitoring, and may provide more efficient clot lysis compared with intermittent bolusing.

Individualized CT image-guided free-hand catheter technique: A new and reliable method for minimally invasive evacuation of basal ganglia hematoma

Objective

To validate the clinical reliability of an individualized CT image-guided‘ free-hand catheter technique (CTGFC) for basal ganglia hematoma (BGH) evacuation.

Methods

From January 2017 to December 2020, 58 cases of patients with BGH who underwent catheter evacuation were enrolled. The surgery was conducted using the CTGFC (n = 31) or stereotactic catheter technique (STC, n = 27). The authors evaluated the baseline characteristics, operation-related indicators, postoperative complications, hospitalization-related indicators, short-term and long-term functional outcomes, and mortality rate 1 year after surgery.

Results

All patients underwent BGH evacuation under non-general anesthesia in the CTGFC group. The operative time (p &lt; 0.01) and operation costs (p &lt; 0.05) were significantly shorter in the CTGFC group than that in the STC group (p &lt; 0.01). Comparable results were found in the catheter indwelling duration, residual hematoma volume, hematoma evacuation rate, incidence of postoperative complications, hospital ICU stay, and hospital costs between these two groups (p &gt; 0.05). The duration of hospital stay was remarkably shorter in the CTGFC group than that in the STC group (p &lt; 0.01). There were no differences in terms of the short-time functional outcomes score at discharge, including the Glasgow outcome scale (GOS) score, the activities of daily living (ADL) score, and the Karnofsky performance score (KPS). Moreover, comparable findings were also found in the 1-year postoperative GOS score, ADL score, KPS score, and mortality rate between these two groups.

Conclusion

The simple CTGFC-assisted surgery was a safe and reliable option for BGH evacuation, especially in primary medical institutes and emergency situations with limited medical resources.

Accuracy of augmented reality-guided drainage versus stereotactic and conventional puncture in an intracerebral hemorrhage phantom model

BACKGROUND

Minimally invasive intracranial drain placement is a common neurosurgical emergency procedure in patients with intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). We aimed to retrospectively investigate the accuracy of conventional freehand (bedside) hemorrhage drain placement and to prospectively compare the accuracy of augmented/mixed reality-guided (AR) versus frame-based stereotaxy-guided (STX) and freehand drain placement in a phantom model.

METHODS

A retrospective, single-center analysis evaluated the accuracy of drain placement in 73 consecutive ICH with a visual rating of postinterventional CT data. In a head phantom with a simulated deep ICH, five neurosurgeons performed four punctures for each technique: STX, AR, and the freehand technique. The Euclidean distance to the target point and the lateral deviation of the achieved trajectory from the planned trajectory at target point level were compared between the three methods.

RESULTS

Analysis of the clinical cases revealed an optimal drainage position in only 46/73 (63%). Correction of the drain was necessary in 23/73 cases (32%). In the phantom study, accuracy of AR was significantly higher than the freehand method (P<0.001 for both Euclidean and lateral distances). The Euclidean distance using AR (median 3 mm) was close to that using STX (median 1.95 mm; P=0.023).

CONCLUSIONS

We demonstrated that the accuracy of the freehand technique was low and that subsequent position correction was common. In a phantom model, AR drainage placement was significantly more precise than the freehand method. AR has great potential to increase precision of emergency intracranial punctures in a bedside setting.

Ethical Considerations in Surgical Decompression for Stroke

Stroke is a major cause of morbidity and mortality. Neurosurgical decompression is often considered for the treatment of malignant infarcts and intraparenchymal hemorrhages, but this treatment can be frought with ethical dilemmas. In this article, the authors outline the primary principles of bioethics and their application to stroke care, provide an overview of key ethical issues and special situations in the neurosurgical management of stroke, and highlight methods to improve ethical decision-making for patients with stroke. Understanding these ethical principles is essential for stroke care teams to deliver appropriate, timely, and ethical care to patients with stroke.

Minimally Invasive Surgery for Spontaneous Intracerebral Hematoma. Real-Life Implementation Model and Economic Estimation

Objective

Spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage is characterized by high fatality outcomes, even under best medical treatment. Recently, minimally invasive surgical (MIS) evacuation of the hematoma has shown promising results and may soon be implemented in the clinical practice. Hereby, we intended to foresee the logistic requirements for an early hematoma evacuation protocol, as well as to evaluate in a real-life implementation model the cost-utility of the two main MIS techniques for hemorrhagic stroke (catheter evacuation plus thrombolysis and neuroendoscopic aspiration).

Methods

Data were obtained from the pool of hemorrhagic-stroke patients admitted to our institution during an annual period (2020-2021) and contrasted to the reported results in published trials of MIS techniques. Potential candidates for surgical treatment were identified according to the inclusion/exclusion criteria established in these trials. Then, a cost-utility analysis was performed, which explored the incremental cost per unit of health gained with a given treatment. The treatment effect was measured by differences in modified Rankin Score, and subsequently converted to quality-adjusted life years (QALY).

Results

Of the 137 patients admitted to our center with supratentorial spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage in a 1-year period, 17 (12.4%) were potential candidates for the catheter evacuation plus thrombolysis technique (Minimally Invasive Surgery with Thrombolysis in Intracerebral Hemorrhage Evacuation trial, MISTIE III criteria) and 59 (43.0%) for the neuroendoscopic aspiration technique (Dutch Intracerebral Hemorrhage Surgery Trial Pilot Study, DIST criteria). The incremental cost-utility ratio was € 76,533.13 per QALY for the catheter-based evacuation and € 60,703.89 per QALY for the endoscopic-based technique.

Conclusion

Around 12-43% of patients admitted to hospital with spontaneous hemorrhagic stroke could be potential candidates to MIS early evacuation of the cerebral hematoma. In our real-life implementation model, the cost-utility analysis favored the neuroendoscopic evacuation over the catheter aspiration technique. Further studies are advisable as new data from the ongoing randomized trials becomes available.

Cerebral Hemorrhage: Pathophysiology, Treatment, and Future Directions

Intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) is a devastating form of stroke with high morbidity and mortality. This review article focuses on the epidemiology, cause, mechanisms of injury, current treatment strategies, and future research directions of ICH. Incidence of hemorrhagic stroke has increased worldwide over the past 40 years, with shifts in the cause over time as hypertension management has improved and anticoagulant use has increased. Preclinical and clinical trials have elucidated the underlying ICH cause and mechanisms of injury from ICH including the complex interaction between edema, inflammation, iron-induced injury, and oxidative stress. Several trials have investigated optimal medical and surgical management of ICH without clear improvement in survival and functional outcomes. Ongoing research into novel approaches for ICH management provide hope for reducing the devastating effect of this disease in the future. Areas of promise in ICH therapy include prognostic biomarkers and primary prevention based on disease pathobiology, ultra-early hemostatic therapy, minimally invasive surgery, and perihematomal protection against inflammatory brain injury.

Minimally Invasive Intracerebral Hemorrhage Evacuation: A review

Intracerebral hemorrhage is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. To date, there is no specific treatment that clearly provides a benefit in functional outcome or mortality. Surgical treatment for hematoma evacuation has not yet shown clear benefit over medical management despite promising preclinical studies. Minimally invasive treatment options for hematoma evacuation are under investigation but remain in early-stage clinical trials. Robotics has the potential to improve treatment. In this paper, we review intracerebral hemorrhage pathology, currently available treatments, and potential robotic approaches to date. We also discuss the future role of robotics in stroke treatment.

The Patterns of Morphological Change During Intracerebral Hemorrhage Expansion: A Multicenter Retrospective Cohort Study

Objectives: Hemorrhage expansion (HE) is a common and serious condition in patients with intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). In contrast to the volume changes, little is known about the morphological changes that occur during HE. We developed a novel method to explore the patterns of morphological change and investigate the clinical significance of this change in ICH patients. Methods: The morphological changes in the hematomas of ICH patients with available paired non-contrast CT data were described in quantitative terms, including the diameters of each hematoma in three dimensions, the longitudinal axis type, the surface regularity (SR) index, the length and direction changes of the diameters, and the distance and direction of movement of the center of the hematoma. The patterns were explored by descriptive analysis and difference analysis in subgroups. We also established a prognostic nomogram model for poor outcomes in ICH patients using both morphological changes and clinical parameters. Results: A total of 1,094 eligible patients from four medical centers met the inclusion criteria. In 266 (24.3%) cases, the hematomas enlarged; the median absolute increase in volume was 14.0 [interquartile range (IQR), 17.9] mL. The initial hematomas tended to have a more irregular shape, reflected by a larger surface regularity index, than the developed hematomas. In subtentorial and deep supratentorial hematomas, the center moved in the direction of gravity. The distance of center movement and the length changes of the diameters were small, with median values of less than 4 mm. The most common longitudinal axis type was anterior-posterior (64.7%), and the axis type did not change between initial and repeat imaging in most patients (95.2%). A prognostic nomogram model including lateral expansion, a parameter of morphological change, showed good performance in predicting poor clinical outcomes in ICH patients. Conclusions: The present study provides a morphological perspective on HE using a novel automatic approach. We identified certain patterns of morphological change in HE, and we believe that some morphological change parameters could help physicians predict the prognosis of ICH patients.

Real-Time MRI-Guided Stereotactic Aspiration of Spontaneous Intracerebral Hematoma: A Preclinical Feasibility Study

BACKGROUND

Minimally invasive surgical techniques have reinvigorated the role of surgical options for spontaneous intracranial hematomas; however, they are limited by the lack of real-time feedback on the extent of hematoma evacuation.

OBJECTIVE

To describe the development of a MRI-guided catheter-based aspiration system, the ClearPoint Pursuit Neuroaspiration Device (ClearPoint Neuro) and validation in phantom models.

METHODS

In this preclinical experimental trial, 8 phantom brains with skull models were created to simulate an intracranial hematoma with 2 clot sizes, 30 cc (small clot) and 60 cc (large clot). After registration, the aspiration catheter (Pursuit device) was aligned to the desired planned trajectory. The aspiration of the clot was performed under real-time MRI scan in 3 orthogonal views. The primary end point was reduction of the clot volume to less than 15 cc or 70% of the original clot volume.

RESULTS

Successful completion of clot evacuation was achieved in all models. The average postaspiration clot volume was 9.5 cc (8.7 cc for small clots and 10.2 cc for large clots). The average percentage reduction of clot volume was 76.3% (range 58.7%-85.2%). The average total procedure time (from frame registration to final postaspiration clot assessment) was 50 min. The average aspiration time was 6.9 min.

CONCLUSION

This preclinical trial confirms the feasibility and efficacy of MRI-guided aspiration under real-time image guidance in simulation models for intracranial hematoma. Clinical use of the system in patients would further validate its efficacy and safety.

Early Minimally Invasive Parafascicular Surgery for Evacuation of Spontaneous Intracerebral Hemorrhage in the Setting of Computed Tomography Angiography Spot Sign: A Case Series

BACKGROUND

Spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage (sICH) is associated with high morbidity and mortality, and the role of surgery is uncertain. Spot sign on computed tomography angiography (CTA) has previously been seen as a contraindication for minimally invasive techniques.

OBJECTIVE

To demonstrate the use of minimally invasive parafascicular surgery (MIPS) for early evacuation of sICH in patients with spot sign on CTA.

METHODS

Retrospective review of patients presenting to a US tertiary academic medical center from 2018 to 2020 with sICH and CTA spot sign who were treated with MIPS within 6 h of arrival.

RESULTS

Seven patients (6 men and 1 woman, mean age 54.4 yr) were included in this study. There was a significant decrease between preoperative and postoperative intracerebral hemorrhage volumes (75.03 ± 39.00 cm3 vs 19.48 ± 17.81 cm3, P = .005) and intracerebral hemorrhage score (3.1 ± 0.9 vs 1.9 ± 0.9, P = .020). The mean time from arrival to surgery was 3.72 h (±1.22 h). The mean percentage of hematoma evacuation was 73.78% (±21.11%). The in-hospital mortality was 14.29%, and the mean modified Rankin score at discharge was 4.6 (±1.3). No complications related to the surgery were encountered in any of the cases, with no abnormal intraoperative bleeding and no pathology demonstrating occult vascular lesion.

CONCLUSION

Early intervention with MIPS appears to be a safe and effective means of hematoma evacuation despite the presence of CTA spot sign, and this finding should not delay early intervention when indicated. Intraoperative hemostasis may be facilitated by the direct visualization provided by a tubular retractor system.

Bilateral Endoscopic Intracerebral Hemorrhage Evacuations at Two Separate Time Points: A Case Report

In this case report, we describe bilateral endoscopic intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) evacuations in patients presenting on temporally distinct occasions with separate, contralateral lesions. Two patients presented with spontaneous right-sided ICH and underwent endoscopic evacuations. Both patients achieved some degree of functional improvement postoperatively. Each patient then experienced a second ICH in the left hemisphere months later, and again underwent endoscopic evacuation of the contralateral lesion. Postoperatively, both patients faced significantly longer hospitalizations and severe drops in functional independence compared to the first surgery. Functional outcomes after contralateral endoscopic ICH evacuation may vary significantly, and bilateral disease portends a worse prognosis.

Historical aspects of the problem of surgical treatment of hemorrhagic stroke. The role of intracranial pressure in the choice of treatment tactics (review of literature)

This article provides a literature review of the past 60 years, conducted using keywords through the PubMed Internet resource, dedicated to the methods of surgical treatment of hemorrhagic stroke. The existing published results of clinical studies do not allow us to draw unambiguous conclusions about the superiority of conservative or neurosurgical treatment in relation to the functional recovery of patients. There is a statistical significance of the advantages of surgery based on the prevention of dislocation syndrome, control of intracranial hypertension, and prevention or at least reduction of the effect of blood and its degradation products on the surrounding healthy tissue. However, large randomized controlled trials have failed to demonstrate this benefit in terms of mortality or functional outcome.

There are two main areas of hemorrhagic stroke surgery – open surgery and minimally invasive methods. The practice of open surgery is associated with high trauma rates, as well as with certain risks and complications. However, craniotomy is a lifesaving measure in critical situations with signs of persistent increased intracranial pressure leading to neurological impairment. The ability to control intracranial pressure provides a chance for the choice of more optimal tactics of surgical treatment.

Today, the gold standard for intracranial pressure monitoring is the installation of invasive intraventricular or intraparenchymal transducers. The method is appreciated for its accuracy, however, there are a number of disadvantages in the form of the possibility of hemorrhagic and infectious complications, as well as the high cost of the sensor itself, which limits its routine use. The inability to measure intracranial pressure before surgery causes an unreasonable expansion of indications for choosing an open method of surgery, which reduces the possibility of a better functional outcome.

All of these points make it urgent to search for a non-invasive method for measuring intracranial pressure, which would contribute to the timely choice of a surgical method without the danger of worsening the clinical outcome. 

Intracranial Pressure and Cerebral Perfusion Pressure in Large Spontaneous Intracranial Hemorrhage and Impact of Minimally Invasive Surgery

Introduction: We investigated the effect of hematoma volume reduction with minimally invasive surgery (MIS) on intracranial pressure (ICP) and cerebral perfusion pressure (CPP) in patients with large spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH).

Methods:Post-hoc analysis of the Minimally Invasive Surgery Plus Alteplase for Intracerebral Hemorrhage Evacuation (MISTIE III) study, a clinical trial with blinded outcome assessments. The primary outcome was the proportion of ICP readings ≥20 and 30 mmHg, and CPP readings <70 and 60 mm Hg. Secondary outcomes included major disability (modified Rankin scale >3) and mortality at 30 and 365 days. We assessed the relationship between proportion of high ICP and low CPP events and MIS using binomial generalized linear models, and outcomes using multiple logistic regression.

Results: Of 499 patients enrolled in MISTIE III, 72 patients had guideline based ICP monitors placed, 34 in the MIS group and 38 in control (no surgery) group. Threshold ICP and CPP events ≥20/ <70 mmHg occurred in 31 (43.1%) and 52 (72.2%) patients respectively. On adjusted analyses, proportion of ICP readings ≥20 and 30 mmHg were significantly lower in the MIS group vs. control group [Odds Ratio (OR) 0.27, 95% Confidence Interval [CI] 0.11–0.63 (p = 0.002); OR = 0.18, 0.04–0.75, p = 0.02], respectively. Proportion of CPP readings <70 and 60 mm Hg were also significantly lower in MIS patients [OR 0.31, 95% CI 0.15–0.63 (p = 0.001); OR 0.30, 95% CI 0.11–0.83 (p = 0.02)], respectively. Higher proportions of CPP readings <70 and 60 mm were significantly associated with short term mortality (p = 0.04), and (p = 0.006), respectively. Long term mortality was significantly associated with higher proportion of time with ICP ≥ 20 (p = 0.04), ICP ≥ 30 (p = 0.04), and CPP <70 mmHg (p = 0.01).

Conclusion: Our results are consistent with the hypothesis that surgical reduction of ICH volume decreases proportion of high ICP and low CPP events and that these variables are associated with short- and long-term mortality.

Time to Evacuation and Functional Outcome After Minimally Invasive Endoscopic Intracerebral Hemorrhage Evacuation

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

We present a retrospective analysis of patients who underwent minimally invasive endoscopic intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) evacuation to identify variables that were associated with long-term outcome.

METHODS

Minimally invasive endoscopic ICH evacuation was performed on patients with supratentorial ICH who fit prespecified clinical inclusion and exclusion criteria. Demographic, clinical, and radiographic factors previously demonstrated to impact functional outcome in ICH were included in a univariate analysis to identify factors associated with favorable outcome (modified Rankin Scale score, 0-3) at 6 months. Factors associated with a favorable outcome in the univariate analysis (P≤0.20) were included in a multivariate logistic regression analysis with the same dependent variable.

RESULTS

Ninety patients underwent MIS endoscopic ICH evacuation within 72 hours of ictus. In a multivariate analysis, factors associated with good long-term functional outcome included time to evacuation (per hour; OR, 0.95 [95% CI, 0.92-0.98], P=0.004), age (per decade, odds ratio [OR], 0.49 [95% CI, 0.28-0.77], P=0.005), presence of intraventricular hemorrhage (OR, 0.15 [95% CI, 0.04-0.47], P=0.002), and lobar location (OR, 18.5 [95% CI, 4.5-103], P=0.0005). Early evacuation was not associated with an increased risk of rebleeding.

CONCLUSIONS

Young age, lack of intraventricular hemorrhage, lobar location, and time to evacuation were independently associated with good long-term functional outcome in patients undergoing minimally invasive endoscopic ICH evacuation. The OR for time to evacuation suggests that for each additional hour, there was a 5% reduction in the odds of achieving a favorable outcome.

Use of emerging technologies to enhance the treatment paradigm for spontaneous intraventricular hemorrhage

The presence of intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) portends a worse prognosis in patients presenting with spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). Intraventricular hemorrhage increases the rates of hydrocephalus, ventriculitis, and long-term shunt dependence. Over the past decade, novel medical devices and protocols have emerged to directly treat IVH. Presently, we review new technological adaptations to treating intraventricular hemorrhage in an effort to focus further innovation in treating this morbid neurosurgical pathology. We summarize current and historical treatments as well as innovations in IVH including novel procedural techniques, use of the Integra Surgiscope, use of the Artemis evacuator, use of BrainPath, novel catheter technology, large bore external ventricular drains, the IRRAflow, the CerebroFlo, and the future directions of the field. Technology and medical devices for both surgical and nonsurgical methods are advancing the treatment of IVH. With many promising new technologies on the horizon, prospects for improved clinical care for IVH and its etiologies remain hopeful.

Post-Trial Enhanced Deployment and Technical Performance with the MISTIE Procedure per Lessons Learned

OBJECTIVE

We hypothesize that procedure deployment rates and technical performance with minimally invasive surgery and thrombolysis for intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) evacuation (MISTIE) can be enhanced in post-trial clinical practice, per Phase III trial results and lessons learned.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We identified ICH patients and those who underwent MISTIE procedure between 2017-2021 at a single site, after completed enrollments in the Phase III trial. Deployment rates, complications and technical outcomes were compared to those observed in the trial. Initial and final hematoma volume were compared between site measurements using ABC/2, MISTIE trial reading center utilizing manual segmentation, and a novel Artificial Intelligence (AI) based volume assessment.

RESULTS

Nineteen of 286 patients were eligible for MISTIE. All 19 received the procedure (6.6% enrollment to screening rate 6.6% compared to 1.6% at our center in the trial; p=0.0018). Sixteen patients (84%) achieved evaculation target < 15 mL residual ICH or > 70% removal, compared to 59.7% in the trial surgical cohort (p=0.034). No poor catheter placement occurred and no surgical protocol deviations. Limitations of ICH volume assessments using the ABC/2 method were shown, while AI based methodology of ICH volume assessments had excellent correlation with manual segmentation by experienced reading centers.

CONCLUSIONS

Greater procedure deployment and higher technical success rates can be achieved in post-trial clinical practice than in the MISTIE III trial. AI based measurements can be deployed to enhance clinician estimated ICH volume. Clinical outcome implications of this enhanced technical performance cannot be surmised, and will need assessment in future trials.

Recent Updates in Neurosurgical Interventions for Spontaneous Intracerebral Hemorrhage: Minimally Invasive Surgery to Improve Surgical Performance

The efficacy and safety of surgical treatment for intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) have long been subjects of investigation and debate. The recent results of the minimally invasive surgery plus alteplase for intracerebral hemorrhage evacuation (MISTIE) III trial demonstrated the safety of the procedure and a reduction in mortality compared to medical treatment. Although no improvement in functional outcomes was shown, the trial elucidated that benefits of intervention depend on surgical performance: a greater ICH reduction, defined as ≤ 15 mL end of treatment ICH volume or ≥70% volume reduction, correlated with significant functional improvement. Recent meta-analyses suggested the benefits of neurosurgical hematoma evacuation, especially when performed earlier and done using minimally invasive procedures. In MISTIE III, to confirm hemostasis and reduce the risk of rebleeding, the mean time from onset to surgery and treatment completion took 47 and 123 h, respectively. Theoretically, the earlier the hematoma is removed, the better the outcome. Therefore, a higher rate of hematoma reduction within an earlier time course may be beneficial. Neuroendoscopic surgery enables less invasive removal of ICH under direct visualization. Minimally invasive procedures have continued to evolve with the support of advanced guidance systems and devices in favor of better surgical performance. Ongoing randomized controlled trials utilizing emerging minimally invasive techniques, such as the Early Minimally Invasive Removal of Intra Cerebral Hemorrhage (ENRICH) trial, Minimally Invasive Endoscopic Surgical Treatment with Apollo/Artemis in Patients with Brain Hemorrhage (INVEST) trial, and the Dutch Intracerebral Hemorrhage Surgery Trial (DIST), may provide significant information on the optimal treatment for ICH.

Intracerebral Hemorrhage Volume Reduction and Timing of Intervention Versus Functional Benefit and Survival in the MISTIE III and STICH Trials

BACKGROUND

The extent of intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) removal conferred survival and functional benefits in the minimally invasive surgery with thrombolysis in intracerebral hemorrhage evacuation (MISTIE) III trial. It is unclear whether this similarly impacts outcome with craniotomy (open surgery) or whether timing from ictus to intervention influences outcome with either procedure.

OBJECTIVE

To compare volume evacuation and timing of surgery in relation to outcomes in the MISTIE III and STICH (Surgical Trial in Intracerebral Hemorrhage) trials.

METHODS

Postoperative scans were performed in STICH II, but not in STICH I; therefore, surgical MISTIE III cases with lobar hemorrhages (n = 84) were compared to STICH II all lobar cases (n = 259) for volumetric analyses. All MISTIE III surgical patients (n = 240) were compared to both STICH I and II (n = 722) surgical patients for timing analyses. These were investigated using cubic spline modeling and multivariate risk adjustment.

RESULTS

End-of-treatment ICH volume ≤28.8 mL in MISTIE III and ≤30.0 mL in STICH II had increased probability of modified Rankin Scale (mRS) 0 to 3 at 180 d (P = .01 and P = .003, respectively). The effect in the MISTIE cohort remained significant after multivariate risk adjustments. Earlier surgery within 62 h of ictus had a lower probability of achieving an mRS 0 to 3 at 180 d with STICH I and II (P = .0004), but not with MISTIE III. This remained significant with multivariate risk adjustments. There was no impact of timing until intervention on mortality up to 47 h with either procedure.

CONCLUSION

Thresholds of ICH removal influenced outcome with both procedures to a similar extent. There was a similar likelihood of achieving a good outcome with both procedures within a broad therapeutic time window.

Thrombolysis for Evacuation of Intracerebral and Intraventricular Hemorrhage: A Guide to Surgical Protocols With Practical Lessons Learned From the MISTIE and CLEAR Trials

BACKGROUND

Minimally Invasive Surgery Plus Recombinant Tissue Plasminogen Activator for Intracerebral Hemorrhage Evacuation (MISTIE) procedure was recently tested in a large phase III randomized trial showing a significant probability of functional benefit in those cases that reached the goal hematoma evacuation of ≤15 mL residual (or ≥70% removal). Benefit of thrombolysis was also identified in cases with large intraventricular hemorrhage, and achieving at least 85% volume reduction in the Evaluating Accelerated Resolution of Intraventricular Hemorrhage (CLEAR) III trial.

OBJECTIVE

To protocolize steps in the MISTIE and CLEAR procedures in order to maximize hematoma evacuation and minimize complications.

METHODS

We articulate data-driven lessons and expert opinions surrounding the factors of patient selection, catheter placement, and dosing, which impacted safety and surgical performance in the MISTIE and CLEAR trials.

RESULTS

Modifiable factors to maximize evacuation efficiency include optimizing catheter placement and pursuing aggressive dosing to achieve treatment goals, while strictly adhering to the safety steps as articulated in the respective trials. Prognostic factors that are viewed as nonmodifiable include greater initial intracerebral hemorrhage volume with irregular shape, smaller intraventricular bleeds, and the uncommon but consequential development of new bleeding during the dosing period despite strict protocol adherence.

CONCLUSIONS

Surgeon education in this tutorial is aimed at maximizing the benefit of the MISTIE and CLEAR procedures by reviewing case selection, safety steps, treatment objectives, and technical nuances. Key lessons include stability imaging, etiology screening, and technical adherence to the protocol in order to achieve defined thresholds of evacuation.