Medical complications after subarachnoid hemorrhage: new strategies for prevention and management

Effect of plasma transfusion on in-hospital mortality and morbidities in patients with spontaneous subarachnoid hemorrhage

OBJECTIVE

Spontaneous subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) is a critical condition in which patients may require plasma transfusion during hospitalization. However, it remains unknown whether plasma administration has detrimental effects on the prognosis of SAH beyond the correction of coagulopathy or hypovolemia. This study aimed to analyze the association of plasma transfusion with in-hospital mortality and morbidities in patients with SAH.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed the data of 1689 adult patients with a primary diagnosis of spontaneous SAH. Differences in the clinical parameters were evaluated between patients who received plasma transfusion and those who did not.

RESULTS

Of 1689 patients, 158 (9.4%) received plasma transfusion. Statistical analysis revealed significant differences in pre-existing comorbidity prevalence between the two study groups. The post-SAH morbidities, including cerebral ischemic events (13.3% vs. 6.4%; p = 0.01), were more common in the plasma transfusion group, whereas the mortality rate was not different between the two study groups (p = 0.166). The mean duration of hospital stay was 19.3 ± 14.4 days and 15.1 ± 15.2 days for patients with and without plasma transfusion, respectively (p = 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Plasma transfusion following spontaneous SAH is not uncommon. Although the in-hospital mortality rate does not increase following plasma transfusion, cerebral ischemic events as well as other morbidities are more frequent in patients receiving plasma transfusion. Therefore, the indication for plasma transfusion following SAH needs careful weighing and should be further defined by well-controlled studies.

A Nationwide Analysis of Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage Mortality, Complications, and Health Economics in the USA

Aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) is a devastating neurological condition. Endovascular coiling or surgical clipping have equivocal success rates, but relatively little is known regarding the health economics and complications of these procedures at the population level. We aimed to analyze the complication profiles and healthcare resource utilization (HRCU) associated with the treatment of aSAH in the USA. We performed a retrospective analysis utilizing the IBM MarketScan database between 2008 and 2015. Primary outcomes included economic analysis stratified by post-operative complication; determination of the effect of several factors on total cost by multivariable regression; and analysis of the incidence, timing, and associated HCRU of aSAH-related post-operative complications. Of the 2374 patients meeting inclusion criteria for economic analysis, 1783 (75.1%) patients had at least one of the ten complications. The most common complications included hydrocephalus (43.8%), transient cerebral ischemia (including vasospasm) (30.6%), ischemic stroke (29.1%), syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone (SIADH)/hyposmolarity/hyponatremia (22.1%), and seizures (14.9%). Patients who experienced complications had higher median 90-day total costs [$161,127 (Q1 to Q3, $101,411 to $257,662)] than those who did not [$97,376 (Q1 to Q3, $55,692 to $147,447)]. Length of stay was longest for those with pulmonary embolism and pneumonia (27 days) and shortest for those with SIADH/hyposmolarity/hyponatremia (16 days). Brain compression/herniation had the highest mortality rate (19.5%). In total, 14.6% of all patients experienced a readmission within 30 days. In conclusion, patients with aSAH have high post-operative complication rates and costs. Development of novel interventions to reduce complications and improve outcomes is crucial.

C-reactive protein elevation predicts in-hospital deterioration after aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage: a retrospective observational study

Background

There is increasing evidence that inflammation plays a role in the pathogenesis of aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) and in the development of delayed cerebral ischemia (DCI). However, the assessment and interpretation of classically defined inflammatory parameters is difficult in aSAH patients. The objective of this study was to investigate the relationship between easily assessable findings (hyperventilation, fever, white blood cell count (WBC), and C-reactive protein (CRP)) and the occurrence of DCI and unfavorable neurological outcome at discharge in aSAH patients.

Methods

Retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data from a single center cohort. We evaluated the potential of clinical signs of inflammation (hyperventilation, fever) and simple inflammatory laboratory parameters CRP and WBC to predict unfavorable outcomes at discharge and DCI in a multivariate analysis. A cutoff value for CRP was calculated by Youden’s J statistic. Outcome was measured using the modified Rankin score at discharge, with an unfavorable outcome defined as modified Rankin scale (mRS) > 3.

Results

We included 97 consecutive aSAH patients (63 females, 34 males, mean age 58 years) in the analysis. Twenty-one (22%) had major disability or died by the time of hospital discharge. Among inflammatory parameters, CRP over 100 mg/dl on day 2 was an independent predictor for worse neurological outcome at discharge. The average C-reactive protein level in the first 14 days was higher in patients with a worse neurological outcome (96.6, SD 48.3 vs 56.3 mg/dl, SD 28.6) in the first 14 days after aSAH. C-reactive protein on day 2 was an indicator of worse neurological outcome. No inflammatory parameter was an independent predictor of DCI. After multivariate adjustment, DCI, increased age, and more than 1 day of mechanical ventilation were significant predictors of worse neurological outcome.

Conclusions

Early elevated CRP levels were a significant predictor of worse neurological outcome at hospital discharge and may be a useful marker of later deterioration in aSAH.

Magnesium Levels and Diastolic Blood Pressure (DBP) as a Vasospasm Prediction Metric in Patients With Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage (SAH)

Introduction

Vasospasm is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in patients with aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). The purpose of this study is to evaluate a possible link between vasospasm in patients with aneurysmal SAH and magnesium and blood pressure levels.

Methods

Subjects were selected based on chart review of patients presenting to a comprehensive stroke center in Southern California with aneurysmal SAH. 27 were included based on the following criteria: patients greater than 18 years of age, aneurysmal SAH, clinically symptomatic vasospasms and at least one diagnostic confirmation - either from a transcranial doppler (TCD) or digital subtraction angiogram (DSA). The following exclusion criteria also applied: 1) incomplete documentation in the medical record; 2) patients <18 years of age; and 3) patients without TCD measurements.

Results

In an overall analysis of all patients with or without vasospasm, it was found that the presence of vasospasm was significantly correlated with diastolic blood pressures (DBPs) on day of vasospasm with an r value of 0.418 and p<0.001. Average daily DBPs throughout hospital stay were also correlated with vasospasm with an r-value of 0.455 and p<0.001. Changes in magnesium overall were also significantly related to left Lindegaard ratios with an r value of -0.201 and p value of 0.032. Lindegaard ratios were significantly correlated with age with r values of 0.510, p<0.001, and r=-0.482, p<0.001 for left and right, respectively. A change in magnesium was inversely correlated to the left Lindegaard ratio with an n of 31 and p value of 0.014 (r= -0.439) in patients with vasospasm. We also found a lower incidence of vasospasm in patients older than 65.

Conclusion

Monitoring magnesium and increases in DBP might be effective as a prophylactic adjunct method in patients with SAH in an effort to predict clinical vasospasm.

Readmission into intensive care unit in patients with aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage

Objective

Aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) is a devastating cerebrovascular event; patients are routinely admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) for initial management. Because complications may be delayed, unplanned ICU readmissions can occur. Therefore, in this study we evaluate the rate of and factors associated with readmission after aSAH and identify if readmission is associated with poor clinical outcomes.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of all patients receiving surgical or endovascular treatment for aSAH and admitted to the ICU between January 2008 and December 2019. We categorized patients by readmission and analyzed their clinical parameters.

Results

Of the 345 patients who transferred to ward-level care after an initial ICU stay (Group 2), 27 (7.3%) were readmitted to the ICU (Group 1). History of hypertension (HTN), initial Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score, modified Fisher grade, and vasospasm therapy during first ICU stay were significantly different between the groups. The most common reason for readmission was delayed cerebral ischemia (DCI; 70.3%; OR 5.545; 95% CI 1.25-24.52; p=0.024). Comorbid HTN (OR 5.311; 95% CI 1.75-16.12; p=0.03) and vasospasm therapy during first ICU stay (OR 7.234; 95% CI 2.41-21.7; p＜0.01) also were associated with readmission. Readmitted patients had longer hospital stay and lower GCS scores at discharge (p＜0.01).

Conclusions

DCI was the most common cause of ICU readmission in patients with aSAH. Readmission may indicate clinical deterioration, and patients who are at a high risk for DCI should be monitored to prevent readmission.

Evaluation of the Accuracy of Standard Renal Function Equations in Critically Ill Patients with Subarachnoid Hemorrhage

BACKGROUND

Obtaining an accurate estimation of renal function is germane to optimizing care in critically ill patients. However, there is no consensus on the most accurate renal function assessment to utilize in this patient population, particularly in aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) patients. Thus, the objective of this observational study was to determine the comparability of renal function equations to body surface area (BSA)-adjusted 8-h creatinine clearance (CrCl) in aSAH patients.

METHODS

A PubMed search investigated the applicability of various renal function equations in critically ill patient populations. A subset of these equations was compared to BSA-adjusted 8-h CrCl from a previous study with aSAH patients with no evidence of renal dysfunction (admission serum creatinine < 1.5 mg/dL) and no history of chronic kidney disease. Area-under-the-curve (AUC) calculations were completed using serial laboratory measurements to validate preliminary findings.

RESULTS

A total of 14 renal function equations were identified with seven carried forward for further analysis based upon a priori criteria. Seven equations were excluded for various reasons, including lack of available clinical data, redundancy with other equations, and dissimilar patient populations to this study. When directly compared to the BSA-adjusted 8-h CrCl, only the Cockcroft-Gault and BSA-adjusted Cockcroft-Gault equations were not statistically significantly different (P = 0.0886 and P = 0.4805, respectively); all other equations were statistically significantly different (P < 0.0001). Additionally, only 52% and 44% of patients had average values within 20% of the BSA-adjusted 8-h CrCl using the Cockcroft-Gault and BSA-adjusted Cockcroft-Gault equations, respectively. Finally, the AUC calculations corroborated the preliminary findings with similar results in statistical testing for the Cockcroft-Gault and BSA-adjusted Cockcroft-Gault (P = 0.6300 and P = 0.1513, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

The Cockcroft-Gault equation may be the best renal function equation to assess in critically ill patients diagnosed with aSAH. However, accuracy and consistency in assessing renal function when compared to the BSA-adjusted 8-h CrCl were lacking. Thus, this study suggests the BSA-adjusted 8-h CrCl may be the most appropriate assessment of renal function in patients with aSAH.

Complications of external cerebrospinal fluid drainage in aneurysmal subarachnoid haemorrhage

Background

The need for external cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) drains in aneurysmal subarachnoid haemorrhage (aSAH) patients is common and might lead to additional complications.

Objective

A relation between the presence of an external CSF drain and complication risk is investigated.

Methods

A prospective complication registry was analysed retrospectively. We included all adult aSAH patients admitted to our academic hospital between January 2016 and January 2018, treated with an external CSF drain. Demographic data, type of external drain used, the severity of the aSAH and complications, up to 30 days after drain placement, were registered. Complications were divided into (1) complications with a direct relation to the external CSF drain and (2) complications that could not be directly related to the use of an external CSF drain referred to as medical complications

Results

One hundred and forty drains were implanted in 100 aSAH patients. In total, 112 complications occurred in 59 patients. Thirty-six complications were drain related and 76 were medical complications. The most common complication was infection (n = 34). Drain dislodgement occurred 16 times, followed by meningitis (n = 11) and occlusion (n = 9). A Poisson model showed that the mean number of complications raised by 2.9% for each additional day of drainage (95% CI: 0.6–5.3% p = 0.01).

Conclusion

Complications are common in patients with aneurysmal subarachnoid haemorrhage of which 32% are drain-related. A correlation is present between drainage period and the number of complications. Therefore, reducing drainage period could be a target for further improvement of care.

Enhanced Renal Clearance in Patients With Hemorrhagic Stroke

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate enhanced renal clearance over time in patients with aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage or intracerebral hemorrhage via measured creatinine clearance and to compare measured creatinine clearance to creatinine clearance calculated by the Cockcroft-Gault equation and estimated glomerular filtration rate calculated by the Modification of Diet in Renal Diseases equation.

DESIGN

Prospective, observational study.

SETTING

Neurosciences ICU in a tertiary care academic medical center.

PATIENTS

Study participants had an admission diagnosis of aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage or intracerebral hemorrhage, an expected neurosciences ICU length of stay greater than 48 hours, no evidence of renal dysfunction (admission serum creatinine < 1.5 mg/dL), and no history of chronic kidney disease.

INTERVENTIONS

Eight-hour urine collections to measure creatinine clearance were collected daily as the primary method of measuring renal function. Creatinine clearance was also calculated using the Cockcroft-Gault equation and estimated glomerular filtration rate was calculated using the Modification of Diet in Renal Disease equation. Enhanced renal clearance was defined as a measured creatinine clearance greater than the calculated creatinine clearance via Cockcroft-Gault and estimated glomerular filtration rate via Modification of Diet in Renal Disease. Augmented renal clearance was defined by a measured creatinine clearance greater than or equal to 130 mL/min/1.73 m. Relevant demographic, clinical, and outcome data were recorded.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

Fifty aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage patients and 30 intracerebral hemorrhage patients were enrolled, contributing 590 individual measurements. Patients with aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage had a higher mean measured creatinine clearance compared with the mean calculated creatinine clearance based on the Cockcroft-Gault equation (147.9 ± 50.2 vs 109.1 ± 32.7 mL/min/1.73 m; p < 0.0001) and higher mean measured creatinine clearance compared with the mean calculated estimated glomerular filtration rate based on the Modification of Diet in Renal Disease equation (147.9 ± 50.2 vs 126.0 ± 41.9 mL/min/1.73 m; p = 0.04). Ninety-four percent of participants with aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage experienced augmented renal clearance on at least 1 day. In patients with intracerebral hemorrhage, there was a higher mean measured creatinine clearance over the study period compared with the mean calculated creatinine clearance (119.5 ± 57.2 vs 77.8 ± 27.6 mL/min/1.73 m; p < 0.0001) and higher mean measured creatinine clearance compared with the mean calculated estimated glomerular filtration rate based on the Modification of Diet in Renal Disease equation (119.5 ± 57.2 vs 93.0.0 ± 32.8 mL/min/1.73 m; p = 0.02). Fifty percent of participants with intracerebral hemorrhage experienced augmented renal clearance on at least 1 day.

CONCLUSIONS

A substantial group of patients with aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage or intracerebral hemorrhage experienced enhanced renal clearance, which may be otherwise unknown to clinicians. Enhanced renal clearance may lead to increased renal solute elimination over what is expected, resulting in subtherapeutic renally eliminated drug concentrations. This may result in underexposure to critical medications, leading to treatment failure and other medical complications.

Enhanced renal clearance and impact on vancomycin pharmacokinetic parameters in patients with hemorrhagic stroke

BACKGROUND

The majority of patients with hemorrhagic stroke experience enhanced renal clearance or augmented renal clearance (ARC). The purpose of this study was to determine the impact of enhanced renal clearance or ARC on vancomycin pharmacokinetic (PK) parameters.

METHODS

This was a post hoc analysis of a prospective study of adult patients with aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) or intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) admitted to the neurosciences intensive care unit who received vancomycin. Creatinine clearance (CrCl) was measured and also estimated using the Cockcroft-Gault equation. Predicted PK parameters were compared with calculated PK parameters using serum peak and trough concentrations.

RESULTS

Seventeen hemorrhagic stroke patients met inclusion criteria. All patients experienced enhanced renal clearance on the day that the vancomycin concentrations were obtained, and 12 patients (71%) experienced ARC. The mean calculated elimination rate constant was significantly higher than the predicted value (0.141 ± 0.02 vs. 0.087 ± 0.01 h-1; p = 0.004) and the mean calculated half-life was significantly lower than the predicted half-life (6.5 ± 0.9 vs. 8.7 ± 0.6 h; p = 0.03).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with hemorrhagic stroke and enhanced renal clearance displayed PK alterations favoring an increased elimination of vancomycin than expected. This may result in underexposure to vancomycin, leading to treatment failure.

Clazosentan for Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage: An Updated Meta-Analysis with Trial Sequential Analysis

OBJECTIVE

Clazosentan, an endothelin receptor antagonist, reduced vasospasm and delayed ischemic neurologic deficit (DIND) but did not improve outcome after subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) in clinical trials. However, a lack of dose-dependent analysis and potential overestimation of clazosentan's effect are concerning. We used stratified analysis and trial sequential analysis (TSA) of existing data to investigate the effects of clazosentan on SAH outcome.

METHODS

Studies from PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane were reviewed for eligibility. Primary outcomes were DIND requiring rescue therapy, all-cause mortality, and vasospasm-related morbidity at 6 weeks. Secondary outcomes were moderate-to-severe angiographic vasospasm, new cerebral infarction, and poor clinical outcome at 3 months. TSA was performed to assess the required information size and the α-spending monitoring boundary effect of relative risk (RR) reduction. A stratified analysis of clazosentan dosage was performed.

RESULTS

Five studies (N = 2317) were included. Clazosentan significantly reduced the risk of DIND requiring rescue therapy (RR, 0.625; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.462-0.846) and vasospasm (RR, 0.543; 95% CI, 0.464-0.635), but did not significantly affect mortality or vasospasm-related morbidity (RR, 0.775; 95% CI, 0.578-1.039), new cerebral infarction (RR, 0.604; 95% CI, 0.383-0.952), or outcome (RR, 1.131; 95% CI, 0.959-1.334). TSA revealed that the studies were underpowered to evaluate the effects of clazosentan on mortality and vasospasm-associated morbidity. We found 10-15 mg/h of clazosentan administration was associated with lower rates of vasospasm and new cerebral infarctions compared with 5 mg/h.

CONCLUSIONS

Clazosentan reduced the risk of DIND requiring rescue therapy and moderate-to-severe vasospasm. Further meta-analyses based on individual patient data with different clazosentan doses and more refined outcome measures are necessary to clarify clazosentan's efficacy in improving post-SAH outcome.

Hyperinsulinaemic Euglycaemic Therapy Use in Neurogenic Stunned Myocardium following Subarachnoid Haemorrhage

We present a 62-year-old female who collapsed with a subarachnoid haemorrhage. This was complicated by profound shock secondary to neurogenic stunned myocardium. As the patient demonstrated life-threatening catecholamine-resistant shock that was unresponsive to conventional treatment measures, hyperinsulinaemic euglycaemic therapy was utilised as a rescue therapy. To our knowledge this has not previously been described in the literature. The patient proceeded to stabilise and made a good recovery.

Serum glutamine and hospital-acquired infections after aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage

OBJECTIVE

To understand nutritional and inflammatory factors contributing to serum glutamine levels and their relationship to hospital-acquired infections (HAIs) after aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH).

METHODS

A prospective observational study of patients with SAH who had measurements of daily caloric intake and C-reactive protein, transthyretin, tumor necrosis factor α receptor 1a (TNFαR1a), glutamine, and nitrogen balance performed within 4 preset time periods during the 14 days after SAH. Factors associated with glutamine levels and HAIs were analyzed with multivariable regression. HAIs were tracked daily for time-to-event analyses. Outcome 3 months after SAH was assessed by the Telephone Interview for Cognitive Status and modified Rankin Scale.

RESULTS

There were 77 patients with an average age of 55 ± 15 years. HAIs developed in 18 (23%) on mean SAH day 8 ± 3. In a multivariable linear regression model, negative nitrogen balance (p = 0.02) and elevated TNFαR1a (p = 0.04) were independently associated with higher glutamine levels during the study period. The 14-day mean glutamine levels were lower in patients who developed HAI (166 ± 110 vs 236 ± 81 μg/mL, p = 0.004). Poor admission Hunt and Hess grade (p = 0.04) and lower glutamine levels (p = 0.02) predicted time to first HAI. Low 14-day mean levels of glutamine were associated with a poor recovery on the Telephone Interview for Cognitive Status score (p = 0.03) and modified Rankin Scale score (p = 0.04) at 3 months after injury.

CONCLUSIONS

Declining glutamine levels in the first 14 days after SAH are influenced by inflammation and associated with an increased risk of HAI.

Spontaneous Elevation of Blood Pressure After SAH: An Epiphenomenon of Disease Severity and Demand, But Not a Surrogate for Outcome?

BACKGROUND

Spontaneous blood pressure increase is frequently observed after aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH). These episodes of spontaneous blood pressure alterations are usually tolerated under the assumption of an endogenous response to maintain cerebral perfusion. The relevance of blood pressure variability and its relationship to disease severity and outcome, however, remain obscure.

METHODS

A total of 115 consecutive patients with aSAH were included for this retrospective analysis of a continuously collected data pool. Demographics, initial clinical severity of aSAH (HH°, mFS), treatment modality, clinical course, and outcome (development of DCI, cerebral infarction, and GOS after 3 months) were recorded. Hemodynamic information-recorded automatically with a frequency of 1/15 min-was analyzed for spontaneous blood pressure increase (SBI) and endogenous persistent hypertension (EPH) after exclusion of iatrogenic factors and relevant co-medication. Subgroup analysis included stratification for day 0-3, 4-14, and 14-21.

RESULTS

SBI and EPH incidence varied from 17 to 84% depending on detection threshold (15-35 mmHg) and time period under scrutiny. Incidence of blood pressure increase correlated with disease severity upon admission (p < 0.05), but the anticipated association with outcome was not observed. SBI and EPH were more likely to occur between day 4 and 14 (p < 0.001), but only early occurrence (day 0-3) was associated with higher incidence of DCI (p < 0.05). Persistent blood pressure elevation between day 4 and 21 was associated with fewer DCI. However, no influence of spontaneous upregulation on clinical outcome after three months was observed.

CONCLUSIONS

Spontaneous hemodynamic upregulation is a frequent phenomenon after aSAH. Our data support the hypothesis that spontaneous blood pressure alterations reflect an endogenous, demand-driven response correlating with disease severity. Early alterations may indicate an aggravated clinical course, while later upregulation in particular-if permitted-does not translate into a higher risk of unfavorable outcome.

Aneurysmal SubArachnoid Hemorrhage-Red Blood Cell Transfusion And Outcome (SAHaRA): a pilot randomised controlled trial protocol

INTRODUCTION

Anaemia is common in aneurysmal subarachnoid haemorrhage (aSAH) and is a potential critical modifiable factor affecting secondary injury. Despite physiological evidence and management guidelines that support maintaining a higher haemoglobin level in patients with aSAH, current practice is one of a more restrictive approach to transfusion. The goal of this multicentre pilot trial is to determine the feasibility of successfully conducting a red blood cell (RBC) transfusion trial in adult patients with acute aSAH and anaemia (Hb ≤100 g/L), comparing a liberal transfusion strategy (Hb ≤100 g/L) with a restrictive strategy (Hb ≤80 g/L) on the combined rate of death and severe disability at 12 months.

METHODS

Design This is a multicentre open-label randomised controlled pilot trial at 5 academic tertiary care centres. Population We are targeting adult aSAH patients within 14 days of their initial bleed and with anaemia (Hb ≤110 g/L). Randomisation Central computer-generated randomisation, stratified by centre, will be undertaken from the host centre. Randomisation into 1 of the 2 treatment arms will occur when the haemoglobin levels of eligible patients fall to ≤100 g/L. Intervention Patients will be randomly assigned to either a liberal (threshold: Hb ≤100 g/L) or a restrictive transfusion strategy (threshold: Hb ≤80 g/L). Outcome Primary: Centre randomisation rate over the study period. Secondary: (1) transfusion threshold adherence; (2) study RBC transfusion protocol adherence; and (3) outcome assessment including vital status at hospital discharge, modified Rankin Score at 6 and 12 months and Functional Independence Measure and EuroQOL Quality of Life Scale scores at 12 months. Outcome measures will be reported in aggregate.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

The study protocol has been approved by the host centre (OHSN-REB 20150433-01H). This study will determine the feasibility of conducting the large pragmatic RCT comparing 2 RBC transfusion strategies examining the effect of a liberal strategy on 12-month outcome following aSAH.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT02483351; Pre-results.

Electrocardiographic Abnormalities Predict Adverse Clinical Outcomes in Patients with Subarachnoid Hemorrhage

BACKGROUND

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of a large sample to assess whether electrocardiographic (ECG) abnormalities are independently associated with the occurrence of neurogenic pulmonary edema (NPE), delayed cerebral ischemia (DCI), and in-hospital death after nontraumatic subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH).

METHODS

In this retrospective observational study, patients who were admitted within 72 hours of SAH symptom onset between 2013 and 2015 were enrolled. Twelve-lead ECG findings obtained within 72 hours after SAH and the presence of NPE, DCI, and in-hospital death were collected based on the results reported in the medical records.

RESULTS

We included 834 patients. NPE occurred in 192 patients (23%). The median delay from SAH onset to NPE was 3 days (interquartile range [IQR]: 5 days). DCI occurred in 223 patients (27%; median delay to DCI, 4 days; IQR: 5 days). In total, 141 patients (17%) died in the hospital (median time to death, 12 days; IQR: 18 days). The frequency of ECG abnormalities for all enrolled patients was 65%. Corrected QT prolongation had an adjusted risk ratio (RR) of 1.5 (1.1-2.2) for NPE and 1.8 (1.3-2.4) for DCI. ST depression had an adjusted RR of 3.0 (1.2-7.5) for in-hospital death. NSSTTCs (nonspecific ST- or T-wave changes) had an adjusted RR of 2.7 (1.8-4.2) for NPE, 2.8 (1.9-4.3) for DCI, and 2.2 (1.3-3.5) for in-hospital death. All RRs were adjusted for age and Hunt-Hess scores.

CONCLUSIONS

ECG abnormalities assessed within 72 hours after SAH using a standard 12-lead ECG are independently associated with an increased risk of adverse clinical outcomes in patients with nontraumatic SAH.

Elevated Baseline C-Reactive Protein as a Predictor of Outcome After Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage: Data From the Simvastatin in Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage (STASH) Trial

There remains a proportion of patients with unfavorable outcomes after aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage, of particular relevance in those who present with a good clinical grade. A forewarning of those at risk provides an opportunity towards more intensive monitoring, investigation, and prophylactic treatment prior to the clinical manifestation of advancing cerebral injury.

Subarachnoid Hemorrhage-Triggered Acute Hypotension Is Associated with Left Ventricular Cardiomyocyte Apoptosis in a Rat Model

Whether hypotension that occurs due to neurogenic stunned myocardium after subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) is associated with cardiomyocyte apoptotic cell death remains unknown. In this study, 18 male rats were subjected to sham or the endovascular perforation model of SAH surgery. Based on the mean arterial pressure (MAP) after SAH, rats were separated into SAH with hypotension (SAH hypotension) or SAH with blood pressure preservation (SAH BP preservation) groups. All animals were euthanized 2 h after the surgical procedure. Hearts were removed and separated transversely into base and apex parts, then Western blot analyses and immunohistochemistry were performed only in the apex part. One rat died as a result of severe SAH and two rats with mild SAH were excluded. We analyzed data from 15 rats that were divided into three groups: sham, SAH hypotension, and SAH BP preservation (n = 5, each). There was a significantly higher cleaved caspase-3/caspase-3 ratio in the SAH hypotension group compared with sham and the SAH BP preservation group. Cardiomyocyte apoptosis was demonstrated in the SAH rats. This is the first experimental report that describes SAH-induced neurogenic stunned myocardium with ensuing hypotension may result from the acute apoptotic cardiomyocyte cell death in the left ventricle.

The utility of serum procalcitonin in distinguishing systemic inflammatory response syndrome from infection after aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage

BACKGROUND

Systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) occurs frequently after aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH). It is a clinical challenge to distinguish between SIRS and incipient infection. Procalcitonin (PCT) has been studied among general critical care patients as a biomarker for infection. We hypothesized that PCT could be useful to distinguish SIRS from sepsis in aSAH patients.

METHODS

Prospective, observational study conducted in the multidisciplinary intensive care unit at Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL between August 2009 and September 2010. Main predictor was serum PCT obtained on admission and with subsequent episodes of SIRS. A level of 0.2 ng/mL or higher was considered as elevated PCT. Main outcome was clinical infection, which was subsequently subcategorized into major (systemic) and minor (localized) infections in the sensitivity analysis.

RESULTS

Forty consecutive patients were enrolled. Majority (88 %) developed SIRS during the hospitalization. Infection developed in 16 (40 %) patients, with 6 patients meeting criteria for major infection. Overall, PCT was found to be highly specific for all infections and the subcategory of major infections (97 and 93 %, respectively) with related high negative predictive values. Odds ratio for elevated PCT with clinical infections ranged from 25.2 (95 % CI 2.7-233) to 33.3 (95 % CI 4.3-261) for all and major infections, respectively. Related receiver operating characteristic curves for elevated PCT were 0.74 and 0.96 for all and major infections, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Procalcitonin of 0.2 ng/mL or greater was demonstrated to be very specific for sepsis among patients with aSAH. Further studies should validate this result and establish its clinical applicability.

Inflammation, negative nitrogen balance, and outcome after aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage

OBJECTIVE

To analyze the impact of inflammation and negative nitrogen balance (NBAL) on nutritional status and outcomes after subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH).

METHODS

This was a prospective observational study of SAH patients admitted between May 2008 and June 2012. Measurements of C-reactive protein (CRP), transthyretin (TTR), resting energy expenditure (REE), and NBAL (g/day) were performed over 4 preset time periods during the first 14 postbleed days (PBD) in addition to daily caloric intake. Factors associated with REE and NBAL were analyzed with multivariable linear regression. Hospital-acquired infections (HAI) were tracked daily for time-to-event analyses. Poor outcome at 3 months was defined as a modified Rankin Scale score ≥ 4 and assessed by multivariable logistic regression.

RESULTS

There were 229 patients with an average age of 55 ± 15 years. Higher REE was associated with younger age (p = 0.02), male sex (p < 0.001), higher Hunt Hess grade (p = 0.001), and higher modified Fisher score (p = 0.01). Negative NBAL was associated with lower caloric intake (p < 0.001), higher body mass index (p < 0.001), aneurysm clipping (p = 0.03), and higher CRP:TTR ratio (p = 0.03). HAIs developed in 53 (23%) patients on mean PBD 8 ± 3. Older age (p = 0.002), higher Hunt Hess (p < 0.001), lower caloric intake (p = 0.001), and negative NBAL (p = 0.04) predicted time to first HAI. Poor outcome at 3 months was associated with higher Hunt Hess grade (p < 0.001), older age (p < 0.001), negative NBAL (p = 0.01), HAI (p = 0.03), higher CRP:TTR ratio (p = 0.04), higher body mass index (p = 0.03), and delayed cerebral ischemia (p = 0.04).

CONCLUSIONS

Negative NBAL after SAH is influenced by inflammation and associated with an increased risk of HAI and poor outcome. Underfeeding and systemic inflammation are potential modifiable risk factors for negative NBAL and poor outcome after SAH.

[Patients with subarachnoid haemorrhage in poor grade neurological status: Study of prognostic factors]

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate and predict factors influencing prognosis and/or clinical outcome at 6 months in patients with spontaneous subarachnoid haemorrhage, World Federation of Neurosurgical Societies (WFNS) grades iv and v.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

This was a retrospective study of a consecutive series of 394 patients admitted to our hospital with clinical and radiological diagnosis of spontaneous subarachnoid haemorrhage, from 1 January 1999 to 30 June 2009. We selected 121 patients who met the criteria of being in WFNS grades iv or v before treatment; 3 patients were excluded due to loss of tracking. The outcome variable was assessed 6 months after the event using the Glasgow Outcome Scale. A P value<.05 was considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

One hundred and twenty-one patients were included in the statistical analysis. The average age of the patients in the series was 54 years (14-92). Patients who had a mean Glasgow Coma Scale lower than 7 points (P<.0001), those who were grade v (P<.0001) in the pre-treatment WFNS scale and those with pupillary disorder (P=.002) had a worse clinical outcome. Likewise, those with associated intraparenchymal hematoma (P=.020) and those not receiving any treatment (P=.020) were also associated with a poor clinical outcome. These results were statistically significant.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients admitted with a WFNS grade v and/or presenting pupil disorder and/or intraparenchymal hematoma were associated with worse clinical outcomes.

Preoperative anemia increases postoperative morbidity in elective cranial neurosurgery

Background:

Preoperative anemia may affect postoperative mortality and morbidity following elective cranial operations.

Methods:

The American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) database was used to identify elective cranial neurosurgical cases (2006-2012). Morbidity was defined as wound infection, systemic infection, cardiac, respiratory, renal, neurologic, and thromboembolic events, and unplanned returns to the operating room. For 30-day postoperative mortality and morbidity, adjusted odds ratios (ORs) were estimated with multivariable logistic regression.

Results:

Of 8015 patients who underwent elective cranial neurosurgery, 1710 patients (21.4%) were anemic. Anemic patients had an increased 30-day mortality of 4.1% versus 1.3% in non-anemic patients (P < 0.001) and an increased 30-day morbidity rate of 25.9% versus 14.14% in non-anemic patients (P < 0.001). The 30-day morbidity rates for all patients undergoing cranial procedures were stratified by diagnosis: 26.5% aneurysm, 24.7% sellar tumor, 19.7% extra-axial tumor, 14.8% intra-axial tumor, 14.4% arteriovenous malformation, and 5.6% pain. Following multivariable regression, the 30-day mortality in anemic patients was threefold higher than in non-anemic patients (4.1% vs 1.3%; OR = 2.77; 95% CI: 1.65-4.66). The odds of postoperative morbidity in anemic patients were significantly higher than in non-anemic patients (OR = 1.29; 95% CI: 1.03-1.61). There was a significant difference in postoperative morbidity event odds with a hematocrit level above (OR = 1.07; 95% CI: 0.78-1.48) and below (OR = 2.30; 95% CI: 1.55-3.42) 33% [hemoglobin (Hgb) 11 g/dl].

Conclusions:

Preoperative anemia in elective cranial neurosurgery was independently associated with an increased risk of 30-day postoperative mortality and morbidity when compared to non-anemic patients. A hematocrit level below 33% (Hgb 11 g/dl) was associated with a significant increase in postoperative morbidity.

Acute subdural haemorrhage in the postpartum period as a rare manifestation of possible HELLP (haemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, and low-platelet count) syndrome: a case report

Background

The HELLP syndrome (haemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, and low-platelet count) occurs in about 0.5 to 0.9% of all pregnancies. With occurrence of thrombocytopaenia, it signals for several potentially lethal conditions such as complete or partial HELLP syndrome, thrombotic thrombocytopaenic purpura and acute fatty liver of pregnancy.

Case presentation

A previously healthy 27-year-old, Sinhala ethnic primigravida with pregnancy-induced hypertension was admitted at 38 weeks of gestation with lower abdominal pain and a blood pressure of 140/90 mmHg. She underwent emergency Caesarian section due to faetal distress giving birth to a healthy baby girl. Since postpartum day one, she was having intermittent fever spikes. All the routine investigations were normal in the first three weeks. Platelet count started dropping from post-partum day-20 onwards. On day-23, she had developed a seizure and computed tomography scan brain showed a subdural haemorrhage. She had a platelet count of 22,000 × 10⁹/liter and was managed conservatively. She also had elevated liver enzymes, lactate dehydrogenase and bilirubin levels. Blood picture on day-24 showed haemolytic anemia. On day- 36, patient again developed seizures and she was having intermittent fever with generalized headache and signs of meningism. Computed tomography scan revealed an acute on chronic subdural haemorrhage.

Conclusions

Hypertensive disorders in pregnancy should be managed as high-risk throughout the postpartum period. Development of thrombocytopaenia can be considered as an early warning sign for HELLP, thrombotic thrombocytopaenic purpura or acute fatty liver of pregnancy which are lethal conditions. Prompt recognition of intracranial haemorrhages and early neurosurgical intervention is lifesaving.

Impact of preoperative anemia on outcomes in patients undergoing elective cranial surgery

Object

The objective of this study was to assess whether preoperative anemia in patients undergoing elective cranial surgery influences outcomes in the immediate perioperative period (≤ 30 days).

Methods

The National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) was used to identify 6576 patients undergoing elective cranial surgery between 2006 and 2011. Propensity scores were used to match patients with moderate to severe anemia (moderate-severe) or mild anemia with patients without anemia. Logistic regression analysis was used to predict the outcomes of interest. Sensitivity analyses were used to limit the sample to patients without perioperative transfusion as well as those who underwent craniotomy for definitive resection of a malignant brain tumor.

Results

A total of 6576 patients underwent elective cranial surgery, of whom 175 had moderate-severe anemia and 1868 had mild anemia. Patients with moderate-severe (odds ratio 1.8, 95% CI 1.1–2.8) and mild (odds ratio 1.5, 95% CI 1.3–1.7) anemia were more likely to have prolonged length of stay (LOS) in the hospital compared to those with no anemia. Similarly, in patients who underwent craniotomy for a malignant tumor resection (n = 2537), anemia of any severity was associated with prolonged LOS, but not postoperative complications nor death.

Conclusions

Anemia is not associated with an overall increased risk for adverse outcomes in patients undergoing elective cranial surgery. However, patients with anemia are more likely to experience prolonged hospitalization postoperatively, resulting in increased resource utilization.

Blood transfusion is an important predictor of hospital mortality among patients with aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage

BACKGROUND

Red blood cell (RBC) transfusion after aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) has been associated with increased mortality but prior studies have not adequately adjusted for transfusion-indication bias.

METHODS

This is a retrospective study of consecutive aSAH patients admitted to the intensive care units of two academic medical centers over a 7-year period. Data collection included demographics, World Federation of Neurosurgical Surgeons score (WFNS), modified Fisher score (mFisher), admission and nadir hemoglobin (Hb) level, vasospasm, cerebral infarction, acute lung injury, and hospital mortality. The association between RBC transfusion and mortality was evaluated using a multivariate logistic regression analysis using the propensity for RBC transfusion as a covariate.

RESULTS

We identified 318 patients. The median age was 54 years (46, 65), and 204 (64 %) were females. Hospital mortality was 13 % (42/318). Seventy-two (23 %) patients were transfused. Predictors of transfusion were admit and nadir Hb levels (p < 0.001), age (p = 0.02), gender (0.008), WFNS score (p < 0.001), mFisher score (p = 0.009), surgical versus endovascular treatment (p < 0.001) and moderate to severe vasospasm (p = 0.025) were predictors of transfusion. After adjustment for probability of receiving RBC transfusion, APACHE IV and nadir Hb, transfusion remained independently associated with hospital mortality (OR 3.16, 95 % CI = 1.02-9.69, p = 0.047).

CONCLUSIONS

Among patients with aSAH, RBC transfusion was independently associated with an increased mortality after adjustment for the most common clinical indications for transfusion.

Incidence, risk factors, and outcome of postoperative pneumonia after microsurgical clipping of ruptured intracranial aneurysms

Background:

Occurrence of pneumonia challenges the medical management of patients who have undergone surgery for aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage, and is associated with significant mortality and morbidity. There are very few studies evaluating the incidence and outcome of postoperative pneumonia in patients undergoing microsurgical clipping of ruptured intracranial aneurysms. The aim of this study was to determine the incidence, risk factors, and outcome of postoperative pneumonia in patients undergoing surgery for ruptured intracranial aneurysms.

Methods:

All patients operated for intracranial aneurysms, over a period of 9 months, were included prospectively. They were studied for risk factors predisposing them to pneumonia and their outcomes were noted at discharge. Patients with predisposing chronic lung disease, preexisting pneumonia, and chronic smoking habits were excluded.

Results:

One hundred and three patients [Mean age: 46.01 years; M:F – 58:45] underwent microsurgical clipping of aneurysm during the study period. Of these, 28 patients (27.2%) developed postoperative pneumonia. The variables associated with postoperative pneumonia were: [Preoperative] age >50 years, Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) at presentation <15 and Hunt and Hess grade before surgery >2; [postoperative] duration of surgery >3 hours, GCS <15 after complete reversal from anesthesia, duration of intubation in the postoperative period >48 hours, tracheostomy, postoperative ventilation, intensive care unit (ICU) stay >5 days. Predictive factors for postoperative pneumonia by multivariate analysis were: Postoperative endotracheal intubation >48 hours, tracheostomy and ICU stay >5 days.

Conclusions:

There is a high incidence of postoperative pneumonia and mortality associated with pneumonia (27.2% and 9.7%, respectively in our study) in patients of ruptured intracranial aneurysms undergoing microsurgical clipping at our center, with Acinetobacter species being the predominant causative organism.

[Aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage]

Acute subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) is a severe and acute life-threatening cerebrovascular disease. Approximately 80% of all acute non-traumatic SAHs are the result of a ruptured cerebrovascular aneurysm. Despite advances in diagnosis and treatment a high morbidity and mortality still exists. Apart from the primary cerebral damage there are also secondary complications, such as vasospasm, rebleeding, hydrocephalus, cerebral edema or hydrocephalus. For an appropriate therapy an understanding of the extensive pathophysiology, the options in diagnostics and therapy and the complications of the disease are essential. Anesthesiologists are decisively involved in the therapy of the primary and secondary damages and subsequently in the outcome as well. This article provides an overview of the perioperative and intensive care management of patients with SAH.

Intensive Care Management of Subarachnoid Haemorrhage

Aneurysmal subarachnoid haemorrhage (SAH) is a devastating disease associated with high mortality and poor outcome in many survivors. Aggressive treatment by a comprehensive multidisciplinary team is associated with improved outcome, but the intensive care management of SAH presents significant challenges. Multimodal neuromonitoring may detect secondary insults before irreversible neuronal damage has occurred, and is increasingly being used to guide treatment. This article reviews current trends in the intensive care management of SAH from aspects of initial resuscitation to recent developments in the prevention and management of complications, including delayed cerebral ischaemia. Evidence from clinical trials and recent consensus guidance is reviewed.

Hemoglobin levels and transfusions in neurocritically ill patients: a systematic review of comparative studies

Introduction

Accumulating evidence suggests that, in critically ill patients, a lower hemoglobin transfusion threshold is safe. However, the optimal hemoglobin level and associated transfusion threshold remain unknown in neurocritically ill patients.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review of comparative studies (randomized and nonrandomized) to evaluate the effect of hemoglobin levels on mortality, neurologic function, intensive care unit (ICU) and hospital length of stay, duration of mechanical ventilation, and multiple organ failure in adult and pediatric neurocritically ill patients. We searched MEDLINE, The Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Embase, Web of Knowledge, and Google Scholar. Studies focusing on any neurocritical care conditions were included. Data are presented by using odds ratios for dichotomous outcomes and mean differences for continuous outcomes.

Results

Among 4,310 retrieved records, six studies met inclusion criteria (n = 537). Four studies were conducted in traumatic brain injury (TBI), one in subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH), and one in a mixed population of neurocritically ill patients. The minimal hemoglobin levels or transfusion thresholds ranged from 7 to 10 g/dl in the lower-Hb groups and from 9.3 to 11.5 g/dl in the higher-Hb groups. Three studies had a low risk of bias, and three had a high risk of bias. No effect was observed on mortality, duration of mechanical ventilation, or multiple organ failure. In studies reporting on length of stay (n = 4), one reported a significant shorter ICU stay (mean, -11.4 days (95% confidence interval, -16.1 to -6.7)), and one, a shorter hospital stay (mean, -5.7 days (-10.3 to -1.1)) in the lower-Hb groups, whereas the other two found no significant association.

Conclusions

We found insufficient evidence to confirm or refute a difference in effect between lower- and higher-Hb groups in neurocritically ill patients. Considering the lack of evidence regarding long-term neurologic functional outcomes and the high risk of bias of half the studies, no recommendation can be made regarding which hemoglobin level to target and which associated transfusion strategy (restrictive or liberal) to favor in neurocritically ill patients.

Timing of aneurysm treatment after subarachnoid hemorrhage: relationship with delayed cerebral ischemia and poor outcome

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

The ideal timing of coiling or clipping after aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage is unknown. Within the International Subarachnoid Aneurysm Trial we assessed differences in incidence of delayed cerebral ischemia and clinical outcome between different timings of treatment.

METHODS

The treated 2106 patients randomized to coiling or clipping were divided into 4 categories: treatment <2 days, on days 3 to 4, on days 5 to 10, and >10 days after the hemorrhage. ORs with 95% CI were calculated with logistic regression analysis for delayed cerebral ischemia, poor outcome at 2 months, and 1 year for the different timing categories, with treatment <2 days as reference. Analyses were performed for all patients, and for coiled and clipped patients separately, and were adjusted for baseline characteristics.

RESULTS

Adjusted ORs of delayed cerebral ischemia for treatment on days 5 to 10 were 1.18 (95% CI, 0.91-1.53) for all patients, 1.68 (95% CI, 1.17-2.43) after coiling, and 0.79 (95% CI, 0.54-1.16) after clipping. ORs for poor outcome at 2 months were 1.16 (95% CI, 0.89-1.50) for treatment (clipping and coiling combined) at 3 to 4 days, 1.39 (95% CI, 1.08-1.80) for treatment at 5 to 10 days, and 1.84 (95% CI, 1.36-2.51) for treatment >10 days. ORs for coiled and clipped patients separately were in the same range. Results for outcome at 1 year were similar.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results support the current practice for early aneurysm treatment in subarachnoid hemorrhage patients. The risk for poor outcome was highest when treatment was performed after day 10; postponing treatment in patients who are eligible for treatment between days 5 to 10 after subarachnoid hemorrhage is not recommended.

Anemia and transfusion after subarachnoid hemorrhage

Delayed cerebral ischemia after subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) may be affected by a number of factors, including cerebral blood flow and oxygen delivery. Anemia affects about half of patients with SAH and is associated with worse outcome. Anemia also may contribute to the development of or exacerbate delayed cerebral ischemia. This review was designed to examine the prevalence and impact of anemia in patients with SAH and to evaluate the effects of transfusion. A literature search was made to identify original research on anemia and transfusion in SAH patients. A total of 27 articles were identified that addressed the effects of red blood cell transfusion (RBCT) on brain physiology, anemia in SAH, and clinical management with RBCT or erythropoietin. Most studies provided retrospectively analyzed data of very low-quality according to the GRADE criteria. While RBCT can have beneficial effects on brain physiology, RBCT may be associated with medical complications, infection, vasospasm, and poor outcome after SAH. The effects may vary with disease severity or the presence of vasospasm, but it remains unclear whether RBCTs are a marker of disease severity or a cause of worse outcome. Erythropoietin data are limited. The literature review further suggests that the results of the Transfusion Requirements in Critical Care Trial and subsequent observational studies on RBCT in general critical care do not apply to SAH patients and that randomized trials to address the role of RBCT in SAH are required.

Relationship between C-reactive protein, systemic oxygen consumption, and delayed cerebral ischemia after aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) is known to result in elevated systemic oxygen consumption (Vo(2)) and increases in high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP), although the relationship among hsCRP, Vo(2), and delayed cerebral ischemia (DCI) after SAH remains unknown. We hypothesized that hsCRP is directly associated with Vo(2) and that elevated Vo(2) is a predictor of DCI after SAH.

METHODS

Prospective serial assessments of Vo(2) and hsCRP over 4 prespecified time periods during the first 14 days after bleed in consecutive SAH patients admitted to a single academic medical center for a 2-year period.

RESULTS

One hundred ten SAH patients met study criteria (mean age, 55±16 years; 62% women), with a median admission Hunt Hess grade of 3 (interquartile range, 2-4). In multivariate generalized estimating equation model of the first 14 days after bleed, Vo(2) was associated with younger age (P=0.01), male gender (P=0.01), and hsCRP levels (P=0.03). Twenty-four (22%) patients had DCI develop, with a median onset on day 7 after bleed (interquartile range, 5-11). The mean Vo(2) (291±65 mL/min versus 226±55 mL/min; P=0.003) was higher in DCI patients. In a multivariable Cox proportional hazards model, younger age (hazard ratio, 1.2 per 5 years; 95% CI, 1.1-1.3), a higher modified Fisher scale score (hazard ratio, 3.4 per 1-point increase; 95% CI, 1.7-6.9), and higher Vo(2) (HR, 1.2 per 50-mL/min increase; 95% CI, 1.1-1.3) were predictive of DCI.

CONCLUSIONS

Systemic oxygen consumption is associated with hsCRP levels in the first 14 days after SAH and is an independent predictor of DCI.

[Protective measures against cerebral ischemia following subarachnoid hemorrhage: Part 1]

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Cerebral vasospasm following aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage contributes significantly to morbidity and mortality. Many studies on the various treatments aimed at preventing cerebral vasospasm have been carried out, but evidence of efficacy is limited. Our aim was to review the literature on the various therapies for which there is scientific evidence of protection against cerebral vasospasm following aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage.

METHODS

MEDLINE search (1950 to the october 2009) and review of articles found on the prevention of cerebral vasospasm following aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage. The search was restricted to articles in English, French, and Spanish. The keywords were cerebral vasospasm, subarachnoid hemorrhage, therapy, nimodipine, triple H, clazosentan, statins, and magnesium in addition to the word forms derived from them. We also searched manually for references cited in the selected articles. A title was included if it was a randomized controlled trial, meta-analysis, nonrandomized clinical trial, descriptive study, observational study with statistical analysis, opinion article, or expert review.

RESULTS

Part 1 analyzed treatment with calcium antagonists and triple-H therapy (hypertension, hemodilution, and hypervolemia). Part 2 analyzed new therapies such as clazosentan, magnesium, and statins. A total of 597 titles were located; 283 were initially selected. The 61 articles finally selected for review were of the following types: 2 opinion articles, 21 randomized controlled trials, 22 expert review articles, 3 meta-analyses, 4 nonrandomized clinical trials, 1 descriptive study, and 5 observational studies with statistical analysis. Three studies (2 meta-analyses and 1 randomized controlled trial) demonstrated that nimodipine use confers benefits (reduced morbidity and mortality) for patients with aneurysmatic subarachnoid hemorrhage. Statistically significant clinical benefits could not be demonstrated for the other drugs (clazosentan, statins, and magnesium).

CONCLUSIONS

Insufficient evidence is available to support the use of the triple-H therapy, clazosentan, statins, or magnesium sulfate for the prevention of cerebral vasospasm following subarachnoid hemorrhage. Nimodipine is the only preventative treatment that can be recommended.

Proximity to the treating centre and outcomes following subarachnoid hemorrhage

BACKGROUND

In the management of subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH), the potential for early complications and the centralization of limited resources often challenge the delivery of timely neurosurgical care. We sought to determine the impact of proximity to the accepting neurosurgical centre on outcomes following aneurysmal SAH.

METHODS

Using administrative data, we analyzed patients undergoing treatment for aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage at neurosurgical centres in Ontario between 1995 and 2004. We compared mortality for patients receiving treatment at a centre in their county (in-county) versus those treated from outside counties (out-of-county). We also examined the impact of distance from the patient's residence to the treating centre.

RESULTS

The mortality rates were significantly lower for in-county versus out-of-county patients (23.5% vs. 27.6%, p=0.009). This advantage remained significant after adjusting for potential confounders (HR=0.84, p=0.01). The relationship between distance from the treating centre and mortality was biphasic. Under 300 km, mortality increased with increasing distance. Over 300 km, a survival benefit was observed.

CONCLUSIONS

Proximity to the treating neurosurgical centre impacts survival after aneurysmal SAH. These results have significant implications for the triage of these critically ill patients.

Effect of weekend admission on in-hospital mortality after subarachnoid hemorrhage in Chongqing China

BACKGROUND

Medical resources are usually not the same throughout the week. It is reported that the mortality rate of some disease was higher in patients admitted on weekends than on weekdays. Our study will try to evaluate whether this "weekend effect" acts on in-hospital mortality rate after SAH.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective study of patients with SAH admitted to our hospital from January 2006-2009. Patients were classified according to their admission days. The following information, including patient demographics,living habits,systemic complications and Charlson comorbidity index, were documented. Descriptive statistics were used to assess the characteristics between patients admitted on weekends and weekdays. The comparison of mortality between the two groups was carried out by chi-square test. Multivariable regression model was used to analyze the influence of weekend admission on in-hospital mortality and adjust for potential confounders.

RESULTS

Weekend admission accounted for about 29% of the 183 patients with SAH. There were no differences in general characteristics between patients admitted on weekends and those on weekdays. The chi-square test showed the mortality between two groups was not significantly different (0.082). In logistic regression model, weekend admission was not an independent predictor of higher in-hospital mortality (OR 1.77, 95% CI 0.83-3.77) after SAH.

CONCLUSION

Weekend admission was not closely related to higher in-hospital mortality. There was no weekend effect observed in our hospital in Chongqing, China.