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Hoffmann O, Salih F, Masuhr F. Computed tomography angiography in the diagnosis of brain death: Implementation and results in Germany. Eur J Neurol 2024; 31:e16209. [PMID: 38217344 PMCID: PMC11235910 DOI: 10.1111/ene.16209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Revised: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Computed tomography angiography (CTA) has been investigated as a confirmatory study (CS) for the diagnosis of brain death (BD). International consensus regarding its use, study parameters, and evaluation criteria is lacking. In the German BD guideline, a CTA protocol was first introduced in 2015. METHODS The authors obtained a comprehensive dataset of all BD examinations in adults from the German organ procurement organization to investigate implementation, results, and impact of CTA on BD determination during the first 4 years. RESULTS In 5152 patients with clinically absent brain function, 1272 CTA were reported by 676 hospitals. Use of CTA increased from 17.2% of patients in the first year to 29.7% in the final year. CTA replaced other CS such as electroencephalography without increasing overall CS frequency. Technical failure was rare (0.9%); 89.3% of studies were positive. Negative results (9.8%) were more frequent with secondary brain injury, longer duration of the clinical BD syndrome, or unreliable clinical assessment. Median time to diagnosis was longer with CTA (2.6 h) versus other CS (1.6 h). CTA had no differential impact on the rate of confirmed BD and did not improve access of small hospitals to CS for BD determination. CONCLUSIONS CTA expands the range of available CS for the diagnosis of BD in adults. Real-world evidence from a large cohort confirms usability of the German CTA protocol within the guideline-specified context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olaf Hoffmann
- Department of NeurologyAlexianer St. Josefs HospitalPotsdamGermany
- Medizinische Hochschule Brandenburg Theodor FontaneNeuruppinGermany
| | - Farid Salih
- Department of Neurology and Experimental NeurologyCharité‐Universitätsmedizin BerlinBerlinGermany
| | - Florian Masuhr
- Klinik für NeurologieBundeswehrkrankenhaus BerlinBerlinGermany
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Computed Tomography Angiography (CTA) in Selected Scenarios with Risk of Possible False-Positive or False-Negative Conclusions in Diagnosing Brain Death. LIFE (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 12:life12101551. [PMID: 36294986 PMCID: PMC9604663 DOI: 10.3390/life12101551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2022] [Revised: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 09/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
It is widely accepted that brain death (BD) is a diagnosis based on clinical examination. However, false-positive and false-negative evaluation results may be serious limitations. Ancillary tests are used when there is uncertainty about the reliability of the neurologic examination. Computed tomography angiography (CTA) is an ancillary test that tends to have the lowest false-positive rates. However, there are various influencing factors that can have an unfavorable effect on the validity of the examination method. There are inconsistent protocols regarding the evaluation criteria such as scoring systems. Among the most widely used different scoring systems the 4-point CTA-scoring system has been accepted as the most reliable method. Appropriate timing and/or Doppler pre-testing could reduce the number of possible premature examinations and increase the sensitivity of CTA in diagnosing cerebral circulatory arrest (CCA). In some cases of inconclusive CTA, the whole brain computed tomography perfusion (CTP) could be a crucial adjunct. Due to the increasing significance of CTA/CTP in determining BD, the methodology (including benefits and limitations) should also be conveyed via innovative electronic training tools, such as the BRAINDEXweb teaching tool based on an expert system.
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Cerebral blood vessels and perfusion in the pediatric brain death: five cases studied by neuroimaging. Neuroradiology 2022; 64:1661-1669. [PMID: 35511244 DOI: 10.1007/s00234-022-02955-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To detect the cerebral blood vessels and perfusion using neuroimaging modalities including computed tomography angiography (CTA), computed tomography perfusion (CTP), and arterial spin labeling (ASL) in children with brain death (BD). METHODS According to the current children's BD criteria, 5 children (3 males, 2 females, mean age of 5.65 years) with BD were enrolled from January 2019 to December 2020. The imaging features of CTA, CTP, and ASL were evaluated to analyze the visualization of important intracranial blood vessels and the states of the cerebral blood flow (CBF) and cerebral blood volume (CBV) related to the region of interest (ROI) brain tissue during the two clinical assessments for BD. RESULTS The "4-point scale" scoring system of CTA was applied to evaluate BD and no negative results were detected. The CTP results of the 5 children suggested the cessation of cerebral circulation with 100% positive results. The ranges of CBF and CBV were 0.00-9.52 ml/100 g/min (mean value 4.95 ± 1.69 ml/100 g/min) and 0.00-1.34 ml/100 g (mean value 0.36 ± 0.20 ml/100 g), respectively. One patient also underwent ASL examination, which demonstrated a significant reduction in whole brain perfusion, indicating the absence of cerebral circulation. The CBF values of the brainstem, basal ganglia, and prefrontal lobe were 11.61 ± 1.49 ml/100 g/min, 7.81 ± 2.42 ml/100 g/min, and 9.94 ± 2.01 ml/100 g/min, respectively. CONCLUSION Neuroimaging examinations particularly CTA and CTP reveal well the hemodynamic and cerebral blood vessels changes of BD, which can be used as supplementary supportive evidence for the declaration of brain death in children.
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Arsava EM, Ayvacioglu Cagan C, Gumeler E, Parlak S, Oguz KK, Topcuoglu MA. Comparison of early- and late-phase CT angiography findings in brain death. J Neurol 2022; 269:5973-5980. [PMID: 35842546 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-022-11281-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2022] [Revised: 07/05/2022] [Accepted: 07/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Late-phase images on computed tomography angiography (CTA), traditionally used for assessing cerebral circulatory arrest in brain death, suffer from suboptimal diagnostic yield due to stasis filling. Herein, we assessed contrast filling in individual intracranial arteries and veins in the early and late phases of CTA in patients with clinically confirmed brain death. METHODS Contrast opacification within 28 arterial/venous segments was evaluated in both phases of CTA in 79 patients. This information was combined with reports in the literature to calculate prevalence of contrast filling in different intracranial vessels. Additionally, diagnostic sensitivity of 4-point, 7-point, and 10-point scores defined for brain death were compared among ratings based on early, late, and both phases (arteries rated on early, veins rated on late phase) of imaging. RESULTS The median (IQR) number of vessel segments with contrast opacification was 0 (0-2) in early phase and 6 (0-10) in late phase. All segments showed increased prevalence of opacification when evaluated in late phase (p < 0.05). The M4 segments of MCA, internal cerebral veins, and vein of Galen had the lowest percentage of opacification in both phases. The sensitivity of 4-, 7-, and 10-point scoring algorithms increased from 59-91% to 94-99% when ratings were performed using early-phase images rather than based solely on late-phase images. CONCLUSIONS The incorporation of early-phase images might be considered as a strategy to improve the sensitivity of CTA as an ancillary test in confirming brain death, especially in patients without missing or questionable elements in clinical examination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ethem Murat Arsava
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey.
| | | | - Ekim Gumeler
- Department of Radiology, Faculty of Medicine, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Safak Parlak
- Department of Radiology, Faculty of Medicine, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Kader Karli Oguz
- Department of Radiology, Faculty of Medicine, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
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Implementation of Computed Tomography Angiography (CTA) and Computed Tomography Perfusion (CTP) in Polish Guidelines for Determination of Cerebral Circulatory Arrest (CCA) during Brain Death/Death by Neurological Criteria (BD/DNC) Diagnosis Procedure. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10184237. [PMID: 34575352 PMCID: PMC8469323 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10184237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2021] [Revised: 08/27/2021] [Accepted: 09/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Brain death/death by neurologic criteria (BD/DNC) guidelines are routinely analyzed, compared and updated in the majority of countries and are later implemented as national criteria. At the same time, extensive works have been conducted in order to unify clinical procedures and to validate and implement new technologies into a panel of ancillary tests. Recently evaluated computed tomography angiography and computed tomography perfusion (CTA/CTP) seem to be superior to traditionally used digital subtraction angiography (DSA), transcranial Doppler (TCD) and cerebral perfusion scintigraphy for diagnosis of cerebral circulatory arrest (CCA). In this narrative review, we would like to demonstrate scientific evidence supporting the implementation of CTA/CTP in Polish guidelines for BD/DNC diagnosis. Research and implementation process: In the first of our base studies concerning the potential usefulness of CTA/CTP for the confirmation of CCA during BD/DNC diagnosis procedures, we showed a sensitivity of 96.3% of CTA in a group of 82 patients. CTA was validated against DSA in this report. In the second study, CTA showed a sensitivity of 86% and CTP showed a sensitivity of 100% in a group of 50 patients. In this study, CTA and CTP were validated against clinical diagnosis of BD/DNC supported by TCD. Additionally, we propose our CCA criteria for CTP test, which are based on ascertainment of cerebral blood flow (CBF) < 10 mL/100 g/min and cerebral blood volume < 1 mL/100 g in regions of interest (ROIs) localized in all brain regions. Based on our research results, CTA/CTP methods were implemented in Polish BD/DNC criteria. To our knowledge, CTP was implemented for the first time in national guidelines. Conclusions: CTA and CTP-derived CTA might be in future the tests of choice for CCA diagnosis, proper and/or Doppler pretest might significantly increase sensitivity of CTA in CCA diagnosis procedures. Whole brain CTP might be decisive in some cases of inconclusive CTA. Implementation of CTA/CTP in the Polish BD/DNC diagnosis guidelines does not show any major obstacles. We believe that in next edition of “The World Brain Death Project” CTA and CTP will be recommended as ancillary tests of choice for CCA confirmation during BD/DNC diagnosis procedures.
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Zampakis P, Panagiotopoulos V, Kalogeropoulou C, Karachaliou M, Aretha D, Sioulas N, Dimoulia S, Karnabatidis D, Fligou F. Computed tomography angiography scoring systems and the role of skull defects in the confirmation of brain death. Sci Rep 2021; 11:15081. [PMID: 34302043 PMCID: PMC8302591 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-94763-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2021] [Accepted: 07/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
To assess and compare all current computed tomography angiography (CTA) scoring systems for the diagnostic workup of brain death (BD) to digital subtraction angiography (DSA) and clinical tests. Fifty-two patients with a clinical suspicion of BD underwent CTA and subsequently DSA. The diagnostic performance of all current CTA scoring systems was compared to that of DSA, in all patients with a suspicion of BD. A comparison to clinical tests was made only in DSA-positive for BD patients (n = 49), since in DSA-negative BD patients (n = 3) clinical tests were not performed. Further subgroup analysis was performed in relation to skull defects (SDs) stratification. Statistical analysis was conducted by applying statistics-contingency tables, Cochran's-Q test and McNemar's test. The CTA -10, and -7- and all 4-point scoring systems, showed overall sensitivities of 81,6%, 87.8% and 95.9% respectively and 100% specificity, when compared to DSA. In patients with a clinical verification of BD, the CTA -10 and -7-point scoring systems were significantly inferior to clinical tests (p = 0.004 and p = 0.031), while the 4-point scoring systems showed no such difference (p = 0.5). All 4-point scoring systems showed 100% sensitivity in patients with a minor SD or no SD. In patients with a major SD, all CTA scoring systems (- 10, - 7- and all 4-point) were less sensitive (62.5%, 62.5% and 75% respectively). The presence of a major SD was associated with an 8 × relative risk for false negative results in all 4-point scoring systems. CTA showed excellent diagnostic performance in patients with a suspicion of BD. The 4-point CTA scoring systems are the most sensitive for the diagnosis of BD, although in patients with a major SD patient, the role of CTA is ambiguous.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petros Zampakis
- Department of Radiology, University Hospital of Patras GR, 265 04, Patras, Greece.
| | | | | | - Maria Karachaliou
- Department of Radiology, University Hospital of Patras GR, 265 04, Patras, Greece
| | - Diamanto Aretha
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, University Hospital of Patras. GR, 265 04, Patras, Greece
| | - Nektarios Sioulas
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, University Hospital of Patras. GR, 265 04, Patras, Greece
| | - Sofia Dimoulia
- Department of Radiology, University Hospital of Patras GR, 265 04, Patras, Greece
| | | | - Fotini Fligou
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, University Hospital of Patras. GR, 265 04, Patras, Greece
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Ozpar R, Tonkaz M, Girgin NK, Bodur M, Dinc Y, Kocaeli H, Hakyemez B. Reliability of CT angiography scoring systems used for brain death and the effect of cranial interventions on the results. Clin Imaging 2021; 79:142-147. [PMID: 33945904 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinimag.2021.04.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2021] [Revised: 04/09/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess vascular opacifications, the efficiency, and interobserver agreement (IOA) of five different computed tomography angiography (CTA) brain death (BD) scoring systems in patients with and without cranial interventions, for determining alternative findings correctly supporting BD diagnosis by CTA even in cranial intervention presence. METHODS 45 patients clinically identified with BD and evaluated with CTA were included. IOA of five different scoring systems used for CTA BD diagnosis, the effect of intracranial interventions on scoring systems, and vascular opacification were evaluated. RESULTS IOA was almost perfect (κ = 0.843-0.911, p < 0.05) and substantial (κ = 0.771-0.776, p < 0.05) in all scoring systems. Significant relationships were observed between craniectomy presence and middle cerebral artery M4 segment and internal cerebral vein (ICV) opacification. No opacification was observed in straight sinus (SS) by observers in any of the craniectomized patients. CONCLUSION IOA of CTA scoring systems is adequate. But a significant degree of false-negative results is observed due to ICV filling in craniectomy cases. Opacification presence in SS can give an idea of BD in these cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rifat Ozpar
- Department of Radiology, Bursa Uludag University Faculty of Medicine, Bursa, Turkey.
| | - Mehmet Tonkaz
- Department of Radiology, Bursa Uludag University Faculty of Medicine, Bursa, Turkey
| | - Nermin Kelebek Girgin
- Department of Anesthesiology and Reanimation, Bursa Uludag University Faculty of Medicine, Bursa, Turkey
| | - Muhittin Bodur
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Bursa Uludag University Faculty of Medicine, Bursa, Turkey
| | - Yasemin Dinc
- Department of Neurology, Bursa Uludag University Faculty of Medicine, Bursa, Turkey
| | - Hasan Kocaeli
- Department of Neurosurgery, Bursa Uludag University Faculty of Medicine, Bursa, Turkey
| | - Bahattin Hakyemez
- Department of Radiology, Bursa Uludag University Faculty of Medicine, Bursa, Turkey
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Greer DM, Shemie SD, Lewis A, Torrance S, Varelas P, Goldenberg FD, Bernat JL, Souter M, Topcuoglu MA, Alexandrov AW, Baldisseri M, Bleck T, Citerio G, Dawson R, Hoppe A, Jacobe S, Manara A, Nakagawa TA, Pope TM, Silvester W, Thomson D, Al Rahma H, Badenes R, Baker AJ, Cerny V, Chang C, Chang TR, Gnedovskaya E, Han MK, Honeybul S, Jimenez E, Kuroda Y, Liu G, Mallick UK, Marquevich V, Mejia-Mantilla J, Piradov M, Quayyum S, Shrestha GS, Su YY, Timmons SD, Teitelbaum J, Videtta W, Zirpe K, Sung G. Determination of Brain Death/Death by Neurologic Criteria: The World Brain Death Project. JAMA 2020; 324:1078-1097. [PMID: 32761206 DOI: 10.1001/jama.2020.11586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 267] [Impact Index Per Article: 66.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
IMPORTANCE There are inconsistencies in concept, criteria, practice, and documentation of brain death/death by neurologic criteria (BD/DNC) both internationally and within countries. OBJECTIVE To formulate a consensus statement of recommendations on determination of BD/DNC based on review of the literature and expert opinion of a large multidisciplinary, international panel. PROCESS Relevant international professional societies were recruited to develop recommendations regarding determination of BD/DNC. Literature searches of the Cochrane, Embase, and MEDLINE databases included January 1, 1992, through April 2020 identified pertinent articles for review. Because of the lack of high-quality data from randomized clinical trials or large observational studies, recommendations were formulated based on consensus of contributors and medical societies that represented relevant disciplines, including critical care, neurology, and neurosurgery. EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS Based on review of the literature and consensus from a large multidisciplinary, international panel, minimum clinical criteria needed to determine BD/DNC in various circumstances were developed. RECOMMENDATIONS Prior to evaluating a patient for BD/DNC, the patient should have an established neurologic diagnosis that can lead to the complete and irreversible loss of all brain function, and conditions that may confound the clinical examination and diseases that may mimic BD/DNC should be excluded. Determination of BD/DNC can be done with a clinical examination that demonstrates coma, brainstem areflexia, and apnea. This is seen when (1) there is no evidence of arousal or awareness to maximal external stimulation, including noxious visual, auditory, and tactile stimulation; (2) pupils are fixed in a midsize or dilated position and are nonreactive to light; (3) corneal, oculocephalic, and oculovestibular reflexes are absent; (4) there is no facial movement to noxious stimulation; (5) the gag reflex is absent to bilateral posterior pharyngeal stimulation; (6) the cough reflex is absent to deep tracheal suctioning; (7) there is no brain-mediated motor response to noxious stimulation of the limbs; and (8) spontaneous respirations are not observed when apnea test targets reach pH <7.30 and Paco2 ≥60 mm Hg. If the clinical examination cannot be completed, ancillary testing may be considered with blood flow studies or electrophysiologic testing. Special consideration is needed for children, for persons receiving extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, and for those receiving therapeutic hypothermia, as well as for factors such as religious, societal, and cultural perspectives; legal requirements; and resource availability. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE This report provides recommendations for the minimum clinical standards for determination of brain death/death by neurologic criteria in adults and children with clear guidance for various clinical circumstances. The recommendations have widespread international society endorsement and can serve to guide professional societies and countries in the revision or development of protocols and procedures for determination of brain death/death by neurologic criteria, leading to greater consistency within and between countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- David M Greer
- Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Sam D Shemie
- McGill University, Montreal Children's Hospital, Montreal, Canada
- Canadian Blood Services, Ottawa, Canada
| | | | | | | | | | - James L Bernat
- Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, New Hampshire
| | | | | | - Anne W Alexandrov
- College of Nursing, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis
| | - Marie Baldisseri
- University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Thomas Bleck
- Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
| | | | | | - Arnold Hoppe
- Clínica Alemana, Universidad del Desarrollo, Santiago, Chile
| | - Stephen Jacobe
- University of Sydney and Children's Hospital of Westmead, Westmead, Australia
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Rafael Badenes
- Hospital Clinic Universitari, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Andrew J Baker
- St. Michael's Hospital, Unity Health Toronto and University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Vladimir Cerny
- J.E. Purkinje University, Masaryk Hospital, Usti nad Labem, Czech Republic
| | | | - Tiffany R Chang
- The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston
| | | | - Moon-Ku Han
- Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | | | | | | | - Gang Liu
- Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Walter Videtta
- National Hospital, Alejandro Posadas, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | | | - Gene Sung
- University of Southern California, Los Angeles
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Akdogan AI, Pekcevik Y, Sahin H, Pekcevik R. Assessment of Cerebral Circulatory Arrest via CT Angiography and CT Perfusion in Brain Death Confirmation. Korean J Radiol 2020; 22:395-404. [PMID: 32932559 PMCID: PMC7909855 DOI: 10.3348/kjr.2019.0859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2019] [Revised: 05/17/2020] [Accepted: 06/17/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective To compare the utility of computed tomography perfusion (CTP) and three different 4-point scoring systems in computed tomography angiography (CTA) in confirming brain death (BD) in patients with and without skull defects. Materials and Methods Ninety-two patients clinically diagnosed as BD using CTA and/or CTP for confirmation were retrospectively reviewed. For the final analysis, 86 patients were included in this study. Images were re-evaluated by three radiologists according to the 4-point scoring systems that consider the vessel opacification on 1) the venous phase for both M4 segments of the middle cerebral arteries (MCAs-M4) and internal cerebral veins (ICVs) (A60-V60), 2) the arterial phase for the MCA-M4 and venous phase for the ICVs (A20-V60), 3) the venous phase for the ICVs and superior petrosal veins (ICV-SPV). The CTP images were independently reviewed. The presence of an open skull defect and stasis filling was noted. Results Sensitivities of the ICV-SPV, A20-V60, A60-V60 scoring systems, and CTP in the diagnosis of BD were 89.5%, 82.6%, 67.4%, and 93.3%, respectively. The sensitivity of A20-V60 scoring was higher than that of A60-V60 in BD patients (p < 0.001). CTP was found to be the most sensitive method (86.5%) in patients with open skull defect (p = 0.019). Interobserver agreement was excellent in the diagnosis of BD, in assessing A20-V60, A60-V60, ICV-SPV, CTP, and good in stasis filling (κ: 0.84, 0.83, 0.83, 0.83, and 0.67, respectively). Conclusion The sensitivity of CTA confirming brain death differs between various proposed 4-point scoring systems. Although the ICV-SPV is the most sensitive, evaluation of the SPV is challenging. Adding CTP to the routine BD CTA protocol, especially in cases with open skull defect, could increase sensitivity as a useful adjunct.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asli Irmak Akdogan
- Department of Radiology, Buca Women Birth and Child Diseases Hospital, Izmir, Turkey.
| | - Yeliz Pekcevik
- Department of Radiology, University of Health Sciences, Tepecik Training and Research Hospital, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Hilal Sahin
- Department of Radiology, University of Health Sciences, Tepecik Training and Research Hospital, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Ridvan Pekcevik
- Department of Radiology, Katip Çelebi University, Ataturk Training and Research Hospital, Izmir, Turkey
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10
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Diagnostic accuracy of a revised computed tomography angiography score for brain death confirmation, combining supra-tentorial arteries and infra-tentorial veins. Eur J Radiol 2020; 130:109132. [PMID: 32619753 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejrad.2020.109132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2019] [Revised: 03/08/2020] [Accepted: 06/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The 4-point score is the corner stone of brain death (BD) confirmation using computed tomography angiography (CTA). We hypothesized that considering the superior petrosal veins (SPVs) may improve CTA diagnosis performance in BD setting. We aimed at comparing the diagnosis performance of three revised CTA scores including SPVs and the 4-point score in the confirmation of BD. METHODS In this retrospective study, 69 consecutive adult-patients admitted in a French University Hospital meeting clinical brain death criteria and receiving at least one CTA were included. CTA images were reviewed by two blinded neuroradiologists. A first analysis compared the 4-point score, considered as the reference and three non-opacification scores: a "Toulouse score" including SPVs and middle cerebral arteries, a "venous score" including SPVs and internal cerebral veins and a "7-score" including all these vessels and the basilar artery. Psychometric tools, observer agreement and misclassification rates were assessed. A second analysis considered clinical examination as the reference. RESULTS Brain death was confirmed by the 4-score in 59 cases (89.4 %). When compared to the 4-score, the Toulouse score displayed a 100 % positive predictive value, a substantial observer agreement (0.77 [0.53; 1]) and the least misclassification rate (3.03 %). Results were similar in the craniectomy subgroup. The Toulouse score was the only revised test that combined a sensitivity close to that of the 4-score (86.4 % [75.7; 93.6] and 89.4 % [79.4; 95.6], p-value < 0.001, respectively) and a substantial observer agreement. CONCLUSIONS A score including SPVs and middle cerebral arteries is a valid method for BD confirmation using CTA even in patients receiving craniectomy.
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Nunes DM, Maia ACM, Boni RC, da Rocha AJ. Impact of Skull Defects on the Role of CTA for Brain Death Confirmation. AJNR Am J Neuroradiol 2019; 40:1177-1183. [PMID: 31196858 DOI: 10.3174/ajnr.a6100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2019] [Accepted: 05/13/2019] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Intracranial pressure modifications caused by a skull defect, such as craniectomy or craniotomy, may change the hemodynamics and decrease the accuracy of CTA to confirm brain death. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of a skull defect and the interpretation criteria of images on this diagnostic test. MATERIALS AND METHODS A series of consecutive patients with a clinical diagnosis of brain death underwent CTA (case group), while the control group comprised patients with acute ischemic stroke in the same period. CTA criteria adopted to confirm brain death were the absence of opacification of the M4 branches and internal cerebral veins. The evaluation also included the presence of "stasis filling." Cases were stratified as intact skull, craniotomy, and craniectomy. Three neuroradiologists evaluated all examinations independently. RESULTS In the case group, according to the Frampas criteria, the sensitivity of CTA to confirm brain death was 95.5% in patients with intact skull, 87.5% with craniotomy, and 60% with craniectomy. False-negative diagnoses of brain death were 15.6%, related to stasis filling in 71.4% (P < .001). However, according to the "modified Frampas criteria," the sensitivity of CTA to confirm brain death was 100% in patients with intact skull, 93.8% with craniotomy, and 80% with craniectomy. False-negative diagnoses of brain death were found in 6.2% of patients, and there was no stasis filling. CTA showed 100% specificity in the control group. There were no disagreements among observers. CONCLUSIONS CTA had a high diagnostic accuracy and reproducibility to confirm brain death in patients with an intact skull. The modified Frampas criteria increased the sensitivity of CTA, particularly in patients with a skull defect. A concurrent skull defect, especially craniectomy, can decrease the sensitivity of CTA to confirm brain death.
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Affiliation(s)
- D M Nunes
- From the Section of Neuroradiology (D.M.N., A.C.M.M.Jr., A.J.d.R.)
| | - A C M Maia
- From the Section of Neuroradiology (D.M.N., A.C.M.M.Jr., A.J.d.R.)
| | - R C Boni
- Section of Organ Procurement Organization (R.C.B.), Santa Casa de Misericórdia de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - A J da Rocha
- From the Section of Neuroradiology (D.M.N., A.C.M.M.Jr., A.J.d.R.)
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Roth C, Ferbert A, Matthaei J, Kaestner S, Engel H, Gehling M. Progress of intracranial pressure and cerebral perfusion pressure in patients during the development of brain death. J Neurol Sci 2019; 398:171-175. [PMID: 30731304 DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2019.01.048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2018] [Revised: 01/26/2019] [Accepted: 01/28/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Clinical investigations of brain death are supposed to prove absence of cerebral perfusion. However, only limited data are available documenting intracranial pressure (ICP) and cerebral perfusion pressure (CPP) during the development of brain death. Our study presents additional data to understand the course of ICP and CPP in patients developing brain death. MATERIAL AND METHODS We analyzed retrospective data of 18 patients with ICP monitoring during the development of brain death due to primary brain lesions. ICP and CPP values were continuously measured between two clinically defined time points: 1. non-reactive and widened pupils, 2. brain death determination. We analyzed ICP and CPP at the above-mentioned end points. Additionally, we investigated maximum ICP and minimal CPP values between these time points. RESULTS Patients developed fixed and dilated pupils with a median of 38 h before brain death determination. During brain death determination median ICP and median CPP were 103.5 and -2.5 mmHg, respectively. Maximum ICP before brain death determination was significantly higher and minimal CPP values were significantly lower compared to the time point of brain death. During the investigation period all patients experienced ICP values >95 mmHg and CPP < 10 mmHg. All but one patient had documented CPP values of ≤0 mmHg. This single patient had a minimum CPP of 8 mmHg with a maximum ICP of 145 mmHg. CONCLUSION Cerebral perfusion pressure during brain death determination may be positive in some patients. Our results showed variable values of ICP and CPP. However, extremely elevated ICP values before or during brain death in combination with low CPP values suggest absence of cerebral perfusion. The occurrence of positive CPP values during brain death determination therefore depends on the time point at which brain death determination is performed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Roth
- Department of Neurology, DRK-Kliniken Nordhessen, Kassel, Germany; Department of Neurology, University of Marburg, Germany.
| | | | | | | | - Holger Engel
- Department of Plastic-Reconstructive, Aesthetic and Handsurgery, Klinikum Kassel, Kassel, Germany
| | - Markus Gehling
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Marburg, Marburg, Germany; Pain Center, Kassel, Germany
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Pan B, Huang C, Fang X, Huang X, Li T. Noninvasive and sensitive optical assessment of brain death. JOURNAL OF BIOPHOTONICS 2019; 12:e201800240. [PMID: 30379409 DOI: 10.1002/jbio.201800240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2018] [Revised: 10/22/2018] [Accepted: 10/30/2018] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
Brain death is an irreversible loss of all brain functions, and the assessment is crucial for organ supply for transplantation. The noninvasive, sensitive, universally available and timely ancillary method to assess brain death has not been established. Here, we attempted to explore a noninvasive way in brain death assessment. Eighteen brain-dead patients and 20 healthy subjects were measured by near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS), with a multiple-phase protocol at varied fraction of inspired O2 (FIO2 ). We found that the concentration changes ratios of oxyhemoglobin to deoxyhemoglobin (Δ[HbO2 ]/Δ[Hb]) in the cerebral cortex of brain-dead patients were significantly higher than those of healthy subjects. And, the Δ[HbO2 ]/Δ[Hb] in low-to-high FIO2 phase was most sensitive to distinguish brain-dead patients from healthy subjects, with a recommended threshold ranged in 1.40~1.50. The innovative incorporation of NIRS and a varied FIO2 protocol was shown to be a noninvasive and reliable way in assessing brain death. This successful attempt of NIRS application is a help for fast and accurate evaluation of brain death, promptly offering quality-assured donor organs and indicate us a protocol-aided way to expand the use of NIRS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Boan Pan
- Biomedical Engineering Institute, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin, China
- State Key Lab Elect Thin Film & Integrated Device, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
| | - Chong Huang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky
| | - Xiang Fang
- Biomedical Engineering Institute, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin, China
| | - Xiaobo Huang
- State Key Lab Elect Thin Film & Integrated Device, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
| | - Ting Li
- Biomedical Engineering Institute, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin, China
- State Key Lab Elect Thin Film & Integrated Device, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
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Walter U, Fernández-Torre JL, Kirschstein T, Laureys S. When is “brainstem death” brain death? The case for ancillary testing in primary infratentorial brain lesion. Clin Neurophysiol 2018; 129:2451-2465. [DOI: 10.1016/j.clinph.2018.08.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2018] [Revised: 06/20/2018] [Accepted: 08/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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15
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The role of cervical color Doppler ultrasound in the diagnosis of brain death. Neuroradiology 2018; 61:137-145. [DOI: 10.1007/s00234-018-2111-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2018] [Accepted: 10/04/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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16
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Sadeghian H, Raeisi MA, Dolati P, Motiei-Langroudi R. Brain Computed Tomography Angiography as an Ancillary Test in the Confirmation of Brain Death. Cureus 2017; 9:e1491. [PMID: 28944130 PMCID: PMC5605121 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.1491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Brain death (BD) is the irreversible termination of the functioning of the brain. The diagnosis should be first made by clinical criteria and confirmed by using paraclinical confirmatory techniques (ancillary tests). While conventional brain angiography remains the standard method of choice, computed tomography angiography (CTA) has emerged as an alternative method. In this study, we tried to evaluate the accuracy of CTA for the diagnosis of BD. Methods In this study, we included nine patients with a clinical diagnosis of BD, confirmed by electroencephalography (EEG). CTA was then performed to compare the results. Results The most frequent cause for BD was multiple trauma (7/9) in our patients, followed by aneurysm rupture and brain infarct. CTA examination in all patients showed opacification of extracranial arteries and major branches of external carotid artery (ECA), including superficial temporal arteries (STAs), while no opacification was observed in the internal carotid arteries (ICA) including and beyond the cavernous segment, middle cerebral arteries (MCAs), anterior cerebral arteries (ACAs), distal vertebral arteries (VAs), and basilar artery (BA). Moreover, no opacification was observed in the internal cerebral veins (ICVs) or great cerebral vein (GCV). Conclusion The accuracy rate of CTA in the detection of intracranial circulatory arrest was 100%. CTA examinations confirmed BD diagnoses in all patients who had clinical and EEG BD diagnoses, and no confliction between CTA findings and clinical diagnoses was observed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Homa Sadeghian
- Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical School
| | | | - Parviz Dolati
- Neurosurgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School
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17
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Westphal GA, Garcia VD, de Souza RL, Franke CA, Vieira KD, Birckholz VRZ, Machado MC, de Almeida ERB, Machado FO, Sardinha LADC, Wanzuita R, Silvado CES, Costa G, Braatz V, Caldeira Filho M, Furtado R, Tannous LA, de Albuquerque AGN, Abdala E, Gonçalves ARR, Pacheco-Moreira LF, Dias FS, Fernandes R, Giovanni FD, de Carvalho FB, Fiorelli A, Teixeira C, Feijó C, Camargo SM, de Oliveira NE, David AI, Prinz RAD, Herranz LB, de Andrade J. Guidelines for the assessment and acceptance of potential brain-dead organ donors. Rev Bras Ter Intensiva 2017; 28:220-255. [PMID: 27737418 PMCID: PMC5051181 DOI: 10.5935/0103-507x.20160049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Organ transplantation is the only alternative for many patients with terminal diseases. The increasing disproportion between the high demand for organ transplants and the low rate of transplants actually performed is worrisome. Some of the causes of this disproportion are errors in the identification of potential organ donors and in the determination of contraindications by the attending staff. Therefore, the aim of the present document is to provide guidelines for intensive care multi-professional staffs for the recognition, assessment and acceptance of potential organ donors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Glauco Adrieno Westphal
- Corresponding author: Glauco Adrieno Westphal, Centro
Hospitalar Unimed, Rua Orestes Guimarães, 905, Zip code: 89204-060 -
Joinville (SC), Brazil. E-mail:
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Chakraborty S, Dhanani S. Guidelines for Use of Computed Tomography Angiogram as an Ancillary Test for Diagnosis of Suspected Brain Death. Can Assoc Radiol J 2017; 68:224-228. [PMID: 28245959 DOI: 10.1016/j.carj.2016.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2016] [Revised: 11/24/2016] [Accepted: 12/06/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Santanu Chakraborty
- Department of Medical Imaging, The Ottawa Hospital, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.
| | - Sonny Dhanani
- Department of Critical Care, Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
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Escudero D, Valentín M. Diagnosing brain death - a reply. Anaesthesia 2016; 71:232-4. [PMID: 26750409 DOI: 10.1111/anae.13363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- D Escudero
- Central University Hospital of Asturias, Oviedo, Spain.
| | - M Valentín
- Spanish National Transplant Organisation (ONT), Madrid, Spain
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20
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Dead or alive? New confirmatory test using quantitative analysis of computed tomographic angiography. J Trauma Acute Care Surg 2015; 79:995-1003; discussion 1003. [DOI: 10.1097/ta.0000000000000831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Abstract
CT-angiography (CTA) has been accredited as an additional technical method for the detection of the cessation of cerebral blood circulation in the updated German guidelines for the determination of irreversible loss of brain function. A standardized CTA protocol was defined. The evaluation of the CTA has to be done by radiologists with several years of experience in neuroradiology, preferably by radiologists certified as neuroradiologists. The so-called "stasis filling", a slow progressive spread of contrast media into the cerebral arteries despite cessation of cerebral blood circulation, has to be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Lanfermann
- Institut für Diagnostische und Interventionelle Neuroradiologie, Medizinische Hochschule Hannover, Carl-Neuberg-Straße 1, 30625, Hannover, Deutschland,
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Kramer AH, Roberts DJ. Computed tomography angiography in the diagnosis of brain death: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Neurocrit Care 2015; 21:539-50. [PMID: 24939056 DOI: 10.1007/s12028-014-9997-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Physiological instability and confounding factors may interfere with the clinical diagnosis of brain death. Computed tomography angiography (CTA) has been suggested as a potential ancillary test for confirmation of brain death, but its diagnostic accuracy remains unclear. METHODS We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, and CENTRAL for studies comparing CTA with other accepted methods of diagnosing brain death (clinical or radiographic). Summary estimates of diagnostic accuracy were computed using random effects models. Subgroup analyses and meta-regression were performed to assess associations between CTA sensitivity and study or patient characteristics. RESULTS Twelve studies, involving 541 patients, were included. If the CTA criterion for brain death was complete lack of opacification of intracranial vessels, then the pooled sensitivity was 62 % (50-74 %) for venous phase and 84 % (75-94 %) for arterial phase imaging. The sensitivity of CTA was higher when the criterion for brain death involved absence of opacification of internal cerebral veins, either alone (99 %, 97-100 %) or in combination with lack of flow to the distal middle cerebral artery branches (85 %, 77-93 %). CTA sensitivity was not influenced by different reference standards (clinical vs. radiographic) or predominant diagnostic category (stroke vs. brain trauma). Specificity of CTA could not be adequately determined from the existing data. CONCLUSION Many patients who progress to brain death by accepted clinical or radiographic criteria have persistent opacification of proximal intracranial vessels when CTA is performed. The specificity of CTA in the diagnosis of brain death has not been adequately assessed. Routine use of CTA as an ancillary test in the diagnosis of brain death is therefore not recommended until diagnostic criteria have undergone further refinement and prospective validation. Absence of opacification of the internal cerebral veins appears to be the most promising angiographic criterion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas H Kramer
- Departments of Critical Care Medicine & Clinical Neurosciences, Foothills Hospital, University of Calgary, McCaig Tower, 3134 Hospital Drive N.W., Calgary, AB, T2N 2T9, Canada,
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Roth C, Deinsberger W, Kleffmann J, Ferbert A. Intracranial pressure and cerebral perfusion pressure during apnoea testing for the diagnosis of brain death - an observational study. Eur J Neurol 2015; 22:1208-14. [DOI: 10.1111/ene.12727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2014] [Accepted: 02/26/2015] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- C. Roth
- Department of Neurology; Klinikum Kassel; Kassel Germany
| | - W. Deinsberger
- Department of Neurosurgery; Klinikum Kassel; Kassel Germany
| | - J. Kleffmann
- Department of Neurosurgery; Klinikum Kassel; Kassel Germany
| | - A. Ferbert
- Department of Neurology; Klinikum Kassel; Kassel Germany
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Şahin H, Pekçevik Y. CT angiography as a confirmatory test in diagnosis of brain death: comparison between three scoring systems. Diagn Interv Radiol 2015; 21:177-83. [PMID: 25698093 PMCID: PMC4463321 DOI: 10.5152/dir.2014.14241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2014] [Revised: 09/08/2014] [Accepted: 09/28/2014] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Computed tomography (CT) angiography emerges as a viable alternative technique for confirmation of brain death. However, evaluation criteria are not well established for demonstration of cerebral circulatory arrest. This retrospective study aimed to evaluate CT angiography scoring systems in diagnosis of brain death, review the literature, and compare interobserver agreement between different scales for the diagnosis of brain death. METHODS CT angiography examinations of 25 patients with a clinical diagnosis of brain death were reevaluated according to 10-, 7-, and 4-point scales. Exams were performed with a 64-slice CT scanner including unenhanced, arterial (20 s) and venous phase (60 s) scans. Subtraction images of both phases were obtained. Interobserver agreement was evaluated for the assessment of vessel opacification and diagnosis of brain death. RESULTS According to 10-, 7-, and 4-point scales; 13, 16, and 22 of 25 patients had full score, respectively. Using the clinical exam as the reference standard, sensitivities obtained for 10-, 7-, and 4-point scales were 52%, 64%, and 88%, respectively. Percent agreement between readers was 100% for 10- and 7-point scales and 88% for 4-point scale. Percent agreement for opacification of scale vessels was equally high for all three scales (93.6%, 93.7%, 91% for 10-, 7-, and 4-point scales, respectively). CONCLUSION The 4-point scale appears to be more sensitive than the 10- and 7-point scales in CT angiography evaluation for brain death. Interobserver agreement is high for all three scales when subtraction images are used.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hilal Şahin
- From the Department of Radiology (H.Ş. ), Tepecik Training and Research Hospital, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Yeliz Pekçevik
- From the Department of Radiology (H.Ş. ), Tepecik Training and Research Hospital, Izmir, Turkey
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Sawicki M, Bohatyrewicz R, Walecka A, Sołek-Pastuszka J, Rowiński O, Walecki J. CT Angiography in the Diagnosis of Brain Death. Pol J Radiol 2014; 79:417-21. [PMID: 25419255 PMCID: PMC4237071 DOI: 10.12659/pjr.891114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2014] [Accepted: 06/09/2014] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Summary Brain death is defined as the irreversible cessation of functioning of the entire brain, including the brainstem. Brain death is principally established using clinical criteria including coma, absence of brainstem reflexes and loss of central drive to breathe assessed with apnea test. In situations in which clinical testing cannot be performed or when uncertainty exists about the reliability of its parts due to confounding conditions ancillary tests (i.a. imaging studies) may be useful. The objective of ancillary tests in the diagnosis of brain death is to demonstrate the absence of cerebral electrical activity (EEG and evoked potentials) or cerebral circulatory arrest. In clinical practice catheter cerebral angiography, perfusion scintigraphy, transcranial Doppler sonography, CT angiography and MR angiography are used. Other methods, like perfusion CT, xenon CT, MR spectroscopy, diffusion weighted MRI and functional MRI are being studied as potentially useful in the diagnosis of brain death. CT angiography has recently attracted attention as a promising alternative to catheter angiography – a reference test in the diagnosis of brain death. Since 1998 several major studies were published and national guidelines were introduced in several countries (e.g. in France, Austria, Switzerland, the Netherlands and Canada). This paper reviews technique, characteristic findings and criteria for the diagnosis of cerebral circulatory arrest in CT angiography.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcin Sawicki
- Department of Diagnostic Imaging and Interventional Radiology, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Romuald Bohatyrewicz
- Clinic of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Anna Walecka
- Department of Diagnostic Imaging and Interventional Radiology, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Joanna Sołek-Pastuszka
- Clinic of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Olgierd Rowiński
- 2 Department of Clinical Radiology, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Jerzy Walecki
- Centre of Postgraduate Medical Education, Warsaw, Poland
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Affiliation(s)
- A H V Schapira
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, UCL Institute of Neurology, London, UK.
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Dynamic Computed Tomography Angiography in Suspected Brain Death: A Noninvasive Biomarker. Can Assoc Radiol J 2014; 65:352-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.carj.2014.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2013] [Revised: 01/31/2014] [Accepted: 02/28/2014] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Neurologic determination of death or brain death is primarily a clinical diagnosis. This must respect all guarantees required by law and should be determined early to avoid unnecessary treatment and allow organ harvesting for transplantation. Ancillary testing is used in situations in which clinical assessment is impossible or confounded by other factors. Our purpose is to determine the utility of dynamic computed tomographic angiography (dCTA) as an ancillary test for diagnosis of brain death. Materials and Methods We retrospectively reviewed 13 consecutive patients with suspected brain death in the intensive care unit who had dCTA. Contrast appearance timings recorded from the dCTA data were compared to findings from 15 controls selected from patients who presented with symptoms of acute stroke but showed no stroke in follow-up imaging. Results The dCTA allows us to reliably assess cerebral blood flow and to record time of individual cerebral vessels opacification. It also helps us to assess the intracranial flow qualitatively against the flow in extracranial vessels as a reference. We compared the time difference between enhancement of the external and internal carotid arteries and branches. In all patients who were brain dead, internal carotid artery enhancement was delayed, which occurred after external carotid artery branches were opacified. Conclusion In patients with suspected brain death, dCTA reliably demonstrated the lack of cerebral blood flow, with extracranial circulation as an internal reference. Our initial results suggest that inversion of time of contrast appearance between internal carotid artery and external carotid artery branches at the skull base could predict a lack of distal intracranial flow.
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Sawicki M, Bohatyrewicz R, Safranow K, Walecka A, Walecki J, Rowinski O, Solek-Pastuszka J, Czajkowski Z, Guzinski M, Burzynska M, Wojczal J. Computed tomographic angiography criteria in the diagnosis of brain death-comparison of sensitivity and interobserver reliability of different evaluation scales. Neuroradiology 2014; 56:609-20. [PMID: 24801451 PMCID: PMC4125746 DOI: 10.1007/s00234-014-1364-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2013] [Accepted: 04/08/2014] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The standardized diagnostic criteria for computed tomographic angiography (CTA) in diagnosis of brain death (BD) are not yet established. The aim of the study was to compare the sensitivity and interobserver agreement of the three previously used scales of CTA for the diagnosis of BD. METHODS Eighty-two clinically brain-dead patients underwent CTA with a delay of 40 s after contrast injection. Catheter angiography was used as the reference standard. CTA results were assessed by two radiologists, and the diagnosis of BD was established according to 10-, 7-, and 4-point scales. RESULTS Catheter angiography confirmed the diagnosis of BD in all cases. Opacification of certain cerebral vessels as indicator of BD was highly sensitive: cortical segments of the middle cerebral artery (96.3 %), the internal cerebral vein (98.8 %), and the great cerebral vein (98.8 %). Other vessels were less sensitive: the pericallosal artery (74.4 %), cortical segments of the posterior cerebral artery (79.3 %), and the basilar artery (82.9 %). The sensitivities of the 10-, 7-, and 4-point scales were 67.1, 74.4, and 96.3 %, respectively (p<0.001). Percentage interobserver agreement in diagnosis of BD reached 93 % for the 10-point scale, 89 % for the 7-point scale, and 95 % for the 4-point scale (p=0.37). CONCLUSIONS In the application of CTA to the diagnosis of BD, reducing the assessment of vascular opacification scale from a 10- to a 4-point scale significantly increases the sensitivity and maintains high interobserver reliability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcin Sawicki
- Department of Diagnostic Imaging and Interventional Radiology, Pomeranian Medical University, Clinical Hospital No1, Unii Lubelskiej 1, Szczecin, 71252, Poland,
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Taylor T, Dineen RA, Gardiner DC, Buss CH, Howatson A, Pace NL. Computed tomography (CT) angiography for confirmation of the clinical diagnosis of brain death. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2014; 2014:CD009694. [PMID: 24683063 PMCID: PMC6517290 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd009694.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The diagnosis of death using neurological criteria (brain death) has profound social, legal and ethical implications. The diagnosis can be made using standard clinical tests examining for brain function, but in some patient populations and in some countries additional tests may be required. Computed tomography (CT) angiography, which is currently in wide clinical use, has been identified as one such test. OBJECTIVES To assess from the current literature the sensitivity of CT cerebral angiography as an additional confirmatory test for diagnosing death using neurological criteria, following satisfaction of clinical neurological criteria for brain death. SEARCH METHODS We performed comprehensive literature searches to identify studies that would assess the diagnostic accuracy of CT angiography (the index test) in cohorts of adult patients, using the diagnosis of brain death according to neurological criteria as the target condition. We searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) (The Cochrane Library 2012, Issue 5) and the following databases from January 1992 to August 2012: MEDLINE; EMBASE; BNI; CINAHL; ISI Web of Science; BioMed Central. We also conducted searches in regional electronic bibliographic databases and subject-specific databases (MEDION; IndMed; African Index Medicus). A search was also conducted in Google Scholar where we reviewed the first 100 results only. We handsearched reference lists and conference proceedings to identify primary studies and review articles. Abstracts were identified by two authors. Methodological assessment of studies using the QUADAS-2 tool and further data extraction for re-analysis were performed by three authors. SELECTION CRITERIA We included in this review all large case series and cohort studies that compared the results of CT angiography with the diagnosis of brain death according to neurological criteria. Uniquely, the reference standard was the same as the target condition in this review. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS We reviewed all included studies for methodological quality according to the QUADAS-2 criteria. We encountered significant heterogeneity in methods used to interpret CT angiography studies and therefore, where possible, we re-analysed the published data to conform to a standard radiological interpretation model. The majority of studies (with one exception) were not designed to include patients who were not brain dead, and therefore overall specificity was not estimable as part of a meta-analysis. Sensitivity, confidence and prediction intervals were calculated for both as-published data and as re-analysed to a standardized interpretation model. MAIN RESULTS Ten studies were found including 366 patients in total. We included eight studies in the as-published data analysis, comprising 337 patients . The methodological quality of the studies was overall satisfactory, however there was potential for introduction of significant bias in several specific areas relating to performance of the index test and to the timing of index versus reference tests. Results demonstrated a sensitivity estimate of 0.84 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.69 to 0.93). The 95% approximate prediction interval was very wide (0.34 to 0.98). Data in three studies were available as a four-vessel interpretation model and the data could be re-analysed to a four-vessel interpretation model in a further five studies, comprising 314 patient events. Results demonstrated a similar sensitivity estimate of 0.85 (95% CI 0.77 to 0.91) but with an improved 95% approximate prediction interval (0.56 to 0.96). AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS The available evidence cannot support the use of CT angiography as a mandatory test, or as a complete replacement for neurological testing, in the management pathway of patients who are suspected to be clinically brain dead. CT angiography may be useful as a confirmatory or add-on test following a clinical diagnosis of death, assuming that clinicians are aware of the relatively low overall sensitivity. Consensus on a standard radiological interpretation protocol for future published studies would facilitate further meta-analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tim Taylor
- Queens Medical Centre campus, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS TrustDepartment of ImagingDerby RoadNottinghamUKNG7 2UH
| | - Rob A Dineen
- University of NottinghamDivision of Clinical NeuroscienceDerby RoadNottinghamUKNG7 2UH
| | - Dale C Gardiner
- Queens Medical Centre campus, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS TrustDepartment of Adult Critical CareDerby RoadNottinghamUKNG7 2UH
| | - Charmaine H Buss
- Queens Medical Centre campus, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS TrustDepartment of Adult Critical CareDerby RoadNottinghamUKNG7 2UH
| | - Allan Howatson
- Queens Medical Centre campus, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS TrustDepartment of Adult Critical CareDerby RoadNottinghamUKNG7 2UH
| | - Nathan L Pace
- University of UtahDepartment of Anesthesiology3C444 SOM30 North 1900 EastSalt Lake CityUTUSA84132‐2304
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Rady MY, Verheijde JL. Movements after the clinical diagnosis of brain death: supraspinal motor responses or spinal reflexes. CRITICAL CARE : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE CRITICAL CARE FORUM 2013; 17:469. [PMID: 24245527 PMCID: PMC4056607 DOI: 10.1186/cc13117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
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Dynamic evaluation of stasis filling phenomenon with computed tomography in diagnosis of brain death. Neuroradiology 2013; 55:1061-9. [PMID: 23728070 PMCID: PMC3761089 DOI: 10.1007/s00234-013-1210-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2013] [Accepted: 05/21/2013] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Introduction Stasis filling, defined as delayed, weak, and persistent opacification of proximal segments of the cerebral arteries, is frequently found in brain dead patients. This phenomenon causes a major problem in the development of reliable computed tomographic angiography (CTA) protocol in the diagnosis of brain death (BD). The aim of our study was to characterize stasis filling in the diagnosis of BD. To achieve this, we performed a dynamic evaluation of contrast enhancement of the cerebral and extracranial arteries in patients with BD and controls. Methods Study population included 30 BD patients, who showed stasis filling in computed tomographic perfusion (CTP) series. Thirty patients, after clipping of an intracranial aneurysm, constituted the control group. The study protocol consisted of CTA, CTP, and angiography. Time–density curves (TDCs) of cerebral and extracranial arteries were generated using 40-s series of CTP. Results Cerebral TDCs in BD patients represented flat curves in contrast to TDCs in controls, which formed steep and narrow Gaussian curves. We found longer time to peak enhancement in BD patients than in controls (32 vs. 21 s; p < 0.0001). In BD patients, peak enhancement in the cerebral arteries occurred with a median delay of 14.5 s to peak in extracranial arteries, while no delay was noted in controls (p < 0.0001). Cerebral arteries in BD patients showed lower peak enhancement than controls (34.5 vs. 81.5 HU; p < 0.0001). In all BD patients, CTP revealed zero values of cerebral blood flow and volume. Angiography showed stasis filling in 14 (46.7 %) and non-filling in 16 (53.3 %) cases. Conclusion A confrontation of stasis filling with CTP results showed that stasis filling is not consistent with preserved cerebral perfusion, thus does not preclude diagnosis of BD.
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Computed tomographic angiography as a useful adjunct in the diagnosis of brain death. J Trauma Acute Care Surg 2013; 74:1279-85. [DOI: 10.1097/ta.0b013e31828c46ba] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Welschehold S, Boor S, Reuland K, Thömke F, Kerz T, Reuland A, Beyer C, Gartenschläger M, Wagner W, Giese A, Müller-Forell W. Technical aids in the diagnosis of brain death: a comparison of SEP, AEP, EEG, TCD and CT angiography. DEUTSCHES ARZTEBLATT INTERNATIONAL 2012; 109:624-30. [PMID: 23093994 DOI: 10.3238/arztebl.2012.0624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2012] [Accepted: 04/17/2012] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The use of technical aids to confirm brain death is a controversial matter. Angiography with the intra-arterial administration of contrast medium is the international gold standard, but it is not allowed in Germany except in cases where it provides a potential mode of treatment. The currently approved tests in Germany are recordings of somatosensory evoked potentials (SSEP), brain perfusion scintigraphy, transcranial Doppler ultrasonography (TCD), and electroencephalography (EEG). CT angiography (CTA), a promising new alternative, is being increasingly used as well. METHODS In a prospective, single-center study that was carried out from 2008 to 2011, 71 consecutive patients in whom brain death was diagnosed on clinical grounds underwent recording of auditory evoked potentials (AEP) and SSEP as well as EEG, TCD and CTA. RESULTS The validity of CTA for the confirmation of brain death was 94%; the validity of the other tests was: 94% for EEG, 92% for TCD, 82% for SSEP, and 2% for AEP. In 61 of the 71 patients (86%), the EEG, TCD and CTA findings all accorded with the clinical diagnosis. The diagnosis of brain death was established beyond doubt in all patients. CONCLUSION In this study, the technical aids yielded discordant results in 14% of cases, necessitating interpretation by an expert examiner. The perfusion tests, in particular, can give false-positive results in patients with large cranial defects, skull fractures, or cerebrospinal fluid drainage. In such cases, electrophysiologic tests or a repeated clinical examination should be performed instead. CTA is a promising, highly reliable new method for demonstrating absent intracranial blood flow. In our view, it should be incorporated into the German guidelines for the diagnosis of brain death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Welschehold
- Department of Neurotraumatology and Neurosurgery, Asklepios Hospital Weißenfels, Trauma Center
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