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Aziz Rizk A, Shankar J. Computed Tomography Angiography as Ancillary Testing for Death Determination by Neurologic Criteria: A Technical Review. Tomography 2024; 10:1139-1147. [PMID: 39058058 PMCID: PMC11280889 DOI: 10.3390/tomography10070086] [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: 06/06/2024] [Revised: 07/07/2024] [Accepted: 07/09/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The determination of death by neurological criteria (DNC) stands as a pivotal aspect of medical practice, involving a nuanced clinical diagnosis. Typically, it comes into play following a devastating brain injury, signalling the irreversible cessation of brain function, marked by the absence of consciousness, brainstem reflexes, and the ability to breathe autonomously. Accurate DNC diagnosis is paramount for adhering to the 'Dead donor rule', which permits organ donation solely from deceased individuals. However, complexities inherent in conducting a comprehensive DNC examination may impede reaching a definitive diagnosis. To address this challenge, ancillary testing such as computed tomography angiography (CTA) has emerged as a valuable tool. The aim of our study is to review the technique and interpretation of CTA for DNC diagnoses. CTA, a readily available imaging technique, enables visualization of the cerebral vasculature, offering insights into blood flow to the brain. While various criteria and scoring systems have been proposed, a universally accepted standard for demonstrating full brain circulatory arrest remains elusive. Nonetheless, leveraging CTA as an ancillary test in DNC assessments holds promise, facilitating organ donation and curbing healthcare costs. It is crucial to emphasize that DNC diagnosis should be exclusively entrusted to trained physicians with specialized DNC evaluation training, underscoring the importance of expertise in this intricate medical domain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abanoub Aziz Rizk
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada;
| | - Jai Shankar
- Department of Radiology, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3C 2C1, Canada
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Suthar PP, Jhaveri MD, Kounsal A, Pierce LD, Singh JS. Role of Clinical and Multimodality Neuroimaging in the Evaluation of Brain Death/Death by Neurologic Criteria and Recent Highlights from 2023 Updated Guidelines. Diagnostics (Basel) 2024; 14:1287. [PMID: 38928702 PMCID: PMC11202462 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics14121287] [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: 05/09/2024] [Revised: 06/04/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose of Review: This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the diagnosis of brain death/death by neurologic criteria (BD/DNC) by emphasizing the clinical criteria established by the American Academy of Neurology (AAN) in light of their updated guidelines released in 2023. In this review, we will focus on the current implementation of ancillary tests including the catheter cerebral angiogram, nuclear scintigraphy, and transcranial Doppler, which provide support in diagnoses when clinical examination and apnea tests are inconclusive. Finally, we will also provide examples to discuss the implementation of certain imaging studies in the context of diagnosing BD/DNC. Recent Findings: Recent developments in the field of neurology have emphasized the importance of clinical criteria for diagnosing BD/DNC, with the AAN providing clear updated guidelines that include coma, apnea, and the absence of brainstem reflexes. Current ancillary tests, including the catheter cerebral angiogram, nuclear scintigraphy, and transcranial Doppler play a crucial role in confirming BD/DNC when the clinical assessment is limited. The role of commonly used imaging studies including computed tomography and magnetic resonance angiographies of the brain as well as CT/MR perfusion studies will also be discussed in the context of these new guidelines. Summary: BD/DNC represents the permanent cessation of brain functions, including the brainstem. This review article provides the historical context, clinical criteria, and pathophysiology that goes into making this diagnosis. Additionally, it explores the various ancillary tests and selected imaging studies that are currently used to diagnose BD/DNC under the newly updated AAN guidelines. Understanding the evolution of how to effectively use these diagnostic tools is crucial for healthcare professionals who encounter these BD/DNC cases in their practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pokhraj Prakashchandra Suthar
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology & Nuclear Medicine, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612, USA; (M.D.J.); (A.K.); (L.D.P.); (J.S.S.)
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Aziz Rizk A, Farhani N, Shankar J. Computed Tomography Perfusion for the Diagnosis of Brain Death: A Technical Review. Can J Neurol Sci 2024; 51:173-178. [PMID: 37462465 DOI: 10.1017/cjn.2023.242] [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] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
Timely diagnosis of brain death (BD) is critical as it prevents unethical and futile continuation of support of vital organ functions when the patient has passed. Furthermore, it helps with avoiding the unnecessary use of resources and provides early opportunity for precious organ donation. The diagnosis of BD is mainly based on careful neurological assessment of patients with an established underlying diagnosis of neurological catastrophe capable of causing BD.Ancillary testing, however, is tremendously helpful in situations when the presence of confounders prevents or delays comprehensive neurological assessment. Traditionally, four-vessel digital subtraction angiography and computed tomography angiography have been used for blood flow (BF) examinations of the brain. The lack of BF in the intracranial arteries constitutes conclusive evidence that the brain is dead. However, there is an apparent discrepancy between the BF and sufficient cerebral perfusion; several studies have shown that in 15% of patients with confirmed clinical diagnosis of BD, BF is still preserved. In these patients, cerebral perfusion is significantly impaired. Hence, measurement of cerebral perfusion rather than BF will provide a more precise assessment of the brain function.In this review article, we discuss a brief history of BD, our understanding of its complex pathophysiology, current Canadian guidelines for the clinical diagnosis of BD, and the ancillary tests-specifically CT perfusion of the brain that help us with the prompt and timely diagnosis of BD.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nahal Farhani
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Neurology, University of MB, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Jai Shankar
- Department of Radiology, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
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Hansen KIT, Kelsen J, Othman MH, Stavngaard T, Kondziella D. Confirmatory digital subtraction angiography after clinical brain death/death by neurological criteria: impact on number of donors and organ transplants. PeerJ 2023; 11:e15759. [PMID: 37492400 PMCID: PMC10364806 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.15759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Demand for organs exceeds the number of transplants available, underscoring the need to optimize organ donation procedures. However, protocols for determining brain death (BD)/death by neurological criteria (DNC) vary considerably worldwide. In Denmark, digital subtraction angiography (DSA) is the only legally approved confirmatory test for diagnosing BD/DNC. We investigated the effect of the time delay caused by (repeat) confirmatory DSA on the number of organs donated by patients meeting clinical criteria for BD/DNC. We hypothesized that, first, patients investigated with ≥2 DSAs donate fewer organs than those investigated with a single DSA; second, radiological interpretation of DSA is subject to interrater variability; and third, residual intracranial circulation is inversely correlated with inotropic blood pressure support. Methods All DSAs performed over a 7-year period as part of BD/DNC protocols at Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen University Hospital, Denmark, were included. Clinical data were extracted from electronic health records. DSAs were reinterpreted by an independent neurinterventionist blinded to the original radiological reports. Results We identified 130 DSAs in 100 eligible patients. Patients with ≥2 DSAs (n = 20) donated fewer organs (1.7 +/- 1.6 SD) than patients undergoing a single DSA (n = 80, 2.6 +/- 1.7 organs, p = 0.03), and they became less often donors (n = 12, 60%) than patients with just 1 DSA (n = 65, 81.3%; p = 0.04). Interrater agreement of radiological DSA interpretation was 88.5% (Cohen's kappa = 0.76). Patients with self-maintained blood pressure had more often residual intracranial circulation (n = 13/26, 50%) than patients requiring inotropic support (n = 14/74, 18.9%; OR = 0.23, 95% CI [0.09-0.61]; p = 0.002). Discussion In potential donors who fulfill clinical BD/DNC criteria, delays caused by repetition of confirmatory DSA result in lost donors and organ transplants. Self-maintained blood pressure at the time of clinical BD/DNC increases the odds for residual intracranial circulation, creating diagnostic uncertainty because radiological DSA interpretation is not uniform. We suggest that avoiding unnecessary repetition of confirmatory investigations like DSA may result in more organs donated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen Irgens Tanderup Hansen
- University of Southern Denmark, Faculty of Health Science, Odense, Denmark
- Department of Neurology, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jesper Kelsen
- Department of Radiology, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Marwan H. Othman
- Department of Neurology, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Trine Stavngaard
- Department of Radiology, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Daniel Kondziella
- Department of Neurology, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Alcock S, Singh S, Wiens EJ, Singh N, Ande SR, Lampron K, Huang B, Kirkpatrick I, Trivedi A, Schaffer SA, Shankar JS. CT perfusion for Assessment of poor Neurological outcome in Comatose Cardiac Arrest Patients (CANCCAP): protocol for a prospective study. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e071166. [PMID: 37270194 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-071166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Cardiac arrest remains one of the most common causes of death with the majority occurring outside of hospitals (out of hospital cardiac arrest). Despite advancements in resuscitation management, approximately 50% of comatose cardiac arrest patients (CCAP) will suffer a severe unsurvivable brain injury. To assess brain injury, a neurological examination is conducted, however, its reliability in predicting outcomes in the first days following cardiac arrest is limited. Non-contrast CT is the most employed scan to assess hypoxic changes, even though it is not sensitive to early hypoxic-ischaemic changes in the brain. CT perfusion (CTP) has shown high sensitivity and specificity in brain death patients, although its use in predicting poor neurological outcome in CCAP has not yet been explored. The purpose of this study is to validate CTP for predicting poor neurological outcome (modified Rankin scale, mRS≥4) at hospital discharge in CCAP. METHODS AND ANALYSIS The CT Perfusion for Assessment of poor Neurological outcome in Comatose Cardiac Arrest Patients study is a prospective cohort study funded by the Manitoba Medical Research Foundation. Newly admitted CCAP receiving standard Targeted Temperature Management are eligible. Patients undergo a CTP at the same time as the admission standard of care head CT. Admission CTP findings will be compared with the reference standard of an accepted bedside clinical assessment at the time of admission. Deferred consent will be used. The primary outcome is a binary outcome of good neurological status, defined as mRs<4 or poor neurological status (mRs≥4) at hospital discharge. A total of 90 patients will be enrolled. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION This study has been approved by the University of Manitoba Health Research Ethics Board. The findings from our study will be disseminated through peer-reviewed journals and presentations at local rounds, national and international conferences. The public will be informed at the end of the study. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT04323020.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan Alcock
- Department of Radiology, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Sarbjeet Singh
- Department of Radiology, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Evan J Wiens
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Navjit Singh
- University of Manitoba Max Rady College of Medicine, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Sudharsana Rao Ande
- Department of Radiology, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Kristen Lampron
- Department of Radiology, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Beili Huang
- Department of Radiology, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Iain Kirkpatrick
- Department of Radiology, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Anurag Trivedi
- Section of Neurology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Manitoba Faculty of Health Sciences, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Stephen Allan Schaffer
- Sections of Cardiology and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Manitoba Max Rady College of Medicine, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Jai Shiva Shankar
- Department of Radiology, University of Manitoba Max Rady College of Medicine, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
- Department of Human Anatomy and Cell Science, University of Manitoba Faculty of Health Sciences, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
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Goubran D, Batoo D, Linton J, Shankar J. Initial CT Imaging Predicts Mortality in Severe Traumatic Brain Injuries in Pediatric Population-A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Tomography 2023; 9:541-551. [PMID: 36961003 PMCID: PMC10037655 DOI: 10.3390/tomography9020044] [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: 01/12/2023] [Revised: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The purpose of this systematic review was to analyze evidence based on existing studies on the ability of initial CT imaging to predict mortality in severe traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) in pediatric patients. An experienced librarian searched for all existing studies based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The studies were screened by two blinded reviewers. Of the 3277 studies included in the search, data on prevalence of imaging findings and mortality rate could only be extracted from 22 studies. A few of those studies had patient-specific data relating specific imaging findings to outcome, allowing the data analysis, calculation of the area under the curve (AUC) and receiver operating characteristic (ROC), and generation of a forest plot for each finding. The data were extracted to calculate the sensitivity (SN), specificity (SP), positive predictive value (PPV), negative predicted value (NPV), AUC, and ROC for extradural hematoma (EDH), subdural hematoma (SDH), traumatic subarachnoid hemorrhage (tSAH), skull fractures, and edema. There were a total of 2219 patients, 747 females and 1461 males. Of the total, 564 patients died and 1651 survived; 293 patients had SDH, 76 had EDH, 347 had tSAH, 244 had skull fractures, and 416 had edema. The studies included had high bias and lower grade of evidence. Out of the different CT scan findings, brain edema had the highest SN, PPV, NPV, and AUC. EDH had the highest SP to predict in-hospital mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Doris Goubran
- Department of Radiology, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3A 1R9, Canada
| | - Divjeet Batoo
- Department of Radiology, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3A 1R9, Canada
| | - Janice Linton
- Indigenous Health Liaison Librarian, Neil John Maclean Health Sciences Library, Winnipeg, MB R3E 3P5, Canada
| | - Jai Shankar
- Department of Radiology, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3A 1R9, Canada
- Department of Human Anatomy and Cell Science, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University Of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0W2, Canada
- Biomedical Engineering, Price Faculty of Engineering, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3T 5V6, Canada
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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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Huisman TAGM, Hwang M, Orman G. Possible additional MRI markers for critical brain swelling with increased intracranial pressure in children? Neuroradiol J 2021; 34:642-645. [PMID: 34048321 PMCID: PMC8649183 DOI: 10.1177/19714009211019381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
A retrospective study was performed evaluating the volume and T2/T1 signal intensity of orbital fat in five children diagnosed with severe global brain swelling and confirmed cessation of cerebral perfusion. Imaging showed a volume increase (five of five) and a heterogeneous T2-hypointensity of orbital fat (four of five). This preliminary study suggests that swelling and T2-hypointensity of orbital fat may be a marker of global brain swelling and/or increased intracranial pressure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thierry AGM Huisman
- Edward B Singleton Department of Radiology, Texas Children’s Hospital and Baylor College of Medicine, USA
| | - Misun Hwang
- Department of Radiology, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, University of Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Gunes Orman
- Edward B Singleton Department of Radiology, Texas Children’s Hospital and Baylor College of Medicine, USA
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Zeiler FA, Iturria-Medina Y, Thelin EP, Gomez A, Shankar JJ, Ko JH, Figley CR, Wright GEB, Anderson CM. Integrative Neuroinformatics for Precision Prognostication and Personalized Therapeutics in Moderate and Severe Traumatic Brain Injury. Front Neurol 2021; 12:729184. [PMID: 34557154 PMCID: PMC8452858 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2021.729184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite changes in guideline-based management of moderate/severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) over the preceding decades, little impact on mortality and morbidity have been seen. This argues against the "one-treatment fits all" approach to such management strategies. With this, some preliminary advances in the area of personalized medicine in TBI care have displayed promising results. However, to continue transitioning toward individually-tailored care, we require integration of complex "-omics" data sets. The past few decades have seen dramatic increases in the volume of complex multi-modal data in moderate and severe TBI care. Such data includes serial high-fidelity multi-modal characterization of the cerebral physiome, serum/cerebrospinal fluid proteomics, admission genetic profiles, and serial advanced neuroimaging modalities. Integrating these complex and serially obtained data sets, with patient baseline demographics, treatment information and clinical outcomes over time, can be a daunting task for the treating clinician. Within this review, we highlight the current status of such multi-modal omics data sets in moderate/severe TBI, current limitations to the utilization of such data, and a potential path forward through employing integrative neuroinformatic approaches, which are applied in other neuropathologies. Such advances are positioned to facilitate the transition to precision prognostication and inform a top-down approach to the development of personalized therapeutics in moderate/severe TBI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frederick A. Zeiler
- Section of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
- Department of Human Anatomy and Cell Science, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
- Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
- Centre on Aging, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
- Division of Anaesthesia, Department of Medicine, Addenbrooke's Hospital, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Yasser Iturria-Medina
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- McConnell Brain Imaging Centre, Montreal Neurological Institute, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Ludmer Centre for Neuroinformatics and Mental Health, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Eric P. Thelin
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Neurology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Alwyn Gomez
- Section of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
- Department of Human Anatomy and Cell Science, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Jai J. Shankar
- Department of Radiology, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Ji Hyun Ko
- Department of Human Anatomy and Cell Science, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
- Neuroscience Research Program, Kleysen Institute for Advanced Medicine, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Chase R. Figley
- Department of Radiology, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
- Neuroscience Research Program, Kleysen Institute for Advanced Medicine, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Galen E. B. Wright
- Neuroscience Research Program, Kleysen Institute for Advanced Medicine, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Chris M. Anderson
- Neuroscience Research Program, Kleysen Institute for Advanced Medicine, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
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Shankar JJS. Variation in CT perfusion protocol has implications on defining irreversibly damaged ischemic brain parenchyma. Eur Radiol 2021; 31:8315-8316. [PMID: 34338843 DOI: 10.1007/s00330-021-08209-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2021] [Revised: 06/29/2021] [Accepted: 07/04/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
KEY POINTS • Computed tomographic perfusion (CTP) is increasingly being used in the characterization of brain ischemia.• Variations in post-processing protocols continue to be a challenge, resulting in a slight variation of CTP results.• We need to adopt a universal acquisition protocol to help optimize output of CTP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jai Jai Shiva Shankar
- Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, Radiology Department, University of Manitoba, GA216-820 Sherbrook Street, Winnipeg, MB, R3A 1R9, Canada.
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11
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Plourde G, Briard JN, Shemie SD, Shankar JJS, Chassé M. Flow is not perfusion, and perfusion is not function: ancillary testing for the diagnosis of brain death. Can J Anaesth 2021; 68:953-961. [PMID: 33942244 PMCID: PMC8175303 DOI: 10.1007/s12630-021-01988-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2021] [Revised: 02/06/2021] [Accepted: 02/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Guillaume Plourde
- Division of Critical Care, Department of Medicine, Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Joel Neves Briard
- Department of Neuroscience, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Sam D Shemie
- Division of Critical Care, Montréal Children's Hospital, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Deceased Organ Donation, Canadian Blood Services, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | | | - Michaël Chassé
- Division of Critical Care, Department of Medicine, Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada.
- Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal Research Center (CRCHUM), 900 rue Saint-Denis, Montréal, QC, H2X 3H8, Canada.
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Alcock S, Batoo D, Ande SR, Grierson R, Essig M, Martin D, Trivedi A, Sinha N, Leeies M, Zeiler FA, Shankar JJS. Early diagnosis of mortality using admission CT perfusion in severe traumatic brain injury patients (ACT-TBI): protocol for a prospective cohort study. BMJ Open 2021; 11:e047305. [PMID: 34108167 PMCID: PMC8191612 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-047305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a catastrophic neurological condition with significant economic burden. Early in-hospital mortality (<48 hours) with severe TBI is estimated at 50%. Several clinical examinations exist to determine brain death; however, most are difficult to elicit in the acute setting in patients with severe TBI. Having a definitive assessment tool would help predict early in-hospital mortality in this population. CT perfusion (CTP) has shown promise diagnosing early in-hospital mortality in patients with severe TBI and other populations. The purpose of this study is to validate admission CTP features of brain death relative to the clinical examination outcome for characterizing early in-hospital mortality in patients with severe TBI. METHODS AND ANALYSIS The Early Diagnosis of Mortality using Admission CT Perfusion in Severe Traumatic Brain Injury Patients study, is a prospective cohort study in patients with severe TBI funded by a grant from the Canadian Institute of Health Research. Adults aged 18 or older, with evidence of a severe TBI (Glasgow Coma Scale score ≤8 before initial resuscitation) and, on mechanical ventilation at the time of imaging are eligible. Patients will undergo CTP at the time of first imaging on their hospital admission. Admission CTP compares with the reference standard of an accepted bedside clinical assessment for brainstem function. Deferred consent will be used. The primary outcome is a binary outcome of mortality (dead) or survival (not dead) in the first 48 hours of admission. The planned sample size for achieving a sensitivity of 75% and a specificity of 95% with a CI of ±5% is 200 patients. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION This study has been approved by the University of Manitoba Health Research Ethics Board. The findings from our study will be disseminated through peer-reviewed journals and presentations at local rounds, national and international conferences. The public will be informed through forums at the end of the study. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT04318665.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan Alcock
- Department of Radiology, University of Manitoba Faculty of Health Sciences, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Divjeet Batoo
- Department of Radiology, University of Manitoba Faculty of Health Sciences, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Sudharsana Rao Ande
- Department of Radiology, University of Manitoba Faculty of Health Sciences, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Rob Grierson
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Manitoba Faculty of Health Sciences, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Marco Essig
- Department of Radiology, University of Manitoba Faculty of Health Sciences, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Douglas Martin
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Manitoba Faculty of Health Sciences, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Anurag Trivedi
- Section of Neurology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Manitoba Faculty of Health Sciences, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Namita Sinha
- Section of Neuropathology, Department of Pathology, University of Manitoba Faculty of Health Sciences, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Murdoch Leeies
- Department of Emergency Medicine & Section of Critical Care Medicine, University of Manitoba Faculty of Health Sciences, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Frederick A Zeiler
- Section of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, University of Manitoba Faculty of Health Sciences, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
- Department of Human Anatomy and Cell Science, University of Manitoba Faculty of Health Sciences, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Jai Jai Shiva Shankar
- Department of Radiology, University of Manitoba Faculty of Health Sciences, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
- Department of Human Anatomy and Cell Science, University of Manitoba Faculty of Health Sciences, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
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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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Brasil S, Bor-Seng-Shu E, de-Lima-Oliveira M, Taccone FS, Gattás G, Nunes DM, Gomes de Oliveira RA, Martins Tomazini B, Tierno PF, Becker RA, Bassi E, Sá Malbouisson LM, da Silva Paiva W, Teixeira MJ, de Carvalho Nogueira R. Computed tomography angiography accuracy in brain death diagnosis. J Neurosurg 2020; 133:1220-1228. [PMID: 31561215 DOI: 10.3171/2019.6.jns191107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2019] [Accepted: 06/18/2019] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The present study was designed to answer several concerns disclosed by systematic reviews indicating no evidence to support the use of computed tomography angiography (CTA) in the diagnosis of brain death (BD). Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess the effectiveness of CTA for the diagnosis of BD and to define the optimal tomographic criteria of intracranial circulatory arrest. METHODS A unicenter, prospective, observational case-control study was undertaken. Comatose patients (Glasgow Coma Scale score ≤ 5), even those presenting with the first signs of BD, were included. CTA scanning of arterial and venous vasculature and transcranial Doppler (TCD) were performed. A neurological determination of BD and consequently determination of case (BD group) or control (no-BD group) was conducted. All personnel involved with assessing patients were blinded to further tests results. Accuracy of BD diagnosis determined by using CTA was calculated based on the criteria of bilateral absence of visualization of the internal cerebral veins and the distal middle cerebral arteries, the 4-point score (4PS), and an exclusive criterion of absence of deep brain venous drainage as indicated by the absence of deep venous opacification on CTA, the venous score (VS), which considers only the internal cerebral veins bilaterally. RESULTS A total of 106 patients were enrolled in this study; 52 patients did not have BD, and none of these patients had circulatory arrest observed by CTA or TCD (100% specificity). Of the 54 patients with a clinical diagnosis of BD, 33 met the 4PS (61.1% sensitivity), whereas 47 met the VS (87% sensitivity). The accuracy of CTA was time related, with greater accuracy when scanning was performed less than 12 hours prior to the neurological assessment, reaching 95.5% sensitivity with the VS. CONCLUSIONS CTA can reliably support a diagnosis of BD. The criterion of the absence of deep venous opacification, which can be assessed by use of the VS criteria investigated in this study, can confirm the occurrence of cerebral circulatory arrest.Clinical trial registration no.: 12500913400000068 (clinicaltrials.gov).
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Bruno Martins Tomazini
- 3Trauma Intensive Care Unit, Hospital das Clinicas, School of Medicine, São Paulo, Brazil; and
| | - Paulo Fernando Tierno
- 3Trauma Intensive Care Unit, Hospital das Clinicas, School of Medicine, São Paulo, Brazil; and
| | - Rafael Akira Becker
- 3Trauma Intensive Care Unit, Hospital das Clinicas, School of Medicine, São Paulo, Brazil; and
| | - Estevão Bassi
- 3Trauma Intensive Care Unit, Hospital das Clinicas, School of Medicine, São Paulo, Brazil; and
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study is to determine the potential role of dynamic susceptibility contrast (DSC) magnetic resonance (MR) perfusion imaging in diagnosing brain death. MATERIALS AND METHODS The study population was composed of 61 subjects (the Glasgow Coma Scale [GCS] score was 3 for all subjects), and 26 subjects were assigned to the control group (GCS scores between 4 and 6). At least four regions of interest (ROIs) from different anatomical regions were measured, the mean transit time (MTT), cerebral blood flow (CBF), and signal intensity time-to-course graphic were calculated. A second neurological examination (including an apnea test) was accepted as the gold standard method for the diagnosis of brain death. RESULTS DSC-MR perfusion imaging diagnosed brain death with a specificity of 100% (61/61) and a sensitivity of 86.8% (53/61). A cut-off value of maximum 3.5% decrease in the signal intensity time-to-course graphic was calculated by the Youden's index and established for the to differentiate brain death from other conditions. CONCLUSION DSC-MR perfusion imaging is a promising tool that may be used as a reliable add-on confirmatory diagnostic test for the brain death.
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Implementing of Active Brain-Dead Donor Identification Strategy in a Single Donor Center: One Year Experience. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 56:medicina56080366. [PMID: 32707964 PMCID: PMC7466291 DOI: 10.3390/medicina56080366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2020] [Revised: 07/16/2020] [Accepted: 07/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Background and objectives: Organ shortage is considered to be a major limitation for increasing transplantation rates. Brain-dead donors (DBDs) are an important source of organs, but up to 50% of potential DBDs might not be identified. An active brain-dead donor search could potentially increase a deceased donor pool. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of an active potential DBD identification program and to evaluate one year impact on the potential organ donor pool in Lithuania‘s biggest medical institution. Materials and Methods: An organ donor coordinator service was established and active DBD search strategy was implemented in the hospital of LSMU Kauno Klinikos, and retrospective data analysis was performed between December 2016 and December 2017. Collected data was compared to the available data of the previous year in the same center and to the donation dynamics of the whole country. Results: A total of 6734 patients were treated in all intensive care units (ICU), and 234 (3.5%) of them were identified as possible donors. No increase in potential donor’s number was observed in study year (n = 34) compared to remote year (n = 37). No significant difference in potential donor’s demographic data, cause of death, family refusals and medical contraindication rates. Cerebral angiography (CA) repeated in 20% of potential donors in order to confirm brain death diagnosis. More potential donors for whom CA was repeated had decompressive craniectomy done (66.7% vs. 33.3%, p = 0.018). Decompressive craniectomy statistically significantly increases the rate of repeated CA (OR 12.7; 95% CI, 1.42–113.37; p = 0.023). Active search strategy increased length of hospital stay of potential donors comparing to previous year (3.97 ± 4.73 vs. 2.51 ± 2.63, p = 0.003). An optimal time of the first four days of hospitalization to identify a potential donor was observed during our study (OR 10.42; 95% CI, 4.29–25.34; p = 0.001). Conclusions: We were not able to demonstrate active donor identification strategy superiority over the passive strategy during a short one year period; nevertheless, valuable knowledge was gained in brain death diagnostics, new terminology was implemented, and the stability of actual donor numbers was observed in the experimental donor center in the light of decreasing national results. Long-term strategy is required to achieve sustainable results in organ donation.
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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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Othman MH, Dutta A, Kondziella D. Public opinion and legislations related to brain death, circulatory death and organ donation. J Neurol Sci 2020; 413:116800. [PMID: 32251871 DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2020.116800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2019] [Revised: 03/12/2020] [Accepted: 03/23/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND It is poorly understood how public perception of the difference between brain death and circulatory death may influence attitudes towards organ donation. We investigated the public opinion on brain death versus circulatory death and documented inconsistencies in the legislations of countries with different cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds. METHODS Using a crowdsourcing approach, we randomized 1072 participants from 30 countries to a case report of organ donation after brain death or to one following circulatory death. Further, we sampled guidelines from 24 countries and 5 continents. RESULTS Of all participants, 73% stated they would be willing to donate all organs, while 16% would want to donate some of their organs. To increase the rate of donations, 47% would agree with organ donation without family consent as the default. Exposure to "brain death" was not associated with a lesser likelihood of participants agreeing with organ donation (82.1%) compared to "circulatory death" (81.9%; relative risk 1.02, 95% CI 0.99 to 1.03; p = .11). However, participants exposed to "circulatory death" were more certain that the patient was truly dead (87.9% ± 19.7%) than participants exposed to "brain death" (84.1% ± 22.7%; Cohen's d 0.18; p = 0:004). Sampling of guidelines revealed large differences between countries regarding procedures required to confirm brain death and circulatory death, respectively. CONCLUSIONS Implementation of organ donation after circulatory death is unlikely to negatively influence the willingness to donate organs, but legislation is still brain death-based in most countries. The time seems ripe to increase the rate of circulatory death-based organ donation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marwan H Othman
- Departments of Neurology, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen University Hospital, Denmark
| | - Anirban Dutta
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, NY, United States
| | - Daniel Kondziella
- Departments of Neurology, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen University Hospital, Denmark; Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
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Admission Perfusion CT for Classifying Early In-Hospital Mortality of Patients With Severe Traumatic Brain Injury: A Pilot Study. AJR Am J Roentgenol 2020; 214:872-876. [PMID: 31990213 DOI: 10.2214/ajr.19.21599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE. The purposes of this study were to assess the feasibility and safety of perfusion CT of patients with severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) at hospital admission and to examine whether early in-hospital mortality could be characterized with perfusion CT (PCT). The hypothesis was that PCT can be used to characterize brain death, when present, in patients with severe TBI at hospital admission. SUBJECTS AND METHODS. In this prospective cohort pilot study, PCT was performed on patients with severe TBI at first imaging workup at hospital admission. PCT images were processed at the end of the study and assessed for features of brain death. The PCT features were then compared with the clinical outcome of in-hospital mortality. RESULTS. A total of 19 patients (13 men [68.4%]; six women [31.6%]; mean age, 36.4 years; median, 27.5 years) had a mean hospital stay longer than 1 month. No complications of PCT were found. In the first 48 hours after admission, four patients (21%) died. Admission PCT changes suggesting brainstem death were sensitive (75%) and specific (100%) and had high positive (100%) and negative (93.75%) predictive value for correct classification early in-hospital mortality. CONCLUSION. Admission PCT of patients with severe TBI was feasible and safe. Admission PCT findings helped in correctly classifying early in-hospital mortality in the first 48 hours of hospital admission.
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