Management of aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage: State of the art and future perspectives

The effectiveness and safety of clazosentan in treating aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) is a severe event often complicated by cerebral vasospasm (CV). This study aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of clazosentan, an endothelin receptor antagonist, in reducing CV, delayed cerebral ischemia (DCI), and the need for rescue therapy in aSAH patients, while evaluating its impact on functional outcomes and mortality.

METHODS

We conducted a literature search across multiple databases to identify relevant studies evaluating the effects of clazosentan in aSAH patients. Both cohort studies and randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were included. The primary outcomes were vasospasm incidence, moderate to severe vasospasm, DCI, and the need for rescue therapy. Secondary outcomes included functional outcomes, mortality, and adverse events. The data were pooled as Risk ratios (R/R) with 95 % confidence intervals (CI) using RevMan 5.4 software.

RESULTS

A total of 11 studies, including 10 published and one unpublished, comprising 8,469 patients were included in the meta-analysis. Clazosentan significantly reduced the incidence of vasospasm (R/R = 0.49: 0.34-0.70), moderate to severe vasospasm (R/R = 0.53: 0.46-0.61), DCI (R/R = 0.70: 0.59-0.82), and the need for rescue therapy (R/R = 0.65: 0.52-0.83) compared to placebo. However, no significant improvement in functional outcomes or mortality rates was observed. Clazosentan was associated with increased rates of pulmonary adverse events (R/R = 1.89: 1.64-2.18), hypotension (R/R = 2.47: 1.79-3.42), and anemia (R/R = 1.49: 1.23-1.79) but no increased risk of hepatobiliary adverse events or cerebral hemorrhage.

CONCLUSIONS

Clazosentan demonstrates efficacy in reducing vasospasm, moderate to severe vasospasm, DCI, and the need for rescue therapy in aSAH patients, but does not significantly improve functional outcomes or mortality rates. While associated with specific adverse events, clazosentan may be a valuable adjunctive therapy in the management of aSAH, particularly in a high-risk population for vasospasm.

Comparative diagnostic efficacy of cranial CT, CTA, and DSA in subarachnoid hemorrhage management: A systematic review and meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION

Subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) is a critical medical condition associated with high morbidity and mortality rates. Timely and accurate diagnosis is crucial for optimal patient outcomes. Cranial computed tomography (CT), computed tomography angiography (CTA), and digital subtraction angiography (DSA) are commonly used imaging modalities for diagnosing SAH, but their comparative diagnostic efficacy remains debated.

METHODS

A systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted to evaluate the diagnostic performance of cranial CT, CTA, and DSA in identifying SAH. PubMed, Google scholar, Cochrane Library databases were searched for relevant studies published up to January 2024. Pooled sensitivity, specificity, and the summary receiver operating characteristic (SROC) curve were calculated using Review Manager 5.4.

RESULTS

A total of 31 studies involving 10,287 patients were included in the analysis. The pooled sensitivity of cranial CT for detecting SAH was 94.7 % (95 % Confidence Interval, CI) with a specificity of 98.3 % (95 % CI). CTA demonstrated a pooled sensitivity of 94.1 % (95 % CI) and specificity of 93.4 % (95 % CI). DSA showed a pooled sensitivity of 87.7 % (95 % CI) and specificity of 95.8 % (95 % CI). The SROC curve demonstrated discriminatory ability for all modalities.

CONCLUSION

Cranial CT, CTA, and DSA are valuable imaging modalities for diagnosing SAH, with high sensitivity and specificity. Cranial CT serves as an initial screening tool, while CTA offers superior sensitivity in detecting aneurysmal SAH. DSA remains essential in specific clinical scenarios. Further prospective studies are needed to validate these findings and refine diagnostic guidelines for SAH.

The Cell Permeant Phosphopetpide mimetic of VASP Alleviates Motor Function Deficits After Experimental Subarachnoid Hemorrhage

Subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) due to the rupture of an intracranial aneurysm leads to delayed vasospasm and neuroischemia, which can result in profound neurologic deficit and death. Therapeutic options after SAH are currently limited to hemodynamic optimization and nimodipine, which have limited clinical efficacy. Experimental SAH results in cerebral vasospasm have demonstrated the downregulation of nitric oxide (NO)-protein kinase G (PKG) signaling elements. VP3 is a novel cell permeant phosphopeptide mimetic of VASP, a substrate of PKG and an actin-associated protein that modulates vasorelaxation in vascular smooth muscle cells. In this study, we determined that intravenous administration of high doses of VP3 did not induce systemic hypotension in rats except at the maximal soluble dose, implying that VP3 is well-tolerated and has a wide therapeutic window. Using a single cisterna magna injection rat model of SAH, we demonstrated that intravenous administration of low-dose VP3 after SAH improved neurologic deficits for up to 14 days as determined by the rotarod test. These findings suggest that strategies aimed at targeting the cerebral vasculature with VP3 may improve neurologic deficits associated with SAH.

Management of neurological complications related to aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage: A comparison of the bedside therapeutic algorithms

BACKGROUND

Aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) is of the most serious emergencies in neurosurgical practice and continues to be associated with high morbidity and mortality. Beyond securing the ruptured aneurysm to prevent a rebleed, physicians continue to be concerned about potential complications such as cerebral vasospasm-delayed cerebral ischemia (DCI), an area where management remains highly variable. This study aimed at reviewing the most recent literature and assessing any up-to-date schemes for treating the most common aSAH neurological complications in adults that can be applied in daily clinical practice towards optimising outcomes.

METHODS

A systematic review was performed according to PRISMA guidelines on the management of aSAH neurological complications in adults. The literature surveyed was between 2016 and 2022 inclusive, using the Pubmed search engine. Comparisons between the methods suggested by existing therapeutic algorithms were discussed.

RESULTS

Six stepwise algorithms assisting the decision-making for treating cerebral vasospasm-DCI were recognised and compared. No algorithm was found for the management of any other neurological complications of aSAH. Despite differences in the algorithms, induced hypertension and endovascular therapy were common treatments in all approaches. Controversy in the therapeutic process of these complications surrounds not only the variability of methods but also their optimal application towards clinical outcome optimisation.

CONCLUSIONS

A universal approach to managing aSAH complications is lacking. Despite advances in the techniques to secure a ruptured aneurysm, there persist a high rate of neurological deficit and mortality, and several unanswered questions. More research is required towards stratification of current treatment algorithms as per the quality of their evidence.

An Excellent Functional Recovery Following Grade IV Subarachnoid Hemorrhage From a Cerebral Aneurysm Rebleed With Ultra-Early Surgical Intervention: A Case Report

Aneurysms are focal abnormal dilations of the arterial wall occurring frequently at branching points along the arteries of the base of the brain. Aneurysmal rupture is one of the possible aneurysm complications and can cause aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhages (aSAH). Treatment of aSAH consists of pharmacologic, surgical, or endovascular approaches. The ultra-early intervention of ruptured aSAH occurs within the first 24 hours after ruptured aSAH. This case is about a 49-year-old obese male with multiple comorbidities who suffered from a grade IV subarachnoid hemorrhage and underwent an ultra-early surgical clipping approximately four hours after admission to the emergency center. The patient had excellent functional recovery at a six-month follow-up. Ultra-early surgical intervention for high-grade aSAH with rebleeding could improve outcomes.

The impact of COVID-19 on clinical outcomes in people undergoing neurosurgery: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has created a global crisis unique to the healthcare system around the world. It also had a profound impact on the management of neurosurgical patients. In our research, we investigated the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on clinical outcomes in people undergoing neurosurgery, particularly vascular and oncological neurosurgery.

METHOD

Two investigators independently and systematically searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), ClinicalTrail.Gov, and Web of Science to identify relevant studies respecting the criteria for inclusion and exclusion published up to June 30, 2022. The outcomes of our research included mortality rate, length of stay, modified Rankin Score, delay in care, Glasgow outcome scale, and major complications. The risk of bias was assessed using the Methodological Index for Non-randomized Studies (MINORS) checklist.

RESULTS

Two investigators independently and systematically searched 1378 results from MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane database, ClinicalTrail.Gov, and Web of Science and extracted the detailed data from 13 studies that met the review's eligibility criteria. Two articles reported on patients with intracerebral hemorrhages, five on patients with subarachnoid hemorrhages, four on patients undergoing surgery for neuro-oncology, and in two studies the patients' conditions were unspecified. A total of 26,831 patients were included in our research. The number who died was significantly increased in the COVID-19 pandemic group (OR 1.52, 95% CI 1.36-1.69, P < 0.001). No significant difference was found between the two groups in terms of length of stay (SMD - 0.88, 95% CI - 0.18-0.02, P = 0.111), but it differed between regions, according to our subgroup analysis.

CONCLUSION

Compared to the pre-pandemic group, the number who died was significantly increased in the COVID-19 pandemic group. Meanwhile, the effect of the pandemic on clinical outcomes in people undergoing neurosurgery might differ in different regions, according to our subgroup analysis.

Altered levels of transthyretin in human cerebral microdialysate after subarachnoid haemorrhage using proteomics; a descriptive pilot study

BACKGROUND

Subarachnoid haemorrhage (SAH) is one of the most severe forms of stroke in which delayed cerebral ischemia is one of the major complications. Neurointensive care aims at preventing and treating such complications and identification of biomarkers of early signs of ischemia might therefore be helpful.

METHODS

We aimed at describing proteome profile in cerebral microdialysate in four patients with aneurysmal SAH using two dimensional gel electrophoresis in combination with mass spectrometry in search for new biomarkers for delayed cerebral ischemia and to investigate if there were temporal fluctuations in those biomarkers over time after aneurysmal bleed.

RESULTS

The results showed transthyretin in nine different proteoforms (1001, 1102, 2101, 3101, 4101, 4102, 5001, 5101, 6101) in cerebral microdialysate samples from four patients having sustained SAH. Several proteoforms show highly differing levels and pooled analysis of all samples showed varying optical density related to time from aneurysmal bleed, indicating a temporal evolution.

CONCLUSIONS

Transthyretin proteoforms have not earlier been shown in cerebral microdialysate after SAH and we describe differing levels based on proteoform as well as time from subarachnoid bleed. Transthyretin is well known to be synthetized in choroid plexus, whilst intraparenchymal synthesis remains controversial. The results need to be confirmed in larger studies in order to further describe transthyretin.

The mechanism and relevant mediators associated with neuronal apoptosis and potential therapeutic targets in subarachnoid hemorrhage

Subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) is a dominant cause of death and disability worldwide. A sharp increase in intracranial pressure after SAH leads to a reduction in cerebral perfusion and insufficient blood supply for neurons, which subsequently promotes a series of pathophysiological responses leading to neuronal death. Many previous experimental studies have reported that excitotoxicity, mitochondrial death pathways, the release of free radicals, protein misfolding, apoptosis, necrosis, autophagy, and inflammation are involved solely or in combination in this disorder. Among them, irreversible neuronal apoptosis plays a key role in both short- and long-term prognoses after SAH. Neuronal apoptosis occurs through multiple pathways including extrinsic, mitochondrial, endoplasmic reticulum, p53 and oxidative stress. Meanwhile, a large number of blood contents enter the subarachnoid space after SAH, and the secondary metabolites, including oxygenated hemoglobin and heme, further aggravate the destruction of the blood-brain barrier and vasogenic and cytotoxic brain edema, causing early brain injury and delayed cerebral ischemia, and ultimately increasing neuronal apoptosis. Even there is no clear and effective therapeutic strategy for SAH thus far, but by understanding apoptosis, we might excavate new ideas and approaches, as targeting the upstream and downstream molecules of apoptosis-related pathways shows promise in the treatment of SAH. In this review, we summarize the existing evidence on molecules and related drugs or molecules involved in the apoptotic pathway after SAH, which provides a possible target or new strategy for the treatment of SAH.

Evaluation of cholinergic enzymes and selected biochemical parameters in the serum of patients with a diagnosis of acute subarachnoid hemorrhage

Background

Spontaneous subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) is the most severe form of hemorrhagic stroke and accounts for 5-7% of all strokes. Several chemical enzymes and cytokines are thought to cause reactions that may affect the mortality and morbidity of SAH patients. This study aimed to examine the possible relationships between these parameters and the occurrence of SAH and the clinical-radiological parameters in patients with acute SAH.

Methods

This study evaluated 44 patients, including 20 with SAH and 24 controls. We obtained blood from the patients and control groups, which was stored in heparinized tubes and used in determining tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), acetylcholinesterase (AChE), caspase-3, and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) enzymes.

Results

TNF-α, BDNF, AChE, and BChE enzyme levels were not related to the Glasgow Coma scale (GCS) score in the patient group (p > 0.05), whereas higher enzyme levels of caspase-3 were associated with lower GCS scores (p < 0.05). The difference between the control and patient groups in terms of mean TNF-α levels was statistically significant (p < 0.01). The BDNF levels were statistically insignificant in the patient groups (p > 0.05). Caspase-3, AChE, and BChE levels were significantly different between the control and patient groups (p < 0.01).

Conclusions

Our results may be valuable for predicting the prognosis, diagnosis, and follow-up of patients with SAH. However, further studies are required to elucidate the relationship between the clinical and radiological results in patients with SAH and certain enzymes, cytokines, and growth factors.

Selection bias in patients proposed for neurosurgical versus endovascular treatment of aneurysms of the posterior communicating artery

BACKGROUND

Microsurgical clipping and endovascular coiling are viable treatment options for posterior communicating artery (PComA) aneurysms, but there are still major limitations to evidence-based decisions regarding standard-of-care treatment. In this study, we aimed at assessing potential selection biases that may influence our ability to extract conclusions about the comparative effectiveness or efficacy of the aneurysm treatment.

OBJECTIVE

To study the patient/aneurysm characteristics as possible biases in the option for endovascular or neurosurgical treatment of PComA aneurysms.

METHODS

A single-center, retrospective cohort study was performed, including all patients with treated PComA aneurysms with neurosurgical clipping or endovascular coiling between January 2010 and January 2021. Clinical and morphological data were collected from electronic records, and statistical analysis was performed.

RESULTS

A total of 64 patients was eligible for inclusion; 24 (37.5%) patients were proposed for neurosurgical treatment, while 40 (62.5%) for endovascular treatment; 10 patients (25%) crossed over to the clipping group whereas none crossed over to the coiling side. Actual treatment analysis showed significantly higher diameters of mother vessel (t-test, p = 0.034) and aneurysm neck (Mann-Whitney, p = 0.029) in the clipping group and higher aspect and dome-to-neck ratios in the endovascular group (Mann-Whitney, p = 0.008). A significantly higher vasospasm frequency was found in the clipping group but only in the intention-to-treat analysis (Chi-square, p = 0.032).

CONCLUSION

Significant morphological differences between effective endovascular and surgical groups and differences in intention-to-treat analysis may limit the validity of a direct comparison between treatment options and suggest the presence of a possible selection bias.

Brain Oxygen-Directed Management of Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage. Temporal Patterns of Cerebral Ischemia During Acute Brain Attack, Early Brain Injury, and Territorial Sonographic Vasospasm

BACKGROUND

Neurocritical management of aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage focuses on delayed cerebral ischemia (DCI) after aneurysm repair.

METHODS

This study conceptualizes the pathophysiology of cerebral ischemia and its management using a brain oxygen-directed protocol (intracranial pressure [ICP] control, eubaric hyperoxia, hemodynamic therapy, arterial vasodilation, and neuroprotection) in patients with subarachnoid hemorrhage, undergoing aneurysm clipping (n = 40).

RESULTS

The brain oxygen-directed protocol reduced Lbo₂ (Pbto₂ [partial pressure of brain tissue oxygen] <20 mm Hg) from 67% to 15% during acute brain attack (<24 hours of ictus), by increasing Pbto₂ from 11.31 ± 9.34 to 27.85 ± 6.76 (P < 0.0001) and then to 29.09 ± 17.88 within 72 hours. Day-after-bleed, Fio₂ change, ICP, hemoglobin, and oxygen saturation were predictors for Pbto₂ during early brain injury. Transcranial Doppler ultrasonography velocities (>20 cm/second) increased at day 2. During DCI caused by territorial sonographic vasospasm (TSV), middle cerebral artery mean velocity (V_m) increased from 45.00 ± 15.12 to 80.37 ± 38.33/second by day 4 with concomitant Pbto₂ reduction from 29.09 ± 17.88 to 22.66 ± 8.19. Peak TSV (days 7-12) coincided with decline in Pbto₂. Nicardipine mitigated Lbo₂ during peak TSV, in contrast to nimodipine, with survival benefit (P < 0.01). Intravenous and cisternal nicardipine combination had survival benefit (Cramer Φ = 0.43 and 0.327; G² = 28.32; P < 0.001). This study identifies 4 zones of Lbo₂ during survival benefit (Cramer Φ = 0.43 and 0.3) TSV, uncompensated; global cerebral ischemia, compensated, and normal Pbto₂. Admission Glasgow Coma Scale score (not increased ICP) was predictive of low Pbto₂ (β = 0.812, R² = 0.661, F_1,30 = 58.41; P < 0.0001) during early brain injury. Coma was the only credible predictor for mortality (odds ratio, 7.33/>4.8∗; χ² = 7.556; confidence interval, 1.70-31.54; P < 0.01) followed by basilar aneurysm, poor grade, high ICP and Lbo₂ during TSV. Global cerebral ischemia occurs immediately after the ictus, persisting in 30% of patients despite the high therapeutic intensity level, superimposed by DCI during TSV.

CONCLUSIONS

We propose implications for clinical practice and patient management to minimize cerebral ischemia.

Review of the prevention and treatment of hydrocephalus after aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage

Hydrocephalus following a ruptured aneurysm portends a poor prognosis. Patients have to face the risk of infection and shunt obstruction after shunt surgery, which may require a second procedure and greatly reduce the quality of life for survivors. It is crucial to minimize the incidence of hydrocephalus and reduce cerebrospinal fluid shunt dependency. This article reviews current interventions before and after hydrocephalus formation after aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage, focusing on the relationships between treatment options and the incidence of postoperative hydrocephalus, management of cerebrospinal fluid drainage and shunt dependent hydrocephalus, and advocates the combination of prevention and treatment to develop individualized treatment plans for patients.

Neuroimaging of Headache: Indications and Controversies

Headache is a common presenting symptom in the ambulatory setting that often prompts imaging. The increased use and associated health care money spent in the setting of headache have raised questions about the cost-effectiveness of neuroimaging in this setting. Neuroimaging for headache in most cases is unlikely to reveal significant abnormality or impact patient management. In this article, reasons behind an observed increase in neuroimaging and its impact on health care expenditures are discussed. The typical imaging modalities available and various imaging guidelines for common clinical headache scenarios are presented, including recommendations from the American College of Radiology.

Clinical Value of Inflammatory Cytokines in Patients with Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage

Background

Inflammation is closely associated with prognosis in patients with aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH), which is orchestrated by inflammatory cytokines. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the levels of inflammatory cytokines in the early stage of aSAH and their predictive value for prognosis.

Methods

In this retrospective study, 206 patients with aSAH were recruited and assigned to a severe group (WFNS grade ≥ 4) and a mild group (WFNS grade < 4) according to the severity of patients on admission. Flow cytometry was performed to detect the levels of 12 inflammatory cytokines in the serum of patients. Then, patients were grouped into a poor prognosis group (mRS score ≥ 4) and a good prognosis group (mRS score < 4) based on their prognosis after 3 months of discharge to compare the relationship between cytokines and prognosis. Propensity score matching (PSM) was utilized to control confounding factors. The correlation between inflammatory factors and prognosis was determined using Spearman correlation, and the predictive efficacy of inflammatory factors was tested by a receiver operating characteristic curve.

Results

Serum IL-1β, IL-5, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, IFN-γ, and TNF-α levels were significantly higher in the mild group than in the severe group and in the poor prognosis group than in the good prognosis group. After PSM, the differences in IL-1β, IL-5, IFN-α, and IFN-γ levels disappeared between the two groups, whereas IL-2, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, and TNF-α levels remained higher in the poor prognosis group than in the good prognosis group. Additionally, IL-2, IL-6, IL-8, and IL-10 levels were positively correlated with mRS scores. Moreover, the predictive value was found to be the highest for IL-6 and the lowest for TNF-α.

Conclusion

Inflammation degree was related to the severity of aSAH. Inflammatory markers, including IL-6, IL-10, IL-8, IL-2, and TNF-α, might predict the poor prognosis of aSAH.

Prophylactic Therapies for Morbidity and Mortality After Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis of Randomized Trials

BACKGROUND

Aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) is associated with high mortality and morbidity. We aimed to determine the relative benefits of pharmacological prophylactic treatments in patients with aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage by performing a network meta-analysis of randomized trials.

METHODS

We searched Medline, Web of Science, Embase, Scopus, ProQuest, and Cochrane Central to February 2020. Pairs of reviewers independently identified eligible trials, extracted data, and assessed the risk of bias. Eligible trials compared the prophylactic effects of any oral or intravenous medications or intracranial drug-eluting implants to one another or placebo or standard of care in adult hospitalized patients with confirmed aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage. We used the GRADE (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation) approach to assess the certainty of the evidence.

RESULTS

We included 53 trials enrolling 10 415 patients. Nimodipine likely reduces all-cause mortality compared to placebo (odds ratio [OR],0.73 [95% CI, 0.53-1.00]; moderate certainty; absolute risk reduction (ARR), -3.35%). Nimodipine (OR, 1.46 [95% CI, 1.07-1.99]; high certainty; absolute risk increase, 8.25%) and cilostazol (OR, 3.73 [95% CI, 1.14-12.18]; moderate certainty; absolute risk increase, 23.15%) were the most effective treatments in improving disability at the longest follow-up. Compared to placebo, clazosentan (10 mg/kg; OR, 0.39 [95% CI, 0.22-0.68]; high certainty; ARR, -16.65%), nicardipine (OR, 0.48 [95% CI, 0.24-0.94]; moderate certainty; ARR, -13.70%), fasudil (OR, 0.55 [95% CI, 0.31-0.98]; moderate certainty; ARR, -11.54%), and magnesium (OR, 0.66 [95% CI, 0.46-0.94]; high certainty; ARR, -8.37%) proved most effective in reducing the likelihood of delayed cerebral ischemia.

CONCLUSIONS

Nimodipine and cilostazol are likely the most effective treatments in preventing morbidity and mortality in patients with aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage. Clazosentan, nicardipine, fasudil, and magnesium showed beneficial effects on delayed cerebral ischemia and vasospasm but they were not found to reduce mortality or disability. Future trials are warranted to elaborately investigate the prophylactic effects of medications that may improve mortality and long-term functional outcomes, such as cilostazol and clazosentan.

REGISTRATION

URL: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/; Unique identifier: CRD42019122183.

Therapeutic Approaches for Cerebrovascular Dysfunction After Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage: An Update and Future Perspectives

Aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) is a severe subtype of stroke occurring at a relatively young age with a significant socioeconomic impact. Treatment of aSAH includes early aneurysm exclusion, intensive care management, and prevention of complications. Once the aneurysm rupture occurs, blood spreading within the subarachnoid space triggers several molecular pathways causing early brain injury and delayed cerebral ischemia. Pathophysiologic mechanisms underlying brain injury after aSAH are not entirely characterized, reflecting the difficulties in identifying effective therapeutic targets for patients with aSAH. Although the improvements of the last decades in perioperative management, early diagnosis, aneurysm exclusion techniques, and medical treatments have increased survival, vasospasm and delayed cerebral infarction are associated with high mortality and morbidity. Clinical practice can rely on a few specific therapeutic agents, such as nimodipine, a calcium-channel blocker proved to reduce severe neurologic deficits in these patients. Therefore, new pharmacologic approaches are needed to improve the outcome of this life-threatening condition, as well as a tailored rehabilitation plan to maintain the quality of life in aSAH survivors. Several clinical trials are investigating the efficacy and safety of emerging drugs, such as magnesium, clazosentan, cilostazol, interleukin 1 receptor antagonists, deferoxamine, erythropoietin, and nicardipine, and continuous lumbar drainage in the setting of aSAH. This narrative review focuses on the most promising therapeutic interventions after aSAH.

Avoiding Complications in Aneurysm Ligation: Operative Tips and Tricks

Preventing possible complications during brain aneurysm surgery is mandatory to ensure a better outcome for patients. Currently, it is possible to rely on some technologic innovations such as motor evoked potential, endoscope-assisted surgery, dye with indocyanine green, and video angiography capable of supporting the surgeon's work. The innovation process has mainly assisted the endovascular technique compared with surgery. The latter, apart from some new technical expedients, always requires anatomic knowledge and optimal technical preparation. A careful patient selection, adequate surgical exposure, use of microsurgical techniques in expert hands, and meticulous postoperative management represent the key to success for the surgical treatment of cerebral aneurysms.

Vitamin D as a modifiable risk factor, predictor, and theoretical therapeutic agent for vasospasm in spontaneous subarachnoid hemorrhage

Delayed deterioration associated with cerebral vasospasm (CVS) is a feared complication after spontaneous subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) and is one of the leading causes of death in patients with intracranial hemorrhage. The pathophysiology of vasospasm is complex and not fully understood, involving multiple inflammatory pathways in addition to vasoconstriction induced ischemia. Current treatment with anti-inflammatory or vasodilatory medications has been met with limited success and has not led to a decrease in vasospastic associated mortality prompting continued investigation of potential treatment options. The active form of vitamin D, 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D₃ (1,25-VitD3), is a hormone with downstream effects that induce anti-inflammatory pathways, promote nitric oxide (NO) induced vasodilation, and lead to neuroprotective-gene expression, which may be useful in mitigating the vascular pathogenesis associated with CVS. A high prevalence of vitamin D deficiency has been identified in patients admitted with SAH. Low vitamin D levels in patients, as determined by time of year, has also been correlated to an increased incidence and severity of CVS. Further, the therapeutic usefulness of 1,25-VitD3 has been demonstrated in animal models leading to a decreased incidence of CVS but has yet to be thoroughly investigated in human studies. In this review, we will discuss the findings that suggest the potential of utilizing vitamin D as a predictive indicator, method of prevention, and or treatment option for CVS in patients following spontaneous SAH.

Clinical Treatment and Prognostic Analysis of Patients with Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage

Subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) is a serious disease caused by blood flow into the subarachnoid space due to rupture of blood vessels. All diseases that cause intracranial hemorrhage are the cause of subarachnoid hemorrhage. Among them, due to the particularity of intracranial blood vessels, intracranial blood vessels are more prone to aneurysms than other parts. Therefore, the incidence of aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) is extremely high. The purpose of this article is to study the clinical treatment and prognosis analysis of aSAH patients. This article first summarizes the current status of SAH research at home and abroad and summarizes its potential value and significance. On this basis, an in-depth study of the clinical treatment of aSAH patients has been carried out. The physiological mechanism and clinical general differences of aSAH were studied and analyzed. This article systematically describes the application of CTP in the treatment and prognosis analysis of aSAH patients. Then, it will use a comparative analysis method, interdisciplinary method, and other research forms to carry out experimental research on the theme of this article. Research shows that rebleeding and blood sodium are the main factors for cerebral ischemia caused by aSAH.

Cerebral Pressure Autoregulation in Brain Injury and Disorders-A Review on Monitoring, Management, and Future Directions

The role of cerebral pressure autoregulation (CPA) in brain injury and disorders has gained increased interest. The CPA is often disturbed as a consequence of acute brain injury, which contributes to further brain damage and worse outcome. Specifically, in severe traumatic brain injury, CPA disturbances predict worse clinical outcome and targeting an autoregulatory-oriented optimal cerebral perfusion pressure threshold may improve brain energy metabolism and clinical outcome. In aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage, cerebral vasospasm in combination with distal autoregulatory disturbances precipitate delayed cerebral ischemia. The role of optimal cerebral perfusion pressure targets is less clear in aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage, but high cerebral perfusion pressure targets are generally favorable in the vasospasm phase. In acute ischemia, autoregulatory disturbances may occur and autoregulatory-oriented blood pressure (optimal mean arterial pressure) management reduces the risk of hemorrhagic transformation, brain edema, and unfavorable outcome. In chronic occlusive disease such as moyamoya, the gradual reduction of the cerebral circulation leads to compensatory distal vasodilation and the residual CPA capacity predicts the risk for cerebral ischemia. In spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage, the role of autoregulatory disturbances is less clear, but CPA disturbances correlate with worse clinical outcome. Also, in community-acquired bacterial meningitis, CPA dysfunction is frequent and correlates with worse clinical outcome, but autoregulatory management is yet to be evaluated. In this review, we discuss the role of CPA in different types of brain injury and disease, the strengths and limitations of the monitoring methods, the potentials of autoregulatory management, and future directions in the field.

Hypophosphataemia is common in patients with aneurysmal subarachnoid haemorrhage

INTRODUCTION

Hypophosphataemia is common in critically ill patients, but neither its prevalence nor its association with outcome have been investigated specifically in patients with aneurysmal subarachnoid haemorrhage (aSAH).

METHODS

Patients with aSAH and at least one phosphate measurement were included from two independent cohorts; an American cohort extracted from two open-access databases (Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care-III and eICU Collaborative Research Database v. 2.0) and a Danish cohort consisting of patients with aSAH admitted to Rigshospitalet, Denmark over a 4-year period. In each cohort, we calculated the prevalence of mild (0.32-0.80 mmol/L) and severe (<0.32 mmol/L) hypophosphataemia and their association with in-hospital mortality before and after propensity-score matching.

RESULTS

Hypophosphataemia occurred in 72.4% (95% CI: 68.1-76.3) of patients in the American cohort (n = 471) and 54.9% (50.0-59.7) in the Danish cohort (n = 419). However, it was not associated with mortality in neither full (American: Mild, Odds ratio (OR) 0.99 (0.91-1.07), Severe OR 1.20 (0.95-1.51); Danish: Mild, OR 1.01 (0.95-1.08), Severe OR 1.20 (0.95-1.51)) nor propensity-score matched cohorts (American (n = 168): Mild, OR 1.06 (0.88-1.28), Severe OR 1.46 (0.96-2.12); Danish (n = 44): Mild, OR 1.16 (0.82-1.65), Severe OR 0.45 (0.13-1.55)).

CONCLUSION

In this retrospective study of patients with aSAH, hypophosphataemia was common.

Association of Pericyte Loss With Microthrombosis After Subarachnoid Hemorrhage in ApoE-Deficient Mice

Background: The occurrence of microthrombosis contributes to not only delayed cerebral ischemia (DCI), but also early brain injury (EBI) after SAH. However, the underlying mechanism is not completely investigated. In the current study, we explored the underlying mechanism of microthrombosis in EBI stage after SAH in ApoE-deficient mice.

Methods: Experimental SAH was established by endovascular perforation in apolipoprotein E (ApoE)-deficient mice and wild type (WT) mice. Neurobehavioral, molecular biological and histopathological methods were used to assess the relationship between pericytes loss, neurobehavioral performance, and microthrombosis.

Results: We found that the number of microthrombi was significantly increased and peaked 48 h after SAH in WT mice. The increased microthrombosis was related to the decreased effective microcirculation perfusion area and EBI severity. ApoE-deficient mice showed more extensive microthrombosis than that of WT mice 48 h after SAH, which was thereby associated with greater neurobehavioral deficits. Immunohistochemical staining showed that microthrombi were predominantly located in microvessels where pericytes coverage was absent. Mechanistically, ApoE deficiency caused more extensive CypA-NF-κB-MMP-9 pathway activation than that observed in WT mice, which thereby led to more degradation of N-cadherin, and subsequently more pericytes loss. Thereafter, the major adhesion molecule that promoting microthrombi formation in microvessels, P-selectin, was considerably increased in WT mice and increased to a greater extent in the ApoE-deficient mice.

Conclusion: Taken together, these data suggest that pericytes loss is associated with EBI after SAH through promoting microthrombosis. Therapies that target ApoE to reduce microthrombosis may be a promising strategy for SAH treatment.

Radiation Exposure in the Acute Phase after Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage in the Era of CT Perfusion

PURPOSE

Aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) is associated with a high risk of developing multiple complications requiring further diagnostics including imaging associated with radiation exposure (RE). Since aSAH often affects younger patients, the obtained cumulative RE may have serious long-term health consequences. The aim of this study was to calculate the cumulative RE in the acute phase after aSAH and to identify contributors to RE. Additionally, we investigated whether there is a correlation of RE with outcome.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of patients with aSAH treated at our department from 2012 to 2018 was performed. The radiation dose of every single cranial radiological examination was calculated for every patient. The outcome was assessed according to the modified Rankin scale (mRS) 3 months after ictus. Factors associated with high RE were evaluated and the correlation of RE with outcome was assessed.

RESULTS

In 268 included consecutive patients, the mean cumulative RE per patient was 39.95 mSv, ranging from 2 to 265.5 mSv. A higher RE correlated with delayed cerebral ischemia (r = 0.52, p < 0.0001), delayed infarction (r = 0.25, p < 0.0001), delayed ischemic neurological deficits (r = 0.29, p < 0.0001) and transcranial Doppler (TCD)-vasospasm (r = 0.34, p < 0.0001). Independent predictors of outcome were age (p = 0.0001), World Federation of Neurosurgical Societies (WFNS) grade (p < 0.0001) and delayed infarction (p = 0.0004), while RE did not correlate with outcome.

CONCLUSION

There is a considerable imaging-related RE in aSAH patients. A meticulous decision-making process and imaging protocols with lower RE for the deployment of CT-based and fluoroscopy-based imaging is indicated in order to minimize the risk for radiation-mediated heath consequences in this patient population.

Rebleeding in aneurysm after rectal enema: Re-emphasis on careful subarachnoid hemorrhage management

Rebleeding in an aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) is catastrophic with high mortality and grave outcome. Meticulous management of SAH patients and the prevention of activities that might increase the chances of rebleeding are life-saving.

Intra-saccular device modeling for treatment planning of intracranial aneurysms: from morphology to hemodynamics

MOTIVATION

Intra-saccular devices (ID), developed for the treatment of bifurcation aneurysms, offer new alternatives for treating complex terminal and bifurcation aneurysms. In this work, a complete workflow going from medical images to post-treatment CFD analysis is described and used in the assessment of a concrete clinical problem.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Two different intra-saccular device sizes were virtually implanted in 3D models of the patient vasculature using the ID-Fit method. After deployment, the local porosity at the closed end of the device in contact with the blood flow was computed. This porosity was then used to produce a CFD porous medium model of the device. Velocities and wall shear stress were assessed for each model.

RESULTS

Six patients treated with intra-saccular devices were included in this work. For each case, 2 different device sizes were virtually implanted and 3 CFD simulations were performed: after deployment simulation with each size and before deployment simulation (untreated). A visible reduction in velocities was observed after device implantation. Velocity and WSS reduction was statistically significant (K-S statistics, [Formula: see text]).

CONCLUSIONS

Placement of different device size can lead to a partial filling of the aneurysm, either at the dome or at the neck, depending on the particular positioning by the interventionist. The methodology used in this work can have a strong clinical impact, since it provides additional information in the process of device selection using preoperative data.

Role of Adaptor Protein Myeloid Differentiation 88 (MyD88) in Post-Subarachnoid Hemorrhage Inflammation: A Systematic Review

Myeloid differentiation 88 (MyD88) is a well-established inflammatory adaptor protein. It is one of the essential downstream proteins of the toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) signaling pathway. TLRs are pattern recognition receptors that are usually activated by the damage-associated molecular pattern molecules (DAMPs). Sterile inflammation is triggered by the endogenous DAMPs released in response to global cerebral ischemia and from extravasated blood after subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). In this review, we highlight the importance of the neuroinflammatory role of the MyD88 in the SAH. We also explore a few possible pharmacological agents that can be used to decrease SAH-associated neuroinflammation by modulating the MyD88 dependent functions. Pharmacological agents such as flavonoids, melatonin, fluoxetine, pentoxifylline and progesterone have been investigated experimentally to reduce the SAH-associated inflammation. Inhibition of the MyD88 not only reduces the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines, but also potentially inhibits other processes that can augment the SAH associated inflammation. Further investigations are required to translate these findings in the clinical setting.

Effects of COVID-19 on the admissions of aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage: the West Greece experience

Background

Acute subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) due to aneurysmal rupture is a devastating vascular disease accounting for 5% of strokes. COVID-19 pandemic resulted in a decrease in elective and emergency admissions in the majority of neurosurgical centers. The main hypothesis was that fear of COVID-19 may have prevented patients with critical medical or surgical emergencies from actively presenting in emergency departments and outpatient clinics.

Methods

We conducted a single-center, retrospective, observational study searching our institutional data regarding the incidence of spontaneous subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) and compare the admissions in two different periods: the pre COVID-19 with the COVID-19 period.

Results

The study cohort was comprised of a total of 99 patients. The mean (SD) weekly case rate of patients with SAH was 1.1 (1.1) during the pre-COVID-19 period, compared to 1.7 (1.4) during the COVID-19 period. Analysis revealed that the volume of admitted patients with SAH was 1.5-fold higher during the COVID period compared to the pre-COVID period and this was statistically significant (ExpB = 1.5, CI 95% 1–2.3, p = 0.044). Difference in mortality did not reach any statistical significance between the two periods (p = 0.097), as well as patients’ length of stay (p = 0.193).

Conclusions

The presented data cover a more extended time period than so far published reports; it is reasonable that our recent experience may well be demonstrating a general realistic trend of overall increase in aneurysmal rupture rates during lockdown. Hospitalization of patients with SAH cannot afford any reductions in facilities, equipment, or personnel if optimum outcomes are desirable.

Management of Ruptured Intracranial Aneurysms in the Post-International Subarachnoid Aneurysm Trial Era: A Single-Centre Prospective Series

BACKGROUND

Aneurysmal subarachnoid haemorrhage (aSAH) is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. The International Subarachnoid Aneurysm Trial (ISAT) reported reduced morbidity in patients treated with endovascular coiling versus surgical clipping. However, recent studies suggest that there is no significant difference in clinical outcomes. This study examines the outcomes of either technique for treating aSAH during the 15 years post-ISAT at a Canadian quaternary centre.

METHODS

We reviewed prospectively collected data of patients admitted with aSAH from January 2002 to December 2017. Glasgow Outcome Scale (GOS) was compared at discharge, 6 months and 12 months' follow-up using univariate and multivariable ordinal logistic regression. Post-operative complications were assessed using binary logistic regression.

RESULTS

Two-hundred and eighty-seven patients were treated with coiling and 95 patients with clipping. The mean age of clipped patients was significantly younger, and hypertension was significantly commoner in coiled patients. A greater proportion of coiled aneurysms were located in the posterior circulation. No difference in the odds of having a favourable GOS was seen between patients who were clipped versus coiled at any of follow-up time points on univariate or multivariable analysis. In both treatment groups, patient recovery to independence (GOS 4-5) was seen from discharge to 6 months, but not from 6 to 12 months' follow-up, without difference between clipping and coiling.

CONCLUSION

These real-world findings suggest clipping remains an effective and important treatment option for patients with aSAH who do not meet ISAT inclusion criteria. The results can assist in clinical decision-making processes and understanding of the natural recovery progression of aSAH.

Vasorelaxing cell permeant phosphopeptide mimetics for subarachnoid hemorrhage

Subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) due to rupture of an intracranial aneurysm leads to vasospasm resulting in delayed cerebral ischemia. Therapeutic options are currently limited to hemodynamic optimization and nimodipine, which have marginal clinical efficacy. Nitric oxide (NO) modulates cerebral blood flow through activation of the cGMP-Protein Kinase G (PKG) pathway. Our hypothesis is that SAH results in downregulation of signaling components in the NO-PKG pathway which could explain why treatments for vasospasm targeting this pathway lack efficacy and that treatment with a cell permeant phosphopeptide mimetic of downstream effector prevents delayed vasospasm after SAH. Using a rat endovascular perforation model, reduced levels of NO-PKG pathway molecules were confirmed. Additionally, it was determined that expression and phosphorylation of a PKG substrate: Vasodilator-stimulated phosphoprotein (VASP) was downregulated. A family of cell permeant phosphomimetic of VASP (VP) was wasdesigned and shown to have vasorelaxing property that is synergistic with nimodipine in intact vascular tissuesex vivo. Hence, treatment targeting the downstream effector of the NO signaling pathway, VASP, may bypass receptors and signaling elements leading to vasorelaxation and that treatment with VP can be explored as a therapeutic strategy for SAH induced vasospasm and ameliorate neurological deficits.

Decreased Superoxide Dismutase Concentrations (SOD) in Plasma and CSF and Increased Circulating Total Antioxidant Capacity (TAC) Are Associated with Unfavorable Neurological Outcome after Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage

Background: Subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) is a devastating disease with high morbidity and mortality. Hypoxia-induced changes and hemoglobin accumulation within the subarachnoid space are thought to lead to oxidative stress, early brain injury, and delayed vasospasm. This study aimed to evaluate the antioxidant status and its impact on neurological outcome in patients with aneurysmal SAH. Methods: In this prospective observational study, 29 patients with aneurysmal SAH were included (mean age 54.7 ± 12.4). Blood and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples were collected on days (d) 1, 3, and 7. In addition, 29 patients without intracranial hemorrhage served as controls. The antioxidant system was analyzed by glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px; U/L) and total and free glutathione-sulfhydryl (GSH; mg/L) in the plasma. Superoxide dismutase (SOD, U/mL) and total antioxidant capacity (TAC, µmol/L) were measured in the serum and CSF. Clinical data were compiled on admission (Hunt and Hess grade, Fisher grade, and GCS). Neurological and cognitive outcome (modified Rankin scale (mRS), Glasgow Outcome Scale Extended (GOSE) and Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA)) was assessed after 6 weeks (6 w) and 6 months (6 m). Results: Plasma levels of SOD increased from day 1 to 7 after SAH (d1: 1.22 ± 0.36 U/L; d3: 1.25 ± 0.33 U/L, p = 0.99; d7: 1.52 ± 0.4 U/L, p = 0.019) and were significantly higher compared to controls (1.11 ± 0.27 U/L) at day 7 (p < 0.001). Concordantly, CSF levels of SOD increased from day 1 to 7 after SAH (d1: 1.22 ± 0.41 U/L; d3: 1.77 ± 0.73 U/L, p = 0.10; d7: 2.37 ± 1.29 U/L, p < 0.0001) without becoming significantly different compared to controls (1.74 ± 0.8 U/L, p = 0.09). Mean plasma TAC at day 1 (d1: 77.87 ± 49.72 µmol/L) was not statistically different compared to controls (46.74 ± 32.42 µmol/L, p = 0.25). TAC remained unchanged from day 1 to 7 (d3: 92.64 ± 68.58 µmol/L, p = 0.86; d7: 74.07 ± 54.95 µmol/L, p = 0.8) in plasma. TAC in CSF steeply declined from day 1 to 7 in patients with SAH becoming significantly different from controls at days 3 and 7 (d3: 177.3 ± 108.7 µmol/L, p = 0.0046; d7: 85.35 ± 103.9 µmol/L, p < 0.0001). Decreased SOD levels in plasma and CSF are associated with a worse neurological outcome 6 weeks (mRS: CSF p = 0.0001; plasma p = 0.027/GOSE: CSF p = 0.001; plasma p = 0.001) and 6 months (mRS: CSF p = 0.001; plasma p = 0.09/GOSE: CSF p = 0.001; plasma p = 0.001) after SAH. Increased plasma TAC correlated with a worse neurological outcome 6 weeks (mRS: p = 0.001/GOSE p = 0.001) and 6 months (mRS p = 0.001/GOSE p = 0.001) after SAH. Conclusion: In our study, a reduction in the antioxidative enzyme SOD and elevated TAC were associated with a poorer neurological outcome reflected by mRS and GOSE at 6 weeks and 6 months after SAH. A lower initial SOD CSF concentration was associated with the late deterioration of cognitive ability. These findings support the mounting evidence of the role of oxidative stress in early brain injury formation and unfavorable outcome after SAH.

The physiopathology of spontaneous hemorrhagic stroke: a systematic review

Hemorrhagic stroke (HS) is a major cause of death and disability worldwide, despite being less common, it presents more aggressively and leads to more severe sequelae than ischemic stroke. There are two types of HS: Intracerebral Hemorrhage (ICH) and Subarachnoid Hemorrhage (SAH), differing not only in the site of bleeding, but also in the mechanisms responsible for acute and subacute symptoms. This is a systematic review of databases in search of works of the last five years relating to the comprehension of both kinds of HS. Sixty two articles composed the direct findings of the recent literature and were further characterized to construct the pathophysiology in the order of events. The road to the understanding of the spontaneous HS pathophysiology is far from complete. Our findings show specific and individual results relating to the natural history of the disease of ICH and SAH, presenting common and different risk factors, distinct and similar clinical manifestations at onset or later days to weeks, and possible complications for both.

Role of serum biomarkers and transcranial Doppler in predicting cerebral vasospasm after aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage

Background

Aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) can have serious consequences related to vasospasm and delayed cerebral ischemia (DCI). Serum biomarkers have emerged as a promising assessment tool to facilitate earlier diagnosis of cerebral vasospasm (CV) and to identify pre-clinical vessel narrowing.

Objectives

Our aim was to detect the predictive value of serum biomarkers such as von Willebrand factor (vWF), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and matrix metalloproteinase9 (MMP-9) in CV after aSAH.

Subjects and methods

Thirty five patients with recent aSAH were included. Patients were divided into two groups; 19 patients (CV group) and 16 patients (non-CV group). The CV group was further subdivided into 9 symptomatic (DCI) and 10 asymptomatic patients. All patients underwent transcranial Doppler (TCD) evaluations three times a week for 2 weeks measuring the mean flow velocities. Serum level of vWF, MMP-9, and VEGF were assessed twice (at onset and within 2 weeks).

Results

A statistically significant increase in serum biomarker levels was found in the CV group. Cutoff value for vWF, MMP-9, and VEGF were > 4985 ng/ml, > 495 ng/ml, and > 184 pg/ml, respectively. Statistically significant positive correlations were found between serum levels of biomarkers and degree of vasospasm. No difference was found in the biomarkers between symptomatic CV and asymptomatic CV.

Conclusion

Serum biomarkers are a reliable tool to predict CV following aSAH, their levels reflect the severity of vascular vasospasm, yet, they cannot predict DCI. TCD has a strong role in early detection, monitoring of post subarachnoid vasospasm and successfully capturing asymptomatic DCI.

Impact of Ruptured Aneurysm Circulation on Mortality: A Nationwide Inpatient Sample Analysis

OBJECTIVE

This study investigates the effect of aneurysm circulation on mortality and patient outcomes after aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) within the United States.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study was conducted using the Nationwide Inpatient Sample (NIS), a part of the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project (HCUP), with ICD-10 codes for non-traumatic SAH between 2015-2016. Aneurysms were stratified as either anterior or posterior circulation. Multivariate logistic regression was used to find the impact of selected variables on the odds of mortality.

RESULTS

The NIS reported 1,892 cases of non-traumatic SAH within the study period that were predominantly anterior circulation (82.6%), female (68.6%), white (57.7%), with mean age of 59.07 years, and in-hospital mortality of 21.4%. Anterior circulation aneurysms were associated with lower severity of initial illness (p = 0.014) but higher likelihood of vasospasm (p = 0.0006) than those of the posterior circulation. In a multivariate logistic regression analysis, mortality was associated with posterior circulation aneurysms (OR: 1.42; CI 95% 1.005-20.10, p = 0.047), increasing age (OR: 1.035; 95% CI 1.022-1.049; p < 0.0001), and shorter hospital stays (OR: 0.7838; 95% CI 0.758-0.811; p < 0.0001). Smoking history (OR: 0.825; 95% CI 0.573-1.187, p > 0.05) and vasospasm (OR: 1.005; 95% CI 0.648-1.558; p > 0.05) were not significantly associated with higher odds of mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

Mortality following aneurysmal SAH is associated with posterior circulation aneurysms, and increasing age, but not smoking history or vasospasm. These findings may be useful for prognostication and counseling patients and families.

Perioperative Management of Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage

Aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage is an acute neurologic emergency. Prompt definitive treatment of the aneurysm by craniotomy and clipping or endovascular intervention with coils and/or stents is needed to prevent rebleeding. Extracranial manifestations of aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage include cardiac dysfunction, neurogenic pulmonary edema, fluid and electrolyte imbalances, and hyperglycemia. Data on the impact of anesthesia on long-term neurologic outcomes of aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage do not exist. Perioperative management should therefore focus on optimizing systemic physiology, facilitating timely definitive treatment, and selecting an anesthetic technique based on patient characteristics, severity of aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage, and the planned intervention and monitoring. Anesthesiologists should be familiar with evoked potential monitoring, electroencephalographic burst suppression, temporary clipping, management of external ventricular drains, adenosine-induced cardiac standstill, and rapid ventricular pacing to effectively care for these patients.

Endovascular and Surgical Treatment Is Predictive of Readmission Risk After Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage

BACKGROUND

Aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) is a debilitating disease process accounting for 5% of strokes. Although improvements in care have reduced the case-fatality rates, patients have an increased risk of neurological and medical complications after discharge. Additionally, the readmission rates have been increasingly used as a metric for patient care quality.

METHODS

In the present study, we reviewed the medical records of 206 patients who had been treated for aSAH at the University of Virginia from 2011 to 2018 to identify the causes and predictors of readmission.

RESULTS

The all-cause readmission rate was 9.8%, 15.3%, and 21.3% within 30, 60, and 180 days, respectively. The readmission rate for neurologic causes was 7.7%, 12.6%, and 18.0% within 30, 60, and 180 days, respectively. The neurologic causes of readmission included aneurysm retreatment, cranioplasty, a fall, hydrocephalus, stroke symptoms, and syncope. Surgical treatment (odds ratio [OR], 4.11-6.30) and endovascular treatment (OR, 3.79-8.33) of vasospasm were associated with an increased risk of all-cause readmission. Endovascular aneurysm treatment (OR, 0.22) was associated with a decreased risk of all-cause readmission. The average interval to the first follow-up appointment at our institution was 55.3 ± 63.3 days. Of the patients who had been readmitted from the emergency room, 65% had not had follow-up contact with physicians at our institution until their readmission.

CONCLUSIONS

To the best of our knowledge, the present study is the first to have examined the readmission rates for subarachnoid hemorrhage >90 days after treatment. Our results have suggested that the readmission rates >90 days after treatment could still be predicted by the hospital and treatment course during admission and that follow-up appointments with patients earlier in the clinic could identify those patients with a greater risk of readmission.

A Brief Review of Cardiovascular Diseases, Associated Risk Factors and Current Treatment Regimes

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading cause of premature death and disability in humans and their incidence is on the rise globally. Given their substantial contribution towards the escalating costs of health care, CVDs also generate a high socio-economic burden in the general population. The underlying pathogenesis and progression associated with nearly all CVDs are predominantly of atherosclerotic origin that leads to the development of coronary artery disease, cerebrovascular disease, venous thromboembolism and, peripheral vascular disease, subsequently causing myocardial infarction, cardiac arrhythmias or stroke. The aetiological risk factors leading to the onset of CVDs are well recognized and include hyperlipidaemia, hypertension, diabetes, obesity, smoking and, lack of physical activity. They collectively represent more than 90% of the CVD risks in all epidemiological studies. Despite high fatality rate of CVDs, the identification and careful prevention of the underlying risk factors can significantly reduce the global epidemic of CVDs. Beside making favorable lifestyle modifications, primary regimes for the prevention and treatment of CVDs include lipid-lowering drugs, antihypertensives, antiplatelet and anticoagulation therapies. Despite their effectiveness, significant gaps in the treatment of CVDs remain. In this review, we discuss the epidemiology and pathology of the major CVDs that are prevalent globally. We also determine the contribution of well-recognized risk factors towards the development of CVDs and the prevention strategies. In the end, therapies for the control and treatment of CVDs are discussed.

Early Hyperoxia in The Intensive Care Unit is Significantly Associated With Unfavorable Neurological Outcomes in Patients With Mild-to-Moderate Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage

INTRODUCTION

Although oxygen administration is fundamental in the management of aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) patients in the acute stage, hyperoxia has harmful effects. The effects of hyperoxia on neurological outcomes in SAH patients are unclear. We aimed to examine the association of hyperoxia during the first 24 h in the intensive care unit (ICU) with unfavorable neurological outcomes in SAH patients.

METHODS

We retrospectively selected consecutive adult patients admitted to ICU for SAH between January 2009 and April 2018. We defined normoxia during the first 24 h in ICU as PaO2 of 60 mm Hg to 120 mm Hg, mild hyperoxia as PaO2 of 121 mm Hg to 200 mm Hg, moderate hyperoxia as PaO2 of 201 mm Hg to 300 mm Hg, and severe hyperoxia as PaO2 of >300 mm Hg. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to examine the association between hyperoxia during the first 24 h in ICU and unfavorable neurological outcomes (i.e., modified Rankin scale score of 3-6 at hospital discharge).

RESULTS

Among 196 SAH patients, 90 had unfavorable neurological outcomes. Hyperoxia was observed in 93.4% of patients. No significant association was observed between unfavorable neurological outcomes and hyperoxia in overall patients. However, we found that early hyperoxia in ICU was significantly associated with unfavorable neurological outcomes in SAH patients with Hunt and Kosnik (H&K) grades I to III (Relative risk, 1.84; 95% confidence interval, 1.10-2.94; P = 0.02).

CONCLUSIONS

Early hyperoxia was not associated with unfavorable neurological outcomes in overall SAH patients, but it was associated with unfavorable neurological outcomes in those with H&K grades I to III.

Targeting High Mobility Group Box 1 in Subarachnoid Hemorrhage: A Systematic Review

Aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) is a complex and potentially deadly disease. Neurosurgical clipping or endovascular coiling can successfully obliterate ruptured aneurysms in almost every case. However, despite successful interventions, the clinical outcomes of aSAH patients are often poor. The reasons for poor outcomes are numerous, including cerebral vasospasm (CVS), post-hemorrhagic hydrocephalus, systemic infections and delayed cerebral ischemia. Although CVS with subsequent cerebral ischemia is one of the main contributors to brain damage after aSAH, little is known about the underlying molecular mechanisms of brain damage. This review emphasizes the importance of pharmacological interventions targeting high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1)-mediated brain damage after subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) and CVS. We searched Pubmed, Ovid medline and Scopus for "subarachnoid hemorrhage" in combination with "HMGB1". Based on these criteria, a total of 31 articles were retrieved. After excluding duplicates and selecting the relevant references from the retrieved articles, eight publications were selected for the review of the pharmacological interventions targeting HMGB1 in SAH. Damaged central nervous system cells release damage-associated molecular pattern molecules (DAMPs) that are important for initiating, driving and sustaining the inflammatory response following an aSAH. The discussed evidence suggested that HMGB1, an important DAMP, contributes to brain damage during early brain injury and also to the development of CVS during the late phase. Different pharmacological interventions employing natural compounds with HMGB1-antagonizing activity, antibody targeting of HMGB1 or scavenging HMGB1 by soluble receptors for advanced glycation end products (sRAGE), have been shown to dampen the inflammation mediated brain damage and protect against CVS. The experimental data suggest that HMGB1 inhibition is a promising strategy to reduce aSAH-related brain damage and CVS. Clinical studies are needed to validate these findings that may lead to the development of potential treatment options that are much needed in aSAH.

Role of Erythropoietin in Cerebral Glioma: An Innovative Target in Neuro-Oncology

BACKGROUND

Erythropoietin (EPO) is a cytokine primarily involved in the regulation of erythropoiesis. In response to hypoxia-ischemia, hypoxia-inducible factor 1 induces EPO production, which, in turn, inhibits apoptosis of erythroid progenitor cells. By the same mechanism and acting through other signaling pathways, EPO exerts neuroprotective effects. Increased resistance to hypoxia and decreased apoptosis are thought to be important mechanisms for tumor progression, including malignant glioma. Because recent studies have demonstrated that EPO and its receptor (EPOR) are expressed in several tumors and can promote tumor growth, in the present study, we investigated EPO and EPOR expression in human glioma and the effect of EPO administration in a rat model of glioma implantation.

METHODS

Using Western blotting and immunohistochemical analysis, we examined the expression of EPO, EPOR, platelet endothelial cell adhesion molecule, and Ki-67 in human glioma specimens and experimentally induced glioma in rats. In the experimental setting, a daily dose of recombinant human EPO (rHuEPO) or saline solution were administered for 21 days in Fischer rats subjected to 9L cell line implantation.

RESULTS

In both human and animal specimens, we found an increase in EPOR expression as long as the lesion presented with an increasing malignant pattern. A significant direct correlation was found between the expression of EPOR and Ki-67 and EPOR and platelet endothelial cell adhesion molecule in low- and high-grade gliomas. The rats treated with rHuEPO presented with significantly larger tumor spread compared with the saline-treated rats.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of our study have shown that the EPO/EPOR complex might play a significant role in the aggressive behavior of high-grade gliomas. The larger tumor spread in rHuEPO-treated rats suggests a feasible role for EPO in the aggressiveness and progression of malignant glioma.