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SUMMARY: In recent years, there has been substantial progression in the field of stroke clot/thrombus imaging. Thrombus imaging aims to deduce the histologic composition of the clot through evaluation of various imaging characteristics. If the histology of a thrombus can be reliably determined by noninvasive imaging methods, critical information may be extrapolated about its expected response to treatment and about the patient’s clinical outcome. Crucially, as we move into an era of stroke therapy individualization, determination of the histologic composition of a clot may be able to guide precise and targeted therapeutic effort. Most radiologists, however, remain largely unfamiliar with the topic of clot imaging. This article will review the current literature regarding clot imaging, including its histologic backdrop, the correlation of images with cellular components and treatment responsiveness, and future expectations.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Hydrophilic polymers and polytetrafluoroethylene liners, commonly used in the construction of endovascular devices, occasionally separate from devices with subsequent embolization. We determined the frequency of such materials in thrombus specimens retrieved by mechanical thrombectomy in patients with stroke. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed H&E–stained thrombus sections for presence and types of foreign materials. We identified 4 types of foreign materials—Type I: material was light green with refraction and had a homogeneous texture; type II: material was light gray and/or dark gray, thin, and loose or attenuated in texture; type III: material was light green with refraction, solitary in texture, irregular in shape, and was often associated with round or oval bubblelike particles and/or diffuse black particles; and type IV: material had homogeneous texture and was light pink or red. In addition, polymer materials from different layers of used mechanical thrombectomy catheters were compared with the foreign materials found in thrombus specimens. RESULTS: A total of 101 thrombi were evaluated. Foreign materials were found in 53 (52.5%) thrombus samples. The most common type was type I (92%), followed by type II (30%). The histopathologic features of the polymer materials from mechanical thrombectomy catheters were similar to the foreign materials found in thrombus specimens. The inner polytetrafluoroethylene liner and coating layer of catheters resembled type I and type II of the foreign materials, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Foreign polymer materials are present in approximately half of retrieved thrombi, most commonly polytetrafluoroethylene from catheter liners and less from hydrophilic coatings.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: The role of vertebroplasty in patients with myeloma remains relatively undefined. Accordingly, we sought to better define the efficacy of vertebroplasty for myeloma-associated fractures and determine the effect of procedure timing relative to the initiation of systemic therapy on outcomes and complication rates. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Clinical, laboratory, and medication data were retrieved for 172 patients with multiple myeloma treated with vertebroplasty since October 2000. Quantitative outcome data (Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire [scale, 0–24] and the Numeric Rating Scale [0–10] for pain at rest and with activity) were collected immediately pre- and postoperatively and at 1 week, 1 month, 6 months, and 1 year following vertebroplasty. Patients with ≥50% improvement on the Numeric Rating Scale and ≥40% improvement on the Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire were classified as “responders.” Peri- and postoperative complications were also collected. RESULTS: Significant median improvement in the Roland-Morris Disability and rest and activity Numeric Rating Scale scores (15, 2, and 6 points, respectively; P .36). Patients on systemic therapy at the time of vertebroplasty were more likely to achieve “responder status,” compared with patients not on systemic therapy, for the Numeric Rating Scale pain at rest score ( P < .01) and the Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire score ( P < .003), with no difference in complication rates (χ2 = 0.17, P = .68). CONCLUSIONS: Vertebroplasty is an effective therapy for patients with myeloma with symptomatic compression fractures. Favorable outcomes are more likely to be achieved when spinal augmentation is performed after systemic therapy is initiated. Complication rates were not affected by the timing of systemic therapy. IQR : interquartile range NRS : Numeric Rating Scale RDQ : Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Both the Meyer and Raymond scales are commonly used to report angiographic outcomes following coil embolization of intracranial aneurysms. The objectives of this study were the following: 1) to assess the interobserver agreement of the Meyer and Raymond scales, and 2) to evaluate and compare their performance in predicting major recurrence at follow-up. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective series of 120 coiled aneurysms was included. Four investigators independently graded DSA images immediately posttreatment and at follow-up according to the Meyer and Raymond scales. On follow-up DSA, readers also evaluated recurrence outcome. Interobserver agreement was assessed via the intraclass correlation coefficient. The ability of posttreatment Meyer and Raymond scales to predict major recurrence was modeled by using logistic regression and assessed by using receiver operating characteristic analysis. RESULTS: For the Meyer scale, interobserver intraclass correlation coefficients were 0.58 (95% CI, 0.46–0.68) on posttreatment and 0.78 (95% CI, 0.72–0.83) on follow-up evaluations. For the Raymond scale, interobserver intraclass correlation coefficients were 0.50 (95% CI, 0.39–0.61) and 0.69 (95% CI, 0.62–0.76), respectively, for posttreatment and follow-up. The areas under the curve for the receiver operating characteristic analyses regarding the performance to predict major recurrence at follow-up were 0.69 (95% CI, 0.60–0.79) for the Meyer and 0.70 (95% CI, 0.61–0.78) for the Raymond scale. CONCLUSIONS: The Meyer scale appears consistent and reliable with observer agreement as high or higher than that of the Raymond scale. Performance of both scales in predicting the risk of major recurrence at follow-up is adequate, with no statistical difference between the scales.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: The WEB Occlusion Score has been proposed to assess angiographic outcomes for intracranial aneurysms treated with the Woven EndoBridge (WEB) device. Using a large series of experimental aneurysms treated with the WEB, we had the following objectives: 1) to compare angiographic outcomes as measured by the WEB Occlusion Scale with histologic results, and 2) to assess interobserver and intraobserver agreement of the WEB Occlusion Scale. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Intracranial aneurysms were created in 80 rabbits and treated with WEB devices. Animals were sacrificed at last follow-up for histologic evaluation. DSA was performed just after the deployment of the device and at follow-up. Four investigators independently and retrospectively graded the DSA twice according to the WEB Occlusion Scale. One histopathologist blinded to the angiographic results graded the occlusion according to a 4-point scale patterned on the WEB Occlusion Scale. Intra- and interobserver agreement were evaluated for DSA. Follow-up angiographic grading and histologic reference were compared to determine the WEB Occlusion Scale accuracy for complete (with or without recess filling) versus incomplete occlusion and adequate (complete occlusion or neck remnant) versus inadequate occlusion. RESULTS: Inter- and intraobserver weighted κ for the angiographic WEB Occlusion Scale were, respectively, 0.76 and 0.76, indicating substantial agreement. The sensitivity and specificity of the WEB Occlusion Scale for complete occlusion at follow-up compared with the histologic reference standard were, respectively, 75% and 83.3%, with an overall accuracy of 80%. Similarly, for adequate occlusion at follow-up, sensitivity was 97.7%, specificity was 64.9%, and overall accuracy was 82.5%. CONCLUSIONS: The WEB Occlusion Scale appears to be consistent, reliable, and accurate compared with a histologic reference standard.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Various endovascular techniques have been applied to treat blister-like aneurysms. We performed a systematic review to evaluate endovascular treatment for ruptured blister-like aneurysms. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We performed a comprehensive literature search and subgroup analyses to compare deconstructive versus reconstructive techniques and flow diversion versus other reconstructive options. RESULTS: Thirty-one studies with 265 procedures for ruptured blister-like aneurysms were included. Endovascular treatment was associated with a 72.8% (95% CI, 64.2%–81.5%) mid- to long-term occlusion rate and a 19.3% (95% CI, 13.6%–25.1%) retreatment rate. Mid- to long-term neurologic outcome was good in 76.2% (95% CI, 68.9%–8.4%) of patients. Two hundred forty procedures (90.6%) were reconstructive techniques (coiling, stent-assisted coiling, overlapped stent placement, flow diversion) and 25 treatments (9.4%) were deconstructive. Deconstructive techniques had higher rates of initial complete occlusion than reconstructive techniques (77.3% versus 33.0%, P = .0003) but a higher risk for perioperative stroke (29.1% versus 5.0%, P = .04). There was no difference in good mid- to long-term neurologic outcome between groups, with 76.2% for the reconstructive group versus 79.9% for the deconstructive group (P = .30). Of 240 reconstructive procedures, 62 (25.8%) involved flow-diverter stents, with higher rates of mid- to long-term complete occlusion than other reconstructive techniques (90.8% versus 67.9%, P = .03) and a lower rate of retreatment (6.6% versus 30.7%, P < .0001). CONCLUSIONS: Endovascular treatment of ruptured blister-like aneurysms is associated with high rates of complete occlusion and good mid- to long-term neurologic outcomes in most patients. Deconstructive techniques are associated with higher occlusion rates but a higher risk of perioperative ischemic stroke. In the reconstructive group, flow diversion carries a higher level of complete occlusion and similar clinical outcomes.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Spontaneous intraparenchymal hemorrhage is a dreaded complication of unknown etiology following flow-diversion treatment. Using the International Retrospective Study of the Pipeline Embolization Device registry, we studied demographic, aneurysm, and procedural characteristics associated with intraparenchymal hemorrhage following Pipeline Embolization Device treatment. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We identified patients in the International Retrospective Study of the Pipeline Embolization Device registry with intraparenchymal hemorrhage unrelated to index aneurysm rupture post-Pipeline Embolization Device treatment. The rate of intraparenchymal hemorrhage was determined by baseline demographics, comorbidities, aneurysm characteristics, and procedural characteristics (including anticoagulation use, platelet testing, number of devices used, sheaths, catheters, and guidewires). Categoric variables were compared with χ2 testing, and continuous variables were compared with the Student t test. RESULTS: Of 793 patients with 906 aneurysms, 20 (2.5%) had intraparenchymal hemorrhage. Fifteen intraparenchymal hemorrhages (75.0%) occurred within 30 days of treatment (median, 5 days; range, 0–150 days). Nine patients with intraparenchymal hemorrhage (45.0%) died, 10 (50.0%) had major neurologic morbidity, and 1 had minor neurologic morbidity (5.0%). Intraparenchymal hemorrhage was ipsilateral to the Pipeline Embolization Device in 16 patients (80%) and contralateral in 3 patients (15.0%). Variables associated with higher odds of intraparenchymal hemorrhage included treatment of ruptured aneurysms (OR, 4.44; 95% CI, 1.65–11.94; P = .005) and the use of ≥3 Pipeline Embolization Devices (OR, 4.10; 95% CI, 1.34–12.58; P = .04). The Shuttle sheath was not associated with intraparenchymal hemorrhage (OR, 0.97; 95% CI, 0.38–2.45; P = .95). CONCLUSIONS: Spontaneous intraparenchymal hemorrhage following Pipeline Embolization Device treatment is a rare-but-devastating complication, with nearly all patients having morbidity or mortality. Variables associated with intraparenchymal hemorrhage included the use of multiple Pipeline Embolization Devices and treatment of ruptured aneurysms. The Shuttle, a device that was previously thought to be associated with intraparenchymal hemorrhage, was not associated with it.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: The Patient Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System is a newly developed outcomes measure promulgated by the National Institutes of Health. This study compares changes in pain and physical function–related measures of this system with changes on the Numeric Rating Pain Scale, Roland Morris Disability Index, and the European Quality of Life scale 5D questionnaire in patients undergoing transformational epidural steroid injections for radicular pain. MATERIALS AND METHODS: One hundred ninety-nine patients undergoing transforaminal epidural steroid injections for radicular pain were enrolled in the study. Before the procedure, they rated the intensity of their pain by using the 0–10 Numeric Rating Pain Scale, Roland Morris Disability Index, and European Quality of Life scale 5D questionnaire. Patients completed the Patient Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System Physical Function, Pain Behavior, and Pain Interference short forms before transforaminal epidural steroid injections and at 3 and 6 months. Seventy and 43 subjects replied at 3- and 6-month follow-up. Spearman rank correlations were used to assess the correlation between the instruments. The minimally important differences were calculated for each measurement tool as an indicator of meaningful change. RESULTS: All instruments were responsive in detecting changes at 3- and 6-month follow-up (P < .0001). There was significant correlation between changes in Patient Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System scores and legacy questionnaires from baseline to 3 months (P < .05). There were, however, no significant correlations in changes from 3 to 6 months with any of the instruments. CONCLUSIONS: The studied Patient Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System domains offered responsive and correlative psychometric properties compared with legacy instruments in a population of patients undergoing transforaminal epidural steroid injections for radicular pain.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Endovascular therapy has become an acceptable alternative to traditional clipping for the management of intracranial aneurysms. However, a limited number of studies have examined outcomes and complications specific to embolization of anterior communicating artery aneurysms. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A systematic review of the literature was conducted with the use of multiple data bases to identify reports on endovascular treatment of anterior communicating artery aneurysms between 1994 and 2012. Angiographic results, clinical outcomes, and complication rates were pooled across studies by using random-effects meta-analysis with subgroup analysis of outcomes by rupture status and time trend stratification. RESULTS: Fourteen studies, consisting of 1552 treated anterior communicating artery aneurysms, were included in this meta-analysis. The rate of immediate and long-term complete and near-complete angiographic occlusion was 88% (95% CI = 81–93%) and 85% (95% CI = 78–90%), respectively. Intraprocedural rupture rate was 4% (95% CI = 3–6%). The re-bleeding rate was 2% (95% CI = 1–4%) and the retreatment rate was 7% (95% CI = 5–12%). Morbidity or mortality caused by perioperative stroke occurred at a 3% (95% CI = 2–6%) rate. Overall procedure-related morbidity and mortality were 6% (95% CI = 4–8%) and 3% (95% CI = 2–4%), respectively. Outcomes did not differ between ruptured and unruptured aneurysms, nor did outcomes change over time, though these latter subanalyses were relatively underpowered. CONCLUSIONS: Endovascular therapy for anterior communicating artery aneurysms is associated with a high rate of complete angiographic occlusion. However, the procedure-related permanent morbidity and mortality are not negligible for aneurysms in this location.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Aneurysms of the cavernous segment of the ICA are difficult to treat with standard endovascular techniques, and ICA sacrifice achieves a high rate of occlusion but carries an elevated level of surgical complications and risk of de novo aneurysm formation. We report rates of occlusion and treatment-related data in 44 patients with cavernous sinus aneurysms treated with flow diversion. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Patients with cavernous segment aneurysms treated with flow diversion were selected from a prospectively maintained data base of patients from 2009 to the present. Demographic information, treatment indications, number/type of flow diverters placed, outcome, complications (technical or clinical), and clinical/imaging follow-up data were analyzed. RESULTS: We identified 44 patients (37 females, 7 males) who had a flow diverter placed for treatment of a cavernous ICA aneurysm (mean age, 57.2; mean aneurysm size, 20.9 mm). The mean number of devices placed per patient was 2.2. At final angiographic follow-up (mean, 10.9 months), 71% had complete occlusion, and of those with incomplete occlusion, 40% had minimal remnants (

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: CT angiography, CT perfusion, and MR imaging have all been advocated as potentially useful in treatment planning for patients with acute ischemic stroke. We evaluated a large multihospital data base to determine how the use of advanced imaging is evolving in patients treated with intravenous thrombolysis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Patients with acute ischemic stroke receiving IV thrombolytic therapy from 2008 to 2011 were identified by using the Premier Perspective data base. Mortality and discharge to long-term care rates were compared following multivariate logistic regression between patients who received head CT only versus those who received CTA without CT perfusion, CT perfusion, or MR imaging. RESULTS: Of 12,429 included patients, 7305 (59%) were in the CT group, 2359 (19%) were in the CTA group, 848 (7%) were in the CTP group, and 1917 (15%) were in the MR group. From 2008 to 2011, the percentage of patients receiving head CT only decreased from 64% to 55%, while the percentage who received cerebral CT perfusion increased from 3% to 8%. The use of CT angiography and MR imaging marginally increased (1%–2%). Outcomes were similar between CT only and advanced imaging patients, except discharge to long-term care was slightly more frequent in the CTP group (OR = 1.17 [95% CI, 0.96–1.43]; P = .0412) and MR group (OR = 1.14 [95% CI, 1.01–1.28]; P = .0177) and mortality was lower in the MR group (OR = 0.64 [95% CI, 0.52–0.79]; P < .0001). CONCLUSIONS: Use of advanced imaging is increasing in patients treated with IV thrombolysis. While there were differences in outcomes among imaging groups, the clinical effect of advanced imaging remains unclear.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Studies examining the efficacy of vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty in patients with vertebral fractures from multiple myeloma are limited. We sought to perform a systematic review of published case studies examining changes in pain, disability, and analgesic drug use in patients with multiple myeloma who have undergone vertebral augmentation. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We performed a pooled analysis of published case series of vertebral augmentation in patients with multiple myeloma. Twenty-three studies (9 kyphoplasty, 12 vertebroplasty, and 2 of both) with data on 923 patients were identified from a PubMed search. Quantitative outcome data included the Visual Analog Scale, the Brief Pain Inventory, the Short Form 36 Health Survey, and the Owestry Disability Index. Time periods were consolidated into 3: postoperatively ≤1 week, 1 week to 1 year, and ≥1 year. Change in analgesic use was also studied. Data were compared by using nonparametric tests and matched t tests for temporally linked data. RESULTS: Patients achieved a decrease in pain across all consolidated time periods. Pain, as measured on a 10-point scale, decreased by 4.8 points up to 1 week, 4.6 points up to 1 year, and 4.4 points after a year (P < .001). Decrease in pain was apparent early after treatment and was sustained with time. Kyphoplasty and vertebroplasty were equally effective in reducing pain scores because differences between procedures for each time period were insignificant (P < .9 for 1 year. CONCLUSIONS: Our analysis demonstrates that vertebral augmentation is effective in patients with multiple myeloma.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: In an effort to reduce radiation exposure in children requiring regular follow up for shunted hydrocephalus, our institution implemented a rapid brain MR imaging protocol. The purpose of this study was to review an academic practice experience with pediatric rapid brain MR imaging without patient sedation in the evaluation of hydrocephalus and a limited group of other conditions. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We retrospectively analyzed limited-sequence, rapid brain MR imaging scans performed in nonsedated patients younger than 14 years between April 2009 and December 2011. So-called failed examinations were determined by consensus of 2 authors as insufficiently diagnostic for evaluation of ventricular size. CT and MR imaging quarterly volumes for hydrocephalus-related indications were determined from 2005–2012. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to elucidate factors potentially affecting scan durations including examination indication and patient age, sex, inpatient status, and clinical conditions. RESULTS: A total of 398 examinations were performed on 168 patients (103 boys, 65 girls; median age, 13 months). None were deemed to be failed examinations. Median scan duration was 4.43 minutes (interquartile range, 4.42 minutes-5.88 minutes; SD, 2.42 minutes). Examination indication of altered mental status was the only factor associated with increased scan duration (+1.77 minutes; P = .0021). Hydrocephalus-related imaging volumes approximately doubled in the 7 years reviewed, but rapid MR imaging introduced in 2009 is quickly replacing CT scanning for these indications, accounting for nearly 7 of every 8 examinations at the end of the study period. CONCLUSIONS: In every case of initial work-up and follow-up, rapid brain MR imaging effectively evaluated ventricular size and/or intracranial fluid and represents a viable alternative to CT scanning, irrespective of a child's age or clinical condition. For this indication and patient group, MR imaging is now the predominant imaging method in our practice.

Cerebral aneurysms are treated to prevent hemorrhage or rehemorrhage. Angiographic recurrences following endovascular therapy have been a problem since the advent of this treatment technique, even though posttreatment hemorrhage remains rare. Notwithstanding its unclear clinical significance, angiographic recurrence remains not only a prime focus in the literature but also frequently leads to potentially risky retreatments. The literature regarding aneurysm recurrence following endovascular therapy, spanning 2 decades, is immense and immensely confusing. We review the topic of recurrence following endovascular treatment of cerebral aneurysms in an effort to distill it down to fundamental material relevant to clinical practice.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Flow diversion is a new strategy for the treatment of complex paraclinoid aneurysms. However, flow diverters have, to date, not been tested in direct comparison with other available treatments. We present a matched-pair comparison of paraclinoid aneurysms treated with the PED versus other endovascular techniques. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twenty-one eligible patients with 22 paraclinoid aneurysms treated with the PED at our institution were matched with historic controls with aneurysms of similar size and location. RESULTS: There were no statistically significant differences between the 2 groups in terms of aneurysm size, location, risk factors, or comorbidities. Mean dome size was 13.9 ± 6.7 mm in the control group and 14.9 ± 6.3 mm in the PED group (P = .52). Balloon and stent assistance were used in 31.8% and 9.1% of controls, respectively, while carotid sacrifice was used in 36.4% of the controls. There was a significant difference in the rate of complete occlusion favoring PED at radiologic follow-up (P = .03). CONCLUSIONS: Flow diverters achieve a much higher rate of complete angiographic obliteration compared with other standard endovascular techniques in the treatment of internal carotid artery aneurysms. In this series, this higher angiographic obliteration rate did not occur at the expense of an increased rate of complications. Careful long-term follow-up is of the utmost importance to definitively validate flow diversion as a superior therapeutic strategy for proximal internal carotid artery aneurysms.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Previous studies have suggested seasonal variations in rates of spontaneous rupture of intracranial aneurysms, leading to potentially devastating SAH. In an effort to identify a seasonal effect, variation in SAH incidence and in-hospital mortality rates were examined as they relate to admission month, temperature, and climate using HCUP's Nationwide Inpatient Sample. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Cases of nontraumatic SAH and subsequent in-hospital mortality were extracted from the 2001–2008 NIS and associated with month of occurrence, local average monthly temperatures, and USDA climate zone. Multivariate regression analysis was used to study how admission month, temperature, and climate affected SAH admission and mortality rates. RESULTS: Among 57,663,486 hospital admissions from the 2001–2008 NIS, 52,379 cases of spontaneous SAH (ICD-9-CM 430) and 13,272 cases of subsequent in-hospital mortality were identified. SAH incidence and in-hospital mortality rates were not significantly correlated with a monthly/seasonal effect (incidence, χ(2) = 2.94, P = .99; mortality, χ(2) = 6.91, P = .81). However, SAH incidence significantly varied with climate (P < .0001, zones 11 and 7) but not with temperature (P = .1453), whereas average monthly temperature and climate had no significant correlation with in-hospital mortality (temperature, P = .3005; climate, P = .0863). CONCLUSIONS: We identified no significant monthly or temperature-related effect in the incidence of SAH. Our data suggest that certain climate zones within the United States may be associated with significantly different SAH incidence, but the origins of these differences remain unclear and are probably unrelated to meteorologic variables.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Paraclinoid aneurysms represent challenging lesions for which endovascular techniques have gained widespread application in their treatment. A new endovascular strategy, flow diversion, is gaining importance in the treatment of these aneurysms. Before embracing flow diversion in larger numbers of patients with paraclinoid aneurysms, it is important to know the safety and efficacy of “traditional” endovascular methods for these aneurysms. We review complications and outcomes of patients with unruptured paraclinoid aneurysms treated with coils, with or without balloon and stent assistance, over the past 12 years at our institution. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective review of 118 patients with 126 unruptured paraclinoid aneurysms, treated between 1999 and 2010, was performed. Clinical records, endovascular reports, angiographic results, and clinical outcomes were reviewed and analyzed. RESULTS: Fifty-nine percent of aneurysms were carotid-ophthalmic, 27% were hypophyseal, 9% were posterior carotid wall, 3% were carotid cave, and 2% were transitional. Twenty-one percent of aneurysms were symptomatic, and 3% were recurrent aneurysms after previous treatment. Fifty (40%) were treated with balloon assistance and 18 (14%) with stent assistance. Technical complications causing permanent morbidity occurred in 1 patient (0.8%), while early clinical complications causing transient morbidity occurred in 5 (4%) patients. Complete occlusion was achieved in 40% of aneurysms immediately after treatment and in 66 (62%) aneurysms during follow-up (mean 31.9 ± 28.4 months). Recurrences occurred in 18 patients (17%) and 10 (9%) patients were retreated. Clinical outcome was good in 95% and poor in 5% of the 107 patients with follow-up (mean 37.0 ± 33.7 months). Only in 1 patient was poor outcome related to the endovascular procedure. Transient ischemic attacks occurred in 4% of patients. No cases of rebleeding were observed during follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: Modern endovascular coil treatment of unruptured paraclinoid aneurysms appears safe, with satisfactory, although not ideal, rates of complete occlusion. The introduction of flow diverters will probably increase the rate of complete angiographic occlusion, but this must be achieved with low complication rates.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Hospitals struggle to provide care for elderly patients based on Medicare payments. Amid concerns of inadequate reimbursement, we sought to evaluate the hospitalization costs for recipients of CEA and CAS placement, identify variables associated with increased costs, and compare these costs with Medicare reimbursements. MATERIALS AND METHODS: All CEA and CAS procedures were extracted from the 2001–2008 NIS. Average CMS reimbursement rates for CEA and CAS were obtained from www.CMS.gov. Annual trends in hospital costs were analyzed by Sen slope analysis. Associations between LOS and hospital costs with respect to sex, age, discharge status, complication type, and comorbidity were analyzed by using the Wilcoxon rank sum test. Least-squares regression models were used to predict which variables had the greatest impact on LOS and hospital costs. RESULTS: The 2001–2008 NIS contained 181,200 CEA and 12,485 CAS procedures. Age and sex were not predictive of costs for either procedure. Among favorable outcomes, CAS was associated with significantly higher costs compared with CEA (P < .0001). Average Medicare payments were $1,318 less than costs for CEA and $3,241 less than costs for CAS among favorable outcomes. Greater payment-to-cost disparities were noted for both CEA and CAS in patients who had unfavorable outcomes. CONCLUSIONS: The 2008 Medicare hospitalization payments were substantially less than median hospital costs for both CAS and CEA. Efforts to decrease hospitalization costs and/or increase payments will be necessary to make these carotid revascularization procedures economically viable for hospitals in the long term.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Both endovascular and surgical options are available for treatment of unruptured cerebral aneurysms. We conducted a study to determine the costs versus Medicare reimbursement for hospitalization of these patients, which is important information for understanding the economic impact of these patients on hospitals. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Using the NIS, we identified hospitalizations for clipping and coiling of unruptured cerebral aneurysms from 2001 to 2008 by cross-matching ICD-9 codes for diagnosis of unruptured aneurysm with procedure codes for clipping or coiling of cerebral aneurysms and excluding all patients with subarachnoid hemorrhage and intracerebral hemorrhage. Hospital costs for 2008 were correlated with age, sex, and discharge status and compared with Medicare payments. RESULTS: Costs of both clipping and coiling have increased from 2001 to 2008. The median 2008 hospital costs were $23,574 (IQR, $18,233–$29,941) for clipping and $25,734 (IQR, $17,436–$35,846) for coiling without complications, which were higher than the average Medicare payment of $12,599. The median hospital costs were $36,188 (IQR, $21,831–$55,308) for clipping and $40,502 (IQR, $24,289–$50,108) for coiling treatments complicated by major morbidity and $68,165 (IQR, $32,972–$100,211) for clipping and $56,020 for coiling treatments complicated by mortality, which were higher than the average Medicare payment for patients with major complications and comorbidities of $22,946. In multivariate analysis, female sex was associated with higher costs for coiling (P = .02), and poor discharge status was associated with higher costs for both clipping (P < .001) and coiling (P < .001). CONCLUSIONS: Hospitalization costs for patients undergoing clipping and coiling of unruptured cerebral aneurysms are substantially higher than Medicare payments.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: The duration of the fracture is considered by many practitioners to be an important predictor of outcome following vertebroplasty. We sought to define the impact of preprocedural pain duration on outcomes, including pain relief, improvement in function, and medication usage among patients treated with single-level vertebroplasty. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Institutional review board approval was obtained before conducting this retrospective analysis of 321 patients undergoing single-level vertebroplasty at our institution. Fractures were categorized as acute (≤6 weeks, n = 153), subacute (6–24 weeks, n = 124), and chronic (>24 weeks, n = 44). Pain NRS (0–10) scores at rest and with activity and RDS were compared among 3 groups at baseline and post procedure. Also absolute and proportional improvement of pain NRS and RDS were compared among 3 groups by using ANOVA. Linear regression was performed between preoperative pain duration and symptom improvement for each group. RESULTS: Baseline RDS and pain NRS with activity and at rest were not significantly different among groups ( P = .09, .30, and .91, respectively). Mean improvement in pain NRS with activity at 1 month postvertebroplasty in acute (improvement = 4.9 ± 3.5), subacute (improvement = 4.2 ± 3.2), and chronic fractures (improvement = 4.5 ± 3.2) was similar among groups ( P = .28). Mean improvement in RDS at 1 month postprocedure was 9.6, 8.3, and 9.9, for acute, subacute, and chronic fractures, respectively ( P = .56). There was no strong correlation between length of pain and symptom improvement. CONCLUSIONS: The age of fracture has minimal impact on outcome following single-level vertebroplasty, with good outcomes noted among patients with acute, subacute, and chronic fractures.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Practice patterns vary widely among centers with regard to the treatment of unruptured aneurysms. The purpose of the current study was to correlate outcome data with practice patterns, specifically the proportion of unruptured aneurysms treated with neurosurgical clipping versus endovascular coiling. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Using the NIS, we evaluated outcomes of patients treated for unruptured aneurysms in the United States from 2001 to 2007. Hospitalizations for clipping or coiling of unruptured cerebral aneurysms were identified by cross-matching ICD codes for diagnosis of unruptured aneurysm with procedure codes for clipping or coiling of cerebral aneurysms. Mortality and morbidity, measured as “discharge to long-term facility,” were evaluated in relation to the fraction of cases treated with coils versus clipping as well as the annual number of unruptured aneurysms treated by individual hospitals and individual physicians. RESULTS: Markedly lower morbidity (P < .0001) and mortality (P = .0015) were noted in centers that coiled a higher percentage of aneurysms compared with the proportion of aneurysms clipped. Multivariate analysis showed that greater annual numbers of aneurysms treated by individual practitioners were significantly related to decreased morbidity (OR = 0.98, P < .0001), while the association between morbidity and the annual number of aneurysms treated by hospitals was not significant (OR = 1.00, P = .89). CONCLUSIONS: Centers that treated a higher percentage of unruptured aneurysms with coiling compared with clipping achieved markedly lower rates of morbidity and mortality. Our results also confirm that treatment by high-volume practitioners is associated with decreased morbidity.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Endovascularly coiled intracranial aneurysms are increasingly being followed up with noninvasive MRA imaging to evaluate for aneurysm recurrences. It has not been well-established which MRA techniques are best for this application, however. Our aim was to prospectively compare 4 MRA techniques, TOF and CE-MRA at 1.5T and 3T, to a reference standard of DSA in the evaluation of previously endovascularly coiled intracranial aneurysms. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Fifty-eight subjects with 63 previously coiled intracranial aneurysms underwent all 4 MRA techniques within 8 days of DSA. There were 2 outcome variables: coil occlusion class (class 1, complete; class 2, dog ear; class 3, residual neck; class 4, aneurysm filling) and change in degree of occlusion since the previous comparison. Sensitivity and specificity were computed for each MRA technique relative to the reference standard of DSA. Differences among the MRA techniques were evaluated in pair-wise fashion by using the McNemar test. RESULTS: For the detection of any aneurysm remnant, the sensitivity was 85%–90% for all MRA techniques. Sensitivity dropped to 50%–67% when calculated for the detection of only the class 3 and 4 aneurysm remnants, because several class 3 and 4 remnants were misclassified as class 2 by MRA. CE-MRA at 1.5T and 3T misclassified fewer of the class 3 and 4 remnants than did TOF-MRA at 1.5T, as reflected by the significantly greater sensitivity for larger aneurysm remnants with CE-MRA relative to TOF-MRA at 1.5T ( P = .0455 for both comparisons). CONCLUSIONS: CE-MRA is more likely than TOF-MRA to classify larger aneurysm remnants appropriately. We recommend performing both CE-MRA and TOF-MRA in the follow-up of coiled intracranial aneurysms and at 3T if available.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Precise anatomic understanding of the vascular anatomy of SDAVFs is required before treatment. This study demonstrates the utility of C-arm conebeam CT to locate precisely the fistulous point in SDAVFs and the courses of their feeding arteries and draining veins. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This retrospective study reports 14 consecutive patients with SDAVFs who underwent DSA and C-arm conebeam CT angiography. SDAVF sites included 5 thoracic, 7 lumbar, and 2 sacral fistulas. Selective DSA initially identified the location and arterial supply of the SDAVF. C-arm conebeam CT angiography was then performed with selective injection into the feeding artery. Reconstructed images were reviewed at a workstation with the referring surgeon, in conjunction with the standard 2D DSA images. The value of C-arm conebeam CT in depicting the fistula and the relationship to adjacent structures was qualitatively assessed. RESULTS: In all 14 patients, C-arm conebeam CT angiography was technically successful and precisely demonstrated the site of the fistula, feeding arteries, draining veins, and the relationship of the fistula to adjacent osseous structures. Information obtained from the C-arm conebeam CT angiogram was considered useful in all surgically (12 patients) and endovascularly (2 patients) treated SDAVFs. CONCLUSIONS: 3D C-arm conebeam CT angiography is a useful adjunct to 2D DSA in the anatomic characterization of SDAVFs. The technique allowed improved visualization of the vascular anatomy of the SDAVFs and clearer definition of their spatial relationships to adjacent structures.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: The perimesencephalic pattern of SAH as seen on unenhanced CT is associated with significantly better outcomes when compared to an aneurysmal pattern of SAH. The aim of this study was to determine the degree of inter- and intraoberver agreement for characterization of the NAPH as seen on unenhanced CT. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed the CT scans of 37 patients with spontaneous SAH, all of whom had undergone CT within 24 hours of onset of headache symptoms. All patients had undergone conventional cerebral angiography to confirm or exclude aneurysms or other vascular pathology. All 37 cases were angiographically confirmed nonaneurysmal SAHs. Four readers with neuroradiology subspecialty training independently evaluated CT images to characterize the hemorrhage pattern as compatible with the well-described NAPH. Each reader performed a second reading session blinded to the initial readings. The first and second sets of readings were performed approximately 4 months apart. Inter- and intraobserver agreement for characterization of the NAPH was determined by using the κ statistic. RESULTS: Of the 37 angiographically confirmed nonaneurysmal SAHs, there was unanimous agreement as to the hemorrhage pattern in 29 (78%) cases and disagreement in 8 (22%) cases. Overall, intraobserver agreement was good (κ = 0.80). Interobserver agreement was also good (κ = 0.79). CONCLUSIONS: Overall, inter- and intraobserver agreement for the NAPH was good. There was, however, a level of disagreement among observers, thus suggesting that clinicians should be cautious when deciding whether to pursue follow-up imaging.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: The embolization of aneurysms with hydrogel filaments allow postprocedural CT and MR imaging studies without artifacts. We compared the performance of 3 hydrogel filament formulations in rabbit experimental aneurysms by using angiography and histologic samples. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Embolization of 35 rabbit elastase or bifurcation aneurysms was performed with 3 different formulations of detachable hydrogel filaments, including 1) polyethylene glycol opacified with aromatic iodine (PEG-I; n = 12), 2) polyethylene glycol opacified with barium sulfate (PEG-B; n = 12), or 3) polypropylene glycol opacified with barium sulfate (PPG-B; n = 11). Follow-up angiography was performed before the rabbits were killed at 2 (n = 7), 6 (n = 9), 10 (n = 8), or 26 (n = 11) weeks. Angiographic occlusion was scored according to the Raymond scale, and interval changes were assessed. The harvested aneurysms were evaluated on histologic examination. From the sections, we determined the percentage of the sac excluded from the vasculature and occupied by embolic devices by using image analysis. We compared results using the analysis of variance/t test or χ2 test. RESULTS: The mean number of devices used to treat aneurysms in the PPG-B group was significantly greater than that used for the other 2 groups, though aneurysm volumes were similar among groups. Compared with immediate posttreatment occlusion scores, mean angiographic occlusion at follow-up was increased for all 3 hydrogel filament groups. On histologic examination, thrombus organization, neointima formation, and inflammation were similar to that observed in rabbit experimental aneurysms with other embolic devices containing platinum coils. CONCLUSIONS: The embolization of experimental aneurysms with hydrogel filaments resulted in durable angiographic and histologic occlusion from 2 to 26 weeks. With improvements, hydrogel filaments free from metallic coils show promise for endovascular use.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Focal point tenderness over the fractured level is believed to be a necessary criterion for performing vertebroplasty. The purpose of this study was to explore whether the presence of focal-point tenderness over a fracture treated with vertebroplasty predicts superior clinical outcome as compared with outcomes in patients without such tenderness. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this retrospective study, we divided patients into 3 groups on the basis of pain patterns noted during history and physical examination before an initial vertebroplasty in 534 consecutive patients. Group 1 comprised 373 (70%) of 534 patients with focal-point tenderness over the treated fractures. Group 2 comprised 119 (22%) patients with focal-point tenderness over the treated fractures as well as subjective off-midline pain or focal tenderness to palpation over nontreated vertebrae. Group 3 comprised 42 (8%) patients without focal-point tenderness over the treated fractures but with subjective off-midline pain or tenderness to palpation over nontreated vertebrae. Outcomes included pain at rest and with activity as well as the Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire score. Statistical tools included the 2-tailed t test with a Bonferroni adjustment. RESULTS: Baseline pain at rest and with activity was not different among groups, but the proportion of group 3 patients maintained on a narcotic anesthesia preprocedure was less than that of groups 1 and 2 (P = .02 compared with both groups). Group 3 achieved significantly lower pain scores at rest at 1 month (P < .0001 compared with group 1 and P < .001 compared with group 2). CONCLUSION: The presence of focal-point tenderness does not predict superior clinical response following vertebroplasty compared with the absence of focal tenderness. Even patients without focal tenderness may benefit from vertebroplasty.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Although abundant literature has reported success with vertebroplasty for the treatment of painful compression fractures, none has accounted for a potential expectation-related placebo effect. We report the results of vertebroplasty for painful vertebral body compression fractures in a small cohort of patients with dementia with the assumption that this patient subgroup is subjected to a decreased placebo effect. MATERIALS AND METHODS: All patients with objective evidence of dementia ( N = 10) who had undergone vertebroplasty at our institution were identified from a comprehensive prospectively constructed vertebroplasty data base. The patients’ pain at rest and activity, mobility, and pain-medication use were analyzed at 2 hours postprocedure, 1 week, 1 month, 6 months, and 1 year. RESULTS: Pain with activity decreased or resolved in 80%–100% of patients at each time point, whereas pain at rest decreased or resolved in 78%–100% of all patients at each time point. Improved mobility was reported in 80%–100% of patients at all time points. Pain medication was decreased or stopped in 67% of patients at 1 week and in 100% of patients at 6 months and 1 year. CONCLUSION: Treatment of painful compression fractures in patients with dementia demonstrates a high rate of success regarding pain relief and mobility. This study offers additional evidence that vertebroplasty has true benefit.

SUMMARY: Bioactive coils were developed to improve aneurysm packing and accelerate neointimal healing. Recent reports, however, have implicated these coils in the development of aseptic meningitis, perianeurysmal edema, and hydrocephalus. This report demonstrates that the same clinical phenomena can occur with the use of bare platinum coils.