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Background Lumbar disc herniation is often managed conservatively; nevertheless, surgical intervention can be required. Majority of patients experience a drastic relief of symptoms after surgery, but previous studies have reported that their health-related quality of life remains inferior compared to the general population for several years. There may be a major cumulative loss of health-related quality of life for young patients as they have long expected life ahead of them. Methods A total of 526 eligible adult patients under the age of 40 underwent surgery for lumbar disc herniation from 1990 to 2005. Patients’ baseline characteristics were acquired by chart review to confirm eligibility to the study. Follow-up quality of life data was acquired by sending patients EQ-5D questionnaire at median 18 years after index surgery, and those 316 patients responding to the questionnaire (60%) were included in the study. Propensity score matching was utilized to match every study patient with two general population sample participants from a large Finnish population health study. Primary objective was to compare the quality of life to that of the control population. Secondary objective was to explore which patient characteristics lead to inferior outcome. Results The mean EQ-index for the patient cohort was 0.86, while it was 0.84 for the age and gender–matched general population sample (difference 0.02, 95% CI − 0.0004 to 0.049). Within the patient cohort, an increasing number of lifetime lumbar surgeries was associated with progressively deteriorating EQ-index scores (p = 0.049) and longer duration of symptoms prior to the surgery correlated with lower score (p = 0.013). Conclusion Patients who underwent surgery for lumbar disc herniation nearly two decades ago reported quality of life comparable to the age and gender–matched general population. However, patients who had undergone numerous lumbar surgeries had significantly worse outcome. Therefore, possible ways to prevent cumulation of lumbar surgeries could improve long-term health-related quality of life.

Background Admission computed tomography (CT) scoring systems can be used to objectively quantify the severity of traumatic brain injury (TBI) and aid in outcome prediction. We aimed to externally validate the NeuroImaging Radiological Interpretation System (NIRIS) and the Helsinki CT score. In addition, we compared the prognostic performance of the NIRIS and the Helsinki CT score to the Marshall CT classification and to a clinical model. Methods We conducted a retrospective multicenter observational study using the Finnish Intensive Care Consortium database. We included adult TBI patients admitted in four university hospital ICUs during 2003–2013. We analyzed the CT scans using the NIRIS and the Helsinki CT score and compared the results to 6-month mortality as the primary outcome. In addition, we created a clinical model (age, Glasgow Coma Scale score, Simplified Acute Physiology Score II, presence of severe comorbidity) and combined clinical and CT models to see the added predictive impact of radiological data to conventional clinical information. We measured model performance using area under curve (AUC), Nagelkerke’s R2 statistics, and the integrated discrimination improvement (IDI). Results A total of 3031 patients were included in the analysis. The 6-month mortality was 710 patients (23.4%). Of the CT models, the Helsinki CT displayed best discrimination (AUC 0.73 vs. 0.70 for NIRIS) and explanatory variation (Nagelkerke’s R2 0.20 vs. 0.15). The clinical model displayed an AUC of 0.86 (95% CI 0.84–0.87). All CT models increased the AUC of the clinical model by + 0.01 to 0.87 (95% CI 0.85–0.88) and the IDI by 0.01–0.03. Conclusion In patients with TBI treated in the ICU, the Helsinki CT score outperformed the NIRIS for 6-month mortality prediction. In isolation, CT models offered only moderate accuracy for outcome prediction and clinical variables outweighing the CT-based predictors in terms of predictive performance.

Background Coagulopathy after traumatic brain injury (TBI) is associated with poor prognosis. Purpose To assess the prevalence and association with outcomes of early thrombocytopenia in patients with TBI treated in the intensive care unit (ICU). Methods This is a retrospective multicenter study of adult TBI patients admitted to ICUs during 2003–2019. Thrombocytopenia was defined as a platelet count 9/L during the first day. The association between thrombocytopenia and hospital and 12-month mortality was tested using multivariable logistic regression, adjusting for markers of injury severity. Results Of 4419 patients, 530 (12%) had early thrombocytopenia. In patients with thrombocytopenia, hospital and 12-month mortality were 26% and 48%, respectively; in patients with a platelet count > 100 × 109/L, they were 9% and 22%, respectively. After adjusting for injury severity, a higher platelet count was associated with decreased odds of hospital mortality (OR 0.998 per unit, 95% CI 0.996–0.999) and 12-month mortality (OR 0.998 per unit, 95% CI 0.997–0.999) in patients with moderate-to-severe TBI. Compared to patients with a normal platelet count, patients with thrombocytopenia not receiving platelet transfusion had an increased risk of 12-month mortality (OR 2.2, 95% CI 1.6–3.0), whereas patients with thrombocytopenia receiving platelet transfusion did not (OR 1.0, 95% CI 0.6–1.7). Conclusion Early thrombocytopenia occurs in approximately one-tenth of patients with TBI treated in the ICU, and it is an independent risk factor for mortality in patients with moderate-to-severe TBI. Further research is necessary to determine whether this is modifiable by platelet transfusion.

Background Return to work (RTW) might be delayed in patients with complicated mild traumatic brain injury (MTBI), i.e., MTBI patients with associated traumatic intracranial lesions. However, the effect of different types of lesions on RTW has not studied before. We investigated whether traumatic intracranial lesions detected by CT and MRI are associated with return to work and post-concussion symptoms in patients with MTBI. Methods We prospectively followed up 113 adult patients with MTBI that underwent a brain MRI within 3–17 days after injury. Return to work was assessed with one-day accuracy up to one year after injury. Rivermead Post-Concussion Symptoms Questionnaire (RPQ) and Glasgow Outcome Scale Extended (GOS-E) were conducted one month after injury. A Kaplan–Meier log-rank analysis was performed to analyze the differences in RTW. Results Full RTW-% one year after injury was 98%. There were 38 patients with complicated MTBI, who had delayed median RTW compared to uncomplicated MTBI group (17 vs. 6 days), and more post-concussion symptoms (median RPQ 12.0 vs. 6.5). Further, RTW was more delayed in patients with multiple types of traumatic intracranial lesions visible in MRI (31 days, n = 19) and when lesions were detected in the primary CT (31 days, n = 24). There were no significant differences in GOS-E. Conclusions The imaging results that were most clearly associated with delayed RTW were positive primary CT and multiple types of lesions in MRI. RTW-% of patients with MTBI was excellent and a single intracranial lesion does not seem to be a predictive factor of disability to work.

Isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH) mutation status is an important factor for surgical decision-making: patients with IDH-mutated tumors are more likely to have a good long-term prognosis, and thus favor aggressive resection with more survival benefit to gain. Patients with IDH wild-type tumors have generally poorer prognosis and, therefore, conservative resection to avoid neurological deficit is favored. Current histopathological analysis with frozen sections is unable to identify IDH mutation status intraoperatively, and more advanced methods are therefore needed. We examined a novel method suitable for intraoperative IDH mutation identification that is based on the differential mobility spectrometry (DMS) analysis of the tumor. We prospectively obtained tumor samples from 22 patients, including 11 IDH-mutated and 11 IDH wild-type tumors. The tumors were cut in 88 smaller specimens that were analyzed with DMS. With a linear discriminant analysis (LDA) algorithm, the DMS was able to classify tumor samples with 86% classification accuracy, 86% sensitivity, and 85% specificity. Our results show that DMS is able to differentiate IDH-mutated and IDH wild-type tumors with good accuracy in a setting suitable for intraoperative use, which makes it a promising novel solution for neurosurgical practice. publishedVersion

Background: Spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) entails significant mortality and morbidity. Severely ill ICH patients are treated in intensive care units (ICUs), but data on 1-year healthcare costs and patient care cost-effectiveness are lacking. Methods: Retrospective multi-center study of 959 adult patients treated for spontaneous ICH from 2003 to 2013. The primary outcomes were 12-month mortality or permanent disability, defined as being granted a permanent disability allowance or pension by the Social Insurance Institution by 2016. Total healthcare costs were hospital, rehabilitation, and social security costs within 12 months. A multivariable linear regression of log transformed cost data, adjusting for case mix, was used to assess independent factors associated with costs. Results: Twelve-month mortality was 45% and 51% of the survivors were disabled at the end of follow-up. The mean 12-month total cost was €49,754, of which rehabilitation, tertiary hospital and social security costs accounted for 45%, 39%, and 16%, respectively. The highest effective cost per independent survivor (ECPIS) was noted among patients aged >70 years with brainstem ICHs, low Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) scores, larger hematoma volumes, intraventricular hemorrhages, and ICH scores of 3. In multivariable analysis, age, GCS score, and severity of illness were associated independently with 1-year healthcare costs. Conclusions: Costs associated with ICHs vary between patient groups, and the ECPIS appears highest among patients older than 70 years and those with brainstem ICHs and higher ICH scores. One-third of financial resources were used for patients with favorable outcomes. Further detailed cost-analysis studies for patients with an ICH are required.

Funder: Canadian Institutes of Health Research; doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.13039/501100000024, Funder: Manitoba Public Insurance (MPI) Neuroscience Research Operating Fund, Funder: Health Sciences Centre Foundation Winnipeg, Funder: Canada Foundation for Innovation; doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.13039/501100000196; Grant(s): Project #: 38583, Funder: Research Manitoba; doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.13039/100008794; Grant(s): Grant #: 3906, Funder: University of Manitoba VPRI Research Investment Fund, Funder: University of Manitoba MPI Professorship in Neuroscience, Funder: University of Manitoba Dean’s Fellowship, Funder: Manitoba Medical Service Foundation; doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.13039/100008795, Funder: R. Samuel McLaughlin Research Fellowship, Funder: Institute of Neurosciences, Mental Health and Addiction; doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.13039/501100000034; Grant(s): Grant #: 472286, Funder: University of Manitoba - Biomedical Engineering (BME) Fellowship Grant, Funder: University of Manitoba Graduate Enhancement of Tri-Agency Stipend, Funder: Strategic Research Area Neuroscience (StratNeuro, Karolinska Institutet, Funder: Svenska Kulturfonden, Medicinska Understödsföreningen Liv & Hälsa, Funder: Finska Läkaresällskapet; doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.13039/100010135, BACKGROUND: Brain tissue oxygen tension (PbtO2) and cerebrovascular pressure reactivity monitoring have emerged as potential modalities to individualize care in moderate and severe traumatic brain injury (TBI). The relationship between these modalities has had limited exploration. The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between PbtO2 and cerebral perfusion pressure (CPP) and how this relationship is modified by the state of cerebrovascular pressure reactivity. METHODS: A retrospective multi-institution cohort study utilizing prospectively collected high-resolution physiologic data from the CAnadian High Resolution-TBI (CAHR-TBI) Research Collaborative database collected between 2011 and 2021 was performed. Included in the study were critically ill TBI patients with intracranial pressure (ICP), arterial blood pressure (ABP), and PbtO2 monitoring treated in any one of three CAHR-TBI affiliated adult intensive care units (ICU). The outcome of interest was how PbtO2 and CPP are related over a cohort of TBI patients and how this relationship is modified by the state of cerebrovascular reactivity, as determined using the pressure reactivity index (PRx). RESULTS: A total of 77 patients met the study inclusion criteria with a total of 377,744 min of physiologic data available for the analysis. PbtO2 produced a triphasic curve when plotted against CPP like previous population-based plots of cerebral blood flow (CBF) versus CPP. The triphasic curve included a plateau region flanked by regions of relative ischemia (hypoxia) and hyperemia (hyperoxia). The plateau region shortened when cerebrovascular pressure reactivity was disrupted compared to when it was intact. CONCLUSIONS: In this exploratory analysis of a multi-institution high-resolution physiology TBI database, PbtO2 seems to have a triphasic relationship with CPP, over the entire cohort. The CPP range over which the plateau exists is modified by the state of cerebrovascular reactivity. This indicates that in critically ill TBI patients admitted to ICU, PbtO2 may be reflective of CBF.

BackgroundSerotonergic antidepressants may predispose to bleeding, but little is known of the risk for traumatic intracranial bleeding.MethodsThis was a prospective case-control study of 218 patients with mild traumatic brain injuries (TBI) who were treated at a Finnish tertiary trauma hospital. Injury-related information and clinical findings were prospectively collected in the emergency department. Detailed pre-injury health history was collected from electronic medical records. Information on the use of serotonergic antidepressants was attained from the Finnish national prescription registry. All head CT scans were reviewed by a neuroradiologist based on the Common Data Elements. Cases were patients with traumatic intracranial hemorrhage on head CT. Controls were patients from the same cohort, but without traumatic intracranial lesions on CT. The proportion with traumatic intracranial bleeding for patients on serotonergic antidepressant medication was compared to the proportion for patients not on serotonergic medication.ResultsThe study cohort consisted of 24 cases with traumatic intracranial bleeding and 194 injured controls. The median age of the sample was 70 years (interquartile range = 50–83). One fifth (21.6%) of all the patients were taking a serotonergic antidepressant. Of the patients on an antidepressant, 10.6% (5/47) had an acute hemorrhagic lesion compared to 11.1% (19/171) of those who were not on an antidepressant (p = 0.927). In the regression analysis, traumatic intracranial hemorrhage was not associated with antidepressant use.ConclusionSerotonergic antidepressant use was not associated with an increased risk of traumatic intracranial hemorrhage after a mild TBI. The patients in this relatively small cohort were mostly middle-aged and older adults. These factors limit the generalizability of the results in younger patients with mild TBI.

Background and aimPrediction models for patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI) require generalizability and should apply to different settings. We aimed to validate the IMPACT and Helsinki prognostic models in patients with TBI who underwent cranial surgery in a Chinese center.MethodsThis validation study included 607 surgical patients with moderate to severe TBI (Glasgow Coma Scale [GCS] score ≤12) who were consecutively admitted to the Neurotrauma Center of People's Liberation Army (PLANC), China, between 2009 and 2021. The IMPACT models (core, extended and lab) and the Helsinki CT clinical model were used to estimate 6-month mortality and unfavorable outcomes. To assess performance, we studied discrimination and calibration.ResultsIn the PLANC database, the observed 6-month mortality rate was 28%, and the 6-month unfavorable outcome was 52%. Significant differences in case mix existed between the PLANC cohort and the development populations for the IMPACT and, to a lesser extent, for the Helsinki models. Discrimination of the IMPACT and Helsinki models was excellent, with most AUC values ≥0.80. The highest values were found for the IMPACT lab model (AUC 0.87) and the Helsinki CT clinical model (AUC 0.86) for the prediction of unfavorable outcomes. Overestimation was found for all models, but the degree of miscalibration was lower in the Helsinki CT clinical model.ConclusionIn our population of surgical TBI patients, the IMPACT and Helsinki CT clinical models demonstrated good performance, with excellent discrimination but suboptimal calibration. The good discrimination confirms the validity of the predictors, but the poorer calibration suggests a need to recalibrate the models to specific settings.

BACKGROUND: Different treatment options have been proposed for obstructive hydrocephalus associated with pineal lesions. We discuss the obstructive hydrocephalus management associated with pineal region tumors and cysts in Helsinki Neurosurgery. METHODS: In this article, hydrocephalus treatment by tumor-cyst removal (n = 40), shunt surgery (n = 25), and endoscopic ventriculostomies (n = 3) is evaluated in 68 patients with obstructive hydrocephalus among 136 patients with pineal region tumor and cyst. Multivariate statistical analysis was followed by univariate and multivariate regression models of last functional status, last tumor-free imaging, and disease-specific mortality of the study population. RESULTS: Preoperative hydrocephalus was linked to higher World Health Organization tumor grades, poor functional status, higher mortality, and incomplete resection of pineal region cysts and tumors. Preoperative hydrocephalus remained a predictor of poor last functional status after multivariate regression. Pineal lesion removal with the posterior third ventricle opening as primary hydrocephalus treatment resulted in better last functional status, fewer postoperative shunts, fewer hydrocephalus related procedures, and fewer postoperative infections than in the shunt-treatment group. Multivariate regression analysis linked higher World Health Organization tumor & nbsp;grade, poor immediate functional status, postoperative complications, and incomplete surgical resection as independent predictors of disease mortality in patients with hydrocephalus. Same variables (except immediate modified Rankin Scale score) and higher number of shunt surgeries became independent predictors of poor last functional status at multivariate analysis. Incomplete resection was the only independent predictor of tumor-free magnetic resonance imaging at the last evaluation. CONCLUSIONS: Direct removal of pineal lesions with the opening of the posterior third ventricle could represent effective and reliable management of the associated obstructive hydrocephalus. Further research is required to generalize our inferences.

Background We wanted to understand how patients with different modified Rankin Scale (mRS) grades differ regarding their health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and how this affects the interpretation and dichotomization of the grade. Methods In 2016, all adult patients in our brain arteriovenous malformation (AVM) database (n = 432) were asked to fill in mailed letters including a questionnaire about self-sufficiency and lifestyle and the 15D HRQoL questionnaire. The follow-up mRS was defined in 2016 using the electronic patient registry and the questionnaire data. The 15D profiles of each mRS grade were compared to those of the general population and to each other, using ANCOVA with age and sex standardization. Results Patients in mRS 0 (mean 15D score = 0.954 ± 0.060) had significantly better HRQoL than the general population (mean = 0.927 ± 0.028), p p Conclusions Using 15D, we were able to find significant differences in the HRQoL between mRS 0 and mRS 1 AVM patients, against the recent findings on stroke patients using EQ-5D in their analyses. Although the dichotomization cut point is commonly set between mRS 1 and 2, patients in these grades had a similar HRQoL and a decreased ability to continue their premorbid lifestyle, in contrast to patients in mRS 0.

OBJECTIVE: Previous reports suggest that more experienced surgeons have better postoperative outcomes in neurosurgery. We studied whether this association is found in a fragile cohort of >= 80-year-old intracranial meningioma (IM) patients. METHODS: We identified 83 very old IM patients who were operated on by 12 different surgeons between 2010 and 2018. Besides general patient-and tumor-related characteristics, we collected information about the surgeons' case volume and length of surgical career (LSC). We classified neurosurgeons into 3 different categories: 1) low-volume (8 surgeons; 1-4 operations per surgeon); 2) moderate-volume (3 surgeons; 8e12 operations per surgeon); and 3) high-volume (1 reference surgeon; 37 operations). We calculated odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals for 1-year mortality and 3-month independency (capability to live at home) by surgeon volume categories and per 5-year increase of LSC. RESULTS: We found no significant differences in any preoperative characteristics between the surgeon volume categories. IM patients operated on by low-volume surgeons had the lowest risk of first-year mortality (OR, 0.15 [0.01-2.05]) and the highest likelihood of living at home 3 months after surgery (OR, 12.61 [1.21-131.03]). Increasing LSC was associated with 1-year mortality (OR, 1.34 [1.03-1.73]) and with lower likelihood to live at home 3 months after surgery (OR, 0.83 [0.69-1.00]), but these associations were slightly nonsignificant after adjusting for IM patients' age, sex, and preoperative independency. CONCLUSIONS: In a high-volume academic hospital, less experienced neurosurgeons seem to achieve similar results as the more experienced neurosurgeons, even when operating on selected highly fragile meningioma patients.

Background The role of coagulopathy in patients with traumatic brain injury has remained elusive. In the present study, we aim to assess the prevalence of coagulopathy in patients with traumatic intracranial hemorrhage, their clinical features, and the effect of coagulopathy on treatment and mortality. Methods An observational, retrospective single-center cohort of consecutive patients with traumatic intracranial hemorrhage treated at Helsinki University Hospital between 01 January and 31 December 2010. We compared clinical and radiological parameters in patients with and without coagulopathy defined as drug- or disease-induced, i.e., antiplatelet or anticoagulant medication at a therapeutic dose, thrombocytopenia (platelet count < 100 E9/L), international normalized ratio > 1.2, or thromboplastin time < 60%. Primary outcome was 30-day all-cause mortality. Logistic regression analysis allowed to assess for factors associated with coagulopathy and mortality. Results Of our 505 patients (median age 61 years, 65.5% male), 206 (40.8%) had coagulopathy. Compared to non-coagulopathy patients, coagulopathy patients had larger hemorrhage volumes (mean 140.0 mL vs. 98.4 mL, p < 0.001) and higher 30-day mortality (18.9% vs. 9.7%, p = 0.003). In multivariable analysis, older age, lower admission Glasgow Coma Scale score, larger hemorrhage volume, and conservative treatment were independently associated with mortality. Surgical treatment was associated with lower mortality in both patients with and without coagulopathy. Conclusions Coagulopathy was more frequent in patients with traumatic intracranial hemorrhage presenting larger hemorrhage volumes compared to non-coagulopathy patients but was not independently associated with higher 30-day mortality. Hematoma evacuation, in turn, was associated with lower mortality irrespective of coagulopathy.

BACKGROUND: The use of a digital three-dimensional (3D) exoscope system in neurosurgery is increasing as an alternative to the operative microscope. The objective of this study was to compare a digital 3D exoscope system with a standard operating microscope as a neurosurgical visualization tool in a highly challenging experimental setting. METHODS: End-to-side bypass procedures, each at a depth of 9 cm, were performed in a simulation setting. The quality of the task and the depth effect, visualization, magnification, illumination, and ergonomics were evaluated. RESULTS: No major differences were noted between the microscope and the 3D exoscope in terms of the quality of the work. Working with the 3D exoscope was more time-consuming than working with the microscope. Changing the depth and focus was faster using the operative microscope. The 3D exoscope enabled higher magnification and offered better ergonomic features. CONCLUSIONS: In a highly challenging experimental setting, comparable procedural quality was found for the microscope and the 3D exoscope. Each visualization tool had advantages and disadvantages. Over time and with technologic advances, the digital 3D exoscope may become the main operative visualization system in microneurosurgery.

Purpose Surgical resection of intracranial meningiomas in patients that are 80 years old and older, i.e. very old patients, is increasingly considered. Meningiomas with a largest diameter of at least 5 cm—‘giant meningiomas’—form a distinct entity, and their surgical resection is considered more difficult and prone to complications. Here, we evaluated functional outcome, morbidity and mortality, and the prognostic value of tumor size in very old patients who underwent resection of giant supratentorial meningiomas. Methods We retrospectively reviewed clinical and radiological data, functional performance (Karnofsky Performance Score), histopathological diagnosis and complications of very old patients who underwent surgery of a supratentorial meningioma at the Helsinki University Hospital between 2010 and 2018. Results We identified 76 very old patients, including 28 with a giant meningioma. Patients with a giant meningioma suffered from major complications more commonly than those with a non-giant meningioma (36% vs. 17%, p = 0.06), particularly from postoperative intracranial hemorrhages (ICH). At the 1-year follow-up, functional performance and mortality rate were comparable between patients with giant meningiomas and those with non-giant meningiomas. An exceptionally high rate of giant meningiomas were diagnosed as atypical meningiomas (WHO II) at an (11 out of 28 cases). Conclusions Giant meningioma surgery entails a high complication rate in frail, very old patients. The prevention of postoperative ICH in this specific patient group is of utmost importance. An atypical histopathology was notably frequent among very old patients with a giant meningioma, which should be taken into account when planning the surgical strategy.

Purpose The purpose of the study was to evaluate the long-term outcome after surgery for lumbar disc herniation in a young adult population. Methods A total of 526 consecutive patients between 18 and 40 years of age who underwent surgery for lumbar disc between 1990 and 2005 were included in the study. The primary outcomes were the need for new lumbar spine surgery during the follow-up and secondary outcomes were short-term subjective outcome, the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) score, and the ability to carry out employment at the end of the long-term follow-up. Results A total of 96% of the patients had a reduction in their symptoms at the clinical follow-up (median of 50 days post-surgery). Twenty-one patients (4.0%) had a reoperation within 28 days. Excluding these early reoperations, 136 patients (26%) had additional lumbar spine surgery and 18 patients (3.4%) underwent lumbar fusion during the follow-up of median 18 years. The annual risk for new surgery was 1.4%. In total, 316 patients (60%) returned the ODI questionnaire, and their mean score was 8.1. Patients with a higher number of additional lumbar spine surgeries (p Conclusion Patients showed excellent short-term recovery from their symptoms. In the long term, the mean ODI score for the patients was comparable to the normative population. However, a notable proportion of the patients required additional lumbar surgery during the follow-up period, and a higher number of lumbar surgeries was associated with poor ODI scores.

Background In recent years, smaller-sized (diameter Methods The use of localization markers in advance can help to acquire preoperative CT images of the patients to create and calculate a three-dimensional (3D) virtual graph using a computer. With the 3D graph, spatial distance of the tumor from the markers is calculated and the tumor location projected on the scalp by the Triangle Pythagorean theorem. This enables precise localization of intracranial microlesions preoperatively. Results The location of the tumor was consistent with that of the pre-operative virtual image, and the craniotomy was exact. The patient was discharged 3 days later without any neurological deficits. Conclusions This method is simple and reliable, inexpensive, and accurate in the location of small-sized lesions, which can partially compensate for the lack of neuro-navigation and is suitable for widespread application in hospitals in developing countries.

Background In neurocritically ill patients, one early mechanism behind secondary brain injury is low systemic blood pressure resulting in inadequate cerebral perfusion and consequent hypoxia. Intuitively, higher partial pressures of arterial oxygen (PaO2) could be protective in case of inadequate cerebral circulation related to hemodynamic instability. Study purpose We examined whether the association between PaO2 and mortality is different in patients with low compared to normal and high mean arterial pressure (MAP) in patients after various types of brain injury. Methods We screened the Finnish Intensive Care Consortium database for mechanically ventilated adult (≥ 18) brain injury patients treated in several tertiary intensive care units (ICUs) between 2003 and 2013. Admission diagnoses included traumatic brain injury, cardiac arrest, subarachnoid and intracranial hemorrhage, and acute ischemic stroke. The primary exposures of interest were PaO2 (recorded in connection with the lowest measured PaO2/fraction of inspired oxygen ratio) and the lowest MAP, recorded during the first 24 h in the ICU. PaO2 was grouped as follows: hypoxemia ( 18.3 kPa, the highest 10th percentile), and MAP was divided into equally sized tertiles ( 68 mmHg). The primary outcome was 1-year mortality. We tested the association between hyperoxemia, MAP, and mortality with a multivariable logistic regression model, including the PaO2, MAP, and interaction of PaO2*MAP, adjusting for age, admission diagnosis, premorbid physical performance, vasoactive use, intracranial pressure monitoring use, and disease severity. The relationship between predicted 1-year mortality and PaO2 was visualized with locally weighted scatterplot smoothing curves (Loess) for different MAP levels. Results From a total of 8290 patients, 3912 (47%) were dead at 1 year. PaO2 was not an independent predictor of mortality: the odds ratio (OR) for hyperoxemia was 1.16 (95% CI 0.85–1.59) and for hypoxemia 1.24 (95% CI 0.96–1.61) compared to normoxemia. Higher MAP predicted lower mortality: OR for MAP 60–68 mmHg was 0.73 (95% CI 0.64–0.84) and for MAP > 68 mmHg 0.80 (95% CI 0.69–0.92) compared to MAP 2*MAP was nonsignificant. In Loess visualization, the relationship between PaO2 and predicted mortality appeared similar in all MAP tertiles. Conclusions During the first 24 h of ICU treatment in mechanically ventilated brain injured patients, the association between PaO2 and mortality was not different in patients with low compared to normal MAP.

BACKGROUND: The number of elderly patients with aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) admitted to intensive care units (ICUs) has increased. We aimed to analyze the characteristics and outcomes of such patients in a tertiary university hospital during a 5-year period. METHODS: A retrospective single-center analysis was performed of patients with aSAH >= 70 years old admitted to a tertiary neuro-ICU during January 2014-May 2019 based on medical records and computed tomography scans. The primary outcome was functional outcome at 12 months. We used multivariable logistic regression to assess factors associated with unfavorable outcome (Glasgow Outcome Scale score 1-3 and institutionalized). RESULTS: Of 117 included patients, 49% had a favorable outcome at 12 months, and mortality was 41%. In multivariable analysis, poor-grade aSAH and intraventricular hemorrhage were predictors of poor outcome (odds ratio, 4.7, 95% confidence interval, 1.7-12.5 and odds ratio, 2.8, 95% confidence interval, 1.1-7.2, respectively). None of the patients with a Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) motor score of 1-3 three days after admission was alive at 12 months. In contrast, 65% of those with a GCS motor score 6 had favorable outcome. CONCLUSIONS: Half of elderly patients with aSAH admitted to a neuro-ICU were able to live at home after 12 months. Mortality was significant, but the number of severely disabled patients was low. Clinical status atadmission was the strongest predictor of outcome, whereas intraventricular hemorrhage increased the risk of poor outcome as well. GCS motor score 3 days after admission seemed to predict mortality and outcome.

BackgroundAlthough rehabilitation is beneficial for individuals with traumatic brain injury (TBI), a significant proportion of them do not receive adequate rehabilitation after acute care.ObjectiveTherefore, the goal of this prospective and multicenter study was to investigate predictors of access to rehabilitation in the year following injury in patients with TBI.MethodsData from a large European study (CENTER-TBI), including TBIs of all severities between December 2014 and December 2017 were used (N = 4498 patients). Participants were dichotomized into those who had and those who did not have access to rehabilitation in the year following TBI. Potential predictors included sociodemographic factors, psychoactive substance use, preinjury medical history, injury-related factors, and factors related to medical care, complications, and discharge.ResultsIn the year following traumatic injury, 31.4% of patients received rehabilitation services. Access to rehabilitation was positively and significantly predicted by female sex (odds ratio [OR] = 1.50), increased number of years of education completed (OR = 1.05), living in Northern (OR = 1.62; reference: Western Europe) or Southern Europe (OR = 1.74), lower prehospital Glasgow Coma Scale score (OR = 1.03), higher Injury Severity Score (OR = 1.01), intracranial (OR = 1.33) and extracranial (OR = 1.99) surgery, and extracranial complication (OR = 1.75). On contrast, significant negative predictors were lack of preinjury employment (OR = 0.80), living in Central and Eastern Europe (OR = 0.42), and admission to hospital ward (OR = 0.47; reference: admission to intensive care unit) or direct discharge from emergency room (OR = 0.24).ConclusionsBased on these findings, there is an urgent need to implement national and international guidelines and strategies for access to rehabilitation after TBI.

PurposeSurgical series of pineal region gliomas are rarely available. Whereas it is a general assumption that the extent of surgical resection correlates with survival outcomes of intracranial gliomas; the impact of the microsurgical resection on the long-term outcomes of pineal gliomas has been questioned. We present a surgical series of pineal region gliomas with focus on the survival outcome analysis.Methods17 histologically confirmed pineal region glioma patients classified as diffuse and non-diffuse gliomas were retrospectively analyzed. A detailed description of the series was followed by regression models to identify predictors of clinical outcomes. Uni- a multivariate survival analysis was performed to determine independent predictors of mortality.ResultsAlthough the number of treated patients was small, only WHO grade histopathology remained significant (p = 0.02) after multivariate survival analysis with extent of resection, age, tumor volume, and preoperative functional status. The extent of the surgical resection did not correlate with the disease survival rates of non-diffuse (p = 1), diffuse (p = 0.2), nor all gliomas (p = 0.6). 15 of 17 patients underwent gross total (nine patients) or subtotal resection. The preoperative functional status of the patients showed overall improvement on the immediate (p ConclusionThe extent of the surgical resection does not seem to significantly impact on the survival outcomes of pineal region gliomas. Thus, genotype and molecular features may essentially affect the outcome. Further research on the field is required.

Background The benefits of early surgery in cases of superficial supratentorial spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) are unclear. This study aimed to assess the association between early ICH surgery and outcome, as well as the cost-effectiveness of early ICH surgery. Methods We conducted a retrospective, register-based multicenter study that included all patients who had been treated for supratentorial spontaneous ICH in four tertiary intensive care units in Finland between 2003 and 2013. To be included, patients needed to have experienced supratentorial ICHs that were 10–100 cm3 and located within 10 mm of the cortex. We used a multivariable analysis, adjusting for the severity of the illness and the probability of surgical treatment, to assess the independent association between early ICH surgery (≤ 1 day), 12-month mortality rates, and the probability of survival without permanent disability. In addition, we assessed the cost-effectiveness of ICH surgery by examining the effective cost per 1-year survivor (ECPS) and per independent survivor (ECPIS). Results Of 254 patients, 27% were in the early surgery group. Overall 12-month mortality was 39%, while 29% survived without a permanent disability. According to our multivariable analysis, early ICH surgery was associated with lower 12-month mortality rates (odds ratio [OR] 0.22, 95% confidence intervals [CI] 0.10–0.51), but not with a higher probability of survival without permanent disability (OR 1.23, 95% CI 0.59–2.56). For the early surgical group, the ECPS and ECPIS were €111,409 and €334,227, respectively. For the non-surgical cohort, the ECPS and ECPIS were €76,074 and €141,471, respectively. Conclusions Early surgery for superficial ICH is associated with a lower 12-month mortality risk but not with a higher probability of survival without a permanent disability. Further, costs were higher and cost-effectiveness was, thus, worse for the early surgical cohort.

OBJECTIVE: The midline supracerebellar infratentorial (SCIT) approach and its paramedian development are commonly used for dealing with pineal lesions. Comparative clinical studies are lacking, however. We aim to establish the better performance of the paramedian SCIT approach in terms of clinical safety in surgically treated pineal cysts and pineal region tumors. Procedural functionality and effectiveness have been also analyzed. METHODS: A comparative analysis of clinical, radiologic, pathologic, and surgical features, and outcome was performed between 55 midline and 57 paramedian SCIT approaches that were exclusively performed in 112 patients (57 pineal cysts and 55 tumors of the pineal region) operated in sitting position by a single surgeon. Information was retrieved from hospital records and microsurgical videos. RESULTS: The paramedian SCIT approach linked with fewer postoperative complications (odds ratio [OR]: 0.40) and fewer approach-related complications (OR: 0.28) than the midline SCIT approach. The SCIT paramedian approach was achieved in a shorter time, by a smaller bone flap, and with fewer complex procedural steps than the midline approach. The SCIT paramedian approach did not require the opening of the falx cerebelli, midline cerebellar retraction, section of the midline cerebellar draining veins, nor wide opening of the dura. Gross total resection, size of the lesion, microsurgical time for removal, histopathological diagnosis and postoperative outcome were statistically similar in both groups. CONCLUSIONS: The SCIT approach represents a safer and more functional approach for the removal of cysts and tumors of the pineal region than the classic midline approach, while maintaining the same effectiveness.

Background Blunt cerebrovascular injuries (BCVIs) and cervical spinal injuries (CSIs) are not uncommon injuries in patients with severe head injury and may affect patient recovery. We aimed to assess the independent relationship between BCVI, CSI, and outcome in patients with severe head injury. Methods We identified patients with severe head injury from the Helsinki Trauma Registry treated during 2015–2017 in a large level 1 trauma hospital. We assessed the association between BCVI and SCI using multivariable logistic regression, adjusting for injury severity. Our primary outcome was functional outcome at 6 months, and our secondary outcome was 6-month mortality. Results Of 255 patients with a cervical spine CT, 26 patients (10%) had a CSI, and of 194 patients with cervical CT angiography, 16 patients (8%) had a BCVI. Four of the 16 BCVI patients had a BCVI-related brain infarction, and four of the CSI patients had some form of spinal cord injury. After adjusting for injury severity in multivariable logistic regression analysis, BCVI associated with poor functional outcome (odds ratio [OR] = 6.0, 95% CI [confidence intervals] = 1.4–26.5) and mortality (OR = 7.9, 95% CI 2.0–31.4). We did not find any association between CSI and outcome. Conclusions We found that BCVI with concomitant head injury was an independent predictor of poor outcome in patients with severe head injury, but we found no association between CSI and outcome after severe head injury. Whether the association between BCVI and poor outcome is an indirect marker of a more severe injury or a result of treatment needs further investigations.

Background We investigated preoperative physical activity (PA) and sedentary behaviour (SB) in patients scheduled for elective cardiac procedures and compared them with population-based sample of Finnish adults. Methods Cardiac patients (n = 139) undergoing cardiac operations carried a triaxial accelerometer for seven days during the month before the procedure. Patients were categorised into four groups according to the procedure: percutaneous coronary intervention or coronary angiography (PCI-CA), coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), aortic valve replacement (AVR) and mitral valve surgery (MVS). The raw accelerometer data was analyzed with dedicated algorithms to determine metabolic equivalents (METs, 3.5 mL/kg/min of oxygen consumption) of PA. The intensity of PA was divided into two categories: light (LPA, 1.5–2.9 METs) and moderate-to-vigorous (MVPA, ≥ 3.0 METs), while SB represented intensity Results Cardiac patients had fewer daily steps than the FinFit population (p = 0.01), and less SB accumulating from p = 0.002) but more from 20 to 60 min bouts (p = 0.002). Particularly, CABG group had less daily MVPA (p = 0.002) and MVPA accumulating from > 10 min bouts (p Conclusions We found large differences in PA and SB between the patient groups and the FitFit population, CABG group having the worst activity profile. Also, the variation within the patient groups was wide, which should be considered to individualise the rehabilitation programs postoperatively. Trial registration clinicaltrials.gov (NCT03470246). Registered 19 March 2018, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03470246.

Objective To assess the prognostic profile, clinical outcome, treatment-associated morbidity, and treatment burden of elderly patients with glioblastoma (GBM) undergoing microsurgical tumor resection as part of contemporary treatment algorithms. Methods We retrospectively identified patients with GBM ≥65 years of age who were treated by resection at 2 neuro-oncology centers. Survival was assessed by Kaplan-Meier analyses; log-rank tests identified prognostic factors. Results The study population included 160 patients (mean age, 73.1 ± 5.1 years), and the median contrast-enhancing tumor volume was 31.0 cm3. Biomarker analyses revealed O(6)-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase–promoter methylation in 62.7% and wild-type isocitrate dehydrogenase in 97.5% of tumors. The median extent of resection (EOR) was 92.3%, surgical complications were noted in 10.0% of patients, and the median postoperative hospitalization period was 8 days. Most patients (60.0%) received adjuvant radio-/chemotherapy. The overall treatment-associated morbidity was 30.6%. The median progression-free and overall survival were 5.4 months (95% confidence interval [CI], 4.6–6.4 months) and 10.0 months (95% CI, 7.9–11.7 months). The strongest predictors for favorable outcome were patient age ≤73.0 years (P = 0.0083), preoperative Karnofsky Performance Status Scale score ≥80% (P = 0.0179), postoperative modified Rankin Scale score ≤1 (P Conclusions Clinical outcome for elderly patients with GBM remains limited. Nonetheless, the observed treatment-associated morbidity and treatment burden were moderate in the patients, and patient age and performance status remained the strongest predictors for survival. The risks and benefits of tumor resection in the age of biomarker-adjusted treatment concepts require further prospective evaluation.

BACKGROUND: Mirror distal anterior cerebral artery aneurysms (DACAAs) are a rare finding in patients with subarachnoid hemorrhage, with only a few cases reported. CASE DESCRIPTION: A 40-year-old man was admitted for sudden-onset headache, nausea and vomiting, and transient right arm hypoesthesia. Computed tomography scan showed a subarachnoid hemorrhage with intracerebral hemorrhage within the interhemispheric fissure, but computed tomography angiography failed to identify any aneurysms. Subsequent digital subtraction angiography with three-dimensional reconstructions revealed 1.5-mm-diameter mirror DACAAs on the A3 segments. However, the definite rupture site remained unidentifiable. After interdisciplinary consultation, endovascular treatment was favored, and complete occlusion of both DACAAs was achieved by coiling without stent placement. During coiling of the right DACAA, a thrombus in the right callosomarginal artery formed, and treatment with abciximab (ReoPro) was initiated to dissolve the thrombus. After treatment, the patient presented with right leg paresis; however, computed tomography did not show any ischemia, intracerebral hemorrhage increase, or vasospasm. Over the following days, the leg paresis improved, and the patient achieved increased mobilization. He was transferred for further rehabilitation 16 days after hemorrhage. The leg paresis had recovered to a grade 3/5. CONCLUSIONS: Rapid identification of the rupture site in patients with subarachnoid hemorrhage and multiple aneurysms is crucial for initiating optimal treatment. In patients with mirror aneurysms in close proximity to each other, this is not easily accomplished, complicating treatment decisions. Although clipping has been the standard for DACAA occlusion, coiling should be taken into consideration as a viable alternative.

Aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) is a highly complex disease. Majority of aSAH survivors confront post-SAH complications including cerebral vasospasm (CVS) and delayed cerebral ischemia (DCI) that mainly influence the clinical outcome. Tissue damage during early brain injury may lead to release of damage associated molecular pattern molecules (DAMPs) that may initiate and sustain inflammation during the course of aSAH through activation of pattern recognition receptors. Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) due to unmethylated CpG motifs acts as a DAMP via binding to toll-like receptor-9. The aim of this study was to investigate the cell free circulating mtDNA in the systemic circulation of aSAH patients and its association with post-SAH complications and clinical outcome. The DNA was extracted from the serum of 80 aSAH patients at days 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 11, 13 and from 18 healthy controls. Three representative mitochondrial gene fragments including Cytochrome B (CytB), D-Loop and Cytochrome c oxidase subunit-1 (COX-1) were quantified using a Taqman-probes based qPCR. Levels of mtDNA were quantified from standard curves generated using mtDNA extracted from HepG2 cell mitochondria. Clinical outcome of the patients was assessed by Glasgow outcome scale (GOS) and modified Rankin scale (mRS). Clinical data and post-SAH complications were recorded from patient's record file. Serum D-Loop and COX-1 were significantly elevated early after aSAH and remained high over first 2 weeks. CytB levels were however, initially unchanged but elevated later at day 7 as compared to healthy controls. Cumulative levels measured over two weeks showed significant correlations with post-SAH complications including a negative correlation of D-Loop with pneumonia infection, hydrocephalus and occurrence of epilepsy, a positive correlation of Cyt B with occurrence of CVS and a negative correlation of COX-1 with occurrence of systemic infections and seizures. Cumulative D-Loop values negatively correlated with clinical outcome. Our data suggest that mtDNA may directly or indirectly influence post-SAH complications and clinical outcome.

Neurosurgeons are vulnerable to additional noise in their natural operating environment. Noise exposure is associated with reduced cognitive function, inability to concentrate, and nervousness. Mediation music provides an opportunity to create a calmer environment which may reduce stress during surgery. A pilot study was performed to find a suitable task, meditation music of surgeon’s choice, and operation noise and to reach a certain level of training. For the main experiment, two neurosurgeons with different microsurgical experience used real operation noise and meditation music with delta waves as mediating music. Each surgeon performed 10 training bypasses (five with noise and five with music) with 16 stitches in each bypass. The total time to complete 16 stitches, a number of unachieved movements (N.U.Ms), length of thread consumed, and distribution of the stitches were quantified from the recorded videos and compared in both groups. A N.U.Ms were significantly reduced from 109 ± 38 with operation room (OR) noise to 38 ± 13 (p

Background Treatment of gunshot wounds of the brain (GSWB) remains controversial and there is high variation in reported survival rates (from 90%) depending on the etiology and country. We retrospectively analyzed the outcome of a series of consecutive GSWB patients admitted alive to a level 1 trauma center in a safe high-income welfare country with a low rate of homicidal gun violence. Methods Patients admitted due to a GSWB to the HUS Helsinki University Hospital during 2000–2012 were identified from hospital discharge registry and log books of the emergency room and ICU. CT scans and medical records of these patients were reviewed. Univariate analysis and backward logistic regression were performed, and their results compared with that of a systematic literature review of factors related to the outcome of GSWB patients. Results Sixty-four patients admitted alive after GSWB were identified. Eighty percent had self-inflicted GSWB, 81% were contact shots, and 70% were caused by handguns. In-hospital mortality was 72%. Factors associated with mortality in our series were low GCS (≤ 8) at admission, transventricular bullet trajectory, and associated damage to deep brain structures, as reported before in the literature. Of the 64 patients admitted alive, 42% (27/64) were admitted to ICU, 34% (22/64) underwent surgery, and in 25% (16/64), craniotomy and hematoma evacuation was performed. Mortality in the surgically treated group was 32% but near 100% without surgery and ICU treatment. Median GOS in the surgically treated patients was 3 (range 1–5). Conclusions GSWB caused by contact shot from handguns has a high mortality rate, but can be survived with reasonable outcome if limited to lobar injury without significant damage to deep brain structures or brain stem. In such GSWB patients, initial aggressive resuscitation, ICU admission, and surgery seem indicated. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1007/s00701-019-03952-y) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

OBJECTIVES: Cochleovestibular nerve compression syndrome due to intra-meatal anterior inferior cerebellar artery (AICA) that causes tinnitus is an extremely rare condition with special therapeutic challenges and implications. Here we present the first surgically treated pediatric case of tinnitus showing microvascular conflict of the cochleovestibular nerve and intrameatal AICA loop. METHODS: A pediatric case of tinnitus is described, and a surgical technique is elaborated with video material. A PubMed literature search was performed to identify surgically treated pediatric cases of intrameatal compression of the eighth nerve with an AICA loop. RESULTS: Tinnitus was completely resolved and hearing was intact immediately after surgical decompression. The patient was free from further symptoms after a short follow-up of 12 weeks. Microsurgical decompression including opening of the internal auditory canal and transposition of the AICA was an effective treatment option in this case. CONCLUSION: Decompression of the cochleovestibular nerve including opening of the internal auditory canal and transposition of the AICA appears to be an effective treatment option for cases with radiologically confirmed intrameatal vascular compression of the eighth nerve causing unilateral pulsatile tinnitus.

Degenerated intervertebral discs (IVDs) were treated with autologous adipose-derived stem cells (ASC) loaded into an injectable collagen scaffold in a sheep model to investigate the implant’s therapeutic potential regarding the progression of degeneration of previously damaged discs. In this study, 18 merino sheep were subjected to a 3-step minimally invasive injury and treatment model, which consisted of surgically induced disc degeneration, treatment of IVDs with an ASC-loaded collagen hydrogel 6 weeks post-operatively, and assessment of the implant’s influence on degenerative tissue changes after 6 and 12 months of grazing. Autologous ASCs were extracted from subcutaneous adipose tissue and cultivated in vitro. At the end of the experiment, disc heights were determined by µ-CT measurements and morphological tissue changes were histologically examined.Histological investigations show that, after treatment with the ASC-loaded collagen hydrogel implant, degeneration-specific features were observed less frequently. Quantitative studies of the degree of degeneration did not demonstrate a significant influence on potential tissue regeneration with treatment. Regarding disc height analysis, at both 6 and 12 months after treatment with the ASC-loaded collagen hydrogel implant a stabilization of the disc height can be seen. A complete restoration of the intervertebral disc heights however could not be achieved.The reported injection procedure describes in a preclinical model a translational therapeutic approach for degenerative disc diseases based on adipose-derived stem cells in a collagen hydrogel scaffold. Further investigations are planned with the use of a different injectable scaffold material using the same test model.

ObjectiveCognitive impairment is a key cause of disability after traumatic brain injury (TBI) but relationships with overall functioning in daily life are often modest. The aim is to examine cognition at different levels of function and identify domains associated with disability.Methods1554 patients with mild-to-severe TBI were assessed at 6 months post injury on the Glasgow Outcome Scale—Extended (GOSE), the Short Form-12v2 and a battery of cognitive tests. Outcomes across GOSE categories were compared using analysis of covariance adjusting for age, sex and education.ResultsOverall effect sizes were small to medium, and greatest for tests involving processing speed (ηp2 0.057–0.067) and learning and memory (ηp2 0.048–0.052). Deficits in cognitive performance were particularly evident in patients who were dependent (GOSE 3 or 4) or who were unable to participate in one or more major life activities (GOSE 5). At higher levels of function (GOSE 6–8), cognitive performance was surprisingly similar across categories. There were decreases in performance even in patients reporting complete recovery without significant symptoms. Medium to large effect sizes were present for summary measures of cognition (ηp2 0.111), mental health (ηp2 0.131) and physical health (ηp2 0.252).ConclusionsThis large-scale study provides novel insights into cognitive performance at different levels of disability and highlights the importance of processing speed in function in daily life. At upper levels of outcome, any influence of cognition on overall function is markedly attenuated and differences in mental health are salient.

Population aging is likely increasing the number of surgically treated very old (>= 80-year-old) intracranial meningioma (IM) patients. Since there is little data on mortality in this patient group, we studied whether survival of surgically treated very old IM patients differs from survival of a matched general population. We retrospectively identified 83 consecutive very old IM patients (median age 83 years; 69% women) operated between 2010 and 2018. During the first postoperative year, operated IM patients suffered 2.5 times higher mortality as compared to age- and sex-matched general population but no annual survival difference occurred thereafter. Regarding cumulative estimates, no excess mortality was detected after the second postoperative year. Of the patient who were and who were not able to live at home preoperatively, 78% and 42% lived at home within 3 months, respectively. Preoperative loss of capability to live at home associated with a less frequent return to home [odds ratio (95% confidence interval) 0.21 (0.06-0.67)]. Operated very old IM patients had short-term excess mortality but similar cumulative survival as the matched general population. Moreover, most patients returned home soon after surgery.

Background: Blood biomarkers may enhance outcome prediction performance of head computed tomography scores in traumatic brain injury (TBI). Objective: To investigate whether admission levels of eight different protein biomarkers can improve the outcome prediction performance of the Helsinki computed tomography score (HCTS) without clinical covariates in TBI. Materials and methods: Eighty-two patients with computed tomography positive TBIs were included in this study. Plasma levels of beta-amyloid isoforms 1-40 (A beta 40) and 1-42 (A beta 42), glial fibrillary acidic protein, heart fatty acid-binding protein, interleukin 10 (IL-10), neurofilament light, S100 calcium-binding protein B, and total tau were measured within 24 h from admission. The patients were divided into favorable (Glasgow Outcome Scale-Extended 5-8, n = 49) and unfavorable (Glasgow Outcome Scale-Extended 1-4, n = 33) groups. The outcome was assessed 6-12 months after injury. An optimal predictive panel was investigated with the sensitivity set at 90-100%. Results: The HCTS alone yielded a sensitivity of 97.0% (95% CI: 90.9-100) and specificity of 22.4% (95% CI: 10.2-32.7) and partial area under the curve of the receiver operating characteristic of 2.5% (95% CI: 1.1-4.7), in discriminating patients with favorable and unfavorable outcomes. The threshold to detect a patient with unfavorable outcome was an HCTS > 1. The three best individually performing biomarkers in outcome prediction were A beta 40, A beta 42, and neurofilament light. The optimal panel included IL-10, A beta 40, and the HCTS reaching a partial area under the curve of the receiver operating characteristic of 3.4% (95% CI: 1.7-6.2) with a sensitivity of 90.9% (95% CI: 81.8-100) and specificity of 59.2% (95% CI: 40.8-69.4). Conclusion: Admission plasma levels of IL-10 and A beta 40 significantly improve the prognostication ability of the HCTS after TBI.

The purpose was to obtain a reliable scoring for growth of unruptured intracranial aneurysms (UIAs) in a long-term follow-up study from variables known at baseline and to compare it with the ELAPSS (Earlier subarachnoid hemorrhage, Location of the aneurysm, Age &gt, 60 years, Population, Size of the aneurysm, and Shape of the aneurysm) score obtained from an individual-based meta-analysis. The series consists of 87 patients with 111 UIAs and 1669 person-years of follow-up between aneurysm size measurements (median follow-up time per patient 21.7, range 1.2 to 51.0 years). These were initially diagnosed between 1956 and 1978, when UIAs were not treated in our country. ELAPSS scores at baseline did not differ between those with and those without aneurysm growth. The area under the curve (AUC) for the receiver operating curve (ROC) of the ELAPSS score for predicting long-term growth was fail (0.474, 95% CI 0.345&ndash, 0.603), and the optimal cut-off point was obtained at &ge, 7 vs. &lt, 7 points for sensitivity (0.829) and specificity (0.217). In the present series UIA growth was best predicted by female sex (4 points), smoking at baseline (3 points), and age &lt, 40 years (2 points). The AUC for the ROC of the new scoring was fair (0.662, 95% CI 0.546&ndash, 0.779), which was significantly better than that of ELAPSS score (p &lt, 0.05). The optimal cut-off point was obtained at &ge, 4 vs. &lt, 4 points for sensitivity (0.971) and specificity (0.304). A new simple scoring consisting of only female sex, cigarette smoking and age &lt, 40 years predicted growth of an intracranial aneurysm in long-term follow-up, significantly better than the ELAPSS score.

What is known and objective Anticholinergic drug use has been associated with a risk of central and peripheral adverse effects. There is a lack of information on anticholinergic drug use in persons with diabetes. The aim of this study is to investigate anticholinergic drug use and the association between anticholinergic drug use and self-reported symptoms in older community-dwelling persons with and without diabetes. Methods The basic population was comprised of Finnish community-dwelling primary care patients aged 65 and older. Persons with diabetes were identified according to the ICD-10 diagnostic codes from electronic patient records. Two controls adjusted by age and gender were selected for each person with diabetes. This cross-sectional study was based on electronic primary care patient records and a structured health questionnaire. The health questionnaire was returned by 430 (81.6%) persons with diabetes and 654 (73.5%) persons without diabetes. Data on prescribed drugs were obtained from the electronic patient records. Anticholinergic drug use was measured according to the Anticholinergic Risk Scale. The presence and strength of anticholinergic symptoms were asked in the health questionnaire. Results and discussion The prevalence of anticholinergic drug use was 8.9% in the total study cohort. There were no significant differences in anticholinergic drug use between persons with and without diabetes. There was no consistent association between anticholinergic drug use and self-reported symptoms. What is new and conclusion There is no difference in anticholinergic drug use in older community-dwelling persons with and without diabetes. Anticholinergic drug use should be considered individually and monitored carefully.

Aki Laakso tutkimusryhmän jäsenenä. Currently available simulators are supposed to allow young neurosurgeons to hone their technical skills in a safe environment, without causing any unnecessary harm to their patients caused by their inexperience. For this training method to be largely accepted in neurosurgery, it is necessary to prove simulation efficacy by means of large-scale clinical validation studies. We correlated and analysed the performance at a simulator and the actual operative skills of different neurosurgeons (construct validity). We conducted a study involving 92 residents and attending neurosurgeons from different European Centres; each participant had to perform a virtual task, namely the placement of an external ventricular drain (EVD) at a neurosurgical simulator (ImmersiveTouch). The number of attempts needed to reach the ventricles and the accuracy in positioning the catheter were assessed. Data suggests a positive correlation between subjects who placed more EVDs in the previous year and those who get better scores at the simulator (p = .008) (fewer attempts and better surgical accuracy). The number of attempts to reach the ventricle was also analysed; senior residents needed fewer attempts (mean = 2.26; SD = 1.11) than junior residents (mean = 3.12; SD = 1.05) (p = .007) and staff neurosurgeons (mean = 2.89, SD = 1.23). Scoring results were compared by using the Fisher's test, for the analysis of the variances, and the Student's T test. Surprisingly, having a wider surgical experience overall does not correlate with the best performance at the simulator. The performance of an EVD placement on a simulator correlates with the density of the neurosurgical experience for that specific task performed in the OR, suggesting that simulators are able to differentiate neurosurgeons according to their surgical ability. Namely this suggests that the simulation performance reflects the surgeons' consistency in placing EVDs in the last year.

BACKGROUND: Vascular pineal malformations are rare and technically demanding lesions. Because the locations of these lesions, endovascular techniques and radiosurgery have been increasingly used in the recent decades to accomplish safe occlusion. Nevertheless, microsurgical treatment may be required sometimes. METHODS: We present a retrospective review of the vascular pineal malformations operated by the senior author. Moreover, we report illustrative cases for the various types of vascular lesions with a careful analysis of the different microsurgical stages. RESULTS: Eighteen patients with pineal vascular lesions were operated on between 1980 and 2015: 6 patients had vein of Galen malformations, 5 plexiform arteriovenous malformations, 6 cavernous malformations, and 1 patient had a ruptured medial posterior choroidal artery aneurysm. A complete resection and occlusion was possible in all vascular malformations. CONCLUSIONS: The pineal region is an infrequent but challenging location for vascular lesions. A careful and step-wise operative strategy for the different types of vascular lesion is paramount to accomplish an effective and safe microsurgical treatment when other alternatives fail or are not available.

BACKGROUND: Pediatric moyamoya cases may be very arduous, even more so in a developing country, where access to specialized centers may be prevented by different factors. CASE DESCRIPTION: Herein we report a challenging case, which was managed in the new Neurosurgical Center of Trujillo, regarding the direct anastomosis between the left superficial temporal artery and a cortical branch of the left middle cerebral artery in a 8-year-old Peruvian boy with moyamoya disease. Postoperatively, the patient's motor deficits and aphasia improved. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first performance of a direct revascularization for a pediatric moyamoya case in Peru. CONCLUSIONS: The creation of highly specialized neurosurgical centers in the main strategic places of developing countries may allow optimal treatment of neurosurgical patients with complex diseases.

BACKGROUND: Residents' lives are hectic-it is hard to find a place and time for training basic and advanced microsurgical skills. Surgical instruments and sutures can be purchased (or loaned from another department), but the most expensive and space-occupying device is the microscope. In developing countries, microscopes are used where they are needed most, in operating rooms. Furthermore, a conventional microscope is not portable. For all of these reasons, the availability of microscopes for training microsurgery is limited. METHOD: We used a coffee cup and smartphone (CCS) as a training device instead of a microscope. The coffee cup was the base, and the smartphone functioned to magnify, illuminate, and visualize objects. We measured 2 residents' performance on end-to-end artificial bypass before and after 5 days of CCS-based training. RESULTS: We were able to quickly set up the environment for practicing microsurgical skills in any surrounding. After 5 days of training with CCS we could see significant development of microsurgical performance with a conventional microscope as well. The learning curve was dependent on baseline performance. CONCLUSION: CCS is efficient, mobile, and easy to set up. Even though our smartphone-based training was in 2 dimensions, we could improve our microsurgical performance with conventional microscopes, which have 3-dimensional capability. CCS also provides an easy method to record one's microsurgical training. CCS improved both of the subjects' microsurgical performance, making it a good alternative for a traditional microscope.

BACKGROUND: Economic, cultural, and geographical reasons usually limit the access to specialized health centers in developing countries, especially in rural areas. Peruvian health system indicators still highlight significant unmet clinical need for neurosurgical patients. Our project is to develop the first highly specialized neurosurgical center in the EsSalud hospital of Trujillo, with the goal to improve the treatment of neurosurgical diseases in that region, thus optimizing their outcomes while decreasing expensive and risky patients transfer to the neurosurgical departments in the capital district. METHODS: After an initial center evaluation, 2 neurosurgeons and 2 nurses from the Helsinki University Central Hospital provided the microneurosurgical training for the local team. Moreover, our team worked closely with the local staff to develop standardized protocols for surgical procedures and postoperative management. RESULTS: From February to May 2016, 59 surgeries were performed in the new Neurosurgical Center, including cerebrovascular and skull-base cases that were never performed before in Trujillo. Moreover, the first "Cerebral Bypass and Vascular Microsurgery Live Course" was held in Trujillo in May 2016. After we left, the local team continued to work following the same protocols we introduced, and built up together. CONCLUSIONS: An effective and adequate operative skill transfer to the local staff may be accomplished in a reasonable amount of time, thus guaranteeing a longlasting improvement of neurosurgical care, while minimizing expenditures on personnel and capital. We believe that this is possible following a general microsurgical philosophy that can be simplified as follows: "simple, clean, fast, and preserving normal anatomy."

INTRODUCTION Navigated transcranial magnetic stimulation (nTMS) is increasingly used for preoperative mapping of motor function, and clinical evidence for its benefit for brain tumor patients is accumulating. In respect to language mapping with repetitive nTMS, literature reports have yielded variable results, and it is currently not routinely performed for presurgical language localization. The aim of this project is to define a common protocol for nTMS motor and language mapping to standardize its neurosurgical application and increase its clinical value. METHODS The nTMS workshop group, consisting of highly experienced nTMS users with experience of more than 1500 preoperative nTMS examinations, met in Helsinki in January 2016 for thorough discussions of current evidence and personal experiences with the goal to recommend a standardized protocol for neurosurgical applications. RESULTS nTMS motor mapping is a reliable and clinically validated tool to identify functional areas belonging to both normal and lesioned primary motor cortex. In contrast, this is less clear for language-eloquent cortical areas identified by nTMS. The user group agreed on a core protocol, which enables comparison of results between centers and has an excellent safety profile. Recommendations for nTMS motor and language mapping protocols and their optimal clinical integration are presented here. CONCLUSION At present, the expert panel recommends nTMS motor mapping in routine neurosurgical practice, as it has a sufficient level of evidence supporting its reliability. The panel recommends that nTMS language mapping be used in the framework of clinical studies to continue refinement of its protocol and increase reliability.

Background Previous studies have consistently demonstrated gaze behaviour differences related to expertise during various surgical procedures. In micro-neurosurgery, however, there is a lack of evidence of empirically demonstrated individual differences associated with visual attention. It is unknown exactly how neurosurgeons see a stereoscopic magnified view in the context of micro-neurosurgery and what this implies for medical training. Method We report on an investigation of the eye movement patterns in micro-neurosurgery using a state-of-the-art eye tracker. We studied the eye movements of nine neurosurgeons while performing cutting and suturing tasks under a surgical microscope. Eye-movement characteristics, such as fixation (focus level) and saccade (visual search pattern), were analysed. Results The results show a strong relationship between the level of microsurgical skill and the gaze pattern, whereas more expertise is associated with greater eye control, stability, and focusing in eye behaviour. For example, in the cutting task, well-trained surgeons increased their fixation durations on the operating field twice as much as the novices (expert, 848 ms; novice, 402 ms). Conclusions Maintaining steady visual attention on the target (fixation), as well as being able to quickly make eye jumps from one target to another (saccades) are two important elements for the success of neurosurgery. The captured gaze patterns can be used to improve medical education, as part of an assessment system or in a gaze-training application.

Background Lateral approaches to treat anterior cranial fossa lesions have evolved since the first frontotemporal approach described by Dandy in 1918. We describe a less invasive approach to perform extradural anterior clinoidectomy through a lateral supraorbital (LSO) approach for anterior circulation aneurysms and anterolateral skull base lesions. Methods The extended LSO approach involves performing a standard lateral supraorbital craniotomy followed by drilling of the sphenoid wing and lateral wall of the orbit through the frontal bony opening of the LSO approach, without any temporal extension of the craniotomy. This creates a frontopterio-orbital window exposing the periorbita; superior, medial, and anterior aspect of the temporal dura mater; and superior orbital fissure. After unroofing the superior orbital fissure, the meningo-orbital fold is cut, and the temporal dura mater is peeled from the lateral wall of the cavernous sinus to expose the anterior clinoid process allowing a standard opening of the optic canal and anterior clinoidectomy. Results The extended LSO approach and extradural anterior clinoidectomy allowed access to 4 sphenoid wing/anterior clinoidal meningiomas, 5 anterior circulation aneurysms, 2 temporomesial lesions, and 1 orbital/cavernous sinus abscess. Postoperatively, 2 patients had transient hemiparesis, 2 patients had transient third nerve palsy, and 1 patient had minimal visual field deterioration. All patients had a modified Rankin Scale score ≤1 at 8-week follow-up. Conclusion The extended LSO approach opens a new route (frontopterio-orbital window) to perform extradural anterior clinoidectomy safely and increases surgical exposure, angles, and operability of a less invasive keyhole craniotomy (LSO approach) to treat anterior cranial fossa lesions.

BACKGROUND: A number of randomized controlled trials have shown the benefit of drain placement in the operative treatment of chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH); however, few reports have described real-life results after adoption of drain placement into clinical practice. We report the results following a change in practice at Helsinki University Hospital from no drain to subdural drain (SD) placement after burr hole craniostomy for CSDH. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective observational study of consecutive patients undergoing burr hole craniostomy for CSDH. We compared outcomes between a 6-month period when SD placement was arbitrary (Julye December 2015) and a period when SD placement for 48 hours was routine (July-December 2017). Our primary outcome of interest was recurrence of CSDH necessitating reoperation within 6 months. Patient outcomes, infections, and other complications were assessed as well. RESULTS: A total of 161 patients were included, comprising 71 (44%) in the drain group and 90 (56%) in the non-drain group. There were no significant differences in age, comorbidities, history of trauma, or use of antithrombotic agents between the 2 groups (P > 0.05 for all). Recurrence within 6 months occurred in 18% of patients in the non-drain group, compared with 6% in the drain group (odds ratio, 0.28; 95% confidence interval, 0.09-0.87; P = 0.028). There were no differences in neurologic outcomes (P = 0.72), mortality (P = 0.55), infection rate (P = 0.96), or other complications (P = 0.20). CONCLUSIONS: The change in practice from no drain to use of an SD after burr hole craniostomy for CSDH effectively reduced the 6-month recurrence rate with no effect on patient outcomes, infections, or other complications.

Objective: The aim of this study was to analyze brain pathologies which cause dementia in the oldest old population. Methods: All 601 persons aged >= 85 years living in the city of Vantaa (Finland), on April 1st, 1991 formed the study population of the Vantaa85 + study, 300 of whom were autopsied during follow-up (79.5% females, mean age-at-death 92 +/- 3.7 years). Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathology (tau and beta-amyloid [Ab]), cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA) and Lewy-related pathologies were analyzed. Brain infarcts were categorized by size ( 15 mm) and by location. Brain hemorrhages were classified as microscopic ( 2 mm cortical and subcortical infarcts, and (3)

BACKGROUND: Spontaneous spinal epidural hematoma (SS-EDH) is a rare neurosurgical emergency. Little is known about predictive factors of outcome in patients with SS-EDH. Here, we present a case series of patients operated on for an SS-EDH. METHODS: We reviewed all cases of patients operated on for an SS-EDH between January 2009 and February 2016 in a large academic neurosurgical center. We recorded preadmission functional status, bleeding characteristics, and postsurgery outcome. Good outcome was defined, according to the Nurick score, as at least being able to walk in a way that did not prevent employment. Mean follow-up time was 19 months (standard deviation, 25 months). RESULTS: Ten patients, with a mean age of 70 years (standard deviation, 10), with SS-EDH were included. The location of SS-EDH was binomially distributed, with the highest frequencies in the upper thoracic region (Th3-5) and middle to low cervical region (C4-6). Five patients had a poor outcome. Of these, 3 remained chair bound or bedridden. No statistically significant association could be found between preoperative characteristics and outcome, but patients with poor preoperative motor function, thoracic hematoma, and more than 4 involved segments had a high rate of poor neurologic outcome. We could not establish any association between time delay from symptom onset to surgery and outcome. CONCLUSIONS: In our series, half of the patients with SS-EDH recovered well after surgery. Although no statistically significant association could be established, hematoma location, size, and preoperative motor function seem to be some of the most important predictive factors of postoperative recovery.

Objective The presigmoid approach can be used to treat vertebrobasilar artery aneurysms when circumstances require more operative exposure. High morbidity and mortality in these cases have been reported. In this study, we describe our modified presigmoid approach for vertebrobasilar artery aneurysms and our clinical results. Methods This series includes patients with vertebrobasilar aneurysms clipped via the modified presigmoid approach at the Department of Neurosurgery at Helsinki University Hospital from 1998 to 2014. Data were collected from the operating record books, patients' medical records, and a radiologic database server. Results Thirty-three presigmoid procedures of 31 patients were performed to treat 34 aneurysms (14 ruptured, 20 unruptured). The aneurysms had a mean distance from the posterior clinoid process to the aneurysm neck of 12.2 mm (range, 0–26.6 mm). A favorable outcome was achieved in 21 patients (64%). A favorable outcome was achieved in 74% of unruptured and good-grade patients, whereas favorable outcome was achieved in only 36% of poor-grade patients. Complete or near-complete occlusion was achieved in 79%. Larger aneurysms, fusiform morphology, and anterior dome projection had lower occlusion rates. Conclusions We have described our experiences of using the presigmoid approach to treat vertebrobasilar aneurysms. The clinical and radiographic results are acceptable given the complex location and configuration of the treated aneurysms. Unfavorable outcomes are related to the poor admission Hunt and Hess grade, aneurysm morphology, and aneurysm size.