Bilateral Middle Cerebral Artery Research Articles

Abstract TP472: The Interplay Between Subclinical Micro- and Macro-Vascular Disease in Asymptomatic Individuals

Introduction: Pathophysiological changes within large arteries, among many other factors, are considered to contribute to cerebral small vessel disease. Craniocervical sonography is a valuable tool in this regard to evaluate various physiological metrics of extra- and intra-cranial large arteries. Herein, we tried to evaluate the interplay between markers of small vessel disease, and internal carotid (ICA) and middle cerebral artery (MCA) pulsatility, carotid distensibility and intima media thickness (IMT). Methods: We prospectively evaluated a total of 278 subjects without any prior history of stroke using transcranial and cervical Doppler ultrasound, and magnetic resonance imaging. Pulsatility index was determined by Gosling’s index from bilateral MCA’s and ICA’s. We also measured carotid distensibility and IMT (by AutoIMT TM ) from both carotids and calculated their mean values. The relationship of all these sonographic metrics with imaging markers of chronic small vessel disease [lacunes, microbleeds, perivascular spaces (PVS), white matter hyperintensities (WMH)] were evaluated in multivariate models where age and cardiovascular risk factors were included as additional covariates. Results: The study population consisted of 108 males and 170 females with a mean±SD age of 64±9 years. In bivariate analyses, higher carotid IMT, higher MCA and ICA pulsatility indices, and lower carotid distensibility were significantly associated with high burden of WMH (Fazekas score of ≥2), basal ganglia PVS (PVS score ≥2) and presence of lacunes, but not with microbleeds or centrum semiovale PVS. In multivariate models, each 0.1 mm change in IMT increased the odds of severe WHM by 1.4 (95%CI 1.0-1.9), severe basal ganglia PVS by 1.4 (1.0-1.8) and lacunes by 1.6 (1.0-2.6), while no significant association remained for pulsatility index or distensibility. Conclusion: Our analyses highlight that IMT, is not only a subclinical marker of atherosclerosis, but also emerges as a factor intimately related with cerebral small vessel disease. These findings raise the possibility that IMT and cerebral small vessel disease might together reflect downstream events that culminate in vascular disease involving the large and small vessels of the brain.

Abstract TP93: Rapid and Appropriate Evaluation of Collateral Development by Four-Dimensional CT Angiography Covering Only 4-cm Width With a Focus on the Intracranial Internal Carotid Artery and the Middle Cerebral Artery to Identify Candidates of Thrombectomy

Introduction: Four-dimensional computed tomography (CT) angiography (4D-CTA) can visualize time sequential changes of bilateral internal carotid (ICA) and middle cerebral arteries (MCA). Therefore, 4D-CTA could find ICA or MCA occlusion and visualize collateral circulation in case of intracranial artery occlusion. Hypothesis: Four-dimensional CTA covering only 4-cm width with a focus on the intracranial ICA and the MCA can early visualize them because of small volumetric data and evaluate collateral development status to identify candidates of thrombectomy. Methods: We included acute ischemic stroke patients who 1) were admitted from August 2018 to July 2019 due to ICA or MCA occlusion, 2) underwent 4D-CTA covering only 4-cm width on admission and 3) underwent endovascular thrombectomy. We classified collateral status into good, moderate and poor collateral according to opacification of M2 and M3 branches distal to occlusion and evaluated successful recanalization of thrombolysis in cerebral infarction (TICI) grade 2b or 3 and improvement of NIHSS score 7 days after thrombectomy. Results: During the study period, 337 acute ischemic stroke patients were admitted, 92 patients suffered from ICA or MCA occlusion and 23 patients met our inclusive criteria. Median age was 81 years and median ASPECTS was 10. Image reconstruction time of 1,000 images was only 69 seconds and 4D-CTA with only 4-cm width demonstrated MCA occlusion in 14 patients, IC occlusion in 9 patients and collateral status as good in 4 patients, moderate in 13 patients and poor in 6 patients. Median onset-to-recanalization time was 5.2 hours, successful recanalization was achieved in 21 patients (91.3%), median NIHSS score on admission was 20, median 7-day NIHSS score decreased to 6 (p<0.0001) and median decrease of NIHSS score was 13. Two patients without successful recanalization had no early improvement of NIHSS score, whereas 20 of 21 patients with successful recanalization obtained early neurological improvement. Conclusion: Four-dimensional CTA with only 4-cm width rapidly and appropriately evaluated collateral status to identify candidates of thrombectomy for ICA or MCA occlusion and achieved early neurological improvement following successful recanalization.

Abstract WP60: Absence of Hyperdense Middle Cerebral Artery Sign, as Measured on the Hounsfield Scale, Predicts Poor Functional Outcome and May Indicate Atherosclerotic Disease in Patients Undergoing Mechanical Thrombectomy for M1 Occlusion

Introduction: The hyper-dense middle cerebral artery sign (HMCAS) on computed tomography (CT) is associated with ischemic stroke involving the middle cerebral artery (MCA) territory. While its presence is indicative of acute thromboembolic disease, the clinical implications of its absence in patients presenting with M1 occlusions have not been widely studied. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed104 consecutive patients presenting with acute M1 occlusions undergoing mechanical thrombectomy. Pertinent clinical/radiological variables were obtained from the electronic medical records and review of angiographic images. Presence of HMCAS was defined as a difference of >5 Hounsfield units (HU) between the occlusion site and the corresponding contralateral MCA segment. Patients were stratified based on the presence (HD group) vs. absence (nHD group) of HMCAS. Primary outcomes included mortality, reperfusion status (TICI), and 3-month Modified Rankin Scale (mRS). Other relevant clinical variables were statistically analyzed and compared. Statistical analyses were two-tailed and considered significant if p<0.05. Results: Out of the 104 patients with M1 occlusions, 78 had a measurable HMCAS (HD group), while 22 patients did not (nHD group). 4 patients were excluded due to CT artifacts. Age (69.2 ± 16.0), presenting NIHSS (15.8 ± 5.1), and time to groin (347.0 ± 282.6 min) were similar in the two groups. Mortality and 3-month mRS were 50% and 4.4 (±1.9) in the nHD group versus 27% and 3.1 (±2.2) in the HD group, both significant, with p=0.0201. and p=0.0152, respectively. The nHD patients had significantly higher incidence of diabetes (40.9% vs. 19.2%, p=0.0178). TICI score was unfavorable (2A, 1, or 0) in 31.8% of the nHD- and 24.4% of the HD patients, although not statistically significant. Lesions were presumed to be atherosclerotic (based on cerebral angiography) in 40.9% of nHD- and 7.7% of HD cases (p=0.00006). Conclusion: Absent HMCAS - defined as a <5 HU difference between bilateral corresponding MCA segments on initial CT - is associated with poor functional outcome after mechanical thrombectomy in patients presenting with M1 occlusion. There is a significantly higher incidence of atherosclerotic occlusions in this patient population.

Abstract WP186: External Counterpulsation Enhances Endothelial Metabolism and Neurogenic Activity in Ischemic Stroke: New Evidence by Analyzing Transcranial Doppler Signals With Wavelet Analysis

Purpose: We aimed to investigate whether external counterpulsation (ECP) may enhance endothelial metabolic and neurogenic activity by analyzing cerebral blood flow oscillation in transcranial Doppler (TCD) signals, and propose a new indicator for quantifying the enhancement. Methods: Twenty-seven patients with unilateral ischemic stroke in the anterior circulation territory (15 ones with 35 daily 1 h ECP treatment sessions and 12 ones without ECP treatment) were recruited. TCD monitoring of bilateral middle cerebral arteries was performed before and after ECP at day 1 and week 7. The index I, for quantitatively evaluating the enhancement of endothelial metabolism and neurogenic activity, was defined as the ratio of the oscillation amplitude of TCD signal in the dedicated frequency interval at different time points with wavelet analysis. TCD data were analyzed using wavelet analysis based on ipsilateral or contralateral to the infarct side. An overall change in National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) and Barthel Index (BI) scores were recorded. Results: The index I at baseline of week 7 compared with day 1 were significantly higher on both ipsilateral and contralateral sides in ECP group (ipsilateral, 1.28±0.30; contralateral, 1.28±0.30) than those in No-ECP group (ipsilateral, 1.02±0.06; contralateral, 1.00±0.06) (all P <0.05). The I during ECP of week 7 compared with day 1 also increased on both sides in ECP group (ipsilateral, 1.31±0.36; contralateral, 1.29±0.34) than those in No-ECP group (ipsilateral, 0.99±0.06; contralateral, 1.00±0.07) (all P <0.05). There were positive correlations of I with favorable changes in NIHSS and BI in ECP group. Conclusions: ECP treatment can enhance endothelial metabolic and neurogenic activity. The index I may be used as an indicator of enhancement of endothelial metabolic and neurogenic activity, as well as clinical outcome, in ischemic stroke following ECP treatment.

Abstract TP232: Initial Experience With a Fully Autonomous Robotic Transcranial Doppler System for Patent Foramen Ovlae Detection in Cryptogenic Stroke

Background: Right to Left shunting (RLS) through a PFO is a known risk factor for ischemic stroke and commonly screened in cases of ESUS. With emerging evidence linking the significance of PFO closure for reduction of recurrent stroke, there is a need for broader access to accurate, easily repeatable tools to identify high-risk patients considered for transcatheter PFO closure. The use of a Transcranial Doppler (TCD) bubble study has proven to be a valuable, non-invasive tool due to its high sensitivity and specificity in detecting and grading a PFO. In this case series, we evaluate a fully autonomous rTCD to perform bubble studies in ESUS population to assess the presence of PFOs. Methods: A total of 34 patients were diagnosed with ESUS. All patients received rTCD bubble study using the Lucid Robotic System to autonomously search, insonate and monitor bilateral Middle Cerebral Artery signals. A Transthoracic Echocardiogram (TTE) with a bubble was completed in 29 of 34 patients. A Transesophageal Echocardiogram (TEE) with a bubble was completed in 5 of 34 patients. All studies were performed at rest and with a Valsalva maneuver. Some patients were selected for an rTCD bubble after a positive TTE bubble study. Results: A PFO was detected in 65% (22 of 34) of the patient population. Both rTCD and TTE were performed in 19 of 22 patients. We identified 9 patients (47%) that had a positive rTCD bubble study which went undetected by a TTE bubble study. In these 9 patients, 56% had an ICC grade 3, 33% had grade 2, and 11% had grade 1 shunt. Conclusion: The high sensitivity and specificity of a TCD bubble study for the detection of a PFO provide a valuable, underutilized tool to accurately screen for high-risk patients benefiting from a PFO closure. This is highlighted by the 9 patients where a PFO went undetected by a TTE. The implementation of a fully autonomous rTCD allowed for broader access to perform TCD bubble studies, resulting in greater patient management and workflow efficiency. With the small number of patients in this case series, further research is recommended.

Hemodynamic changes in uteroplacental vasculature in pregnancy-induced hypertension and its effect on pregnancy outcome

Background: Among the various complications of pregnancy, pregnancy-induced hypertension is found to be the most common which may affect maternal and fetal outcome. The most common being retarded growth of fetus in utero. Aim and Objective: This study aims to assess hemodynamic variations in uteroplacental circulation in pregnancy-induced hypertension and its effect on fetal outcome. Materials and Methods: Subjects were divided into two groups as Group A of 50 subjects of normal pregnancy (controls) and Group B of 50 subjects of pregnancy-induced hypertension (cases) all in the age group of 25–34 years and having 28–32 weeks of gestation. Blood pressure was recorded and fetal biometry was done ultrasonologically to find average gestational age and effective fetal weight. Pulsatility index, resistive index, and systolic-diastolic ratio in bilateral uterine, umbilical, and middle cerebral arteries were recorded using color Doppler. Mean and standard deviation was calculated for all values of Doppler indices in both groups and Student’s t-test (unpaired) was used. P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: All three taken Doppler indices showed a decreasing trend in both groups but decrease was less in pregnancy-induced hypertensives as compared to that in normal pregnancy for same gestational age suggesting higher resistance to blood flow in fetoplacental circulation in gestational hypertension. Small for gestational age fetuses were seen in 10 out of 50 cases. Normal for gestational age fetuses were seen in controls. Conclusion: Pregnancy-induced hypertension causes hemodynamic variations in uteroplacental vasculature which may be responsible for causing impaired fetal growth in some cases.

27 Cerebral Autoregulation Associated with Falls in Older Persons with Orthostatic Hypotension?

Abstract Background It is considered well-established that orthostatic hypotension (OH) is associated with falls, population-based studies have found that a large proportion of community-dwelling older adults fulfill the criteria for OH without experiencing falls. It is therefore postulated that older individuals with OH may only experience fall if cerebral autoregulation, which is the mechanism by which the brain blood flow is maintained constant through a autoregulatory range, is impaired. Objective To evaluate the relationship between cerebral autoregulation and OH in older individuals with and without a history of falls. Method Individuals aged 3 60 years were recruited from medical clinics, by word of mouth, and from existing research registries. Baseline sociodemographics, detailed medical history and medication history were obtained. Bilateral middle cerebral artery (MCA) blood flow were recorded using transcranial Doppler ultrasound (TCD) synchronized with non-invasive continuous blood pressure and ECG recordings. Synchronized brain blood flow signals, heart trace and blood pressure signals were first recorded during 10 minutes’ supine rest. Participants were then be asked to perform a standard set of mathematical calculations, a Valsalva maneuver and to stand up from a seated position. Results 36 participants have been evaluated to date (13 fallers, 23 non-Fallers). There is no statistically significant difference in gender, ethnicity or height and weight between groups. Fluctuations in MCA flow velocity were observed with spontaneous fluctuations in blood pressure at rest and with induced blood pressure changes during the challenge maneuvers. Visual inspection of the signals obtained suggested that changes in MCA flow velocity were more marked among fallers and non-fallers. Conclusion Synchronization of cerebral blood flow and continuous blood pressure signals opens up numerous new possibilities in research and clinical practice. Our preliminary findings suggest that cerebral autoregulation does play a role in determining the presence of symptomats in older individuals with OH.

Influence of mild-moderate hypocapnia on intracranial pressure slow waves activity in TBI

BackgroundIn traumatic brain injury (TBI) the patterns of intracranial pressure (ICP) waveforms may reflect pathological processes that ultimately lead to unfavorable outcome. In particular, ICP slow waves (sw) (0.005–0.05 Hz) magnitude and complexity have been shown to have positive association with favorable outcome. Mild-moderate hypocapnia is currently used for short periods to treat critical elevations in ICP. Our goals were to assess changes in the ICP sw activity occurring following sudden onset of mild-moderate hypocapnia and to examine the relationship between changes in ICP sw activity and other physiological variables during the hypocapnic challenge.MethodsICP, arterial blood pressure (ABP), and bilateral middle cerebral artery blood flow velocity (FV), were prospectively collected in 29 adult severe TBI patients requiring ICP monitoring and mechanical ventilation in whom a minute volume ventilation increase (15–20% increase in respiratory minute volume) was performed as part of a clinical CO2-reactivity test. The time series were first treated using FFT filter (pass-band set to 0.005–0.05 Hz). Power spectral density analysis was performed. We calculated the following: mean value, standard deviation, variance and coefficient of variation in the time domain; total power and frequency centroid in the frequency domain; cerebrospinal compliance (Ci) and compensatory reserve index (RAP).ResultsHypocapnia led to a decrease in power and increase in frequency centroid and entropy of slow waves in ICP and FV (not ABP). In a multiple linear regression model, RAP at the baseline was the strongest predictor for the decrease in the power of ICP slow waves (p < 0.001).ConclusionIn severe TBI patients, a sudden mild-moderate hypocapnia induces a decrease in mean ICP and FV, but also in slow waves power of both signals. At the same time, it increases their higher frequency content and their morphological complexity. The difference in power of the ICP slow waves between the baseline and the hypocapnia period depends on the baseline cerebrospinal compensatory reserve as measured by RAP.

Comparison of the Effects of Propofol and Sevoflurane Induced Burst Suppression on Cerebral Blood Flow and Oxygenation: A Prospective, Randomised, Double-Blinded Study

Pharmacologically induced electroencephalogram (EEG) silence increases tolerance of ischemic period by reducing cerebral metabolism. We hypothesized that sevoflurane, a cerebral vasodilator, will maintain cerebral blood flow (CBF) and cerebral metabolic rate of oxygen (CMRO2) better than propofol, a cerebral vasoconstrictor, during EEG silence. To validate this, we compared the effect of sevoflurane and propofol on CBF and CMRO2 during surgical plane of anasthesia (SP) and burst suppression on EEG (BS). We conducted a prospective, double-blinded trial where patients undergoing neurosurgery were randomized to receive propofol or sevoflurane. Mean velocity (MV) and pulsatility index (PI) of bilateral middle cerebral arteries (MCA) were measured as surrogate of CBF. Jugular venous oxygen saturation (SjvO2) and arteriovenous oxygen difference (AjvDO2) were obtained to assess CMRO2. The values were compared between groups using Student t test and within the group with analysis of variance at SP and BS. BS decreased MV and increased PI in propofol group (P < 0.001 and P < 0.02 on normal side, P < 0.004 and P < 0.001 on tumor side). There was no significant change in sevoflurane group. BS with sevoflurane increased SjvO2 (P < 0.001) and decreased AjvDO2 (P<0.001). Change in SjvO2 and AjvDO2 with propofol at SP and BS was variable. In our study, sevoflurane had a safer profile on cerebral oxygenation during BS while not altering the CBF, suggesting increased availability of oxygen. Propofol, on the other hand, produced cerebral vasoconstriction with BS. The effect of propofol on oxygenation was unpredictable, with low SjvO2 and high AjvDO2 even at surgical plane of anesthesia.

The Simultaneity of Coronary Artery Ectasia and Intracranial Arterial Dolichoectasia: A Rare Case Report

In the present study, we report a case of multiple coronary artery ectasias (CAE) and multiple intracranial arterial dolichoectasias (IADEs). A 60-year-old female presented to the emergency department twice with chest pain and mild elevation of troponin and T-wave changes. Peripheral coronary angiography showed severe ectasia and stenosis of certain segments of the left main coronary artery (LMCA), left anterior descending (LAD), first obtuse marginal (OM1), distal left circumflex (LCX), and bilateral subclavian arteries. The patient was treated medically. Two weeks later, she presented with dizziness. Head computerized tomography (CT) angiography showed severe IADE involving the vertebrobasilar system, intracranial internal carotid arteries, and bilateral middle cerebral arteries. No neurovascular intervention was performed due to the complexity of the findings. CAE is an abnormal dilatation of a coronary artery segment of at least 1.5 times the size of a normal coronary artery. The slow flow phenomenon may lead to ischemia and thrombosis, which can result in acute coronary syndrome. IADE comprises a dilatation and elongation of the arteries that affects both the anterior and posterior cerebral circulation, often causing neurological complications such as ischemic stroke, intracranial hemorrhage, or compression of surrounding neural structures. We report this case due to the rarity of coexisting IADE and CAE. A rarefaction of elastic tissue of the media with degeneration of the internal elastic lamina, in addition to matrix metalloproteinase dysfunction, is a common pathological mechanism for this condition. The management of CAE and IADE is mostly conservative, essentially treating the risk factors and administering antiplatelet and anticoagulant agents. In some patients, angioplasty vs. surgical treatment may be applied. J Med Cases. 2019;10(11):328-332 doi: https://doi.org/10.14740/jmc3390

Computed Tomography Perfusion Imaging Quality Affected by Different Input Arteries in Patients of Internal Carotid Artery Stenosis.

BackgroundThe aim of this study was to explore the influence of different input arteries on the parameters of computed tomography (CT) perfusion imaging for patients with different degree of stenosis of internal carotid artery (ICA).Material/MethodsForty patients were enrolled in the present study and divided into mild, moderate, severe stenosis and occlusion groups respectively with each 10 patients in each group. In reconstruction of cerebral CT perfusion (CTP) images, each raw perfusion image was reconstructed 3 times based on different reference input artery, including bilateral middle cerebral artery (MCA) and basilar arteries (BA). Region of interest (ROI) was drawn in the central territories of bilateral anterior cerebral artery, middle cerebral artery and posterior cerebral artery. And regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) regional cerebral blood volume (rCBV), mean transit time (MTT), time to peak (TTP) and delay time (DT) were obtained from those ROI corresponding perfusion images.ResultsIn patients with mild and moderate ICA stenosis, there was no significant difference of perfusion parameters based on different input arteries (P>0.05). However, in severe ICA stenosis and occlusion CBF, MTT, and DT were significant different in affect side of the MCA group compared to the others (P<0.05).ConclusionsLarge intracranial artery can be selected as the input artery for patients with mild to moderate ICA stenosis, while for patients with severe stenosis and occlusion of ICA, the contra lateral middle cerebral artery or basilar artery would be better choice.

A practical protocol for shortening reconstruction time of volumetric data and imaging bilateral middle cerebral arteries for thrombectomy in acute ischemic stroke using an 80-row computed tomography scanner.

Time-consuming reconstruction of volumetric data by area-detector-computed tomography (ADCT) scanning and narrow coverage of small-row ADCT may hinder volumetric scanning in acute stroke stage. To design a practical protocol of volumetric scanning for thrombectomy using an 80-row ADCT. An imaging protocol that focuses on the middle cerebral arteries by tilting the gantry of an 80-row ADCT with 0.5-mm-thick detectors can shorten the reconstruction time by 1.0-mm thickness scanning without subtraction. The reconstruction time of small volumetric data was 69 second. This practical protocol is applicable before thrombectomy in different stroke centres with narrow-coverage ADCT scanners.

Hemodynamic Surveillance of Unilateral Carotid Artery Stenting in Patients With or Without Contralateral Carotid Occlusion by TCD/TCCD in the Early Stage Following Procedure.

Objective: To evaluate the cerebral hemodynamic variations in patients with unilateral carotid artery stenosis and contralateral carotid occlusion (CCO) in hours following carotid artery stenting (CAS) by transcranial Doppler (TCD) or transcranial color-code Doppler (TCCD).Methods: Sixty-five consecutive patients who underwent unilateral CAS were enrolled. Among them, 14 patients had ipsilateral severe stenosis and CCO (CCO group) while the other 51 patients had only unilateral severe carotid stenosis without CCO (UCS group). All patients underwent TCD or TCCD monitoring before, at 1 and 3 h after CAS. We monitored bilateral middle cerebral artery (MCA) peak systolic velocity (PSV), pulsatility index (PI), and blood pressure (BP), and compared that data between two groups.Results: In UCS group, ipsilateral MCA PSV increased relative to baseline at 1 h (96 ± 30 vs. 85 ± 26 cm/s, 15%, P < 0.001) and 3 h (97 ± 29 vs. 85 ± 26 cm/s, 17%, P < 0.001) following CAS. Significant PI increases were observed at 1 and 3 h following CAS on the ipsilateral side. In CCO group, ipsilateral MCA PSV increased relative to baseline at 1 h (111 ± 30 vs. 83 ± 26 cm/s, 35%, P < 0.001) and 3 h (107 ± 28 vs. 83 ± 26 cm/s, 32%, P <0.001) following CAS. The magnitude of ipsilateral MCA PSV increase was significantly higher in CCO group compared with UCS group at 1 h (P = 0.002) and 3 h (P = 0.024) following CAS, while BP similarly decreased between the two groups. On the contralateral side, significant MCA PSV increases were observed following CAS in CCO group but not in UCS group. Bilateral MCA PSV increases were higher in patients with a stenosis degree of ≥90% than in patients with stenosis degree of 70–89% only in CCO group.Conclusion: The ipsilateral MCA PSV and PI increase moderately in the initial hours after unilateral CAS in patients without CCO. In patients with CCO, the ipsilateral, and contralateral MCA PSV increase significantly in the early stage following CAS. CCO is a factor of the increased blood flow velocity in ipsilateral MCA after unilateral CAS.

Our experience with a single stage bilateral approach for treatment of bilateral middle cerebral artery aneurysms

Surgical management of bilateral middle cerebral artery (MCA) aneurysms is particular challenging clinical situation. For these patients various options of surgical treatment are available as unilateral approach, single stage bilateral craniotomy or two stage bilateral craniotomy. We report our experience with a case of bilateral MCA aneurysm which was managed by single stage bilateral pterional craniotomy.

Quantitative evaluation using single-photon emission computed tomography with acetazolamide is reliable for preoperative evaluation before cardiac surgery in severe carotid intracranial artery stenotic and/or occlusive disease: a case report

BackgroundSevere carotid and intracranial artery stenosis disease (CIAD) is major risk for perioperative stroke in coronary artery bypass grafting. Then, preoperative risk assessment is quite important.Case presentationA 58-years old Japanese woman with bilateral carotid stenosis and bilateral middle cerebral artery occlusion was suffered from worsening effort angina due to severe three coronary vessel disease. Magnetic resonance imaging angiography demonstrated severe carotid and intracranial vessel stenosis. Selective carotid/cerebral angiography also showed severe stenosis and delayed filling of the right internal carotid artery and moderate stenosis of the left internal carotid artery, with occlusion of the bilateral middle cerebral arteries. However, quantitative evaluation with brain perfusion, single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) with acetazolamide showed depleted cerebral perfusion volume and vascular responses, particularly in the left middle cerebral artery area. However, both sides of MCA reserve cerebral blood flow was maintained at > 34 ml/100 g/min. So, we finally considered that her cerebral perfusion reserve was maintained a certain level and could tolerate open heart surgery. Then, she underwent off-pump coronary artery grafting. Before sternotomy, prophylactic intra-aortic balloon pump support was used to minimize possible perioperative stroke. As a result, hemodynamic status and brain regional oxygen saturation were stable throughout the operation, and recovered uneventfully.ConclusionsPreoperative quantitative evaluation using brain perfusion SPECT with acetazolamide is useful in assessing hemodynamic cerebrovascular risk in patients with severe obstructive CIAD. Off pump coronary artery bypass grafting with intra aortic balloon pump assist is a good option for prevention of cerebrovascular morbidity in ischemic heart disease with severe CIAD.

Relationship Between Asymptomatic Intracranial Stenosis and Extracranial Arteriosclerotic Findings in Workplace Health Checkups: A Pilot Study

Background: Intracranial arteriosclerotic disease (ICAD) is common in Asians and has been presumed to be largely associated with metabolic syndrome (MetS), but the risks for asymptomatic ICAD detectable in examinations of the brain, among other tests, are not well known. The present study is aimed at identifying the risks for asymptomatic ICAD using data on risk factors obtained in health checkups, including data from magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), chest computed tomography (CT), and neck echography. Methods: Subjects comprised 103 examinees more than equal to 40 years old (56.9 ± 4.7 years, 93 men) who underwent head MRI, chest CT, and carotid echography in the same period in a workplace health checkup between April and September 2014. Subjects were evaluated for ICAD based on stenosis of bilateral middle cerebral arteries and the basilar artery on previously reported scores from magnetic resonance angiography. Evaluations for extracranial arteriosclerotic disease (ECAD) were based on findings from carotid echography, and total calcium scores were calculated based on the number, areas, and peak Hounsfield computed tomographic numbers of the aortic arch calcified lesion detected. Results: ICAD, including mild cases with stenosis less than 50%, was seen in 21 subjects (20.3%); and MetS was evident in 12 subjects (11.7%). Logistic regression analysis with multivariate adjustment for major vascular risk factor demonstrated that echogenic of plaque was significantly associated with the ICAD (OR 3.69, 95%CI 1.02-13.3), however age was significant predictor of the risk profile in patients with ECAD. Conclusions: Carotid atherosclerosis could predict intracranial atherosclerosis in middle-aged people. However, further study with large sample size is warranted.

Impaired endothelial function may predict treatment response in restless legs syndrome.

While dopaminergic dysfunction is believed to be a crucial role in restless legs syndrome (RLS), changes in peripheral microvasculature system such as peripheral hypoxia and altered skin temperature, have been found. This study aimed to investigate whether patients with RLS would have a cerebral and peripheral endothelial dysfunction, and this may have association with treatment responsiveness. We evaluated cerebral endothelial function using breath-holding index (BHI) on transcranial Doppler in bilateral middle cerebral artery (MCA), posterior cerebral artery (PCA) and basilar artery (BA) and peripheral endothelial function using brachial flow-mediated dilation (FMD) in 34 patients with RLS compared with age and sex-matched controls. The values of BHI in both MCA and BA were significantly lower in RLS group than control group. The values of FMD also were significantly lower in RLS patients. There was a weak correlation between BHI and FMD (p = 0.038 in Rt MCA, p = 0.032 in Lt MCA, p = 0.362 in BA) in RLS, but not in controls. BHI differed according to treatment responsiveness. (p < 0.005). Our study suggests that RLS patients have poorer cerebral and peripheral endothelial function than controls, showing an underlying mechanism of RLS and further evidence of a possible association between RLS and cardiovascular disease.

Prediction of syncope with nonlinear dynamic analysis during head-up tilt in vasovagal syncope patients

To quantify the relationship between cerebral blood flow velocity and peripheral blood pressure during hypotension period, aiming to predict the brain hypotension before symptomatic occurrence. Twenty vasovagal syncope (VVS) patients who had a previous clinical history were selected in groups and 20 pair-matched control subjects underwent 70° tilt-up test. The subjects remained supine for 30 minutes before recordings when Doppler probes, electrodes and Finapres device were prepared. After continuous baseline recordings for 10 min, the subjects underwent head up tilt (HUT) test (70°), and were standing upright for 30 minutes or until syncope was imminent. For ethical reasons, the subjects were turned back to supine position immediately after SBP dropped to ≥20 mmHg, when their consciousness persisted. The point of syncope was synchronized for all the subjects by the point SBP reached the minima. Their beat-to-beat blood pressures (BP) were recorded continuously and bilateral middle cerebral artery (MCA) flow velocities were obtained with two 2 MHz Doppler probes from a transcranial Doppler ultrasonography (TCD) system. A nonlinear dynamic method--multimodal pressure flow (MMPF) analysis was introduced to access cerebral autoregulation during different time intervals. We introduced a new indicator--syncope index (SI), which was extracted from blood flow velocity (BFV) signal to evaluate the variation of cerebral vascular tension, and could reflect the deepness of dicrotic notch in BFV signal. Compared with the syncope index of the baseline value at the beginning of the tilt test, SI in VVS group showed significantly lower when the VVS occurred (0.16±0.10 vs.0.27±0.10,P<0.01),while there was no significant difference in syncope index between the control group at the end of the tilt test and the baseline value at the beginning of the tilt test. For those VVS patients, pulse index and resistance index had no significant change. Syncope index decreased significantly 3 minutes before the point of syncope (0.23±0.07 vs.0.29±0.07,P<0.01). Dynamic regulation is exhausted when vasovagal syncope occurred. Tension decrease of small vessels could have some relationship with loss of the cerebral autoregulation capability. The proposed syncope index could be a useful parameter in predicting syncope of VVS patients since it decreased significantly up to 3 minutes earlier from the point of syncope.

Compromised Dynamic Cerebral Autoregulation in Patients With Depression.

Background: Patients with depression tend to have various comorbid neurological symptoms, but the mechanisms remain unclear. The purpose of this study was to analyze the characteristics of dynamic cerebral autoregulation in depressed patients. Methods: Patients (aged ≥ 18 years) who were diagnosed with depression [17-item Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAMD) > 17] or suspected of depression (HAMD > 7) were enrolled in this study. Medically healthy volunteers were recruited as controls. The subjects also received the 7-item HAMD. We simultaneously recorded noninvasive continuous arterial blood pressure and bilateral middle cerebral artery blood flow velocity from each subject. Cerebral autoregulation was assessed by analyzing the phase difference using transfer function analysis. Results: This study enrolled 54 patients with suspected depression, 45 patients with depression, and 48 healthy volunteers. The mean phase difference values were significantly lower in the patients with depression (F = 9.071, P < 0.001). In the multiple regression analysis, depression was negatively correlated with the phase difference values. Conclusions: Dynamic cerebral autoregulation was compromised in patients with depression and negatively correlated with the depression score. Improving dynamic cerebral autoregulation may be a potential therapeutic method for treating the neurological symptoms of depression.

Transcranial Doppler is an effective method in assessing cerebral blood flow patterns during peripheral venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation.

Venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO) can be life-saving in refractory cardiogenic shock but carries a risk of neurologic complications such as stroke and hemorrhage. As little is known about the effects of different peripheral VA-ECMO cannulation sites on cerebral blood flow (CBF), transcranial Doppler (TCD) was used to determine whether the cannulation site affects CBF. Thirty-seven patients receiving VA-ECMO for cardiogenic shock via axillary or femoral artery cannulation were prospectively enrolled. Measured bilateral middle cerebral artery (MCA), mean flow velocities (MFV), and pulsatility indices (PI) were the primary outcomes and adverse neurologic events were secondary outcomes. The median age was 58 years (IQR 51-66) with 26 (70%) males. Median VA-ECMO flow was 3.8 L/min (IQR 3.2-4.9) with mean arterial pressures of 80 mm Hg (IQR 75-86). Nineteen patients received right axillary artery cannulation while 18 underwent femoral cannulation. Compared with the femoral group, MFV was higher in the axillary group in the right MCA (46 cm/s [IQR 26-57] vs 27 [17-36], P = 0.03) and left (43 [IQR 35-60] vs 29 cm/s [16-48], P = 0.05). Axillary PI was significantly lower compared with the femoral group (right: 0.48 cm/s [0.25-0.65] vs 0.83 [0.66-0.93], P = 0.02; left: 0.41 cm/s [0.29-0.63] vs 1.02 [0.7-1.3], P = 0.004). One axillary patient experienced a stroke with deficits. TCD appears to be an effective tool for indirect monitoring of CBF in patients withECMO with limited pulsatility. Axillary artery cannulation seems to provide higher cerebral flow rates without any difference in neurologic outcomes. Future studies may incorporate TCD into regulating ECMO flows to achieve physiologic CBF.