Intracranial Hemorrhage Expansion Research Articles

Optimal Timing for Resumption of Anticoagulation After Intracranial Hemorrhage in Patients With Mechanical Heart Valves.

Anticoagulation in patients with intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) and mechanical heart valves is often held for risk of ICH expansion; however, there exists a competing risk of acute ischemic stroke (AIS). Optimal timing to resume anticoagulation remains uncertain. We retrospectively studied patients with ICH and mechanical heart valves from 2000 to 2018. The primary outcome was a composite end point of symptomatic hematoma expansion or new ICH, AIS, and intracardiac thrombus up to 30 days post-ICH. The exposure was timing of reinitiation of anticoagulation classified as early (resumed up to 7 days after ICH), late (≥7 and up to 30 days after ICH), and never if not resumed or resumed after 30 days post-ICH. We included 184 patients with ICH and mechanical heart valves (65 anticoagulated early, 100 late, 19 not resumed by day 30 post-ICH). Twelve patients had AIS, 16 new ICH, and 6 intracardiac thromboses. The mean time from ICH to anticoagulation was 12.7 days. Composite outcomes occurred in 12 patients resumed early (18.5%), 14 resumed late (14.0%), and 4 never resumed (21.1%). There was no increased hazard of the composite outcome (hazard ratio [HR], 1.1 [95% CI, 0.2-6.0]), AIS, or worsening or new ICH among patients resumed early versus late. There was no difference in the composite among patients never resumed versus resumed. Patients who never resumed anticoagulation had significantly more severe ICH (median Glasgow Coma Scale: 10.6, 13.9, and 13.9 among those who resumed never, early, and late, respectively; P=0.0001), higher in-hospital mortality (56.5%, 0%, and 0%, respectively; P<0.0001), and an elevated 30-day AIS risk (HR, 15.9 [95% CI, 1.9-129.7], P=0.0098). In this study of patients with ICH and mechanical heart valves, there was no difference in 30-day thrombotic and hemorrhagic brain-related outcomes when anticoagulation was resumed within 7 versus 7 to 30 days after ICH. Withholding anticoagulation >30 days was associated with severe baseline ICH, higher in-hospital case fatality, and elevated AIS risk.

Hemorrhage Expansion Rates Before and After Minimally Invasive Surgery for Intracerebral Hemorrhage: Post Hoc Analysis of MISTIE II/III

BACKGROUND Stereotactic thrombolysis for evacuation of large spontaneous intracerebral (ICH) and intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) typically requires stabilizing the hemorrhage preoperatively. We investigated intracranial hemorrhage expansion (HE) in the pre‐ and postrandomization phase of 2 clinical trials of surgical candidates with protocolized computed tomography (CT) imaging up to 10 days after presentation. METHODS Prospective assessment of sequential pre‐ and post‐randomization CT scans of 141 patients enrolled in MISTIE (Minimally Invasive Surgery Plus Alteplase for Intracerebral Hemorrhage Evacuation) II/ICES (Intraoperative CT‐guided Endoscopic Surgery for ICH) and 499 patients enrolled in MISTIE III. Primary outcomes were prerandomization HE of ICH &gt;6 mL and IVH &gt;5 mL. Secondary outcome was postrandomization HE. Stability was defined as CT time after which no further HE was observed. We evaluated risk factors for ICH/IVH expansion using multivariable logistic regression analyses after adjustment for demographics, ICH characteristics and treatment. RESULTS Median (interquartile range) diagnostic ICH volume was 40.4 (29.5–54.1) mL. Prerandomization HE &gt;6 mL was detected in 216 (33.8%) subjects. Median time to hematoma stability from diagnostic CT was 7 (4.7–13.6) hours. Median diagnostic IVH volume was 0 (0–1.9) mL. IVH expansion &gt;5 mL occurred in 40 (6.3%) with stability at 6.9 (4.7–11.2) hours. Of subjects with HE, final expansion events were not yet detected at 12 hours from diagnostic CT in 36% (ICH expansion) and 33% (IVH expansion), respectively, with 91% detected by 24 hours. Independent associations with ICH expansion included age, male sex, White race, anticoagulation, ICH volume, deep ICH location, IVH, and time from symptom onset to diagnostic CT. Postsurgical ICH expansion occurred in 24 patients (6.9%) and was associated with delay in achieving stability, number of alteplase doses, and fewer CT hypodensities on diagnostic CT but not with functional outcome. CONCLUSION In patients with a large ICH eligible for surgical evacuation, about two thirds of HE events stabilize within 12 hours and most within 24 hours. An earlier time window for stereotactic thrombolysis may be feasible.

Predictors of acute post-thrombectomy intracranial hemorrhage expansion in anterior circulation infarcts

Predictors of acute post-thrombectomy intracranial hemorrhage expansion in anterior circulation infarcts

Abstract TMP83: Optimal Timing For Resumption Of Anticoagulation After Intracranial Hemorrhage In Patients With Mechanical Heartvalves

Introduction: Anticoagulation in patients with acute intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) and mechanical heart valves (MHV) is often held to mitigate the risk of ICH expansion or recurrence; however there exists a competing risk of acute ischemic stroke (AIS). Optimal timing to resume anticoagulation after ICH remains uncertain. Methods: We retrospectively studied ICH patients with MHV at two academic hospitals from April, 2000-August, 2018. The primary outcome was a composite endpoint of symptomatic hematoma expansion or new ICH, AIS, and intracardiac thrombus up to 30 days post-ICH. The exposure was timing of re-initiation of anticoagulation classified as early if therapeutic anticoagulation was resumed up to 7 days after ICH; late if ≥7 and up to 30 days after ICH; and never if not resumed or resumed after 30-days post-ICH. Cox proportional hazard models were built adjusted for age, sex, and covariates significantly different in univariate analysis at a pre-specified p-value threshold of 0.05. Results: We identified 184 patients with ICH and MHV (65 anticoagulated early, 100 resumed late, 19 not resumed by day 30 post-ICH). We observed 12 AIS, 16 new ICH, and 6 intracardiac thromboses. The mean time from ICH to anticoagulation in the cohort was 12.7 days. Patients resumed early versus late were more likely to have atrial fibrillation (62% versus 42%), and less likely to be reversed (75% versus 94%), to undergo hematoma evacuation (23% versus 43%), have midline shift (27% versus 52.9%), and to have intracerebral involvement (26% versus 49%). There was no significant difference in the hazard of AIS, new or symptomatic ICH expansion, or the composite outcome among those resumed early versus late. Patients not resumed within 30 days post-ICH had a significantly higher risk of AIS compared to those resumed within 30 days (HR 15.9; 95% C.I.1.9-129.7, p=0.0098). Discussion: In this study of ICH patients with MHV, there was no difference in the 30-day thrombotic and hemorrhagic brain-related outcomes in patients anticoagulated within 7 days versus 7-30 days. Withholding anticoagulation within the first 30 days was associated with a significantly higher risk of AIS. Our findings provide a discrete time window to guide resumption of anticoagulation in MHV patients with ICH.

Management of Anticoagulation Therapy in ECMO-Associated Ischemic Stroke and Intracranial Hemorrhage.

Despite the common occurrence of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO)-associated acute ischemic stroke (AIS) and intracranial hemorrhage (ICH), there are little data to guide optimal anticoagulation management. We sought to describe antithrombotic therapy management after stroke and outcomes. A retrospective analysis was conducted of venoarterial (VA) and venovenous (VV) ECMO patients treated at a tertiary care center from June 2016 to February 2021. Patients with image-confirmed diagnosis of AIS or ICH while receiving ECMO were included for study with data collected regarding anticoagulation management and clinical outcomes. Overall, 216 patients (153 VA-ECMO, 63 VV-ECMO) were included in this study. Of the 153 patients on VA-ECMO, 13 (8.4%) had AIS and 6 (3.9%) had ICH. Of the 63 patients on VV-ECMO, none had AIS and 5 (7.9%) had ICH. One patient (9%) received anticoagulation reversal after ICH. Anticoagulation was discontinued and later resumed in all 5 ICH survivors (median cessation time, 30 h) and 1 of 2 (50%) AIS survivors (median cessation time, 96 h). While off anticoagulation, 2 of 11 patients (18%) had thromboembolic events and none had new AIS. Upon resumption, there were no cases of hemorrhagic transformation of AIS or ICH expansion. There was no difference in in-hospital mortality between patients with ICH and those without in both the VA-ECMO and VV-ECMO cohorts nor between VA-ECMO patients with AIS and those without. Early cessation and judicious resumption of anticoagulation appeared feasible in the cohort of patients with ECMO-associated AIS and ICH.

The comprehensive comparison of imaging sign from CT angiography and noncontrast CT for predicting intracranial hemorrhage expansion: A comparative study.

Expansion of intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) is an important predictor of poor clinical outcomes. Various imaging markers on non-contrast computed tomography (NCCT) or computed tomographic angiography (CTA) have been reported as predictors of ICH expansion. We aimed to compare the associations between various CT imaging markers and ICH expansion. Patients with spontaneous ICH who underwent initial NCCT, CTA, and subsequent NCCT between January 2016 and December 2019 were retrospectively identified. ICH expansion was defined as a volume increase of > 33% or > 6 mL. We analyzed the presence of imaging markers such as the black hole sign, blend sign, island sign, or swirl sign on initial NCCT or spot sign on CTA. An alternative free-response receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was performed using a 4-point scoring system based on the consensus of the reviewers. The predictive value of each marker was assessed using univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses. A total of 250 patients, including 60 (24.0%) with ICH expansion, qualified for the analysis. Among the patients with spontaneous ICH, 118 (47.2%) presented with a black hole sign, 52 (20.8%) with a blend sign, 93 (37.2%) with an island sign, 79 (31.6%) with a swirl sign, and 56 (22.4%) with a spot sign. In univariate logistic regression, the initial ICH volume (P = .038), initial intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) presence (P < .001), swirl sign (P < .001), and spot sign (P < .001) were associated with ICH expansion. Multivariate analysis confirmed that the presence of initial IVH (odds ratio, 4.111; P = .002) and spot sign (odds ratio, 109.5; P < .001) were independent predictors of ICH expansion. Initial ICH volume, IVH, swirl sign, and spot sign are associated with ICH expansion. The presence of spot signs and IVH were independent predictors of ICH expansion.

Incidence of traumatic intracranial hemorrhage expansion after stable repeat head imaging: A retrospective cohort study

IntroductionPatients with traumatic intracranial hemorrhage (tICH) often require intensive care unit (ICU) admission until bleeding stability is demonstrated through interval head computed tomography (HCT). The brain injury guidelines (BIG) suggest a minimum 24-h ICU admission for severe patients (BIG 3) regardless of repeat CT stability. We sought to evaluate the rate of tICH expansion after an initial stable interval scan was obtained. MethodsA single-center retrospective cohort study at a level 1 trauma center was performed. All adult patients with tICH evaluated using BIG criteria were included. The primary endpoint was incidence of tICH expansion after initial stability on interval HCT performed at approximately 6 h. Secondary endpoints included time to tICH stability, frequency of neurosurgical intervention, and time to surgical intervention. ResultsA total of 1517 patients met inclusion criteria. Of the 1121 patients with repeat imaging, 288 (25.7%) experienced progression with 94.4% detected on the initial 6-h interval scan. Of all patients with initially stable repeat imaging (n = 833), progression occurred in 16 (1.9%) patients. Of these patients, 5 required neurosurgical intervention, 4 received increased monitoring, 2 transitioned to comfort measures and 5 had no change in management. The median time from initial scan to expansion in these patients was 42.2 h. Median time to surgical intervention after post-stability expansion was 102 h. ConclusionPatients who demonstrate bleeding stability on first interval HCT after tICH rarely experience expansion. Consideration should be given to discharging patients from the ICU when initial interval HCT shows no progression.

Efficacy and Safety of Tranexamic Acid Administration in Patients with Acute Traumatic Brain Injury: A Review of Current Literature

Hypothesis: Early administration of tranexamic acid (TXA) reduces mortality in patients suffering from acute traumatic brain injury (TBI). Methods: A structured search of PubMed and CENTRAL from inception until July 1st, 2022 was carried out seeking RCTs comparing the effects of TXA administration to placebo in patients suffering from TBI. The primary outcome tested was 28-day all-cause mortality. Secondary outcomes included intracranial hemorrhage growth and thromboembolic events. Results: Eight RCTs involving a total of 14,714 patients met the inclusion criteria; 7573 patients received TXA while 7141 patients received a placebo. There were 1415 patient deaths (18.7%) in the TXA group and 1410 patient deaths (19.7%) in the placebo group. None of the included studies reported a significant reduction in 28-day all-cause mortality, however, they all shared positive trends toward superior outcomes in the intervention arms. Two of the included studies reported significant reductions in intracranial hemorrhage expansion in those patients treated with TXA, with four more studies reporting trends toward superior outcomes in the TXA groups. There was no evidence of increased incidence of thromboembolic events in the TXA groups in four of the five studies that reported relevant data, with one study representing 1.2% of total patients reporting an increased incidence of pulmonary emboli in the intervention group. Conclusions: In patients suffering from acute TBI, early administration of TXA reduces intracranial hemorrhage growth and may have positive effects on mortality with no corresponding increase in thromboembolic events. Given these results, early administration of TXA in patients experiencing TBI is recommended in initial care. Keywords: Tranexamic acid, Traumatic brain injury, Intracranial hemorrhage, Mortality, Disability

Place of tranexamic acid in traumatic brain injury: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

BACKGROUND: Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a leading cause of death and disability. In many cases of TBI-related intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) is associated with a high risk of coagulopathy and may lead to an increased risk of hemorrhage growth. Therefore, tranexamic acid (TXA), which is known as an antifibrinolytic agent that reduces bleeding by inhibiting the breakdown of blood clots, might limit ICH expansion. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We aimed to quantify the effects of TXA in brain injury and thus performed a literaturę search using PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, EMBASE, and Cochrane Center Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) for studies that were published between the respective database inception, and April 10, 2021. RESULTS: A total of nine studies were identified; these included 5845 patients treated with, and 5380 treated without TXA. The 28-day or in-hospital mortality was 17.8% for the TXA group, compared with 19.3% for the no-TXA group (OR = 0.92; 95% CI: 0.83, 1.01; p = 0.08). At 6-months follow-up, mortality was 18.3% vs 19.9% (OR = 0.91; 95% CI: 0.63–1.31; p = 0.60), with and without TXA, respectively. A Glasgow Outcome Scale less than 4 points at 28-days follow-up was reported in 3 studies and was 29.8% vs 34.8% (OR = 0.91; 95% CI: 0.45, 1.82; p = 0.78), with and without TXA, respectively. No differences were found in adverse events between TXA and non-TXA groups. CONCLUSION: Our analysis found showed no statistical significance between TXA and non-TXA treatment of TBI patients, however, in the TXA group a trend to decrease 28-day mortality compared to non-TXA treatment was observed. More high-quality studies are needed to show the significant benefit of using TXA, especially in moderate and severe TBI patient groups.

Effective use of weight-based enoxaparin for deep vein thrombosis chemoprophylaxis in patients with traumatic brain injury

BackgroundEnoxaparin is the recommended agent for deep vein thrombosis (DVT) chemoprophylaxis in trauma patients. Current literature suggests weight-based dosing is superior to standard dosing for adequate chemoprophylaxis. Literature regarding the use of weight-based enoxaparin in the setting of traumatic brain injury (TBI) however is limited. MethodsA retrospective analysis of adult trauma patients admitted between January 1, 2018 to February 28, 2019 was performed. Sixty-six patients with TBI receiving weight-based enoxaparin met inclusion criteria. Incidence of intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) expansion was the primary endpoint. Newly diagnosed venous thromboembolism (VTE) and death were secondary endpoints. ResultsTwo patients, out of sixty-six, had progression of their TBI requiring surgical intervention. Newly diagnosed VTE occurred in one patient. No deaths were due to ICH expansion or VTE. ConclusionsUse of weight-based enoxaparin dosing in the setting of TBI shows promise without an increased incidence of ICH expansion when compared to other studies.Level of Evidence and Study Type: Level IV, Therapeutic.

Prothrombin Complex Concentrate Use in Intracranial Hemorrhage Patients With Cirrhosis Not on Prior Anticoagulation.

Patients with intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) have a 30-day mortality rate up to 52%, and the risk of mortality is increased in patients with disease-induced coagulopathy such as cirrhosis. The objective of this study was to evaluate whether 4F-PCC administration mitigates hematoma expansion in ICH patients with cirrhosis not currently receiving anticoagulation therapy compared to standard of care therapies. This was a single-center, retrospective study comparing adult patients with ICH and history of cirrhosis who received 4F-PCC versus standard of care therapies. The primary outcome was rate of ICH expansion within 24 hours after admission. A total of 58 patients were included with 21 who received 4FPCC vs 37 who received standard of care therapies. The 4F-PCC group had a significantly higher number of patients with Child Pugh Class C cirrhosis (85.7% vs. 48.6%, P = 0.006), higher baseline INR (1.7 vs. 1.4, P = 0.001) and more patients with a spontaneous cause of hemorrhage (61.9% vs. 29.7%, P = 0.01). Stable follow-up head CT was achieved in 68.4% of patients who received 4F-PCC versus 72.7% of patients treated with standard of care therapies (P = 0.11). Patients who received 4F-PCC had a significantly greater change in INR within 24 hours (-0.2 vs. 0, P = 0.02) and higher rate of mortality (61.9% vs. 18.9%, P = 0.001). Baseline INR > 2 and surgical evacuation for ICH were associated with decreased odds of stable follow-up head CT in the multivariate logistic regression model. A single dose of 4F-PCC did not significantly improve the rate of stable head CT at 24 hours in patients with ICH and cirrhosis. Randomized clinical trials with larger patient populations are warranted to fully determine the role of 4F-PCC in this unique population.

Reversal of warfarin and direct-acting oral anticoagulants in traumatic intracranial hemorrhage: Four factor prothrombin complex concentrates for all?

Background Patients receiving oral anticoagulation who experience a traumatic intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) should receive anticoagulation reversal. Four factor prothrombin complex concentrate (4FPCC) is indicated for reversal of warfarin, and is frequently used for reversal of direct-acting oral anticoagulants (DOACs). The purpose of this study is to compare the safety and efficacy of 4FPCC reversal for traumatic ICH in DOAC- and warfarin-anticoagulated patients. Methods This was a single-center, retrospective review of adult patients with traumatic ICH who received 4FPCC for reversal of anticoagulation between April 2013 and August 2018. The ICH volume on the pre- and post-reversal head CT scans was measured. The primary endpoint was the incidence of expansion of ICH volume of blood using pre-and post-4FPCC imaging. Results A total of 102 patients meeting inclusion criteria were identified with 75 patients in the warfarin group and 27 patients in the DOAC group. There were no significant differences in baseline characteristics between the groups except DOAC patients had larger ICH volumes at baseline as compared to warfarin patients (23.4 mm3 vs 3.7 mm3, p = 0.0001). There was neither a statistical difference in change in ICH volume pre-and post-4FPCC administration, nor in the rate of &gt;20% ICH expansion between the warfarin and DOAC groups. There was no difference in the rate of adverse events compared between groups. Conclusion There was no difference in the either the change in ICH volume or the rate of &gt;20% ICH expansion in patients receiving 4FPCC for reversal DOAC versus warfarin anticoagulation. Rates of complications were low in both groups.

Endovascular treatment for cerebral venous sinus thrombosis – a single center study

Background Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) is a rare cerebrovascular disorder. The majority of these patients respond favorably to systemic anticoagulation. However, a subset of patients will deteriorate clinically, despite optimal medical therapy. Methods Retrospective single center study of 28 consecutive CVST patients treated with systemic anticoagulation and additional endovascular therapy. Results Median age was 37.5 years (range 15–76 years), there were 21 (75%) women, and 20 (71%) had thrombosis involving ≥2 venous sinuses. Intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) was present at admission in 18 patients (64%). Endovascular therapy consisted of local thrombolysis in 26 (93%) patients; 9 patients (32%) had additional mechanical thrombectomy, and in 2 (7%) patients thrombectomy alone was performed. Complete recanalization at end of the final intervention was achieved in 15 patients (54%), partial recanalization in 11 patients (39%), whereas there was no recanalization in 2 patients (7%). On follow-up imaging, conducted between 3 and 6 months, recanalization further improved to 76%, 19% and 5%, respectively. A favorable outcome (mRS ≤ 2) was achieved in 63% of patients at 3 months, which improved to 79% at 6 months. Post-procedural ICH or volume expansion of preexisting ICH was seen in 9 patients (32%). In total 5 patients died (18%). Conclusions Systemic anticoagulation with the addition of endovascular therapy with local thrombolysis and/or mechanical thrombectomy is a potential strategy to obtain recanalization in patients with CVST who deteriorate clinically despite medical therapy or are comatose. Endovascular therapy may increase the risk of ICH.

Administration of high-dose four-factor prothrombin complex concentrate for Xa inhibitor reversal to prevent expansion of intracranial hemorrhage with computed tomography angiography spot sign: a case report

Administration of high-dose four-factor prothrombin complex concentrate for Xa inhibitor reversal to prevent expansion of intracranial hemorrhage with computed tomography angiography spot sign: a case report

Correlation between Spot Sign and Intracranial Hemorrhage Expansion on Dual-Phase CT Angiography.

Purpose: Expansion of intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) is an important predictor of poor clinical outcome. ICH expansion can be predicted with a spot sign on computed tomographic angiography (CTA). We aimed to evaluate the correlation between spot signs on CTA and ICH expansion on dual-phase CTA. Methods: Patients with spontaneous ICH between January 2017 and April 2019 who underwent an initial CT, dual-phase CTA, and a subsequent CT were retrospectively identified. ICH expansion was defined as volume growth of >33% or >6 mL. We analyzed the presence and change in size of the spot sign in the first phase and second phase CTA. Also, we divided the morphological status of the spot sign, such as a dot-like lesion or linear contrast extravasation, in the first and second phase CTA. Results: A total of 206 patients, including 38 (18.5%) with ICH expansion and 45 (21.8%) with a spot sign, qualified for analysis. Of patients with a spot sign, 26 (57.8%) had ICH expansion on subsequent CT. Increased size of a spot sign in second-phase CTA was more frequent in the ICH expansion group than in the no-expansion group (96.2% vs. 52.6%, p < 0.001). First visualization of a spot sign in the second phase was more common in the no-expansion group than in the ICH expansion group (47.4% vs. 3.8%, p < 0.001). The morphological patterns of a spot sign between the two groups were not significantly different. Conclusion: Spot signs on dual-phase CTA have different sizes and morphological patterns. Increased size of a spot sign in the second phase of CTA can help identify patients at risk for ICH expansion.

Retrospective Assessment of Desmopressin Effectiveness and Safety in Patients With Antiplatelet-Associated Intracranial Hemorrhage.

Current international guidelines offer a conditional recommendation to consider a single dose of IV desmopressin (DDAVP) for antiplatelet-associated intracranial hemorrhage based on low-quality evidence. We provide the first comparative assessment analyzing DDAVP effectiveness and safety in antiplatelet-associated intracranial hemorrhage. Retrospective chart review. Single tertiary care academic medical center. Adult patients taking at least one antiplatelet agent based on presenting history and documented evidence of intracranial hemorrhage on cerebral CT scan were included. Patients were excluded for the following reasons: repeat cerebral CT scan not performed within the first 24 hours, noncomparative repeat cerebral CT scan, chronic anticoagulation, administration of fibrinolytic medications, concurrent ischemic stroke, and neurosurgical intervention. In total, 124 patients were included, 55 received DDAVP and 69 did not. DDAVP treatment at recognition of antiplatelet-associated intracranial hemorrhage versus nontreatment. Primary effectiveness outcome was intracranial hemorrhage expansion greater than or equal to 3 mL during the first 24 hospital hours. Primary safety outcomes were the largest absolute decrease from baseline serum sodium during the first 3 treatment days and new-onset thrombotic events during the first 7 days. DDAVP was associated with 88% decreased likelihood of intracranial hemorrhage expansion during the first 24 hours ([+] DDAVP, 10.9% vs [-] DDAVP, 36.2%; p = 0.002; odds ratio [95% CI], 0.22 [0.08-0.57]). Largest median absolute decrease from baseline serum sodium ([+] DDAVP, 0 mEq/L [0-5 mEq/L] vs [-] DDAVP, 0 mEq/L [0-2 mEq/L]; p = 0.089) and thrombotic events ([+] DDAVP, 7.3% vs [-] DDAVP, 1.4%; p = 0.170; odds ratio [95% CI], 5.33 [0.58-49.16]) were similar between groups. DDAVP was associated with a decreased likelihood of intracranial hemorrhage expansion during the first 24 hours. DDAVP administration did not significantly affect serum sodium and thrombotic events during the study period.

Risks, Benefits, and the Optimal Time to Resume Deep Vein Thrombosis Prophylaxis in Patients with Intracranial Hemorrhage.

IntroductionIt is common to start all patients on chemical prophylaxis for deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in order to decrease the risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) and the associated adverse effects, including the potential for fatal pulmonary embolism (PE). There is no consensus in the literature on the optimal time to resume chemical DVT prophylaxis in patients who present with intracranial hemorrhage requiring neurosurgical intervention. The practice is variable and practitioner dependent. There can be difficulty in balancing the increased risk of further intracranial hemorrhage versus the benefit of starting DVT prophylaxis to prevent VTE.MethodA retrospective review of patients that had diagnosis of intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) defined as epidural hematoma (EDH), subdural hematoma (SDH), or intra-parenchymal hematoma (IPH), was performed using the neurosurgical census at our institution. The review consisted of adult patients greater than 18 years old with a diagnosis of intracranial hemorrhage. Type of intracranial hemorrhage, method of neurosurgical intervention (whether surgical, bedside procedure, or both), day post-procedure prophylaxis was resumed, and the type of chemical prophylaxis used (subcutaneous heparin (SQH) versus enoxaparin) were recorded. The patient’s sex, Glasgow Coma Scale on presentation and discharge, length of hospital stay, and length of intensive care unit (ICU) stay were also recorded. Patients with previously diagnosed bleeding dyscrasia, previously diagnosed DVT or PE, patients without post-procedure cranial imaging (CT or MRI), and patients without post-procedure duplex ultrasound for DVT screening were excluded. Patients were monitored with head CT for possible expansion of ICH after resumption of therapy. Furthermore, we investigated whether the patient developed an adverse effect such as venous thromboembolism including deep vein thrombosis and/or pulmonary embolism during the post-procedure period when they were not on chemical prophylaxis.ResultsA total of 94 patients were analyzed in our study. Nine (9.6%) had an EDH, seventeen (18.1%) had an IPH, and sixty-eight (72.3%) had a SDH. The three most common procedures were craniectomy (28.7%), craniotomy (34%), and subdural drain placement (28.7%). The most common agent for chemical DVT prophylaxis was SQH in 78% of patients. There was no statistically significant association between type of chemical DVT prophylaxis used with respect to either ICU length of stay or hospital length of stay. Change in GCS (the difference of GCS on presentation versus on discharge) was found to have statistically significant relationship with the use of chemical DVT prophylaxis. Furthermore, patients were found to have no statistically significant association with re-bleed or new hemorrhage upon starting chemical DVT prophylaxis, regardless of the type of ICH.ConclusionThe rates of DVT diagnosis did not seem to be significantly affected by the specific type of chemical prophylaxis that was used. ICU and hospital length of stay were not adversely affected by starting prophylaxis for VTE in patients with ICH. On the contrary, an improvement in GCS (on presentation versus discharge) was associated with starting chemical DVT prophylaxis in ICH patients within 24 hours post-procedure.

Managing Intracranial Hemorrhage in Patients with a Durable Continuous Flow Left Ventricular Assist Device

Background&#x0D; While intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) is a known complication of left ventricular assist device (LVAD) support, and is associated with high morbidity and mortality, optimal care pathways have neither been elucidated nor reported. We describe management of LVAD patients following ICH, with a focus on anticoagulation, operative interventions, care team designation, complications, and outcomes.&#x0D; Methods&#x0D; We retrospectively reviewed all durable continuous-flow LVAD implantations at our academic medical center from January 2007 to July 2018. Patients who experienced ICH after LVAD were identified. We defined baseline and ICH characteristics, medical and surgical interventions, care teams, and outcomes including death, device thrombosis, ischemic stroke, and hemorrhage expansion.&#x0D; Results&#x0D; A total of 321 patients underwent LVAD implantation during the study period, and 27 (8%) developed ICH (17 intraparenchymal, 7 subdural, 2 subarachnoid, 1 intraventricular) while on support. Twenty-five were anticoagulated at onset of bleed. Of those, 13 were managed with immediate cessation of anticoagulation and administration of reversal products (Group A). Group A had a median of 6 days off anticoagulation and 60 days of follow up with 1 patient (8%) developing device thrombosis at day 8, 1 (8%) developing subsequent ischemic stroke at day 14, and 4 (31%) with ICH expansion. Seven patients had anticoagulation stopped at onset of bleed without administration of reversal products (Group B). With a median of 2 days off anticoagulation and 2 days of follow up, no patients in Group B developed ischemic stroke or device thrombosis while 1 (14%) had ICH expansion. Five patients had anticoagulation continued at onset of bleed (Group C) with a median follow up of 330 days. One (20%) developed device thrombosis at day 5 while 2 (40%) developed ICH expansion. Four patients with subdural hemorrhage underwent Burr hole drainage with all 4 surviving to discharge. Two patients with intraparenchymal hemorrhage underwent open craniotomy with neither surviving to discharge. An interdisciplinary discussion occurred in all cases. Following ICH, only one-third of patients in the study survived to 6 months.&#x0D; Conclusion&#x0D; LVAD patients who experience an ICH have variable outcomes. Their care is multidisciplinary and can involve operative intervention. The discontinuation and reversal of anticoagulation is generally well-tolerated, with a low risk for early device thrombosis. Like for many hemorrhagic complications of LVADs, ICH often persists or worsens. Additional investigation is needed to elucidate the most optimal management strategies.

Diagnostic value of swirl sign on noncontrast computed tomography and spot sign on computed tomographic angiography to predict intracranial hemorrhage expansion

ObjectiveIntracranial hemorrhage (ICH) expansion is a predictor of poor clinical outcome. ICH expansion can be predicted with a swirl sign on noncontrast computed tomography (NCCT) and/or a spot sign on computed tomographic angiography (CTA). In this study, we aimed to evaluate the diagnostic value of a swirl sign and a spot sign in identifying hematoma expansion. Patients and methodsPatients with spontaneous ICH between January 2013 and August 2018 who underwent an initial NCCT and CTA, and a subsequent NCCT at a single center were retrospectively identified. Two experienced neuroradiologists reviewed all images for swirl sign and spot sign presence using a 4-point scale for receiver-operative characteristic analysis. ICH expansion was defined as volume growth of >33% or >6 mL. ResultsA total of 227 patients, including 54 with ICH expansion, qualified for analysis. For both observers, the area under the curve (AUC) of spot sign was significantly higher than that of swirl sign (observer 1: 0.748 vs. 0.577, p = .002; observer 2: 0.749 vs. 0.589, p = .004). The sensitivities of ICH expansion in patients with a spot sign was significantly higher than patients with a swirl sign (observer 1: 54.1% vs. 28.0%, p = .002; observer 2: 56.9% vs. 30.3%, p = .002). Patients with a spot sign had the highest risk of ICH expansion (odds ratio: observer 1 = 8.14, observer 2 = 9.30, p < 0.001). ConclusionsA spot sign on CTA was identified and associated with ICH expansion. A swirl sign on NCCT had a relatively low sensitivity and AUC, and will not be able to replace spot sign on CTA.

Spot and Diffuse Signs: Quantitative Markers of Intracranial Hematoma Expansion at Dual-Energy CT.

Purpose To compare dual-energy CT with iodine quantification to single-energy CT for evaluation of the spot sign for intracranial hematoma expansion. Materials and Methods In this retrospective study, 42 patients (mean age, 66 years ± 15 [standard deviation]; 19 women) were referred for dual-energy CT assessment of intracranial hemorrhage from October 2014 to January 2017. A machine learning approach (naive Bayes classifier) was used to identify iodine markers of extravasation for risk of hematoma expansion. Specificity and sensitivity of these markers were then independently validated in 65 new patients from February 2017 to February 2018. Results Analysis of dual-energy CT images identified two features of iodine extravasation: total iodine concentration within the hematoma (Ih) and focal iodine concentration in the brightest spot in the hematoma (Ibs) as predictors of expansion. The I2 score derived from these features provided a measure of expansion probability. Optimal classification threshold was an I2 score of 20 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 18, 23), leading to correct identification of 39 of 46 (85%; 95% CI: 71%, 94%) of the hematomas on the training set (sensitivity of 79% [11 of 14; 95% CI: 57%, 100%] and specificity of 88% [28 of 32; 95% CI: 76%, 99%]), and 62 of 70 (89%; 95% CI: 79%, 95%) of the hematomas on the validation set (sensitivity of 71% [10 of 14; 95% CI: 48%, 95%] and specificity of 93% [52 of 56; 95% CI: 86%, 100%]). Sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of conventional spot sign were, respectively, 57% (eight of 14), 90% (29 of 32), and 80% (37 of 46) on the training set and 57% (eight of 14), 83% (47 of 56), and 75% (53 of 70) on the validation set. Conclusion This study identified two quantitative markers of intracranial hemorrhage expansion at dual-energy CT of the brain. The I2 score derived from these markers highlights the utility of dual-energy CT measurements of iodine content for high sensitivity risk assessment. © RSNA, 2018 Online supplemental material is available for this article.