Lower GCS Research Articles

Euthyroid sick syndrome predicts the risk of ischemic stroke-associated pneumonia in the acute stage of ischemic stroke: a nested case-control study

ObjectiveIschemic stroke-associated pneumonia (iSAP) affects about 10% of acute ischemic stroke patients during hospitalization. Current prediction scales for iSAP are insufficient. Identifying early biomarkers for stroke-associated pneumonia is crucial for improving patient outcomes. This study aimed to investigate the predictive value of euthyroid sick syndrome (ESS) for iSAP in acute-stage of ischemic stroke patients.MethodsWe studied 1767 acute ischemic stroke patients within one week of symptom onset, categorizing them into an infection group (iSAP, n=376) and control group (control, n=1391). COX regression analysis was used to identify the potential risk and protected factors. Kaplan-Meier time-event curves and Log-Rank tests were performed to differentiate infection time in patients with ESS or normal T3 group.ResultsThe iSAP group had higher rates of risk factors like older age, atrial fibrillation, COPD, and ESS, along with elevated levels of WBC, CRP,and FT4 levels (all P < 0.001). Conversely, iSAP patients had lower GCS scores, eGFR, TSH, T3, FT3 (all P < 0.001) and T4 levels (P = 0.005) upon admission. No significant differences were observed in sex, smoking history, hypertension, diabetes, or LDL-C levels (P > 0.05). COX regression analysis identified age, KWST scores, leukocyte count, CRP, and ESS (all P < 0.001) as significantly correlated with iSAP. ROC analysis revealed ESS as a predictor with sensitivity of 35.64% and specificity of 87.92% for SAP prediction, like atrial fibrillation and higher than COPD and eGFR.ConclusionESS at admission predicts a higher risk of stroke-associated pneumonia in acute-stage of ischemic stroke.

Role of Serum Ferritin and Prediction of Neurological Outcome in Acute Ischemic Stroke Patients

Background: Stroke, also known as cerebrovascular accident (CVA), is an abrupt onset of neurological deficiency caused by a specific vascular aetiology. Aim: This study aimed to assess the role of serum ferritin in acute ischaemic stroke patients to correlate serum ferritin and neurological scales on the day of admission and during follow-up and to predict neurological outcomes. Methods: This prospective observational study included 100 patients who presented with acute ischaemic stroke clinically and with radiological imaging in the General Medicine and Neurology departments of Saveetha Medical College and Hospital for 18 months. Functional disability was assessed for all patients after 3 months based on the correlation of serum ferritin levels with the neurological scales, and the outcome was estimated. Results: The mean age of the patients was 59.45 ± 14.39. The serum ferritin level and Canadian Stroke Scale score during admission on day 7th and day 30th, were significantly different (p < 0.01). Serum ferritin levels were positively associated with the Glasgow Coma Scale score at admission and on the 7th and 30th days after admission. Ferritin levels were significantly higher in the moderate category under all circumstances (p < 0.01). Patients with mRS scores of 2, 3, and 4 were compared with serum ferritin levels and found to be significantly associated with serum ferritin levels. Conclusion: This study found that patients with higher serum ferritin levels experienced increased stroke severity and lower GCS and mRS scores, which correlated with increased morbidity.

Peri-injury symptomatology as predictors of brain computed tomography (CT) scan abnormalities in mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI)

ObjectiveThis study aimed to identify predictors of brain CT abnormalities in patients who sustained a mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI).MethodsRetrospective observational cohort of adult patients with mTBI (Glasgow Coma Score 13–15) that occurred within the preceding 24 h.Results2548 (91%) of the cohort had a brain CT and 698 (27%) demonstrated abnormal findings. The most frequently observed CT abnormalities were bleeding (638, 25%) and fractures (190, 7.4%). Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed several significant predictors associated with the presence of brain CT abnormalities including older age [P < 0.0001], male sex [P < 0.0001], loss of consciousness [P = 0.0041], associated vomiting [P = 0.0011], alteration of consciousness (AOC) [P = 0102], and GCS score [P < 0.0001]. This was a robust model with an R² of 14.2%.ConclusionIn this retrospective analysis, older age, male sex, the presence of loss of consciousness or alteration in consciousness, lower GCS score, and associated vomiting were found to be significant predictors of having an abnormal brain CT. These findings highlight the importance of considering these factors when determining the necessity of brain CT scans in patients with mTBI and suggest that existing clinical decision rules may be limited. These findings may also help to inform clinical decision rules. Early identification of individuals at a higher risk of CT abnormalities may assist in appropriate management and allocation of healthcare resources.

Near real-time severe acute respiratory illness surveillance characterising influenza and COVID-19 epidemiology in hospitalised adults, 2021-22

We report the findings of a novel enhanced syndromic surveillance which characterised influenza- and SARS-CoV-2-associated severe acute respiratory illness (SARI) in the 2021/2022 winter season. Prospective cohort study of adults admitted to the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital, Glasgow, with a severe acute respiratory illness. Patient demographics, clinical history, admission details, and outcome were recorded. Data were available to Public Health Scotland (PHS) and clinicians weekly. Between November 2021 and May 2022, 1,063 hospitalised SARI episodes in 1,037 adult patients were identified. Median age was 72.0 years and 44.5% were male. Most (82.6%) SARI cases had >1 co-morbidity; chronic lung disease (50.0%) and malignancy (22.5%) were the most frequently reported. Overall, 229 (22%) and 33 (3%) SARI episodes were SARS-CoV-2 and influenza A PCR positive, respectively. 74.7%, 6.5% and 43.0% SARI episodes received antibiotics, antivirals, and steroids, respectively (54.5, 11.0 and 51.3% among COVID-19 patients). 1.1% required mechanical ventilation and 7.8% died. Male sex, multimorbidity, frailty, respiratory rate >30, low GCS and chest X-ray consolidation were predictive of in-hospital mortality. Near real-time hospitalised SARI syndromic surveillance characterised the evolving clinical epidemiology of SARS-CoV-2 and influenza, high antimicrobial use, and predictors of inpatient mortality among hospitalised SARI patients.

Prognostic Factors of Outcome in Patients Undergoing Surgical Intervention following Traumatic Intracerebral Haemorrhage

Background: Intracerebral hemorrhage is a common complication after traumatic brain injury. While it is accepted practice to remove extra-axial (extradural and subdural) haematoma following traumatic brain injury, but surgical practice in the treatment of traumatic intracerebral hemorrhage (TICH) differs widely, and prognostic factors associated with outcome following surgery have not yet been well established. Aims: The study aimed to determine the prognostic factors of outcome in patients undergoing surgical intervention following traumatic intracerebral hemorrhage in a tertiary care hospital in southeastern part of Bangladesh. Materials and Methods: This prospective interventional study included 45 patients requiring craniotomies for decompression and evacuation of an intracranial hemorrhage following traumatic intracerebral hemorrhage in the Neurosurgery Department of Chittagong Medical College Hospital between December 2021 to June 2023. Demographic features, perioperative clinical and radiological characteristics of these patients were examined in relation to favorable/good outcome, defined as Glasgow Outcome Scale (GOS) score &gt;3 at 3months follow-up, and unfavorable/poor outcome, defined as 3months mortality or GOS score d”3 at 3months after surgery. Results: The median age was 45 (range 8-75) years, 82.2% were male, and road traffic accident was the commonest cause (73.3%). Initial loss of consciousness was found in 75.7% of patients and the median GCS on admission was 9 (Interquartile range 8-10). Craniotomy and evacuation was done in 23(51.1%) of the cases, followed by craniectomy and evacuation in 22 (48.9%)patients. In-hospital and 3 months mortality rate was 28.9%. At three months post surgery, all of the survived patients(32) had good outcomes; 29 (92.3%) had GOS scores of 5, while the remaining 3 had GOS scores of 4. In bivariate analysis, age, history of comorbidity and loss of consciousness, GCS on admission, hematoma volume, and injury to surgery interval was found to have significant association with poor outcome (p&lt;0.05). Age (OR: 1.211, 95% CI: 1.012-1.241, p=0.009) and GCS score on admission (OR: 0.301, 95% CI: 0.086-0.827, p=0.004) were independent predictors of 3-months poor outcome or mortality in multivariate logistic regression analysis. Conclusions: This study presented that older age(60 years) and lower GCS(7-10) on admission were the independent predictors of poor outcome after 3 months of surgery. Multicenter studies are needed to provide accurate data on traumatic intracerebral hemorrhage in Bangladesh. Bang. J Neurosurgery 2024; 13(2): 104-111

Impact of diabetes mellitus on right ventricular dysfunction and ventricular interdependence in hypertensive patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction assessed via 3.0 T cardiac MRI

BackgroundHypertension (HTN) and diabetes mellitus (DM) are two common comorbidities of heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF), each of which can cause right ventricular (RV) dysfunction. The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of DM on RV dysfunction and ventricular interdependence in hypertensive HFrEF patients via cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) feature tracking.MethodsThis study included 249 patients with HFrEF: 77 HFrEF controls, 97 with hypertensive HFrEF (HTN-HFrEF [DM-]) and 75 with hypertensive HFrEF and comorbid DM (HTN-HFrEF [DM+]). The cardiac MRI-derived biventricular global radial (GRS), circumferential (GCS) and longitudinal (GLS) peak strains were obtained and compared among the groups. Multivariable linear regression and mediation analyses were used to evaluate the effects of DM and left ventricular (LV) strain on RV strain.ResultsThe biventricular GLS and GLS of segments 8, 9 and 14 of the interventricular septum (IVS) decreased gradually from the HFrEF control group to the HTN-HFrEF (DM−) group to the HTN-HFrEF (DM+) group (all P < 0.05). Patients with DM had even lower biventricular GCS and IVS strains in all directions in specific segments than did those without DM and the HFrEF controls (all P < 0.05). DM was independently associated with impaired RVGLS and RVGCS (both P < 0.05) in hypertensive HFrEF patients. The difference in RVGLS between the hypertensive HFrEF subgroups was partly mediated by LVGLS [β = 0.80, 95% CI (0.39–1.31)], and that of RVGCS was partly mediated by LVGCS [β = 0.28, 95% CI (0.01–0.62)].ConclusionsIn hypertensive HFrEF patients, comorbid DM may have aggravated RV dysfunction and was an independent determinant of impaired RV strain. RV dysfunction might be directly affected by DM and partially mediated by LV strain through unfavorable ventricular independence.

Factors Influencing Surgical Outcome of Patients with Traumatic Acute Subdural Hematoma

Background: Traumatic acute subdural hematoma (ASDH) is a catastrophic devastating component of brain injury in neurosurgical arena. Due to its significant mortality rate, potential for functional disability and disastrous consequence of complications, it is considered as a challenge for neurosurgeons worldwide. Consequently, precise recognition of predictive outcome factors is crucial for appropriate neurosurgical management and prognostication for patients with traumatic ASDH. Aims: The study aimed to determine the demographic, clinical, radiological and therapeutic factors associated with the surgical outcomes in patients with traumatic acute subdural hematoma (ASDH) who managed surgically in the Neurosurgery Department at a tertiary level hospital in Bangladesh. Materials and Methods: This prospective observational study included 40 radiologically diagnosed cases of traumatic ASDH age more than 18 years who were admitted and operated in the Department of Neurosurgery of Chittagong Medical College Hospital from May 2022 to April 2023. Data regarding demographic, clinical, radiographic, surgical procedure and findings were recorded. Three months mortality rate with clinical outcome was assessed by Glasgow Outcome Scale (GOS) score and analyzed. The outcome was divided into favorable outcomes (GOS score &gt;3) and unfavorable outcomes (GOS score d”3). Results: The median age of the patients was 45 years (range: 19-82 years), and there was a male predominance (82.5%) with a male to female ratio of 4.7:1. Road traffic accident (RTA) was the most common cause of trauma (65%), followed by fall from height (15%), and physical assault (12.5%). Craniotomy was done in 16 (40%) patients and other 24 (60%) patients had decompressive craniectomy. Overall, 21 (52.5%) patients had good outcome and other 19 (47.5%) had poor outcome, and three months mortality rate was 42.5%. Regression analysis revealed that, increasing age [Odds ratio (OR): 1.12, 95% Confidence interval CI: 1.02-1.22. p=0.014], preoperative GCS of d”8 (OR: 13.98, 95% CI:1.22-160.00, p=0.034), and presence of Anisocoria with non-reacting pupil (OR; 17.99, 95% CI: 1.32-244.08, p=0.030) were independently associated with poor outcome. Conclusions: This study identified higher age, preoperative low GCS score and pupillary abnormality as the independent predictors for 3-months poor outcome in patients who underwent surgical treatment for traumatic ASDH Bang. J Neurosurgery 2024; 13(2): 140-148

Clinical risk factors associated with the need for tracheostomy in traumatic cervical and high thoracic spinal cord injury

BackgroundOur objective was to assess the association of completeness and level of spinal cord injury (SCI) with the need for tracheostomy and identify additional risk factors predictive of tracheostomy. MethodsThis was a retrospective review of patients with SCI between January 2017 and December 2022. ResultsPatients with complete SCI were roughly thirty-three times more likely to have a tracheostomy when compared to incomplete injury (82 ​% vs 12 ​%, p ​< ​0.001, OR ​= ​32.9). The rate of tracheostomy did not differ between spinal cord levels for complete (p ​= ​0.68) or incomplete (p ​= ​0.08) injuries. Penetrating injury, low GCS, high ISS, and polytrauma were associated with tracheostomy need in incomplete SCI. ConclusionComplete injury was statistically significantly associated with the need for tracheostomy while level of injury failed to reach significance. Patients with incomplete SCI that have certain clinical risk factors should be considered for early tracheostomy.

Surgical Management of large Basal Ganglia Hemorrhage: A Bi-institutional Experience

Background and Aim: Numerous prognostic factors for spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage have been advocated; however, only a few studies have specifically addressed basal ganglia bleed prognosis and management. Regarding basal ganglia bleeding, this study determines the predictors of functional outcomes and predictors of severe disability or death in surgically treated cases. Methods and Materials/Patients: This was a one-time follow-up study of 271 spontaneous basal ganglia bleed patients undergoing surgical intervention over 3 years. An electronic hospital database was used to collect data regarding clinical and radiological parameters and functional outcomes according to the glasgow outcome scale (GOS) three months after the hemorrhage. Results: We analyzed 271 cases, with a mean age of 50.8±13.57 years. At the end of 3 months, 53.87% of patients had favorable outcomes (GOS=4, 5), 9.59% had poor outcomes (GOS=2, 3) and mortality was 37.75% (GOS=1) at the end of 3 months. Independent predictors of poor outcome were age (odd ratio [OR]=1.81, 95% CI, 1.09%, 3.02%, GCS OR=6.93, 95% CI, 1.52%, 31.51%), hematoma volume more than 60 mL (OR=12.73, 95% CI, 3.29%, 49.23%, midline shift (OR=2.78, 95% CI, 1.64%, 4.73%), the left side of bleed (OR=1.81, 95% CI, 1.11%, 2.94%), intraventricular hemorrhage (OR=2.94, 95% CI, 1.72%, 5.02%) and intraventricular hemorrhage associated with hydrocephalus (OR=22.30, 95% CI, 6.35%, 78.27%). There was a significant association between these factors and poor outcomes (P&lt;0.05). Conclusion: Almost half of the patients with large basal ganglia hemorrhage survivors were severely disabled or died within three months after the event. Basal ganglia hemorrhage was associated with severe disability or death among patients aged over 60 years with left-side bleeding, low GCS on admission, preoperative computed tomography scan showing midline shift of more than 5mm with the presence of intraventricular hemorrhage or associated hydrocephalus and a large hematoma volume.

Traumatic Aortic Disruption Index is Associated with Mortality and Urgency of Stent Grafting in Blunt Thoracic Aortic (Grade 3) Injuries

ObjectiveDelayed stent grafting for blunt thoracic aortic injuries (BTAI) is current standard of care. However, given the heterogeneity of pseudoaneurysm presentations, it is currently unclear which severe BTAIs require more urgent intervention. We hypothesize that a Traumatic Aortic Disruption Index (TADI) calculation based on sagittal computed tomography angiography (CTA) imaging measurements would correlate with urgency of stent grafting. MethodsAll patients at a level-1 trauma center with BTAIs over a 12-year period were identified. A TADI score was then calculated using the length of pseudoaneurysm (L), maximum width of pseudoaneurysm (W), and normal adjacent aortic diameter (NA) (Figure1). Patient presentation, injury characteristics, timing of stent grafting, and outcomes were then evaluated. ResultsForty-two patients were diagnosed with BTAIs. Mean age was 37.6 years, with a median injury severity score (ISS) of 29. Overall mortality was 11.9%. TADI scores ranged from 3.6 to 158.6. Compared to patients with a TADI<28, patients with TADI>28 had similar median ISS scores (34 vs 29, p=0.16), and rates of both traumatic brain injury (33.3% vs 42.0%, p=0.53) and non-aortic hemorrhage control procedures (44.4% vs 33.3%, p=0.3). TADI>28 patients had a lower initial mean systolic BP (98.5 vs 121.9, p=.003), more severe hypotension (lowest systolic 77.0 vs 91.2, p=.034), lower initial GCS (6 vs 13, p=.039), higher mean admission lactate (4.6 vs 3.3, p=.036), and higher overall mortality (23.8% vs 0%, p=.048). Patients with TADI>28 received stent grafting at significantly shorter median time intervals from injury identification (median 4 hrs vs 14 hrs, p=.001). Overall causes of mortality were aortic hemorrhage related (n=3, 60%) and traumatic brain injury (n=2, 40%). ConclusionThis simple-to-calculate index is independently correlated with mortality and urgency of stent grafting in blunt trauma patients with similar ISS. Patients with TADI scores >28 were more likely to undergo urgent stent grafting, thereby suggesting a trend in practice patterns with higher scores representing injuries that should be considered for expedited operative management. The TADI score should be validated in a larger sample of blunt trauma patients as an injury prioritization tool in the multi-system injured patient.

Changes in depression symptoms over 10 years after TBI; a long-term prospective study

ABSTRACT Objective Evaluate the prevalence and risk factors associated with depression symptoms at 10 years after traumatic brain injury (TBI) and compare with results at 10 weeks and 1 year. Methods A large cohort of prospective admissions with TBI were followed up for 10 years. Depression using HADS (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale) score > 8 was measured. Several injury and demographic features were examined for association with depression. Results Over 4 years, 1130 individuals were recruited of whom 916 attended at 1 year; after 10 years, 552 attended and 210 had died. 154 (17%) of the cohort was lost to follow-up. The prevalence of depression at 10 weeks was 56.3% [95%CI 52.2–60.5], at 1 year was 42.4% [95%CI 38.3–46.5] and 10 years 38.4% [95%CI 34.3–42.5]. There was considerable change in individual scores over time in both directions. A multivariable analysis identified the independent predictors of 10-year depression score as lower GCS, social deprivation, female gender, past psychiatric history, alcohol intoxication and unemployment. Age, ethnicity, social support, TBI etiology, CT abnormality and medical comorbidity were insignificant. Conclusions While the overall level of symptoms at 10-year post-TBI remains high, there is considerable change in individual depression status over time. The predictors identified may allow the targeting of vulnerable sub-populations.

Prevalence and Determinants of Prehospital Impression of Stroke in Ischemic Stroke Patients.

Emergency Medical Services (EMS) clinicians are front-line in evaluating patients with stroke in the community. Their ability to correctly identify stroke influences downstream management decisions. We sought to use a large national database of prehospital clinical data to determine risk factors associated with missed EMS stroke identification. Retrospective study examining EMS evaluation of adults with Emergency Department (ED) stroke diagnosis. We leveraged the ESO Data Collaborative research dataset containing EHR data from 2019-2022 that has a subset of encounters with linked hospital diagnostic codes. Our primary outcome was the presence of an EMS diagnosis of stroke. We evaluated the association between demographic and clinical variables with EMS stroke identification using Pearson χ2 test for demographic variables and multivariable GLM for clinical variables with adjustment for demographic variables. We identified 34,504 EMS encounters for patients with ED stroke diagnosis. Of these, 11,077 (32.1%) strokes had missed EMS stroke identification and instead had an EMS impression of "Generalized Weakness" (25.9%), "Altered Level of Consciousness" (24.9%), and "Dizziness" (7.2%). Patients more likely to have missed prehospital stroke identification were of Black race (p=0.0001) and Hispanic ethnicity (p=0.0001). Clinical variables associated with higher risk of missed EMS stroke identification were suspected alcohol or drug use (RR 1.48, 95% CI 1.37-1.59), low GCS (RR 1.17, 95% CI 1.10-1.24), tachycardia (RR 1.05, 95% CI 1.01-1.09), and hypotension (RR 1.47, 95% CI 1.34-1.61). Approximately 1-in-3 patients transported by EMS did not have their stroke identified in the prehospital setting. Factors associated with lower odds of missed EMS stroke identification provide a starting point for future performance improvement initiatives.

A comprehensive study of risk factors predicting hydrocephalus following decompressive craniectomy in traumatic brain injuries

IntroductionDecompressive craniectomy [DC] is one of the leading armaments to lower refractory intracranial pressure. Post-DC hydrocephalus [PDCH] occurs in 11.9–36% of patients undergoing DCs for TBIs. Various theories have been given regarding pathophysiological mechanism of PDCH but remain dubious. Risk factors predicting PDCH still under research. Exact timeline regarding developmental process of PDCH remains undefined.MethodThis retrospective study was conducted on 422 patients who underwent DCs in our tertiary care trauma center over the period of one year. 60 patients out of 422 who developed PDCH were analyzed with respect to demographic variables and preoperative and postoperative risk factors. A total of 20 randomly selected patients, who underwent DCs but did not develop hydrocephalus, were selected and compared with patients who developed PDCH. Outcome analysis was done by dichotomizing the groups into independent and dependent groups.ResultsAmong 422 patients undergoing DC, 14.21%[n = 60] developed PDCH. Younger [34.2 y vs 43.3 y, p = 0.0004] male age group was predominant in our study. Age [p = 0.021, multivariate analysis] and midline shift [p = 0.008, multivariate analysis] were significant preoperative predicting risk factors for PDCH. Interhemispheric hygroma [p = 0.031], brain bulge [ p = 0.008], and blood in postoperative scan [p = 0.029] were significant postoperative risk factors. Lower GCS score at admission [p = 0.0003], postoperative day 10 and at the time of establishment of PDCH were significantly predicted surgery to hydrocephalus time. Midline shift [p = 0.007] and thickness of interhemispheric hygroma [p = 0.021] were associated with poor outcome in patients with PDCH.ConclusionYounger age group and presence of midline shift are significant preoperative predictors of PDCH. Blood in postoperative scan, interhemispheric hygroma and brain bulge in postoperative period are significant predictors for PDCH. Deterioration in GCS score in postoperative period following DC should be taken as high index of suspicion for developing PDCH.

Clinico-epidemiological profile & outcome of patients presenting with cerebral venous thrombosis to emergency department

ObjectivesTo better understand the clinical and radiological characteristics of Cerebral Venous Thrombosis (CVT), we conducted a study focusing on the assessment of neurological outcomes and factors associated with poor prognosis in patients with CVT. MethodsThis prospective, observational study took place over two years (July 2020 to June 2022) in a tertiary care teaching hospital in South India, encompassing adults aged 18 years and over. Key data points included demographic information, symptomatology, physical and neurological examinations, neuroimaging findings, hospital interventions, and neurological outcomes at discharge and at a six-week telephonic follow-up. ResultsA total of 140 patients with CVT, median age 34 years, were studied. 61.4 % were males. The most common symptoms and signs were headaches (70.7 %) and papilledema (60.7 %). Hemorrhagic infarct was the most prevalent finding on the non-contrast computed tomography (NCCT) of the brain, involving 39.4 % of patients. The most commonly affected sinus was the superior sagittal sinus. Risk factors most often observed were alcoholism (45 %), smoking (21.4 %), anemia (27.1 %), oral contraceptive pill usage (12.1 %), and hypertension (12.1 %). Deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism was present in 5 % of the patients. The mean hospital stay was 13.9 days, with 6.4 % of patients requiring endotracheal intubation at presentation and 22.9 % during their stay. The observed in-hospital mortality rate was 17.9 %, increasing to 22.4 % at the six-week follow-up. Morbidity (mRS 3–5) was 24.3 % at discharge, decreasing to 8.2 % at six-week follow-up. Favorable outcomes were reported in 57.9 % of cases at discharge, rising to 69.4 % at six weeks. ConclusionsOur study underscores the importance of recognizing cardinal symptoms and diverse risk factors of CVT, including alcoholism and anemia. Majority of CVT occurrences were observed in males aged 18–29. Critical determinants of heightened morbidity and mortality were identified, including lower GCS scores and the necessity for advanced interventions. Notably, majority of patients presented favorable neurological outcomes at six-week follow-up.

Incidence, severity and changes of abnormal vital signs in trauma patients: A national population-based analysis

BackgroundPhysiological criteria are used to assess the potential severity of injury in the early phase of a trauma patient's care trajectory. Few studies have described the extent of abnormality in vital signs and different combinations of these at a national level. Aim of the study was to identify physiologic abnormalities in trauma patients and describe different combinations of abnormalities and changes between the pre-hospital and emergency department (ED) settings. MethodNorwegian Trauma Registry (NTR) data between 01.01.15 – 31.12.18, where evaluated on the prevalence and characteristics of abnormal physiologic variables. Primary outcome were rates of hypoventilation (respiratory rate [RR] < 10 breaths per min), hyperventilation (RR > 29 breaths per min), hypotension (systolic blood pressure [SBP] < 90 mmHg), and reduced level of consciousness (Glasgow Coma Scale [GCS] < 13). ResultsA total of 24,482 patients were included. Documented values for RR, SBP and GCS were 77.6%, 78.5% and 81.9% in the pre-hospital phase, and the corresponding percentages in the ED were 95.5%, 99.2% and 98.6%, respectively. In the pre-hospital phase, 3,615 (14.8%) patients had at least one abnormal vital sign, whereas the corresponding numbers in the ED, were 3,616 (14.8%) patients. The most frequent combination was low GCS and hyperventilation. A worsened RTS-score from pre-hospital phase to the ED was observed for RR, SBP and GCS in 3.9%, 1.2% and 1.9% of incidents, respectively. Overall 30-day mortality was 3.1% (n=752). Of these, 60.8% had abnormal vital signs, with decreased GCS as the most prevalent (61.3%). ConclusionMost trauma patients had normal vital signs. According to the RTS-score, there were few deteriorations in RR, SBP and GCS between pre-hospital phase and the ED. The most frequent abnormality was low GCS, with a higher proportion in those who died within 30 days.

Predictors of Neurological Outcomes in Patients with Poor Glasgow Coma Scale Scores 1 Week After Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage

This study assessed neurological outcomes and variables associated with favorable outcomes in aSAH patients with low functional status (Glasgow Coma Scale [GCS] score ≤8) on postbleed day 7 (PBD7). A retrospective analysis was conducted of all patients in the Barrow Ruptured Aneurysm Trial (January 1, 2014-July 31, 2019) treated for a ruptured aneurysm and who had a GCS score ≤8 on PBD7. The primary outcome was a favorable neurological outcome (modified Rankin Scale score ≤2) at last follow-up. Of 312 patients, 63 had low GCS scores at PBD7. These patients had a significantly greater proportion of poor Hunt and Hess scale grades (≥4) (44/63 [70%] vs 49/249 [19.7%], P < 0.001) and poor Fisher grades (grade=4) (58/63 [92%] vs 174/249 [69.9%], P < 0.001) compared to patients who did not have low GCS scores on PBD7, but no differences were found in age, sex, anterior location, aneurysm size, or type of treatment. Of the 63 patients, 7 (11%) experienced a favorable neurological outcome. On univariate analysis, none of the physical examination reflexes predicted a favorable neurological outcome. The middle cerebral artery aneurysm territory was the only significant predictor of a favorable neurological outcome by multivariate analysis (odds ratio, 10.8; 95% confidence interval, 1.16-100], P = 0.04). This study yielded no significant physical examination findings that predict a favorable outcome in patients with GCS score ≤8 on PBD7. This finding may inform the decision of whether to prolong hospital management or arrange for end-of-life care.

Neurosurgery in the elderly: Findings from a cohort in the Philippines

BackgroundBetter living conditions and health care advancements have improved life expectancy worldwide, increasing the number of older patients who require neurosurgery. We would like to report our experience with geriatric neurosurgical patients at our institution. MethodsThis is a retrospective study on geriatric patients (aged ≥ 65 years) who underwent neurosurgery at our center between 2015 and 2022. Data on age, sex, comorbidities, pre-morbid status, type of admission, diagnosis, operation, complications, short-term outcome, hospital length of stay (LOS), and 30-day readmission were collected. Descriptive statistics and multiple regression analysis were used. ResultsA total of 327 patients were included. The mean age was 70.4 years and 51.3 % were female. Majority (70.6 %) had at least one comorbid condition, most commonly hypertension. Most patients were admitted through emergency systems (80.1 %), with 40.4 % consulting for traumatic brain injury. The top diagnoses were chronic subdural hematoma (35.2 %), ruptured intracerebral aneurysm (15.6 %), and meningioma (10.1 %). The most common procedures were burrhole drainage of hematoma (34.8 %), brain tumor excision (16.7 %), and aneurysm clipping (14.6 %). The post-operative complication rate was 15.2 %, and mean LOS was 16.7 days. Majority of patients (86.9 %) were discharged home, and 2.8 % were readmitted within 30 days. The 30-day mortality rate was 13.1 %. Lower pre-operative GCS, certain comorbidities, and intra- and post-operative complications were significantly associated with mortality and LOS. ConclusionAdvanced age alone should not be a contraindication to surgery; other factors such as frailty and comorbid conditions should also be considered. Proper patient selection and preoperative preparation are key to achieving good outcomes.

Risk factors and outcomes associated with systolic dysfunction following traumatic brain injury.

Systolic dysfunction has been observed following isolated moderate-severe traumatic brain injury (Ims-TBI). However, early risk factors for the development of systolic dysfunction after Ims-TBI and their impact on the prognosis of patients with Ims-TBI have not been thoroughly investigated. A prospective observational study among patients aged 16 to 65 years without cardiac comorbidities who sustained Ims-TBI (Glasgow Coma Scale [GCS] score ≤12) was conducted. Systolic dysfunction was defined as left ventricular ejection fraction <50% or apparent regional wall motion abnormality assessed by transthoracic echocardiography within 24 hours after admission. The primary endpoint was the incidence of systolic dysfunction after Ims-TBI. The secondary endpoint was survival on discharge. Clinical data and outcomes were assessed within 24 hours after admission or during hospitalization. About 23 of 123 patients (18.7%) developed systolic dysfunction after Ims-TBI. Higher admission heart rate (odds ratios [ORs]: 1.05, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.02-1.08; P = .002), lower admission GCS score (OR: 0.77, 95% CI: 0.61-0.96; P = .022), and higher admission serum high-sensitivity cardiac troponin T (Hs-cTnT) (OR: 1.14, 95% CI: 1.06-1.22; P < .001) were independently associated with systolic dysfunction among patients with Ims-TBI. A combination of heart rate, GCS score, and serum Hs-cTnT level on admission improved the predictive performance for systolic dysfunction (area under curve = 0.85). Duration of mechanical ventilation, intensive care unit length of stay, and in-hospital mortality of patients with systolic dysfunction was higher than that of patients with normal systolic function (P < .05). Lower GCS (OR: 0.66, 95% CI: 0.45-0.82; P = .001), lower admission oxygen saturation (OR: 0.82, 95% CI: 0.69-0.98; P = .025), and the development of systolic dysfunction (OR: 4.85, 95% CI: 1.36-17.22; P = .015) were independent risk factors for in-hospital mortality in patients with Ims-TBI. Heart rate, GCS, and serum Hs-cTnT level on admission were independent early risk factors for systolic dysfunction in patients with Ims-TBI. The combination of these 3 parameters can better predict the occurrence of systolic dysfunction.

Vascular complications in extremities of physically restrained intensive care unit patients: A prospective, observational study.

Physical restraint is used to prevent agitation, to continue treatments and to ensure safety in intensive care patients. Physical restraint has negative effects on physical and psychological health, and physical restraint should not be used unless necessary. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the development of vascular complications in extremities of physically restrained patients hospitalized in the intensive care unit (ICU) and the associated factors. A prospective, observational study. The study was conducted between September 1, 2022, and March 31, 2023 in eight ICUs of a hospital located in the inner regions of Türkiye. The development of vascular complications (discolouration, distemperature, variations in capillary refill time, fluctuations in peripheral pulse, skin ulceration and oedema in the area of physical restraint) rate in patients hospitalized in the ICUs who were physically restrained. Independent sample t test, Mann-Whitney U test and Pearson-χ2 test were used to analyse the data. During the study, 2409 patients were admitted to ICUs. Physical restraint was applied to 209 of these patients. Of the 209 patients, 112 patients who met the inclusion criteria were included in the study. The physical restraint site of the patients was evaluated an average of 230.12 times and physical restraint was terminated in 9.8% of the patients (n = 112) because of vascular complications that developed in the physical restraint site. The rate of vascular complications at the site of physical restraint was higher in patients with endotracheal tubes (p < .05), lower GCS scores (p < .05) and higher INR values (p < .05). Patients with skin ulceration at the restraint site received more massages and cream applications (%95CL = 1. 1.692-34.734, OR = 7.667, p = .032). It was determined that more massage was applied to patients with changes in skin temperature at the restraint site (%95Cl = 1.062-11.599, OR = 3.510, p = .032). Vascular complications may develop at the restraint site in patients hospitalized in the ICU. This may be more common in ICU patients with endotracheal tube, lower GCS score and higher INR values. Nurses should closely monitor ICUs patients with endotracheal tube, lower GCS score and higher INR values, and implement care interventions to prevent the development of vascular complications.

Long-term survival of traumatic brain injury and intra-cerebral haemorrhage patients: A multicentric observational cohort

PurposeMortality is often assessed during ICU stay and early after, but rarely at later stage. We aimed to compare the long-term mortality between TBI and ICH patients. Materials and methodsFrom an observational cohort, we studied 580 TBI patients and 435 ICH patients, admitted from January 2013 to February 2021 in 3 ICUs and alive at 7-days post-ICU discharge. We performed a Lasso-penalized Cox survival analysis. ResultsWe estimated 7-year survival rates at 72.8% (95%CI from 67.3% to 78.7%) for ICH patients and at 84.9% (95%CI from 80.9% to 89.1%) for TBI patients: ICH patients presenting a higher mortality risk than TBI patients. Additionally, we identified variables associated with higher mortality risk (age, ICU length of stay, tracheostomy, low GCS, absence of intracranial pressure monitoring). We also observed anisocoria related with the mortality risk in the early stage after ICU stay. ConclusionsIn this ICU survivor population with a prolonged follow-up, we highlight an acute risk of death after ICU stay, which seems to last longer in ICH patients. Several variables characteristic of disease severity appeared associated with long-term mortality, raising the hypothesis that the most severe patients deserve closer follow-up after ICU stay.