Magnetic Resonance Venogram Research Articles

Rituximab induced cerebral venous sinus thrombosis in a patient with anti-N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor-antibody encephalitis: a case report and review of literature

BackgroundCerebral venous sinus thrombosis has not been reported in anti-N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor-antibody encephalitis in the absence of an underlying thrombotic state while rituximab induced cerebral venous sinus thrombosis is rarely reported. We report a patient with anti-N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor-antibody encephalitis without a prothrombotic state who developed cerebral venous sinus thrombosis following rituximab treatment.Case presentationA 15-year-old Sri Lankan girl who had been in remission following an episode of anti-N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor-antibody encephalitis 2 years ago, presented with a relapse of anti-N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor-antibody encephalitis characterized by recurrent seizures, mutism, and cognitive abnormalities. Since response was inadequate to first-line immunotherapy, she was administered four doses of rituximab at weekly intervals. Two days after the fourth dose, she developed increasing headaches, and her cranial magnetic resonance venogram confirmed the development of cerebral venous sinus thrombosis. Screening for prothrombotic states were negative. She made an unremarkable recovery following anticoagulation.ConclusionThis case highlights the occurrence of the rare but serious complication of cerebral venous sinus thrombosis following rituximab in the context of anti-N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor-antibody encephalitis and informs the clinician to be wary of new onset headache in patients with anti-N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor-antibody encephalitis treated with immunotherapy.

Cerebral Venous Thrombosis in a Term Child: A Case Report

Thrombosis of cerebral venous sinuses is a rare condition but can be associated with serious clinical consequences. Pathogenesis of thrombosis of cerebral venous sinus is still not clear. As there is diverse etiology but presentation is subtle, it often leads to delay in the diagnosis. We are reporting the case of a term male neonate born by LSCS (indication obstructed labour with meconium stained amniotic fluid) with diagnosis of severe birth asphyxia, Hypoxic Ischemic Encephalopathy- stage II, probable sepsis, shock and Germinal Matrix Haemorrhage. The magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of brain and magnetic resonance (MR) venogram done at 2 weeks of age showed superior saggital sinus thrombosis. Baby received anticoagulation therapy and extensive workup was done. Early neuroimaging in all the babies who has neonatal seizures will improve the identification and will warrant early treatment.

Total brain volume is associated with severity of transverse sinus stenosis in idiopathic intracranial hypertension

BackgroundIdiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) is a complex neurological condition characterized by symptoms of increased intracranial pressure of unclear etiology. While transverse sinus stenosis (TSS) is often present in patients with...

A rare case of chronic headache

Abstract Cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT) is a relatively uncommon and rare condition worldwide, affecting approximately 1 in 100,000 individuals annually and comprising about 0.5% of all strokes. It is more prevalent in women of childbearing age due to hypercoagulable states. We present a case report of a 19 years old female exhibiting symptoms, including headache, occasionally associated vomiting, blurring of vision and one generalised seizure. On general examination and neurological, there were no significant abnormality found, Fundoscopy revealed blurred disc margins and the presence of papilledema. An emergency non-contrast computed tomography (NCCT) scan of the brain showed normal findings. Subsequently, a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan of the brain indicated partial loss of flow void in the posterior part of the superior sagittal sinus and straight sinus, along with the formation of collateral channels, suggestive of possible subacute dural sinus thrombosis. Additionally, a contrast-enhanced MRI (CEMRI) scan with MR venogram showed filling defects in the posterior part of the superior sagittal sinus and straight sinus, with non-visualization of the left transverse sinus, indicative of subacute to chronic dural venous thrombosis, Beta 2 glycoprotein IgM and Cardiolipin IgM were positive and titres were high. This case with history of headache for 4 years underscores the need for early diagnosis, which could have alleviated suffering and further prevent grave consequences, with an insight to such problems and accessibility to high end imaging diagnosis tools for early recognition and management.

One in a Million: A Woman Presenting with Unilateral Painful Ophthalmoplegia.

A 52-year-old female presented to the emergency department with four days of right periorbital pain, ipsilateral temporal headache, diplopia, and photophobia. Physical examination of the right eye revealed painful ophthalmoplegia, cranial nerves III and VI paresis, increased intraocular pressure, and mild proptosis. Magnetic resonance venogram and magnetic resonance imaging orbits with contrast demonstrated an abnormal signal surrounding the right cavernous sinus/petrous apex. Tolosa-Hunt syndrome (THS) was diagnosed. Per neurology recommendations, the patient was placed on a steroid regimen over the course of three weeks. She was discharged on hospital day nine following resolution of symptoms. She had no recurrence of symptoms or residual deficits noted at her two-week follow-up appointment. With an estimated annual incidence of one case per million, THS is a sinister etiology of unilateral headache, painful ophthalmoplegia, and oculomotor palsy. Tolosa-Hunt syndrome is caused by granulomatous inflammation in the cavernous sinus and is highly responsive to corticosteroids. Magnetic resonance imaging studies of the cavernous sinus and orbital apex are highly sensitive for THS and characteristically show enlargement and focal-enhancing masses within the affected cavernous sinus.

403 Malignant Cerebral Venous Infarction: Decompressive Craniectomy Versus Medical Treatment

INTRODUCTION: Cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT) is a common stroke in young adults and is associated with 8% mortality. High intracranial pressure (ICP) and brain herniation are these patients' most common causes of death. METHODS: In this retrospective study, Patients with the following inclusion criteria have entered the study: 1) CVT proven by contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance venogram and/or computed tomography venogram, 2) malignant CVT (impending brain herniation according to imaging and clinical finding), and 3) age between 16 and 80 years. Patients with deep venous system thrombosis, Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score of 3, and bilateral nonreactive mid-position pupils or mydriasis on admission were excluded. Patients were classified into 2 groups: surgical group (DC group) including patients who received medical treatment and DC and medical group (MG) including patients who received only medical treatment. Outcomes and complications were assessed and compared between the 2 groups. RESULTS: Of 357 patients with CVT hospitalized in our center, 48 patients entered the study. 23 patients were managed medically, and 25 patients were managed surgically. There was no significant difference between the groups concerning age, sex, presenting symptoms, transient and permanent risk factors of CVT, GCS score on admission, and pupils’ reactivity on admission. All patients in the MG died during hospitalization in comparison with 8 patients in the DC group (100% vs. 32%, P < 0.001). A favorable outcome (modified Rankin scale score 0e2) was achieved in 52% of the DC group and 0% of the MG group (P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Our study confirmed that in contrast with DC, medical treatment could not prevent transtentorial herniation. DC is not only lifesaving for patients with CVT with impending brain herniation but also results in favorable outcomes in most patients.

Exploring the Intricacies of Carotid Cavernous Fistula: A Case Series

Introduction : Carotid cavernous fistula (CCF) is caused by an abnormal connection between the carotid artery and the cavernous sinus, which can lead to eye-related problems. It is crucial to recognize its signs, as they can resemble other conditions.
 Case Illustration : First patient is a male 3-month-old baby, with unilateral right eye proptosis that was observed soon after birth and history of hypothyroid. Proptosis is more prominent while the baby is crying. Orbital ultrasonography revealed ophthalmica vein dilatation with S configuration, complex flow, and velocity of 10 cm/s. Second case is a 50-year-old male also with unilateral proptosis and orbital bruit with history of head trauma 2 months prior to admission. Patient came with complain of sudden blurry vision for 1 week. The results of the magnetic resonance venogram revealed tortuos dilated superior ophthalmica (SOV), cavernous sinus bulging, and dilated superior petrosal, sigmoid, transverse sinus, and internal jugular vein.
 Discussion : CCFs can occur at any age, but are more common between 40-60. Risk factors like head trauma, hypertension, connective tissue disorders increase the likelihood of developing CCF. They are often misdiagnosed as other conditions such as thyroid ophthalmopathy or conjunctivitis. Ocular doppler ultrasound can detect SOV dilation and arterial flow, while magnetic resonance imaging can show superior ophthalmic vein engorgement, muscle hypertrophy, and cavernous sinus dilatation. Treatment for symptomatic CCFs involves endovascular obliteration using balloons, embolic agents, or metallic coils, while asymptomatic and mildly symptomatic patients can be treated conservatively.
 Conclusion : Awareness of CCF symptoms, varied workup, prompt treatment is important to prevent severe complications.

A Prospective Cohort Study Characterizing Incidence of Dural Venous Sinus Thrombosis in Traumatic Brain Injury Patients with Skull Fractures

BackgroundLimited retrospective data suggest that dural venous sinus thrombosis (DVST) in traumatic brain injury (TBI) patients with skull fractures is common and associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Prospective data accurately characterising the incidence of DVST in high-risk TBI patients are sparse but are needed to develop evidence-based TBI management guidelines. MethodsAfter obtaining institutional clinical safety and quality unit approval, 36 adult TBI patients with skull fractures admitted to an Australian level III adult intensive care unit (ICU) between April 2022 and January 2023 were prospectively recruited and underwent CT venogram (CTV) or Magnetic resonance venogram (MRV) within 72 hours of injury. When available, daily maximum intracranial pressure (ICP) were recorded. ResultsDVS abnormality was common (36.1%, 95% confidence interval [CI] 22.5-52.4%) and strongly associated with DVST (p=0.003). The incidence of DVST was 13.9% (95%CI 6.1-28.7%) which was lower than those reported in previous retrospective studies. Eighty percent of the DVST confirmed by a CTV occurred in those with extensive skull fractures including temporal or parietal bone fractures in conjunction with occipital bone fractures (p=0.006). DVS abnormality and DVST were, however, not associated with an increased in maximum daily ICP within the first 7 days after injury. ConclusionsDVS abnormality was common in TBI patients with skull fractures requiring ICU admission. DVST was confirmed in more than a third of these patients, especially among those with concomitant temporal or parietal and occipital bone fractures. CTV would be advisable for this subgroup of TBI patients.

Primary neuroleptospirosis complicating cerebral venous sinus thrombosis: a case report

Leptospirosis, caused by pathogenic spirochetes of the genus Leptospira, presents as a biphasic illness consisting of an initial leptospiraemic phase followed by an immune phase. Nevertheless, leptospirosis remains undiagnosed on numerous occasions, particularly when it presents with neurological complications, due to its infrequent and atypical nature. Primary neuroleptospirosis complicated by cerebral venous sinus thrombosis emerges as an infrequent, and life-threatening complication, associated with a high mortality risk.We report a 55-year-old man presented with fever and headache of two days duration, which progressed into clouding of consciousness on the third day. Clinical examination revealed conjunctival suffusion, Glasgow coma scale (GCS) of 11/15, disorientation, and meningism. The diagnosis was confirmed by detecting Leptospira DNA in cerebrospinal fluid through real-time PCR, and a subsequent magnetic resonance venogram revealed sigmoid and transverse sinuses thrombosis, which was performed due to the patient’s persistent occipital headache.This case report underscores the significance of recognizing rare manifestations of common tropical diseases in endemic areas and the importance of thorough patient history in diagnosis, as in this patient where leptospirosis was suspected due to recent risk exposure.

NCMP-18. ENDOVASCULAR TREATMENT OF SYMPTOMATIC TUMORAL VENOUS SINUS STENOSIS: COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF CORONARY BALLOON-MOUNTED STENTS AND CONVENTIONAL TECHNIQUES

Abstract Meningiomas may lead to symptomatic papilledema due to elevated intracranial pressure (ICP) from venous sinus compression. While venous sinus stenting has proven effective for treating elevated intracranial pressure, evidence for its application in tumoral-induced stenosis and acquired intracranial hypertension is limited. This study presents an institutional series of symptomatic tumoral venous sinus stenosis cases and compares the technical considerations of endovascular treatment using a coronary balloon-mounted stent to conventional venous sinus stenting. Three patients with meningioma-induced, bilateral papilledema received treatment with venous sinus stenting between 2019-2022. Presentation, stenosis severity, venous manometry, ophthalmologic findings, procedural techniques, and post-operative outcomes were retrospectively analyzed. Three patients (mean age: 59 years, 2 out of 3 male) presented with worsening blurry vision, diplopia, and persistent headaches. Bilateral papilledema was observed (median optic nerve sheath distension=0.48mm). Pre-procedure measurements showed elevated ICP with opening pressures ranging from 37-38 cmH2O. Imaging revealed extra-axial parieto-occipital lesions with significant mass effect, and MR venograms confirmed severe stenosis of the superior sagittal sinus (SSS). Venous angiography (DSV) demonstrated median venous sinus pressures of 32-mmHg proximal to the stenosis with a 4-mmHg pressure gradient across the stenosis. During the procedure, balloon-mounted Onyx coronary stents or a self-expanding PrecisePro carotid stent were deployed successfully. Post-stenting, papilledema resolved completely in two patients, while one patient experienced partial symptom resolution. Proximal SSS pressures decreased by a mean of 46.8%, and trans-stenotic pressure gradients were reduced to ≤1 mmHg. Stent patency without complications was maintained throughout the 2 to 5-month follow-up in all patients. Adjacent meningiomas were subsequently monitored for observation or stereotactic radiosurgery. Small extra-axial lesions causing symptomatic venous sinus compression can be endovascularly treated using balloon-mounted cardiac stents. Non-surgical meningioma patients, symptomatic for intracranial hypertension and lesions proximal to venous sinuses, should be assessed with DSV for potential management with endovascular interventions.

Paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria presenting as cortical cerebral venous thrombosis

Abstract Paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria (PNH) arises as a consequence of mutation of phosphatidylinositol N-acetylglucosaminyltransferase subunit A gene that is required for synthesis of the glycosylphosphatidylinositol proteins to the cell surface of blood cells. Patients with PNH usually present with features of chronic unexplained anaemia, but can also present with bone marrow failure and thrombosis at unusual sites. We present the case of a 27-year-old who presented with complaints of headache and easy fatigability, on evaluation was found to have coombs negative haemolytic anaemia and brain magnetic resonance venogram revealed thrombosis in the left transverse and sigmoid sinuses. On further investigation, found to have PNH clone in both red and white blood cell lineages and diagnosed as PNH. Hence, any patient presenting with chronic non-immune intravascular haemolysis, unexplained anaemia and unusual thrombosis should alert the physician to consider PNH as a differential diagnosis to avoid delay in diagnosis and better management.

P20 Thoracic outlet obstruction – first presentation of a rheumatological disorder

P20 Thoracic outlet obstruction – first presentation of a rheumatological disorder

1065 Radical Nephrectomy and Inferior Vena Cava (IVC) Thrombectomy: Management of Level IV Thrombus

Abstract Introduction IVC invasion with tumour thrombus occurs in 10-25% of renal cell carcinoma (RCC) patients (1). IVC thrombi are classified according to anatomical levels. Cardiopulmonary bypass is indicated for level IV thrombi which extend above the diaphragm, including atrial thrombi or when the reduction in cardiac output with IVC cross-clamping cannot be tolerated. This technique maintains haemodynamic stability and allows better vision during thrombectomy. Case report A 46-year-old male presented with a three-week history of vague abdominal pain and night sweats. Subsequent CT thorax, abdomen & pelvis, and MR venogram found a 10cm right renal tumour extending into the right renal vein, inferior vena cava and tumour thrombus extending 50% into the right atrium. Management Following MDT discussion, this gentleman underwent right radical nephrectomy, IVC thrombectomy, sternotomy and retrieval of tumour thrombus from his right atrium. This was performed under approximately one hour of deep hypothermic circulatory arrest. The patient made an excellent recovery with 10 days spent in hospital post-operatively. His histology subsequently showed a clear cell renal carcinoma, ISUP grade 3, with positive vein margin. Its final staging was pT3cN0R1. Follow up was with three monthly surveillance CT scans. Discussion The median survival of untreated RCC patients with venous thrombi is just 5 months, thus, this is lifesaving and very urgent surgery (2). Procedures for Level 4 IVC thrombi should take place in high volume centres with access to both cardiothoracics for cardiopulmonary bypass or veno-venous bypass and surgeons with expertise in vascular reconstruction and liver mobilization.

Identification and quantitative evaluation of symptomatic cerebral venous thrombosis using 3D variable flip angle turbo spin echo

PurposeTo explore the feasibility of MR 3D T1w Sampling Perfection with Application optimized Contrasts by using different flip angle Evolutions (SPACE) sequence imaging in symptomatic CVT diagnose, extracting the imaging features with quantitative analysis. MethodsFifty-nine patients with suspected CVT with neurological symptoms were retrospectively included in this study. Of them, 35 patients were enrolled in the comparation of diagnostic accuracy between the contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance venograms (CE-MRV) and 3D T1w SPACE imaging. Forty-five patients with 101 involved segments were identified for the quantitative analysis. All MR images were acquired on a 3.0 T MR scanner. The reference standard used in this study was a comprehensive combination of the imaging techniques and clinical information. CVT patients were grouped as acute (≤48 h), subacute (>48 h and ≤30d), and chronic (>30d) clinical phase. CVT segments were grouped based on pre-contrast T1WI, as type A: hypo intense signal; B: heterogeneously hyper intense signal; C: iso intense signal. The feasibility of 3D T1w SPACE imaging for diagnosing CVT was explored. Diagnostic accuracy of T1w SPACE imaging was analyzed and compared with the CE-MRV. The signal intensity of pre-contrast images (SpreCE), signal intensity of post-contrast images (SpostCE), and contrast enhancement (CE) rate, CE rate relative to that of pituitary gland (PG), white matter (WM), gray matter (GM), and normal vein vessel wall (nVVW) were compared based on both patients and segments. The CE rate grade of CVT segments of different imaging types was compared. ResultsThe MR 3D T1w SPACE imaging achieved a higher sensitivity and specificity (100%/94.1% and 100%/100% based on patients/segments separately) than that of the CE-MRV (73.9%/56.9% and 83.3%/98.9% based on patients/segments separately). No statistical correlation was found between the imaging types of CVT segments and onset time of clinical symptoms (χ2 = 6.649, P = 0.171). Quantitative analysis showed that the CE rate relative to PG and that to WM were higher in the chronic CVT patients than that in the other two groups (H = 10.330 and P = 0.006, H = 9.898 and P = 0.007, separately). CE rate relative to GM in the chronic group was higher than that in the subacute group (H = 7.143 and P = 0.028). All of the quantitative parameters were statistically different across CVT segments of three imaging types (all P≤0.001). ConclusionMR 3D T1w SPACE imaging has the advantage to accurately diagnose CVT of different clinical stages, and identify the involved thrombus segments.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Cerebral Venous Thrombosis

Cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT) is a category of stroke that occurs when blood clots form in dural sinuses cerebral veins or, resulting in inflammation and injury to brain tissue. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a valuable non-invasive tool for diagnosing and managing CVT, as it enables visualization of cerebral veins and sinuses and can differentiate CVT from similar conditions. MRI gives information on the location, severity, extent, and complications of thrombosis, including hemorrhage and brain edema. Advanced MRI sequences, such as diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI), can detect acute ischemic changes and differentiate between cytotoxic and vasogenic edema. This study intended to assess the effectiveness of conventional and advanced MRI techniques in diagnosing CVT in a group of 50 patients. MR venogram and other conventional MRI sequences were used to diagnose CVT in 96% patients, while contrast venography was used in 4% patients. The study was conducted over 18 months, and statistical analysis was performed on the data to assess the significance of the findings. The study found that the majority of patients experienced headaches, and the SSS (superior sagittal sinus) was the most commonly affected sinus. The thrombosis location was associated with parenchymal involvement in different regions. The age of the thrombus correlated with clinical presentation and imaging findings, and the presence of intraparenchymal hematoma in acute phase and hemorrhagic infarct in subacute phase and was significantly correlated. These findings can help guide timely and appropriate treatment for CVT.

Bilateral Middle Meningeal Artery Embolization and Resection of a Large Parafalcine Meningioma: a Case Study (P8-5.026)

<h3>Objective:</h3> Parafalcine meningiomas are located in the central longitudinal sulcus and difficult to access intraoperatively. Endovacular embolization reduces surgical complications and blood loss in highly vascular meningiomas and when blood supply is out of surgical visualization. We present a case of successful middle meningeal artery (MMA) embolization and resection of a large bifontral lobe parafalcine meningioma. <h3>Background:</h3> NA <h3>Design/Methods:</h3> A 51-year-old male with a history of bipolar disorder, thyroid papillary carcinoma, childhood leukemia status post radiation presented with several syncopal episodes. CT head showed a large extra-axial hyperintense mass. MRI of the brain with contrast revealed a 4.1 x 7.9 x 5.2 cm enhancing midline bifrontal parafalcine extra-axial mass compatible with a meningioma. MR Venogram showed severe narrowing of the middle third of the superior sagittal sinus. Due to highly the vascular nature of the tumor, a decision was made for endovascular embolization. Right and left MMA were selected for embolization and Cook PVA 200 particles were used for successful embolization. The next day, a bicoronal craniotomy with the use of frameless neuronavigation was performed. Tissue was sent to pathology and was defined as WHO Grade 1 meningioma. <h3>Results:</h3> Bilateral MMA embolization and craniotomy of a large bifrontal parafalcine meningioma was performed successfully without complications. <h3>Conclusions:</h3> Endovascular embolization is optimal in reducing surgical complications and blood loss in highly vascular parafalcine meningiomas. <b>Disclosure:</b> Dr. Arthur has nothing to disclose. Dr. Lee has nothing to disclose. Dr. Gomes has nothing to disclose. Dr. Okpokam has nothing to disclose. Dr. Tandon has nothing to disclose. Dr. Lebovitz has stock in Vesalio. Dr. Wright has nothing to disclose.

Abstract Number ‐ 73: Successful Endovascular Treatment of Medically Refractory CVST Using a Large Bore Distal Platform Thrombo‐aspiration Catheters.

Introduction Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) is a rare (0.5‐2/100,000 incidence) but potentially fatal (5% mortality rate) neurological condition. The diagnosis may be delayed due to the non‐specific presenting symptoms such as headache, altered mental status, or seizures. Anticoagulation has long been the standard therapy for CVST. However, a subset of patients do not respond to medical therapy, and may develop complications such as ischemic stroke, hemorrhage, and cerebral edema. In the ISCVT study, 13% of patients experienced poor outcomes despite anticoagulation. Recently, it has been shown that patients with extensive clot burden, cerebral edema, elevated ICP, and altered mentation may achieve better outcomes with endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) compared to anticoagulation. We present a patient with CVST who failed therapeutic anticoagulation but improved with thrombectomy using the novel Zoom 088 Aspiration system, that further demonstrating the efficacy of combination therapy with anticoagulation and EVT. Methods A case report of successful CVST treatment using large bore aspiration catheters. Results A 37‐year‐old woman with a history of migraine and current oral contraceptive use presented with acute, persistent, and severe right hemicranial and retro‐orbital headache. Non‐contrast CT head suggested thrombosis of the right transverse sinus. MR venogram confirmed CVST involving the right transverse sinus, sigmoid sinus, and internal jugular vein. We started therapeutic anticoagulation, but the patient’s headache progressively worsened. Repeat MR venogram revealed extension of the CVST. Given clinical and radiological worsening, we proceeded with EVT procedure using a Zoom 088 aspiration system, resulting in successful recanalization of the involved sinuses. However, there was persistent severe headache following the procedure. She developed a new long segment obstructive thrombus in the left transverse sinus and partial re‐occlusion of the right sigmoid sinus on repeat MR venogram. A second EVT procedure was performed using the Zoom 088 Aspiration system, with complete recanalization. Postoperatively, her symptoms resolved and at 3‐month follow‐up she remained largely asymptomatic without neurological deficits. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first reported successful clinical use of the Zoom 088 aspiration device for CVST. The Zoom 088 Aspiration system is a newer generation large distal platform thrombo‐aspiration catheter. Studies have established efficacy of contact aspiration and stent retriever technique for arterial thrombi. Venous sinus clots are loosely bound to the vessel wall, perhaps making them more readily removable through aspiration. However, its standard application for CVST, including its efficacy and complication rates, remain to be analyzed in larger prospective studies. Conclusions This case highlights the pivotal role of EVT, especially large‐bore catheter based aspiration approach, in the management of medically refractory CVST. Thrombo‐aspiration technology is evolving at an accelerated rate with versatile and navigable devices such as the Zoom 088 aspirator. Larger studies are warranted to establish its technical efficacy and safety profile.

Left common iliac vein diameter in patients referred for lower limb venous duplex ultrasound.

Evidence regarding ultrasound assessment of left common iliac vein diameter (LCIV) is limited. Extensive work is currently being undertaken worldwide on non-thrombotic iliac vein lesions to identify patients who may benefit from intervention to alleviate symptoms of chronic venous obstruction. Interventions include long-term stent implantation to improve vein diameter stenosis. This study aimed to assess a cohort of symptomatic venous patients and the diameter of the LCIV in these patients. : Retrospective medical records review of all patients attending a tertiary vascular surgery centre who underwent a venous duplex ultrasound assessment between April 2017 and February 2018 were analysed for assessment of LCIV. Medical records of those patients with documented LCIV diameter were assessed over 18 months of follow-up. : A total of 672 (271 males, 401 females) LCIV diameter measurements were collected. The age of the patients ranged from 21 to 95years (mean = 56.38). Median LCIV diameter overall was 7.64mm (IQR 5.80mm-9.00mm). 40 patients (6%) were reported to have a LCIV diameter measurement of < 4mm, 8 (20%) male and 32 female (80%). 17 of these 40 patients (47.5%) were treated conservatively. Median LCIV diameter was 3.4mm (IQR 2.5-3.7). 21 of these 40 patients (52.5%) underwent superficial venous intervention only, with a median LCIV diameter of 3.5mm (IQR 3.2-3.7) and 2 out of these 40 patients (5%) underwent deep venous stenting (2/2 female - 100%), with a median LCIV diameter of 2.9 (IQR 2.9-2.9). No patients underwent both superficial and deep venous treatment in this 40 patient cohort. In those undergoing superficial venous intervention, 4 (19%) underwent repeat treatment. The two deep venous stenting patients underwent magnetic resonance venogram and venogram with intravascular ultrasound to allow stent placement, which confirmed a narrowed left common iliac vein. Primary stent patency at 18 months was 100%. In this large study cohort of venous duplex assessments the median vein diameter was 7.64mm and 40 patients out of 672 had a vein diameter smaller than 4mm. 2 patients underwent deep venous stenting with primary patency of 100%.

Anaesthetic management of parturient posted for elective caesarean section with cerebral arteriovenous malformation

Sir, Cerebral arteriovenous malformation (AVM) has a prevalence of 0.01–0.05%.[1] We present a case of a 25-year-old primigravida at 37 weeks gestation, a known case of left frontoparietal AVM and epilepsy posted for elective cesarean section. Five years ago, she presented with weakness of the right upper and lower limbs. She was diagnosed with left frontoparietal AVM [Figures 1 and 2]. She had multiple seizure episodes and was started on T. levetiracetam 500 mg BD, T. lacosamide 200 mg BD, T. clobazam 10 mg BD, and T. phenytoin 100 mg OD.Figure 1: MR venogram showing large draining veins joining superior sagittal sinusFigure 2: MRI of the brain showing numerous flow voids along the left frontoparietal lobe and atrophy of neuroparenchyma in the left cerebral hemisphereA pre-anesthetic evaluation was done. She gave a history of seizure attacks 4 days back. She was premedicated with oral pantoprazole 40 mg and metoclopramide 10 mg 1 h before surgery and kept nil per oral for 6 h. All antiepileptic drugs were continued. In the operating room, the wedge was placed under her right hip. Standard pre-induction monitors were attached and intravenous (IV) access was secured. The cesarean section was done under general anesthesia. Rapid sequence induction was performed with IV thiopentone 5 mg/kg and rocuronium 1.2 mg/kg. The patient was intubated with a 7 mm internal diameter endotracheal tube after 1 min. Anesthesia was maintained with oxygen, air, and isoflurane. After delivery of a live female baby of 2.2 kg, IV fentanyl 2 mg/kg, midazolam 2 mg, ondansetron 4 mg, and oxytocin infusion were given. The patient was hemodynamically stable and the postoperative pain was managed with an ultrasound-guided bilateral transverses abdominis plane block. The parturient was extubated and shifted to the intensive care unit (ICU). She had an uneventful postoperative period. Cerebral AVM usually presents with intracranial hemorrhage, seizures, focal neurologic deficits, and headaches.[2] The symptoms of AVM may be mistaken with pregnancy-associated disorders such as eclampsia. computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) (with abdomen shielding) help to confirm the diagnosis. It is mandatory to document the neurological deficits, optimize antiepileptics, counsel regarding the potential complications, and the need for neurosurgery. The neurosurgeon and intervention radiologist were alerted regarding the patient’s delivery plan and the neurologist’s opinion was taken to optimize the antiepileptics. There are no conclusive data regarding the risk of AVM hemorrhage during pregnancy.[3,4] AVM hemorrhage during pregnancy is associated with 28% maternal and 14% neonatal mortality. Most centers prefer elective cesarean sections even though normal vaginal deliveries do not increase the risk of AVM hemorrhage. Uterine contractions during normal labor may increase the stress on the abnormal veins. Hence, if vaginal delivery is planned, epidural labor analgesia and assisted instrumental vaginal delivery are recommended. For cesarean section, general anesthesia is preferred over regional anesthesia to avoid neurological complications. cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) release with subarachnoid block causes a sudden change in the transmural pressure across the AVM predisposing it to rupture. An accidental intravascular injection of local anesthetic containing epinephrine test dose during the initiation of the test dose following epidural anesthesia could predispose to the rupture of AVM. The main aim of anesthetic management is to maintain the mean arterial and intracranial pressure within the normal range to reduce the risk of hemorrhage and cerebral hypoperfusion. Hypertensive responses to laryngoscopy and extubation should be obtunded. Thiopentone is the preferred induction agent.[5] Ketamine is avoided as it can increase blood pressure and intracranial pressure. Suxamethonium has to be avoided and a high dose of rocuronium 1.2 mg/kg is used for rapid sequence induction.[6] General anesthesia with controlled ventilation is used to keep PaCO2 at a low normal range to minimize cerebral vasodilatation and rise in intracranial pressure. Hypotension during surgery is avoided by optimal fluid resuscitation and vasopressors. Supine hypotension is avoided by the use of a wedge under the hip. Thus, multi-disciplinary care involving an obstetrician, intervention radiologist, neurologist, neurosurgeon, and obstetric anesthesiologist is required to ensure good pregnancy outcomes in these high-risk parturients. Declaration of patient consent The authors certify that they have obtained all appropriate patient consent forms. In the form the patient(s) has/have given his/her/their consent for his/her/their images and other clinical information to be reported in the journal. The patients understand that their names and initials will not be published and due efforts will be made to conceal their identity, but anonymity cannot be guaranteed. Financial support and sponsorship Nil. Conflicts of interest There are no conflicts of interest.

Unusual suspect in a common diagnosis: think beyond ‘minimal’

Nephrotic syndrome is a glomerular disease commonly seen in paediatric population. The disease is characterized by a hypercoagulable state and risk of thromboembolic complications. Cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT) is a rare complication in children associated with nephrotic syndrome with an incidence of 0.67/100000 with very few case reports described. 12-year-old girl with steroid dependent nephrotic syndrome- minimal change disease, with a background of recent COVID-19 infection, presented with vomiting, headache, altered sensorium and an episode of generalized tonic clonic seizure. Diagnosis established by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) brain and MR venogram which showed superior sagittal sinus thrombosis. Child was started on anticoagulant therapy, gradually recovered with no neurological sequelae. Thrombosis should be suspected in nephrotic syndrome with the added risk of hypercoagulable state associated with COVID-19 infection. Cortical vein thrombosis, even though rare, should be considered in any patient with nephrotic syndrome who presents with neurological signs or symptoms, especially in this era of COVID-19 pandemic. This highlights the importance of suspecting and recognizing post COVID hypercoagulability as a triggering factor for neurological complications associated with the same. Thromboembolic events are rare in paediatric patients with COVID-19 infection, but a high index of suspicion should be maintained in children, particularly those with comorbidities.