Multistage Surgical Approach Research Articles

Using magnetic resonance-guided laser interstitial thermal therapy corpus callosotomy to lateralize a seizure focus for staged surgical approach

New onset refractory status epilepticus (NORSE) is an etiologically heterogeneous condition that is associated with high morbidity and mortality. NORSE is often refractory to medical management prompting a workup for epilepsy surgery. Because NORSE remains etiologically elusive in most cases, surgical evaluations are challenging, especially when the epileptogenic zone (EZ) is not easy to lateralize as can be seen in frontal lobe seizures. Lateralizing a frontal lobe EZ may be challenging due to bilateral synchrony from commissural connections through the corpus callosum and low spatiotemporal resolution of the scalp electroencephalography (EEG). We report a pediatric patient with NORSE presenting with focal impaired awareness seizures clustering into super refractory status epilepticus (SRSE). She required surgical intervention for the treatment of her seizures after failing therapeutic doses of antiseizure medications, anesthetic drips, immunomodulation with methylprednisolone, intravenous immunoglobulin and anakinra, and the ketogenic diet. Despite her semiology being focal, the seizures were not well lateralized on scalp EEG and during phase 2 stereo-EEG (sEEG). Anterior magnetic resonance-guided laser interstitial thermal therapy corpus callosotomy (MRgLITT CC) was performed in a multistage surgical approach to successfully lateralize the EZ with a left-lateralized ictal pattern seen after reimplantation of sEEG electrodes. Our case suggests that minimally invasive MRgLITT CC can be successfully used to lateralize an EZ in frontal lobe epilepsy and that epilepsy surgery should be considered in patients with NORSE with SRSE. We also demonstrate that laser interstitial thermal therapy (LITT), while not always resulting in seizure freedom, can sufficiently disrupt a network to abort status epilepticus and lead to seizure improvements.

Navigating the complexities of encephalocraniocutaneous lipomatosis: a case series and review

IntroductionEncephalocraniocutaneous lipomatosis (ECCL) is a rare congenital syndrome with complex skin, eye, and central nervous system (CNS) symptoms. Diagnosis and treatment are challenging due to its rarity and diverse manifestations. It often involves issues like porencephalic cysts, cortical atrophy, and low-grade gliomas in the CNS, resulting in developmental delays. The spinal cord is frequently affected, leading to problems like medullary compression and radiculopathy, causing back pain and sensory/motor deficits. Surgical interventions are reserved for symptomatic cases to address hydrocephalus or alleviate spinal lipomas. This article reviews a case series to assess surgical risks and neurological outcomes.Case seriesWe present a case series ECCL, focusing on the diffuse lipomatosis of the spinal cord and the intricate surgical procedures involved. A multi-stage surgical approach was adopted, with continuous neuromonitoring employed to safeguard motor pathways. We discuss clinical characteristics, imaging studies, and indications for neurosurgical interventions.DiscussionECCL is a complex syndrome. Diagnosis is challenging and includes clinical evaluation, neuroimaging, and genetic testing. Treatment targets specific symptoms, often requiring surgery for issues like lipomas or cerebral cysts. Surgery involves laminectomies, spinal fusion, and motor pathway monitoring. Thorough follow-up is crucial due to potential CNS complications like low-grade gliomas. Hydrocephalus occurs in some cases, with endoscopic third ventriculostomy (ETV) preferred over ventriculoperitoneal shunt placement.ConclusionNeurosurgery for ECCL is for symptomatic cases. ETV is preferred for hydrocephalus, while the treatment for lipoma is based on the presence of symptoms; the follow-up should assess growth and prevent deformities.

A Novel Construct to Treat Destructive Osteomyelitis of the Lumbar Spine in a Patient With Pre-existing Paraplegia

Treatment for vertebral osteomyelitis varies depending on the extent of pathology and includes both medical and surgical approaches. Pathogen-directed antibiotic therapy is often the first-line treatment, however, refractory cases or those with sepsis, segmental instability, or epidural abscess may be candidates for surgical treatment. Patients with extensive bony destruction often require a corpectomy with the placement of a cage for anterior column reconstruction. In this case report, we describe a patient with a complex past medical history, including paraplegia secondary to a spinal cord infarct, chronic urinary tract infections (UTIs), acute myeloid leukemia (AML), and decubitus ulcers who presented with increasing back pain and imaging demonstrating vertebral osteomyelitis and diskitis with associated epidural abscess extending from L1-L4 vertebral bodies and significant osseous destruction of the L3 and L5 vertebral bodies. A multistage surgical approach was performed involving an initial laminectomy, wound wash-out, and bony debridement followed by an additional wound wash-out and then a posterior approach for corpectomy and graft placement accomplished by tying off the thecal sac. In rare cases where patients present with complete neurologic injury and extensive destructive osteomyelitis, a posterior approach for corpectomy and stabilization may be an option.

First Result of a Tailored Progressive Multistep Approach for the Treatment of Aorto-esophageal Fistulae

Aorto-esophageal fistulae (AEFs) are a rare but serious and life-threatening disease of the mediastinum. Especially, AEF in the presence of infected stent grafts, for example, after thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) is only curable by a multistage interdisciplinary surgical approach. This study presents the results of our four-stage approach consisting of bridging TEVAR, esophagectomy, complete stent removal followed by total bovine tube aortic replacement (TBTAR), and finally esophageal reconstruction. A case series of four patients from our department receiving a four-stage treatment of AEF is presented in this study. Retrospective database analysis focusing on overall survival, duration of intensive care unit and total hospital stay until discharge, complications, surgical time frame, and completion of chosen surgical treatment course was performed. Overall, four patients surgically treated for AEF since May 2015 were included. A 30-day mortality was 0%, and overall survival at 1 year was 75%. All patients survived more than 5 months and could be discharged after TEVAR and esophagectomy. TBTAR could be performed in two of four patients (50%). Esophageal reconstruction was completed in all patients. Average follow-up was 20.3 ± 1.7 months or until death. The acute management of AEF using this approach seems satisfactory, especially for reducing acute short-term mortality. Complete restoration of the circulatory system and digestive tract remains challenging and is associated with high morbidity. We support the application of bridging TEVAR with a staggered approach to further surgical treatment individually tailored to the patient.

Bicompartmental locked bucket-handle tears of menisci concealing the concomitant anterior cruciate ligament injury for 2 years - a case report.

Locked bucket-handle tears of both medial and lateral menisci, called in literature "Jack and Jill lesion", with simultaneous anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury is an extremely unusual phenomenon. It was reported only in a few cases in literature, which were unfortunately highly differentiated in the field of trauma mechanism, treatment options and postoperative care. Authors presented a clinical case of patient with a locked knee joint, by the torn both menisci, what masked the simultaneous ACL rupture and supremely imitated a stable joint. The locked knee is a clinical case demanding the urgent intervention to prevent further damages to the joint structures. Surprisingly, the patient after locking of the menisci and migration of their inner fragments to the intercondylar notch, started to feel the affected joint stabile and dismissed from the further treatment for next 2 years. Complex trauma needs a complex treatment, and a single-stage or multi-stage surgical approach is performed. Authors chose a two-steps surgical procedure with primary meniscal repair and secondary, early ACL reconstruction.

Chemical Ablation of Cartilagineous Tissue in Tracheal Stenosis

Laryngo-tracheal stenosis represents a challenging pathology that requires multi-stage surgical approach, and a multidisciplinary team. The diagnosis is based on clinical examination, endoscopic assessment, and imagistic evaluation. Coblation is a surgical technology based on chemical ablation of the tissue, that is suitable for tracheal stenosis approach.We present our experience with coblation for the management of laryngo-tracheal stenosis, and highlight the advantages, and disadvantages of coblation for tracheal stenosis. We consider chemical ablation of the cartilaginous tissue through coblation a valuable surgical technology for the treatment of tracheal stenosis.

Treatment of combined abdominal and pelvic trauma

To decrease disability and mortality in patients with severe combined pelvic and abdominal trauma via applications of new progressive treatment tactics. Retrospective and prospective analysis included 1033 patients with severe combined traumas (SCT) who were treated at the Clinical Hospital #3 in 2009-2015. Patients were divided into 2 groups - control (2009-2010) and main (2011-2015) group. Treatment in control group was similar to conventional approaches. In main group severity of injury was determined according to AİS (Abbreviated İnjury Scale) and İSS (İnjury Severity Scale) scales. 'Damage control' principle was applied in these patients. In the main group 'damage control' principle with programmed multi-stage surgical approach was followed by mortality near 36.4% vs. 45.5% in the control group. Any surgical procedures are possible in patients with pelvic injuries type A and ISS score 17-26. In patients with pelvic injuries type A and ISS score 26-40 urgent surgery is advisable along with resuscitative assistance. Emergency surgery is performed for fractures type B and life-saving interventions for fractures type C. These operations are carried out simultaneously with pre- and intraoperative blood transfusion and vital functions stabilization. Life-saving procedures alone may be performed in patients with advanced injury and ISS score 41-49 and up to 75 regardless type of trauma.

Manitoba Oculo-tricho-anal Syndrome: Complex Surgical Correction of an Extensive Upper Lid Coloboma with Congenital Symblepharon

Manitoba Oculo-tricho-anal Syndrome (MOTA) is a rare autosomal recessive disorder characterized by eyelid coloboma, cryptophthalmos, anophthalmia or microphthalmia, abnormal hair growth from scalp to eyebrow, bifid or broad nasal tip, and gastrointestinal anomalies including omphalocele and anorectal malformations.[1, 2] We describe a multi-stage surgical approach to repair a right upper lid coloboma with an extensive congenital superomedial symblepharon obscuring the pupil in the context of MOTA. Surgical steps included reconstitution of the eyelid’s anatomical landmarks with dissection of the symblepharon invading the opacified cornea, freeing the pupillary axis, creation of a superior fornix, advancement of myocutaneous/periosteal flaps, and insertion of an implant to recreate the absent eyelid. This resulted in significant improvement of ocular surface protection, quality of life, and allowed for amblyopia treatment.

Hodotopy, neuroplasticity and diffuse gliomas

Background and purposeThe historical approach in neurooncology is used to mainly investigate the tumor, with very few considerations regarding the brain itself. Nonetheless, to select the best personalized therapeutic management for each patient with a diffuse glioma, i.e. to optimize the “onco-functional balance”, the brain reaction induced by glioma growth and migration should be studied. Indeed, due to strong interactions between the glioma and the brain, cerebral adaptive phenomena often occur in order to maintain neurological and cognitive functions, as well as to compensate glioma spreading. Here, the goal is to detail mechanisms underlying neuroplasticity and its implications for surgical neurooncology. MethodsData issues from cerebral mapping and functional outcomes in patients who underwent awake surgery for gliomas were discussed. ResultsMassive resections of the brain, including so-called “eloquent areas”, are possible without generating permanent neurological deficits in adult patients harbouring a diffuse glioma. ConclusionFrom a fundamental point of view, these findings open the door to a hodotopical anatomo-functional organization of the brain, i.e. organized in dynamic and interactive parallel large-scale distributed networks, able to compensate for each other. Furthermore, cognitive neurosciences represent valuable help to neuro-oncology, by leading to the elaboration of new treatment strategies, such as multistage surgical approach, made possible thanks to cerebral remapping over years. In other words, understanding neuroplasticity in a connectomal account of brain processing permitted a dramatic improvement of both quality of life as well as overall survival in glioma patients, and resulted in the proposal of an “individualized functional neurooncology”.

Silent sinus syndrome.

Symptoms of diplopia, abnormal eyelid signs (retraction, ptosis, absent crease), ocular asymmetry (hypoglobus, enophthalmos), and dry eyes from lagophthalmos could all indicate the diagnosis of silent sinus syndrome. It is important for the physician to be updated on this relatively rare clinical entity. Silent sinus syndrome lies on a spectrum of other forms of sinus-related orbitopathy. Uncommon presentations and descriptions of sinus involvement other than the maxillary sinus add to the variability of presentation. Radiographic features of disease include an opacified and hypoplastic sinus, a lateralized uncinate process, depression of the orbital floor, and a blocked osteomeatal complex. Management of silent sinus syndrome may include a single or multistage surgical approach, or a nonsurgical approach. This review discusses silent sinus syndrome from a neuro-ophthalmological perspective.

Outcomes of patients who underwent staged repair for pulmonary atresia with ventricular septal defects and major aorto-pulmonary collateral arteries at Southampton University Hospital, United Kingdom

Objective: To assess the long-term outcomes of multistage surgical approach in 18 surviving patients in areas of mortality, requirement for postoperative interventional cardiac catheterization, saturations on air, right ventricular (RV) pressures in relation to the systemic pressures, RV and left ventricular (LV) functions and the adequacy of pulmonary arborisation. Method: Data of all surviving patients who underwent complete repair at Southampton University Hospital were reviewed. Data were obtained using case notes and computer based patient records. No data were gathered by direct patient contacts. LV and RV ejection fractions were measured by cardiac magnetic resonance imaging. Pulmonary arborisation patterns were assessed using cardiac catheter data. Results: A total of 26 patients had undergone complete repair. There were 8 (30.8%) deaths and the 18 survivors constituted the study group. Eleven (61.1%) had undergone three or more surgeries to attain complete repair. Fifteen (83.3%) maintained resting saturations above 80% after surgery. Nine (50%) had undergone three or more catheter interventions after complete repair. Eleven (61.1%) had undergone one or more pulmonary ballooning. Nine (50%) had undergone pulmonary artery (PA) stenting. Four (22.2%) had a RV ejection fraction (EF) 50% of LV pressures. Certain zones of the lungs were significantly under-filled on complete repair. Conclusions : Children with pulmonary atresia, ventricular septal defect and major aorto-pulmonary collaterals can be treated using a staged repair. There is a high mortality (31%) with average functional results. Sri Lanka Journal of Child Health , 2014; 43 (2): 84-87 (Key words: Pulmonary atresia; ventricular septal defect; major aorto-pulmonary collaterals) DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.4038/sljch.v43i2.7008

The “onco-functional balance” in surgery for diffuse low-grade glioma: integrating the extent of resection with quality of life

Diffuse low-grade glioma (DLGG) is a growing pre-cancerous tumor, often diagnosed in patients with no or only mild deficit. Maximal and early surgical resection is currently the first therapeutic option, in order to delay the malignant transformation and thus increase the overall survival. Preserving the quality of life (QoL) is nonetheless another priority. Here, our purpose is to weight the value of the extent of resection versus the neurological worsening that could be voluntarily generated by a radical resection; that is, to study the "onco-functional balance" at the individual level. To this end, we will examine DLGG involving the supplementary motor area and DLGG involving visual pathways. We will consider the benefit-risk ratio of different strategies of resection, according to the brain structures actually invaded and their plastic potential. The aim is to increase both the quantity of life and the time with a normal QoL, on the basis of strong interactions between the tumor course, brain reorganization and multistage surgical approach adapted to each patient over time. To this end, beyond the conceptual and technical issues, the most important point remains the honest and unique relationship between the surgical oncologist and the patient, based on clear and complete information about the behavior of DLGG versus the expected medical and social consequences of a resection over years. In other words, in the era of "evidence-based medicine", it is crucial to not forget "individual-based medicine" by offering tailored resections adapted to each patient.

Long-term brain plasticity allowing a multistage surgical approach to World Health Organization Grade II gliomas in eloquent areas

Although the goal of surgery for World Health Organization Grade II gliomas is maximal extent of resection, complete tumor removal is not always possible when the glioma involves eloquent areas. The authors propose a multistage surgical approach to highly crucial areas that are classically considered inoperable, enabling optimization of the extent of resection while avoiding permanent cognitive deficits due to induced functional reshaping in the interim between the 2 consecutive operations. To demonstrate such plasticity, the authors used a combination of sequential functional MR imaging and intraoperative electrical stimulation mapping before and during surgeries spaced by several years in 2 patients who each underwent 2 separate resections of Grade II gliomas located in the left dominant premotor area. During several years of follow-up after the first procedure, both patients had unremarkable examination results and normal socioprofessional lives. There was no malignant transformation. Based on their experience with these cases, the authors suggest that in cases of incomplete glioma removal, a second operation before anaplasia should be considered, made possible by brain reorganization after the first operation.

Fibula and tibia fusion with cancellous allograft vitalised with autologous bone marrow: first results for infected tibial non-union

Autogenous bone grafting has been used in reconstructing bone defects and in stimulating fracture healing, producing high healing rates in the treatment of infected tibial non-unions. A novel therapeutic alternative is now available known as "vitalised allograft", a cancellous bone graft procured from femoral heads from living human donors and "vitalised" through the injection of autologous bone marrow. The aim of this study is to summarise the initial results of the fibula and tibia fusion using vitalised cancellous allograft in the treatment of infected tibial non-unions. We initiated a follow-up of 15 prospective non-randomized patients who received a vitalised allograft in the treatment of infected tibial non-unions in order to produce bony union. The patients included 13 men and 2 women with an average age of 48 years. All patients received a multi-stage surgical approach. After establishing an infection-free environment, allogenic cancellous bone grafting was performed, intended as the final surgical procedure in fibula and tibia fusion. Our follow-up included a clinical and radiographic investigation of the calf in four planes. We analysed union-rate and time required for bony consolidation, as well as recurrent infections, re-fractures, potential graft-resorption, and time needed for graft and bone remodelling. With an average follow-up of 17.1 months, infection control was obtained in 14 of 15 patients, producing an infection arrest rate of 93.3%. Radiographs indicated consolidation in 11 out of 15 cases, with a union rate of 73.3%. Bone union was achieved on average in 17.1 weeks. Fibula and tibia fusion with allogenic cancellous bone grafting, vitalised through autogenic bone marrow, could well become an innovative treatment option for infected tibial non-unions. We need, however, to analyse a higher number of cases over a longer follow-up period in order to assess more accurately recurrent infections and re-fractures.

Komplexe Kniegelenkverletzung beim Polytrauma

In polytraumatized patients severe joint injuries represent a special entity because their management is complex and lengthy. The surgeon must decide if limb salvage is indicated and which further surgical steps have to be instituted. The decision for amputation is based on the patient's general condition and the soft-tissue and neurovascular injury. Scoring systems are useful for decision making. Limb salvage is associated with a multistage surgical approach. Priority is given to restoration of sufficient blood supply and soft tissue repair; the indication for fasciotomy covers a wide field. To avoid further compromise to soft tissue and perfusion, temporary joint and fracture stabilization is required. Definitive surgery has to be delayed until the 2 week period, starting between the fifth and tenth day after trauma.

Epilepsy Surgery for Children With Tuberous Sclerosis Complex

Tuberous sclerosis complex is associated with medically refractory seizures and developmental delay in children. These epilepsies are often resistant to antiepileptic drugs, can be quite severe, and usually have a negative impact on the child's neurologic and cognitive development. It is believed that functional outcome is improved if seizures can be controlled at an early age. The surgical treatment of intractable epilepsy in children and adults with tuberous sclerosis complex has gained significant interest in recent years. Previously published studies have shown a potential benefit from resection of single tubers, with most of the results noted in relatively older children. All of these reports support the idea that if a single primary epileptogenic tuber or region can be identified, then a surgical approach is appropriate. However, most children with tuberous sclerosis complex have multiple potentially epileptogenic tubers, rendering localization challenging, and they are therefore rejected as possible surgical candidates. We have used a novel surgical approach using invasive intracranial monitoring, which is typically multistaged and bilateral. This multistage surgical approach has been useful in identifying both primary and secondary epileptogenic zones in patients with tuberous sclerosis complex with multiple tubers. Multiple or bilateral seizure foci are not necessarily a contraindication to surgery in selected patients. Long-term follow-up will determine whether this approach has durable effects. We await better methods for identifying the epileptogenic zone, both noninvasive and invasive.

Single Layered Small Intestinal Submucosa in the Repair of Severe Chordee and Complicated Hypospadias

Severe ventral chordee often accompanies proximal hypospadias. We describe our experience with single layered small intestinal submucosa (SIS), a commercially available, acellular, collagen based biomaterial, in the repair of severe chordee as part of a multistage approach to the repair of proximal hypospadias. Between 2001 and 2002, 9 boys with proximal hypospadias (penoscrotal to perineal) and severe ventral chordee (greater than 40 degrees) underwent SIS grafting to correct the curvature. In each case the urethral plate was transected at the point of maximal curvature, the defect in the corporal bodies was measured, and the SIS graft was cut 2 mm wider around the perimeter of the defect and sutured into place. Skin resurfacing of the ventral penis was performed in standard fashion using Byars flaps. Recurrence of chordee was assessed by an artificial penile erection test at the time of stage 2 reconstruction. Of the 9 boys 8 underwent a planned 2-stage repair with subsequent urethroplasty 6 to 12 months after the initial stage 1 chordee repair. Median age at stage 1 repair of the 8 boys was 9 months. Native meatus location was penoscrotal in 6 boys, mid scrotal in 1 and perineal in 1. A 14 month-old boy underwent 1-stage chordee correction with SIS and a transverse preputial island tube graft urethroplasty for penoscrotal hypospadias. There were no perioperative medical or surgical complications related to use of SIS for chordee repair. Median age of the 8 boys at stage 2 repair was 18 months. At stage 2 the graft site was supple and smooth without significant scarring. All chordee correction has remained durable with followup ranging from 16 to 21 months. Postoperative complications occurred in 3 cases, including meatal stenosis requiring meatoplasty, subcoronal fistula requiring repair and complete breakdown of the neourethra in the single stage repair case. Although this study includes a small population of patients and has limited followup, our favorable experience with single layer SIS suggests that it is a safe and effective, commercially available material for corporal body grafting to correct severe chordee as part of a multistage surgical approach to repair complex hypospadias. A larger series of patients with longer followup is necessary to determine if the chordee correction remains durable. Our experience is insufficient to judge its efficacy in single stage repairs.

Hypervascular vestibular schwannomas

BACKGROUND Vestibular schwannoma (VS) is usually hypovascular and can be resected totally without major morbidity. Resection of the more uncommon hypervascular VS is complicated by excessive tumor bleeding. We have attempted to clarify the clinical characteristics and management of hypervascular VS. METHODS Surgical reports and videos of 78 patients with unilateral VS (5 hypervascular, 73 nonhypervascular) were retrospectively reviewed and clinical characteristics, radiological findings, and case management were compared. RESULTS Hypervascular VS presented at a younger age than nonhypervascular VS (29 ± 12 vs. 52 ± 16 years old) ( p < 0.01). Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed that hypervascular VS was solid, without tumor cyst, and significantly larger than nonhypervascular VS ( p < 0.05). The surface of hypervascular VS consistently showed multiple flow voids representing large draining veins. The characteristic angiographical findings of hypervascular VS were extensive tumor vessels, tumor stains, and early filling of draining veins; vertebrobasilar arteries supplied hypervascular VS. A multi-stage surgical approach was used since torrential tumor bleeding in the first surgery interfered with resection, resulting in partial tumor removal. Angiography before the second surgery showed much reduced tumor vascularity, bleeding was much reduced, and tumor was resected with less difficulty. In this approach, all 5 hypervascular VS were resected totally (1 case) or near-totally (4 cases) without major morbidity. CONCLUSIONS Hypervascular VS, a solid and large tumor, presents at an earlier age. Although angiography provides characteristic findings, MRI can confirm the diagnosis of a hypervascular VS by showing multiple flow-voids on the tumor surface. Since partial tumor removal (first surgery) extensively reduces tumor vascularity and intraoperative tumor bleeding considerably, hypervascular VS should be managed by a multi-staged surgical approach.