Poor Functional Outcome Research Articles

Neuroimaging Marker-CT Perfusion of Early Neurological Deterioration in Patients with Minor Stroke and Large Vessel Occlusion after Intravenous Thrombolysis.

Early Neurological Deterioration (END) is one of the complications in Acute ischemic stroke (AIS) and relates to prognosis. However, the reason why it occurs is still unclear. Our study is to investigate if CT perfusion (CTP) can predict END in patients with Minor Stroke and Large Vessel Occlusion after Intravenous Thrombolysis (IVT). Patients who underwent IVT with Large Vessel Occlusion were enrolled continuously from January 2021 to August 2023. After evaluating the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score, they were divided into the END group (n=21) and the Non-END group (n=20). Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to explore the factors of END. Receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was also used to assess the discriminative ability of CTP in predicting END. A total of 41 patients (mean age, 62.34 ± 10.82 years, 27 male) were finally included in the analysis; 21 patients had END, and 9 patients underwent Endovascular thrombectomy (EVT). Multivariate logistic regression analysis indicated that rCBV (OR=0.081, 95%CI=0.009- 0.721, p = 0.024) and admission-NIHSS (OR=1.990, 95%CI=1.049-3.772, p = 0.035) were significantly associated with END. The area under the curve (AUC) of rCBV and NIHSS to discriminate END were 0.708 and 0.758. We found patients with END had a higher modified Rankin Scale (mRS) in 3 months. The rCBV and NIHSS were associated with post-thrombolysis END and may become reliable markers to predicate END. END might predict a poor 3-month functional outcome.

Open fractures: evidence-based best practices.

Open fracture management is a common challenge to orthopaedic trauma surgeons and a burdensome condition to the patient, health care, and entire society. Fracture-related infection (FRI) is the leading morbid complication to avoid during open fracture management because it leads to sepsis, nonunion, limb loss, and overall very poor region-specific and general functional outcomes. This review, based on a symposium presented at the 2022 OTA International Trauma Care Forum, provides a practical and evidence-based summary on key strategies to prevent FRI in open fractures, which can be grouped as optimizing host factors, antimicrobial prophylaxis, surgical site management (skin preparation, debridement, and wound irrigation), provision of skeletal stability, and soft-tissue coverage. When it is applicable, strategies are differentiated between optimal resource and resource-limited settings.

Outcomes and risk factors for infection after endovascular treatment in patients with acute ischemic stroke.

Infection is a common complication following acute ischemic stroke (AIS) and significantly contributes to poor functional outcomes after stroke. This study aimed to investigate the effects of infection after endovascular treatment (post-EVT infection) on clinical outcomes and risk factors in patients with AIS. We retrospectively analyzed AIS patients treated with endovascular treatment (EVT) between January 2016 and December 2022. A post-EVT infection was defined as any infection diagnosed within 7 days after EVT. The primary outcome was functional independence, defined as a modified Rankin scale (mRS) score of 0-2 at 90 days. A multivariable logistic regression analysis was conducted to determine independent predictors of post-EVT infection and the associations between post-EVT infection and clinical outcomes. A total of 675 patients were included in the analysis; 306 (45.3%) of them had post-EVT infections. Patients with post-EVT infection had a lower rate of functional independence than patients without infection (31% vs 65%, p = 0.006). In addition, patients with post-EVT infection achieved less early neurological improvement (ENI) after EVT (25.8% vs 47.4%, p < 0.001). For safety outcomes, the infection group had a higher incidence of any intracranial hemorrhage (23.9% vs 15.7%, p = 0.01) and symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (10.1% vs 5.1%, p = 0.01). Unsuccessful recanalization (aOR 1.87, 95% CI 1.11-3.13; p = 0.02) and general anesthesia (aOR 2.22, 95% CI 1.25-3.95; p = 0.01) were identified as independent predictors for post-EVT infection in logistic regression analysis. AIS patients who develop post-EVT infections are more likely to experience poor clinical outcomes. Unsuccessful recanalization and general anesthesia were independent risk factors for the development of post-EVT infection.

A Nonlinear Relation between Body Mass Index and Long-Term Poststroke Functional Outcome-The Importance of Insulin Resistance, Inflammation, and Insulin-like Growth Factor-Binding Protein-1.

Both high serum insulin-like growth factor-binding protein-1 (s-IGFBP-1) and insulin resistance (IR) are associated with poor functional outcome poststroke, whereas overweight body mass index (BMI; 25-30) is related to fewer deaths and favorable functional outcome in a phenomenon labeled "the obesity paradox". Furthermore, IGFBP-1 is inversely related to BMI, in contrast to the linear relation between IR and BMI. Here, we investigated s-IGFBP-1 and IR concerning BMI and 7-year poststroke functional outcome. We included 451 stroke patients from the Sahlgrenska Study on Ischemic Stroke (SAHLSIS) with baseline measurements of s-IGFBP1, homeostasis model assessment of IR (HOMA-IR), BMI (categories: normal-weight (8.5-25), overweight (25-30), and obesity (>30)), and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) as a measure of general inflammation. Associations with poor functional outcome (modified Rankin scale [mRS] score: 3-6) after 7 years were evaluated using multivariable binary logistic regression, with overweight as reference due to the nonlinear relationship. Both normal-weight (odds-ratio [OR] 2.32, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.30-4.14) and obese (OR 2.25, 95% CI 1.08-4.71) patients had an increased risk of poor functional outcome, driven by deaths only in the normal-weight. In normal-weight, s-IGFBP-1 modestly attenuated (8.3%) this association. In the obese, the association was instead attenuated by HOMA-IR (22.4%) and hs-CRP (10.4%). Thus, a nonlinear relation between BMI and poor 7-year functional outcome was differently attenuated in the normal-weight and the obese.

Inflammation and Adverse Outcomes in Patients With Acute Ischemic Stroke With and Without Chronic Kidney Disease.

Elevated white blood cell count, fibrinogen levels, and lower levels of albumin signify higher systemic inflammatory response, hypercoagulable state, and poorer nutritional status, respectively. However, a consistent conclusion could not be drawn on whether the association between inflammatory markers and cardiovascular disease was affected by the presence of chronic kidney disease (CKD). We aimed to explore the association between inflammation and adverse outcomes in patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS), as well as whether this association differs due to the presence of CKD. This research was based on the Third China National Stroke Registry. The main adverse outcomes were poor functional outcome, stroke recurrence, and combined vascular event after 1 year. Inflammation was defined as the worst quartile of at least 2 of the aforementioned 3 markers. Finally, 8493 patients with AIS were enrolled in this study. The adjusted odds ratios/hazard ratios and 95% CIs of inflammation were 1.58 (1.34-1.86) for poor functional outcomes, 1.25 (1.06-1.47) for stroke recurrence, and 1.25 (1.06-1.46) for combined vascular event. The association between inflammation and adverse outcomes existed only in patients with AIS without CKD, although the interaction between CKD and inflammation was not statistically significant. (P for interaction >0.05). Inflammation, which was defined as a combination of fibrinogen, white blood cell count, and albumin, was associated with all 1-year adverse outcomes among patients with AIS. Routine assessment of these biomarkers could become a potential part of the clinical evaluation for patients with AIS, especially those without CKD, aiding clinicians in risk stratification and treatment decision-making.

Association between Sarcopenia and Balance in Patients Undergoing Inpatient Rehabilitation after Hip Fractures: A Retrospective Cohort Study.

Background and Objectives: Sarcopenia is characterized by a decline in skeletal muscle mass, strength, and function and is associated with advancing age. This condition has been suggested as a factor that negatively influences the functional outcomes of patients with hip fractures. However, the association between sarcopenia and balance impairment in patients undergoing inpatient rehabilitation after hip fractures remains unclear. In this retrospective cohort study, we aimed to investigate the impact of sarcopenia on balance outcomes in patients undergoing inpatient rehabilitation following hip fractures. Materials and Methods: Baseline sarcopenia was diagnosed using skeletal muscle mass index and handgrip strength, with cut-off values recommended by the Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia. The primary outcome was balance, which was assessed using the Berg Balance Scale (BBS) at the time of discharge. A multiple linear regression model analyzed the association between sarcopenia and balance. The model was adjusted for age, sex, comorbidities, and cognitive function. Results: Among the 62 patients (mean age: 78.2; sex: 75.8% women), 24.2% had sarcopenia. Patients with sarcopenia had significantly lower BBS scores than did those without sarcopenia (41 vs. 49 points, p = 0.004). Multiple linear regression analysis revealed that baseline sarcopenia was independently associated with BBS scores at discharge (β = -0.282, p = 0.038). Conclusions: Following inpatient rehabilitation, patients with baseline sarcopenia had inferior balance outcomes than did those without sarcopenia at discharge. Sarcopenia should be assessed on admission to consider and provide additional care for those with a higher risk of poor functional outcomes. More studies are needed to investigate the association between sarcopenia and functional outcomes, examine the impact of sarcopenia treatment on these outcomes, and reduce the risk of recurrent falls and fractures in patients with hip fractures.

Hematocrit Predicts Poor Prognosis in Patients with Acute Ischemic Stroke or Transient Ischemic Attack.

This study aims to investigate the association between HCT (Hematocrit) levels and adverse outcomes in patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS) or transient ischemic attack (TIA); 14,832 participants from the China National Stroke Registry-III with AIS or TIA were analyzed. Participants were categorized into quartiles based on baseline HCT levels. The primary outcome was poor functional outcomes (modified Rankin Scale ≥ 3) during three months, with secondary outcomes including all-cause death, stroke recurrence, and combined vascular events. Logistic regression or Cox regression models were used to assess the relationship between HCT and clinical outcomes. Compared to the third quartile, patients in the lowest quartile group showed increased risk of poor functional outcome (adjusted OR: 1.35, 95% CI: 1.15-1.58, p < 0.001), patients in the lowest quartile had a higher risk of all-cause death (adjusted HR: 1.68, 95% CI: 1.06-2.68, p = 0.028), as did those in the highest quartile (adjusted HR: 2.02, 95% CI: 1.26-3.25, p = 0.004). Sensitivity analysis shows that the association of HCT with all-cause death weakened, while the association with poor functional outcome was strengthened after excluding patients with recurrent stroke. Our results indicated that HCT level could be used as a short-term predictor for poor functional outcomes and all-cause death in patients with AIS or TIA.

Nationwide Incidence and Trends in Central Retinal Arterial Occlusion Management: A 5000-Patient Analysis.

Central retinal artery occlusion (CRAO) is a rare and visually debilitating vascular condition characterized by sudden and severe vision loss. CRAO is a compelling target for intravenous alteplase (tPA) and endovascular mechanical thrombectomy (MT) due to pathophysiological similarities with acute ischemic stroke; however, the utility of these interventions in CRAO remains dubious due to limited sample sizes and potential risks. To assess usage and outcomes of tPA and MT in CRAO, we queried the National Inpatient Sample database using International Classification of Disease, Ninth and Tenth edition for patients with CRAO and acute ischemic stroke between 2010 and 2019. Our cohort of 5009 CRAO patients were younger with higher rates of obesity, hypertension, long-term anticoagulant use, and tobacco use compared to acute ischemic stroke patients. CRAO patients had lower rates of tPA administration (3.41% vs 6.21%) and endovascular MT (0.38% vs 1.31%) but fewer complications, including deep vein thrombosis, pneumonia, urinary tract infection, acute kidney injury, and acute myocardial infarction (all P < 0.01). CRAO patients had lower rates of poor functional outcome (31.74% vs 58.1%) and in-hospital mortality (1.2% vs 5.64%), but higher rates of profound blindness (9.24% vs 0.58%). A multivariate regression showed no relationship between tPA and MT and profound blindness, although the limited sample size of patients receiving interventions may have contributed to this apparent insignificance. Further investigation of larger patient cohorts and alternative treatment modalities could provide valuable insights for revascularization therapies in CRAO to optimize visual restoration and clinical outcomes.

Therapeutic Hypothermia Compared with Normothermia in Adults with Traumatic Brain Injury; Functional Outcome, Mortality, and Adverse Effects: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

The main focus of traumatic brain injury (TBI) management is prevention of secondary injury. Therapeutic hypothermia (TH), the induction of a targeted low core body temperature, has been explored as a potential neuroprotectant in TBI. The aim of this article is to synthesize the available clinical data comparing the use of TH with the use of normothermia in TBI. A systematic search was conducted through MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials for randomized clinical trials including one or more outcome of interest associated with TH use in TBI. Independent reviewers evaluated quality of the studies and extracted data on patients with TBI undergoing TH treatment compared with those undergoing normothermia treatment. Pooled estimates, confidence intervals (CIs), and risk ratios (RRs) or odds ratios were calculated for all outcomes. A total of 3,909 patients from 32 studies were eligible for analysis. Pooled analysis revealed a significant benefit of TH on mortality and functional outcome (RR 0.81, 95% CI 0.68-0.96, I2 = 41%; and RR 0.77; 95% CI 0.67-0.88, I2 = 68%, respectively). However, subgroup analysis based on risk of bias showed that only studies with a high risk of bias maintained this benefit. When divided by cooling method, reduced poor functional outcome was seen in the systemic surface cooling and cranial cooling groups (RR 0.68, 95% CI 0.59-0.79, I2 = 35%; and RR 0.44, 95% CI 0.29-0.67, I2 = 0%), and no difference was seen for the systemic intravenous or gastric cooling group. Reduced mortality was only seen in the systemic surface cooling group (RR 0.63, 95% CI 0.53-0.75, I2 = 0%,); however, this group had mostly high risk of bias studies. TH had an increased rate of pneumonia (RR 1.24, 95% CI 1.10-1.40, I2 = 32%), coagulation abnormalities (RR 1.63, 95% CI 1.09-2.44, I2 = 55%), and cardiac arrhythmias (RR 1.78, 95% CI 1.05-3.01, I2 = 21%). Once separated by low and high risk of bias, we saw no difference in these complications in the groups with low risk of bias. Overall quality of the evidence was moderate for mortality, functional outcome, and pneumonia and was low for coagulation abnormalities and cardiac arrhythmias. With the addition of several recent randomized clinical trials and a thorough quality assessment, we have provided an updated systematic review and meta-analysis that concludes that TH does not show any benefit over normothermia in terms of mortality and functional outcome.

E074 Clinical features, disease activity and functional outcome of juvenile-onset, adult-onset and late-onset ankylosing spondylitis: a cross sectional study from India

Abstract Background/Aims Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) or radiographic axial spondyloarthritis (axial SpA) is reported to present with peripheral arthritis, less spinal symptoms, and more radiographic damage in juvenile onset (age at onset ≤16 years) as compared to adult-onset AS(age at onset &amp;lt;45 years). Functional outcome has varied depending on the population studied. In this cross-sectional study we compared clinical features, disease activity, and functional outcome among juvenile-onset AS (JoAS), adult-onset AS(AoAS), late-onset AS (LoAS). Methods Consenting patients fulfilling either the ASAS classification for axial SpA or 1984 modified New York criteria attending SpA clinic were included between May and June 2022. Data was collected by direct patient interview and clinical examination. Data collected: Clinical features, treatment, current disease activity by Bath AS disease activity index (BASDAI), current functional outcome by the Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Functional Index (BASFI). Disease activity, functional outcome were compared among JoAS, AoAS, and LoAS. Study protocol was approved by the IEC. Results Of 73 patients (61 male), mean age 39.1±12.8 years, 10 (13.7%) were JoAS, 56 (76.7%) and 7 (9.6%) were AoAS and LoAS respectively. Only 30%, 59%, and 57% patients in JoAS, AoAS, and LoAS respectively were employed. There were no differences in the clinical presentation, namely back pain, neck pain, hip involvement, uveitis, and enthesitis among the three groups (Table 1). Majority received conventional-synthetic-DMARDs; only 2(20)%, 8(14.3), and 1(14.3) in the JoAS, AoAS, and LoAS group respectively had ever received TNF-inhibitors. Majority patients in all the groups had active disease (BASDAI&amp;gt;4 and ASDAS&amp;gt;1.3) and there was also no difference in the disease activity (at enrolment) between the groups. All patients with JoAS were positive for HLA-B27. Mean BASFI was not different between the groups, but poor functional outcome (BASFI &amp;gt;6) was observed in 5/10 (50%), 28/56 (50%), 5/9 (71.4%) patients of JoAS, AoAS, and LoAS respectively. Conclusion In a study involving a homogeneous cohort of Indian AS, there were no marked differences in clinical features, disease activity between JoAS, AoAS, and LoAS. Majority patients have poor functional outcomes which could be a direct effect of poor disease control due to lack of access to TNF inhibitors. Disclosure K. Modadugu: None. M.M. Thabah: None.

The Natural History of Non-operatively Treated Traumatic Triangular Fibrocartilage Complex Tears: A Systematic Review.

Purpose Operative treatment of triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) tears has been well researched; however, data regarding nonoperative management is mixed and scarce. Our review aimed to utilize available data to formulate conclusions regarding treatment algorithms for this heterogeneous injury group. Methods A thorough literature review was performed in Medline (OVID), Embase, Cochrane Library, and PubMed databases with search terms including "triangular fibrocartilage complex" and variations on the full term including "triangular fibrocartilage" or "TFCC," alongside "non-operative" and "conservative." Results were then subject to inclusion criteria, ultimately identifying eight studies. Results The studies involved a total of 425 patients and 427 wrists for analysis. The mean age ranged from 30.7 years to 60.4 years. 53.6% of patients were male. The mean follow-up ranged from 12 months to 7 years, with an overall mean follow-up period of 27 months. Primary endpoints focused on various functional outcome scores, range of motion, grip strength, and pain. The nonoperative management of TFCC tears resulted in noninferior and comparable outcomes to operative management. Conclusion Our review identified that the nonoperative management of Palmer-type IB tears with a short period of above-elbow immobilization was an effective treatment option with good functional outcome scores. The nonoperative management of general TFCC tears resulted in comparable functional outcomes when viewed alongside results from other systematic reviews. Risk factors for developing a poor functional outcome or requiring operative management included distal radioulnar joint subluxation, short-arm immobilization, and full tears of the foveal attachment. However, further randomized controlled trials with homogenous data collection are required to make further conclusions regarding the management of this condition.

Racial and Socioeconomic Status among a Patient Population Presenting with Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage versus Unruptured Intracranial Aneurysm: A Single-Center Study.

Racial and socioeconomic health disparities are well documented in the literature. This study examined patient demographics, including socioeconomic status (SES), among individuals presenting with aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) and unruptured intracranial aneurysm (UIA) to identify factors associated with aSAH presentation. A retrospective assessment was conducted of all patients with aSAH and UIA who presented to a large-volume cerebrovascular center and underwent microsurgical treatment from January 2014 through July 2019. Race and ethnicity, insurance type, and SES data were collected for each patient. Comparative analysis of the aSAH and UIA groups was conducted. Logistic regression models were also employed to predict the likelihood of aSAH presentation based on demographic and socioeconomic factors. A total of 640 patients were included (aSAH group, 251; UIA group, 389). Significant associations were observed between race and ethnicity, SES, insurance type, and aneurysm rupture. Non-White race or ethnicity, lower SES, and having public or no insurance were associated with increased odds of aSAH presentation. The aSAH group had poorer functional outcomes and higher mortality rates than the UIA group. Patients who are non-White, have low SES, and have public or no insurance were disproportionately affected by aSAH, which is historically associated with poorer functional outcomes.

Outcomes of heparin-induced thrombocytopenia type II in aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage patients: A US nationwide analysis.

Despite the widespread use of heparin during and following endovascular procedures in the management of aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) patients, limited research has explored the incidence and impact of heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) on SAH. Descriptive statistics, multivariate regressions, and propensity score-matching were employed to compare clinical characteristics, comorbidities, interventions, complications, and outcomes of HIT in SAH patients identified within the US National Inpatient Sample database from 2010 to 2019. Among 76 387 SAH patients from 2010 to 2019, 166 (0.22%) developed HIT. HIT was identified as a significant predictor of prolonged length of stay (OR 6.799, 95% CI 3.985 to 11.6, P<0.01) and poor functional outcomes (OR 2.541, 95% CI 1.628 to 3.966, P<0.01) after adjusting for relevant factors. HIT incidence was higher in patients with elevated SAH severity scores (1.42 vs 1.06, P<0.01), younger patients (58.04 vs 61.39 years, P=0.01), overweight individuals (0.4% vs 0.2%, P<0.01), those on long-term anticoagulants (10.84% vs 5.72%, P<0.01), or with a cerebrospinal fluid drainage device (external ventricular drain, ventriculoperitoneal shunt; P<0.01). HIT patients showed increased rates of endovascular coiling, ventricular drain placement, shunt placement, deep vein thrombosis, urinary tract infection, acute kidney injury, pulmonary embolism, venous sinus thrombosis, pneumonia, and cerebral vasospasm (all P<0.01). SAH patients with HIT exhibited various comorbidities and increased rates of complications, which may contribute to extended hospital stays. This nationwide study aids clinical suspicion and highlights HIT's impact on SAH patients.

Functional Outcomes Associated With Blood Pressure Decrease After Endovascular Thrombectomy

The associations between blood pressure (BP) decreases induced by medication and functional outcomes in patients with successful endovascular thrombectomy remain uncertain. To evaluate whether BP reductions induced by intravenous BP medications are associated with poor functional outcomes at 3 months. This cohort study was a post hoc analysis of the Outcome in Patients Treated With Intra-Arterial Thrombectomy-Optimal Blood Pressure Control trial, a comparison of intensive and conventional BP management during the 24 hours after successful recanalization from June 18, 2020, to November 28, 2022. This study included 302 patients who underwent endovascular thrombectomy, achieved successful recanalization, and exhibited elevated BP within 2 hours of successful recanalization at 19 stroke centers in South Korea. A BP decrease was defined as at least 1 event of systolic BP less than 100 mm Hg. Patients were divided into medication-induced BP decrease (MIBD), spontaneous BP decrease (SpBD), and no BP decrease (NoBD) groups. The primary outcome was a modified Rankin scale score of 0 to 2 at 3 months, indicating functional independence. Primary safety outcomes were symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage within 36 hours and mortality due to index stroke within 3 months. Of the 302 patients (median [IQR] age, 75 [66-82] years; 180 [59.6%] men), 47 (15.6%)were in the MIBD group, 39 (12.9%) were in the SpBD group, and 216 (71.5%) were in the NoBD group. After adjustment for confounders, the MIBD group exhibited a significantly smaller proportion of patients with functional independence at 3 months compared with the NoBD group (adjusted odds ratio [AOR], 0.45; 95% CI, 0.20-0.98). There was no significant difference in functional independence between the SpBD and NoBD groups (AOR, 1.41; 95% CI, 0.58-3.49). Compared with the NoBD group, the MIBD group demonstrated higher odds of mortality within 3 months (AOR, 5.15; 95% CI, 1.42-19.4). The incidence of symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage was not significantly different among the groups (MIBD vs NoBD: AOR, 1.89; 95% CI, 0.54-5.88; SpBD vs NoBD: AOR, 2.75; 95% CI, 0.76-9.46). In this cohort study of patients with successful endovascular thrombectomy after stroke, MIBD within 24 hours after successful recanalization was associated with poor outcomes at 3 months. These findings suggested lowering systolic BP to below 100 mm Hg using BP medication might be harmful.

Surgical treatment of Roussouly type 1 with realigning Roussouly spinal shape and improving SRS-Schwab modifier: effect on minimal clinically important difference.

To evaluate outcomes of choosing different Roussouly shapes and improving in Schwab modifiers for surgical Roussouly type 1 patients. Baseline (BL) and 2-year (2Y) clinical data of adult spinal deformity (ASD) patients presenting with Roussouly type 1 sagittal spinal alignment were isolated in the single-center spine database. Patients were grouped into Roussouly type 1, 2 and 3 with anteverted pelvis (3a) postoperatively. Schwab modifiers at BL and 2Y were categorized as follows: no deformity (0), moderate deformity (+), and severe deformity (++) for pelvic tilt (PT), sagittal vertical axis (SVA), and pelvic incidence and lumbar lordosis mismatch (PI-LL). Improvement in SRS-Schwab was defined as a decrease in the severity of any modifier at 2Y. A total of 96 patients (69.9 years, 72.9% female, 25.2kg/m2) were included. At 2Y, there were 34 type 1 backs, 60 type 2 backs and only 2 type 3a. Type 1 and type 2 did not differ in rates of reaching 2Y minimal clinically important difference (MCID) for health-related quality of life (HRQOL) scores (all P > 0.05). Two patients who presented with type 3a had poor HRQOL scores. Analysis of Schwab modifiers showed that 41.7% of patients improved in SVA, 45.8% in PI-LL, and 36.5% in PT. At 2Y, patients who improved in SRS-Schwab PT and SVA had lower Oswestry disability index (ODI) scores and significantly more of them reached MCID for ODI (all P < 0.001). Patients who improved in SRS-Schwab SVA and PI-LL had more changes of VAS Back and Short Form-36 (SF-36) outcomes questionnaire physical component summary (SF-36 PCS), and significantly more reached MCID (all P < 0.001). By 2Y, type 2 patients who improved in SRS-Schwab grades reached MCID for VAS back and ODI at the highest rate (P = 0.003, P = 0.001, respectively), and type 1 patients who improved in SRS-Schwab grades reached MCID for SF-36 PCS at the highest rate (P < 0.001). For ASD patients classified as Roussouly type 1, postoperative improvement in SRS-Schwab grades reflected superior patient-reported outcomes while type 1 and type 2 did not differ in clinical outcomes at 2Y. However, development of type 3a should be avoided at the risk of poor functional outcomes. Utilizing both classification systems in surgical decision-making can optimize postoperative outcomes.

Microalbuminuria as a Predictor of Early Neurological Deterioration and Poor Functional Outcomes in Acute Ischemic Stroke.

Background Ischemic stroke is a major health crisis with significant consequences. Microalbuminuria, a sign of endothelial dysfunction, has been linked to adverse outcomes in ischemic stroke. Early neurological deterioration (END) is a critical factor influencing the patient's prognosis. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of microalbuminuria, its predictive value in assessing END, and its prognostic implications in acute ischemic stroke (AIS). Methodology This study conducted at Pradyumna Bal Memorial Hospital, Kalinga Institute of Medical Sciences Bhubaneswar (November 2020-April 2022) included 114 AIS patients over 18 years who presented within 24 hours of stroke onset. Demographics, vascular risk factors, National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) scores (admission and day three), modified Rankin scores (day 10), urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratios, and carotid artery Doppler studies were collected. Results The mean age of the patients was 61.87 years, with males constituting 72.8% of the population. Hypertension (50.9%) and diabetes mellitus (28.9%) were the most common comorbid conditions. The mean NIHSS stroke severity at presentation was 11.30. END occurred in 38.6% of patients. Overall, 43.9% of cases showed carotid stenosis, and the mean carotid intimal media thickness was 1.08 mm. Notably, the presence of microalbuminuria significantly increased the chances of both END (39.45 times higher risk) and worse functional outcomes (odds ratio = 19.147, p = 0.001). Conclusions Microalbuminuria emerges as a robust independent predictor of END and a poor prognosis in AIS. These findings highlight the importance of early microalbuminuria identification and intervention to reduce END risk and potentially improve outcomes in AIS patients.

Red blood cell distribution width as a predictor of mortality and poor functional outcome after acute ischemic stroke: a meta-analysis and meta-regression

BackgroundThis study aimed to review evidence on the ability of red cell distribution width (RDW) to predict mortality and poor functional outcomes after acute ischemic stroke (AIS).MethodsDatabases of PubMed, CENTRAL, Scopus, Embase, and Web of Science were searched online from inception to 25th Jul 2023 for all studies reporting the association between RDW and outcomes as adjusted ratios. A random-effects meta-analysis was done. Meta-regression was conducted using multiple moderators.Results15 studies with 14,968 patients were included. Meta-analysis found that RDW, both as a categorical variable (OR: 2.10 95% CI: 1.74, 2.55 I2 = 42%) and continuous variable OR: 1.16 95% CI: 1.05, 1.28 I2 = 64%) was a significant predictor of mortality after AIS. Age and number of hypertensives were found to be significant moderators in the meta-regression. Also, high RDW, as a categorical variable (OR: 1.68 95% CI: 1.20, 2.35 I2 = 84%), was associated with significantly higher odds of poor functional outcomes after AIS, but not as a continuous variable (OR: 1.07 95% CI: 0.99, 1.16 I2 = 61%). Meta-regression showed that the association was stronger in small sample-sized studies.ConclusionRDW can be a useful, readily available, and cost-effective biomarker to rapidly stratify AIS patients at risk of poor outcomes. High RDW was consistently associated with an increased risk of mortality after AIS, however, its ability to predict poor functional outcomes needs to be verified by further studies.

Prediction of trends in unfavorable prognosis in patients with acute ischemic stroke according to low left ventricular ejection fraction levels

As few studies have reported the impact of lower left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) on the prognosis of acute ischemic stroke (AIS) patients, we aimed to explore this through a retrospective cohort study and a meta-analysis. A total of 283 AIS patients receiving intravenous thrombolysis at the Third Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University between 2016 and 2019 were enrolled and divided into three groups based on LVEF tertiles. The logistic regression model estimated the association between LVEF and the three-month AIS prognosis. After adjusting for confounding factors, patients in tertile 3 exhibited an increased risk of poor functional outcome and mortality [odds ratio (OR), 2.656 (95% CI: 1.443–4.889); OR, 7.586 (95% CI: 2.102–27.375)]. A systematic search of PubMed, EMBASE and Cochrane Library was performed. Our meta-analysis revealed that LVEF < 40% was significantly associated with poor functional outcome [OR 1.94 (95% CI: 1.08–3.50)], mortality [OR 3.69 (95% CI: 1.22–11.11)], as well as LVEF < 55% [OR 1.68 (95% CI: 1.22–2.32); 2.27 (95% CI: 1.30–3.96)], respectively. A decreased LVEF could predict an inferior prognosis for AIS; therefore, it could aid in clinical decision-making in this patient population.

Elevated cortical blood flow insufficiency volume as a predictor of adverse outcomes in aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage: a large prospective quantitative computed tomography perfusion study

PurposeEarly hypoperfusion changes exist in patients with aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH). We aimed to investigate a readily obtainable quantitative computed tomography perfusion (CTP) parameter that could assist in quickly identifying patients at risk of delayed cerebral ischemia (DCI) and poor 90-day functional outcomes on admission. MethodsWe prospectively collected data between 2021.04 and 2022.12. Preoperative CTP data were post-processed using RAPID software. The cortical blood flow insufficiency (CBFI) was defined as Time-to-maximum > 4.0 s. Patients were categorized into four groups according to CBFI volume distribution. To minimize differences among the groups, we employed stabilized inverse probability of treatment weighting (sIPTW). The primary outcome was DCI and poor 90-day functional outcomes (modified Rankin Scale, 3–6) was the secondary outcome. Multivariable Cox or Logistic analysis were performed to estimate the association between CBFI volume and the study outcomes, both before and after sIPTW. ResultsAt baseline, the mean (SD) age of the 493 participants was 55.0 (11.8) years, and 299 (60.6%) were female. One hundred and seven participants with DCI and eighty-six participants with poor 90-day functional outcomes were identified. After sIPTW, CBFI volume demonstrated a significant association with DCI (Cox regression: Group 4 versus Group 1, HR 3.69, 95% CI 1.84–7.01) and poor 90-day functional outcomes (Logistic regression: Group 4 versus Group 1, OR 4.61, 95% CI 2.01–12.50). ConclusionIn this study, an elevated preoperative CBFI volume was associated with adverse outcomes in aSAH patients. More well-designed studies are needed to confirm this association.

Long-term outcome of nonunion of the lateral humeral condyle fracture in children: a multicentre retrospective study.

Lateral humeral condyle nonunion in children is a rare condition. The treatment protocol for nonunion of lateral humeral condyle remains controversial due to the potential complication. This study reports long-term functional outcomes of the nonunion of the lateral humeral condyle fracture. In addition, we identified the prognostic factors for nonunion of the lateral humeral condyle fracture. We conducted a multicentre retrospective cohort study of nonunion of lateral humeral condyle between January 1995 and December 2022. The patient's preoperative demographic information was reviewed. Potential risk factors of poor functional outcome, such as age, duration from initial injury, and fracture displacement, were retrieved. Functional outcomes at the latest follow-up visit were evaluated using the Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS). Multivariable linear regression was deployed to evaluate the association of potential risk factors with the functional outcome. A total of 63 patients from eight medical centers were included, of which 60 were surgically treated. Patients' average age was 7.3years old, with a mean follow-up duration of sevenyears. All nonunion cases were successfully treated, resulting in a normalized humeroulnar angle. The rate of AVN was 16.7%. All patients reported excellent range of motion and MEPS at the latest follow-up. Multivariable linear regression demonstrated that Fracture displacement (β = -0.88, 95% CI -1.55 to -0.22, p = 0.010) and duration from initial injury (β = -0.09, 95% CI -0.17 to -0.02, p = 0.010) were statistically significant factors influencing functional outcome of lateral humeral condyle nonunion. Initial fracture displacement and duration from the initial injury are statistically significantly associated with elbow function in lateral humeral condyle nonunion. However, the effect size for these factors is relatively small and does not reach clinical significance. Despite this, the functional outcome is excellent in all patients, with an average follow-up duration of sevenyears.