Relevance of early head CT scans following neurosurgical procedures: an analysis of 892 intracranial procedures at Rush University Medical Center

2014 ◽  
Vol 121 (2) ◽  
pp. 307-312 ◽  
Author(s):  
Ricardo B. V. Fontes ◽  
Adam P. Smith ◽  
Lorenzo F. Muñoz ◽  
Richard W. Byrne ◽  
Vincent C. Traynelis
Keyword(s):  
Operating Room ◽  
Neurological Examination ◽  
Medical Center ◽  
Ct Scanning ◽  
Ct Scans ◽  
Type I ◽  
Type Ii ◽  
Head Ct ◽  
Ct Findings ◽  
Neurological Change

Object Early postoperative head CT scanning is routinely performed following intracranial procedures for detection of complications, but its real value remains uncertain: so-called abnormal results are frequently found, but active, emergency intervention based on these findings may be rare. The authors' objective was to analyze whether early postoperative CT scans led to emergency surgical interventions and if the results of neurological examination predicted this occurrence. Methods The authors retrospectively analyzed 892 intracranial procedures followed by an early postoperative CT scan performed over a 1-year period at Rush University Medical Center and classified these cases according to postoperative neurological status: baseline, predicted neurological change, unexpected neurological change, and sedated or comatose. The interpretation of CT results was reviewed and unexpected CT findings were classified based on immediate action taken: Type I, additional observation and CT; Type II, active nonsurgical intervention; and Type III, surgical intervention. Results were compared between neurological examination groups with the Fisher exact test. Results Patients with unexpected neurological changes or in the sedated or comatose group had significantly more unexpected findings on the postoperative CT (p < 0.001; OR 19.2 and 2.3, respectively) and Type II/III interventions (p < 0.001) than patients at baseline. Patients at baseline or with expected neurological changes still had a rate of Type II/III changes in the 2.2%–2.4% range; however, no patient required an immediate return to the operating room. Conclusions Over a 1-year period in an academic neurosurgery service, no patient who was neurologically intact or who had a predicted neurological change required an immediate return to the operating room based on early postoperative CT findings. Obtaining early CT scans should not be a priority in these patients and may even be cancelled in favor of MRI studies, if the latter have already been planned and can be performed safely and in a timely manner. Early postoperative CT scanning does not assure an uneventful course, nor should it replace accurate and frequent neurological checks, because operative interventions were always decided in conjunction with the neurological examination.

Accuracy and complications associated with the freehand C-1 lateral mass screw fixation technique: a radiographic and clinical assessment

2013 ◽  
Vol 18 (4) ◽  
pp. 372-377 ◽  
Author(s):  
Yong Hu ◽  
Christopher K. Kepler ◽  
Todd J. Albert ◽  
Zhen-shan Yuan ◽  
Wei-hu Ma ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Spinal Canal ◽  
Ct Scanning ◽  
Ct Scans ◽  
Screw Placement ◽  
Type I ◽  
Type Ii ◽  
Lateral Mass ◽  
Type Iii ◽  
Clinical Records ◽  
The Ideal

Object The aims of this study were to evaluate a large series of posterior C-1 lateral mass screws (LMSs) to determine accuracy based on CT scanning findings and to assess the perioperative complication rate related to errant screw placement. Methods Accuracy of screw placement was evaluated using postoperative CT scans obtained in 196 patients with atlantoaxial instability. Radiographic analysis included measurement of preoperative and postoperative CT scans to evaluate relevant anatomy and classify accuracy of instrumentation placement. Screws were graded using the following definitions: Type I, screw threads completely within the bone (ideal); Type II, less than half the diameter of the screw violates the surrounding cortex (safe); and Type III, clear violation of transverse foramen or spinal canal (unacceptable). Results A total of 390 C-1 LMSs were placed, but 32 screws (8.2%) were excluded from accuracy measurements because of a lack of postoperative CT scans; patients in these cases were still included in the assessment of potential clinical complications based on clinical records. Of the 358 evaluable screws with postoperative CT scanning, 85.5% of screws (Type I) were rated as being in the ideal position, 11.7% of screws (Type II) were rated as occupying a safe position, and 10 screws (2.8%) were unacceptable (Type III). Overall, 97.2% of screws were rated Type I or II. Of the 10 screws that were unacceptable on postoperative CT scans, there were no known associated neurological or vertebral artery (VA) injuries. Seven unacceptable screws erred medially into the spinal canal, and 2 patients underwent revision surgery for medial screws. In 2 patients, unilateral C-1 LMSs penetrated the C-1 anterior cortex by approximately 4 mm. Neither patient with anterior C-1 penetration had evidence of internal carotid artery or hypoglossal nerve injury. Computed tomography scanning showed partial entry of C-1 LMSs into the VA foramen of C-1 in 10 cases; no occlusion, associated aneurysm, or fistula of the VA was found. Two patients complained of postoperative occipital neuralgia. This was transient in one patient and resolved by 2 months after surgery. The second patient developed persistent neuralgia, which remained 2 years after surgery, necessitating referral to the pain service. Conclusions The technique for freehand C-1 LMS fixation appears to be safe and effective without intraoperative fluoroscopy guidance. Preoperative planning and determination of the ideal screw insertion point, the ideal trajectory, and screw length are the most important considerations. In addition, fewer malpositioned screws were inserted as the study progressed, suggesting a learning curve to the technique.

scholarly journals 3D pediatric cranial bone imaging using high-resolution MRI for visualizing cranial sutures: a pilot study

2020 ◽  
Vol 26 (3) ◽  
pp. 311-317
Author(s):  
Kamlesh B. Patel ◽  
Cihat Eldeniz ◽  
Gary B. Skolnick ◽  
Udayabhanu Jammalamadaka ◽  
Paul K. Commean ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
High Resolution ◽  
Unmet Need ◽  
Ct Scanning ◽  
Cranial Bone ◽  
Ct Scans ◽  
Cranial Sutures ◽  
Breath Hold ◽  
Head Ct ◽  
Golden Angle ◽  
Scan Time

OBJECTIVEThere is an unmet need to perform imaging in young children and obtain CT-equivalent cranial bone images without subjecting the patients to radiation. In this study, the authors propose using a high-resolution fast low-angle shot golden-angle 3D stack-of-stars radial volumetric interpolated breath-hold examination (GA-VIBE) MRI sequence that is intrinsically robust to motion and has enhanced bone versus soft-tissue contrast.METHODSPatients younger than 11 years of age, who underwent clinical head CT scanning for craniosynostosis or other cranial malformations, were eligible for the study. 3D reconstructed images created from the GA-VIBE MRI sequence and the gold-standard CT scan were randomized and presented to 3 blinded reviewers. For all image sets, each reviewer noted the presence or absence of the 6 primary cranial sutures and recorded on 5-point Likert scales whether they recommended a second scan be performed.RESULTSEleven patients (median age 1.8 years) underwent MRI after clinical head CT scanning was performed. Five of the 11 patients were sedated. Three clinicians reviewed the images, and there were no cases, either with CT scans or MR images, in which a reviewer agreed a repeat scan was required for diagnosis or surgical planning. The reviewers reported clear imaging of the regions of interest on 99% of the CT reviews and 96% of the MRI reviews. With CT as the standard, the sensitivity and specificity of the GA-VIBE MRI sequence to detect suture closure were 97% and 96%, respectively (n = 198 sutures read).CONCLUSIONSThe 3D reconstructed images using the GA-VIBE sequence in comparison to the CT scans created clinically acceptable cranial images capable of detecting cranial sutures. Future directions include reducing the scan time, improving motion correction, and automating postprocessing for clinical utility.

scholarly journals International practice variation in postoperative imaging of chronic subdural hematoma patients

2019 ◽  
Vol 131 (6) ◽  
pp. 1912-1919 ◽  
Author(s):  
Alexander F. C. Hulsbergen ◽  
Sandra C. Yan ◽  
Brittany M. Stopa ◽  
Aislyn DiRisio ◽  
Joeky T. Senders ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Clinical Outcomes ◽  
Subdural Hematoma ◽  
Medical Center ◽  
Chronic Subdural Hematoma ◽  
Ct Scanning ◽  
Burr Hole ◽  
Ct Scans ◽  
Neurological Condition ◽  
Asymptomatic Patients ◽  
Significant Difference

OBJECTIVEThe value of CT scanning after burr hole surgery in chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) patients is unclear, and practice differs between countries. At the Brigham and Women’s Hospital (BWH) in Boston, Massachusetts, neurosurgeons frequently order routine postoperative CT scans, while the University Medical Center Utrecht (UMCU) in the Netherlands does not have this policy. The aim of this study was to compare the use of postoperative CT scans in CSDH patients between these hospitals and to evaluate whether there are differences in clinical outcomes.METHODSThe authors collected data from both centers for 391 age- and sex-matched CSDH patients treated with burr hole surgery between January 1, 2002, and July 1, 2016, and compared the number of postoperative scans up to 6 weeks after surgery, the need for re-intervention, and postoperative neurological condition.RESULTSBWH patients were postoperatively scanned a median of 4 times (interquartile range [IQR] 2–5), whereas UMCU patients underwent a median of 0 scans (IQR 0–1, p < 0.001). There was no significant difference in the number of re-operations (20 in the BWH vs 27 in the UMCU, p = 0.34). All re-interventions were preceded by clinical decline and no recurrences were detected on scans performed on asymptomatic patients. Patients’ neurological condition was not worse in the UMCU than in the BWH (p = 0.43).CONCLUSIONSWhile BWH patients underwent more scans than UMCU patients, there were no differences in clinical outcomes. The results of this study suggest that there is little benefit to routine scanning in asymptomatic patients who have undergone surgical treatment of uncomplicated CSDH and highlight opportunities to make practice more efficient.

The Intersinus Septal Cell: Anatomic, Radiologic, and Clinical Correlation

1996 ◽  
Vol 10 (5) ◽  
pp. 299-302 ◽  
Author(s):  
Robert M. Merritt ◽  
John P. Bent ◽  
Frederick A. Kuhn
Keyword(s):  
Computed Tomography ◽  
Frontal Sinus ◽  
Sinus Surgery ◽  
Ct Scans ◽  
Detailed Knowledge ◽  
Type I ◽  
Type Ii ◽  
Frontal Sinusitis ◽  
Clinical Correlation ◽  
Modern Era

Functional endoscopic frontal sinus surgery requires detailed knowledge of intranasal anatomy. Occasionally frontal sinusitis involves the intersinus septal cell (ISSC), which has not been described in the modern era of nasal endoscopy and computed tomography (CT). To study the ISSC, we reviewed 300 CT scans: 200 clinical and 100 cadaveric. We found ISSC in 70 (35%) of clinical scans, with six subjects having multiple ISSC. The cadaveric prevalence was slightly less at 31%. We further classified the ISSC according to the following criteria: type I, enclosed completely within the thin intersinus septum or bridging its entire inferior-superior extent; type II, bordered partially by this thin septum and partially by the thick septal base formed by the nasofrontal bone; type III, enclosed completely within the nasofrontal bone, often extending between frontal recesses rather than the actual sinuses. This report supplements our radiologic ISSC analysis with our experiences in five clinical cases.

scholarly journals CT findings and the prognostic value of the Koret CT score in cats with traumatic brain injury

2021 ◽  
pp. 1098612X2110053
Author(s):  
Ohad Mann ◽  
Dana Peery ◽  
Ronnie Bader Segev ◽  
Sigal Klainbart ◽  
Efrat Kelmer ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Prognostic Value ◽  
Intracranial Haemorrhage ◽  
Ct Scans ◽  
Short Term ◽  
Term Survival ◽  
Long Term Survival ◽  
Head Ct ◽  
Ct Findings ◽  
Short Term Survival

Objectives The aims of this study were to evaluate associations between abnormal head CT findings and outcome, and to examine the prognostic value of the Koret CT score (KCTS) in cats sustaining acute traumatic brain injury (TBI). Methods The medical records of cats hospitalised with TBI that underwent head CT scans within 72 h of admission were retrospectively reviewed. CT scans were evaluated independently by a radiologist and a neurologist who were blinded to the outcome. A KCTS and modified Glasgow Coma Scale (MGCS) were assigned to each cat and the association between abnormal CT findings, KCTS, MGCS and outcome were analysed. Results Fourteen cats were included in the study: nine (64.2%) survivors and five (35.7%) non-survivors. Of the nine cats that were discharged, one was a short-term survivor (10 days) and eight (57.1%) were long-term survivors (⩾6 months). Abnormal CT findings included lateral ventricle asymmetry/midline shift (42.8%), intracranial haemorrhage (35.7%), caudotentorial lesions (14.2%) and cranial vault fractures (14.2%), all of which were depressed. Intracranial haemorrhage was found to be significantly and negatively associated with short-term ( P = 0.005) and long-term ( P = 0.023) survival. KCTS was significantly associated with short-term survival ( P = 0.002) and long-term survival ( P = 0.004). A KCTS cut-off value of 2 yielded a 100% sensitivity and 100% specificity for short-term survival and 100% sensitivity and 80% specificity for long-term survival. A MGCS cut-off value of ⩾13 was associated with a 100% sensitivity and 100% specificity for short-term survival, and with a 100% sensitivity and 80% specificity for long-term survival. Conclusions and relevance KCTS, performed up to 72 h from injury, can be used as an additional diagnostic tool for the prediction of survival in cats with TBI.

scholarly journals Diagnostic reference levels for paediatric computed tomography

2015 ◽  
Vol 19 (2) ◽  
Author(s):  
Zakariya Vawda ◽  
Richard Pitcher ◽  
John Akudugu ◽  
Willem Groenewald
Keyword(s):  
Computed Tomography ◽  
Age Groups ◽  
Ct Scanning ◽  
Ct Scans ◽  
Tertiary Level ◽  
Diagnostic Reference Levels ◽  
Reference Levels ◽  
Dose Length Product ◽  
Head Ct ◽  
Institutional Review

Objectives: To establish local diagnostic reference levels (LDRLs) for emergency paediatric head computed tomography (CT) scans performed at a South African (SA) tertiary-level hospital and to compare these with published data.Materials and methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted of volume-based CT dose index (CTDIvol) and dose length product (DLP) data from uncontrasted paediatric head CT scans performed in the Trauma and Emergency Unit of a tertiary-level SA hospital from January to June 2013. A random sample of 30 patients in each of 3 age groups (0–2, >2–5 and >5–10 years) was used. LDRL values were compared with several national DRLs from Europe and Australia. Results: Mean CTDIvol and DLP values were: 30 mGy and 488 mGy.cm for the 0–2 years age group; 31 mGy and 508 mGy.cm for the >2–5 years group, and 32 mGy and 563 mGy.cm for the >5–10 years group, respectively. The mean DLP for 0–2 year-olds was the only parameter outside the range of corresponding published reference data. Stratification into narrower age groupings showed an increase in DLP values with age. Conclusion: An institutional review of the head CT scanning technique for emergency studies performed on children less than 2 years of age is recommended. The current study highlights the role of LDRLs in establishing institutional dosimetry baselines, in refining local imaging practice, and in enhancing patient safety. Standard age stratification for DRL and LDRL reporting is recommended.

Airway Development Relevant to Cranial Vault Suture Synostosis Subtype in Apert Syndrome

FACE ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 1 (2) ◽  
pp. 89-96
Author(s):  
Xiaona Lu ◽  
Antonio Jorge Forte ◽  
Kitae Eric Park ◽  
Omar Allam ◽  
Derek M. Steinbacher ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Nasal Cavity ◽  
Cranial Base ◽  
Apert Syndrome ◽  
Ct Scans ◽  
Type I ◽  
Nasal Airway ◽  
Type Ii ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Type Iii ◽  
Pharyngeal Airway

Introduction: Based on an established classification system of Apert syndrome subtypes, we aim to directly analyze the correlation between segmented airway volume changes and different skull suture synostosis, so as to provide individualized surgical planning for each subgroup of Apert patients. Methods: CT scans of 44 unoperated Apert syndrome and 53 controls were included and subgrouped as: type I. Bilateral coronal synostosis; type II. Pansynostosis; type III. Perpendicular combinations of cranial vault synostosis. CT scans were measured using Mimics and 3-matics software. Results: Type I developed a 41% ( P = .116) reduction in the nasal cavity, yet a normal sized pharyngeal airway. The reduced nasal airway was linked to the decreased cross sectional area ( r = 0.598, P = .001), vertical dimension ( r = 0.719, P < .001), and narrower width ( r = 0.727, P < .001). Type II developed proportionally reduced nasal airway and pharyngeal airway volumes (both 47%, P = .113 and P = .041), along with the proportionally restricted cross sectional areas at choana and condylion levels by 62 to 65%. This reduction is related to the cranial base length ( r = 0.712, P = .048), and also cranial base angulation ( r = 0.780, P = .023). Nasal and pharyngeal airway developed normal volume in type III. However, the cross sectional areas at the gonion level diminished by 74% ( P < .001). Conclusion: Airway development is influenced by subtype of Apert suture synostosis. Type II pansynostosis Apert patients developed synchronous reduced nasal and pharyngeal airways, which is correlated with the slightly flattened cranial base. Type I bicoronal patients have a smaller nasal cavity, but normally sized hypopharynx. Yet, type III patients developed normal nasopharyngeal airway volume overall.

scholarly journals Analysis of limited-sequence head computed tomography for children with shunted hydrocephalus: potential to reduce diagnostic radiation exposure

2013 ◽  
Vol 12 (5) ◽  
pp. 491-500 ◽  
Author(s):  
Jonathan Pindrik ◽  
Thierry A. G. M. Huisman ◽  
Mahadevappa Mahesh ◽  
Aylin Tekes ◽  
Edward S. Ahn
Keyword(s):  
Radiation Exposure ◽  
Gold Standard ◽  
Ct Scanning ◽  
Descriptive Statistics ◽  
Ct Scans ◽  
Diagnostic Utility ◽  
Ventricular Size ◽  
Ct Scanner ◽  
Head Ct ◽  
Limited Sequence

Object Despite its diagnostic utility, head CT scanning imparts risks of radiation exposure. Children with shunt-treated hydrocephalus exhibit increased risks of radiation toxicity due to the higher vulnerability of developing, immature tissues and frequent scanning. Several methods have been used to achieve dose reduction, including modifications of CT scanner tube current and potential. This retrospective study explores the use of a newly defined limited sequence of axial head CT slices to evaluate children with shunted hydrocephalus and decrease radiation exposure from diagnostic CT scans. Methods Consistent sequences of 7 axial slices were extracted from previously performed standard head CT scans in children with shunted hydrocephalus. Chronologically distinct limited sequences of each patient were blindly, retrospectively reviewed by 2 pediatric neuroradiologists and 1 pediatric neurosurgeon. Limited-sequence CT evaluation focused on the adequacy of portraying the ventricular system, changes in ventricular size, and visualization of the proximal catheter. Reviewers assessed all original full series head CT scans at least 4 months later for comparison. Adequacy and accuracy of the limited-sequence CT compared with the gold standard head CT was investigated using descriptive statistics. Effective dose (ED) estimates of the limited-sequence and standard head CT scans were compared using descriptive statistics and the Mann-Whitney test. Results Two serial head CT scans from each of 50 patients (age range 0–17 years; mean age 5.5 years) were reviewed both in standard and limited-sequence forms. The limited-sequence CT adequately portrayed the ventricular system in all cases. The inaccuracy rate for assessing changes in ventricular size by majority assessment (2 of 3 reviewers evaluating inaccurately) was 3 (6%) of 50. In 1 case, the inaccurate assessment would not have altered clinical management, corresponding to a 2 (4%) of 50 clinically relevant inaccuracy rate. As compared with the gold standard complete head CT series, the limited-sequence CT exhibited high sensitivity (100%) and specificity (91%) for portraying changes in ventricular caliber. Additionally, the limited-sequence CT displayed the ventricular catheter in 91.7% of scans averaged across 3 observers. Among all scans reviewed, 97 pairs of standard head CT and complementary limited-sequence CT scans contained adequate dosing information to calculate the effective dose (ED). The ED50 of the limited-sequence CT (0.284 mSv) differed significantly from the ED50 of the standard head CT (4.27 mSv) (p < 0.0001). The limited-sequence CT reflected a median absolute reduction of 4.10 mSv and a mean percent reduction of 91.8% in ED compared with standard head CT. Conclusions Limited-sequence head CT scanning provided adequate and accurate diagnostic information in children with shunted hydrocephalus. Techniques including minimization of axial slice quantity and modification of CT scanner parameters can achieve significant dose reduction, maintaining a balance between diagnostic utility and patient safety.

scholarly journals Enlarged subarachnoid spaces and intracranial hemorrhage in children with accidental head trauma

2017 ◽  
Vol 19 (2) ◽  
pp. 254-258 ◽  
Author(s):  
Amanda K. Fingarson ◽  
Maura E. Ryan ◽  
Suzanne G. McLone ◽  
Corey Bregman ◽  
Emalee G. Flaherty
Keyword(s):  
Intracranial Hemorrhage ◽  
Head Circumference ◽  
Child Protection ◽  
Ct Scanning ◽  
Ct Scans ◽  
Bivariate Analysis ◽  
Subdural Hemorrhage ◽  
Head Ct ◽  
Subarachnoid Spaces ◽  
Clinical Measurements

OBJECTIVE Benign external hydrocephalus (BEH) is an enlargement of the subarachnoid spaces (SASs) that can be seen in young children. It is controversial whether children with BEH are predisposed to developing subdural hemorrhage (SDH) with or without trauma. This issue is clinically relevant as a finding of unexplained SDH raises concerns about child abuse and often prompts child protection and law enforcement investigations. METHODS This retrospective study included children (1–24 months of age) who underwent head CT scanning after an accidental fall of less than 6 feet. Head CT scans were reviewed, cranial findings were documented, and the SAS was measured and qualitatively evaluated. Enlarged SAS was defined as an extraaxial space (EAS) greater than 4 mm on CT scans. Clinical measurements of head circumference (HC) were noted, and the head circumference percentile was calculated. The relationship between enlarged SAS and HC percentile, and enlarged SAS and intracranial hemorrhage (ICH), were investigated using bivariate analysis. RESULTS Of the 110 children included in this sample, 23 had EASs greater than 4 mm. The mean patient age was 6.8 months (median 6.0 months). Thirty-four patients (30.9%) had ICHs, including subarachnoid/subpial (6.2%), subdural (6.2%), epidural (5.0%), and unspecified extraaxial hemorrhage (16.5%). Enlarged SAS was positively associated with subarachnoid/subpial hemorrhage; there was no association between enlarged SASs and either SDH or epidural hemorrhage. A larger SAS was positively associated with larger HC percentile; however, HC percentile was not independently associated with ICH. CONCLUSIONS Enlarged SAS was not associated with SDH, but was associated with other ICHs. The authors' findings do not support the theory that BEH predisposes children to SDH with minor accidental trauma.

The Quality of Surgical Resident Interpretation of After-Hour CT Scans of the Head and Abdomen in Trauma

2005 ◽  
Vol 71 (9) ◽  
pp. 772-775 ◽  
Author(s):  
Charles Wong ◽  
Kevin Taubman ◽  
Francesca Hoehne ◽  
Malhotra Siddharth ◽  
Murali Naidu ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Predictive Value ◽  
Medical Center ◽  
Ct Scans ◽  
Trauma Patients ◽  
Abdominal Ct ◽  
Surgical Resident ◽  
Head Ct ◽  
Important Diagnostic Tool ◽  
Ct Studies

Computed tomography (CT) is an important diagnostic tool in the evaluation of trauma patients. Accurate interpretation of CT scans remains critical in decision-making and the resultant quality of care. In our study, the records of a consecutive cohort of trauma patients who underwent after-hour CT scans of the head and abdomen between January 23 and June 30, 2004, at Kern Medical Center were reviewed. Three hundred thirty-five CT studies were collected in 211 patients. The accuracy of resident interpretation was 92.8 per cent for abdominal and 97.5 per cent for head CT. Resident readings were 93.2 per cent sensitive and 95.4 per cent specific with a positive predictive value of 85.2 per cent and a negative predictive value of 98.0 per cent. There were 16 (4.8%) instances of interpretation discrepancy between the surgical resident and attending radiologist. Most differences occurred in the evaluation of abdominal CT. In no instance was management or outcome for these patients affected. This data demonstrates a low error rate in resident interpretation of after-hour CT scans of the head and abdomen in trauma, but there remains a need for the continued review of the quality of surgical resident radiologic interpretation in situations when an attending radiologist is not immediately available.

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