World Neurosurg
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There are currently no imaging criteria to identify patients who would benefit from endovascular recanalization of posterior circulation strokes. Applying the Posterior Circulation Alberta Stroke Program Early Computed Tomography Score (pc-ASPECTS) to magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has been demonstrated to be an accurate predictor of functional outcome. Here, we aimed to evaluate the accuracy of the pc-ASPECTS with preintervention MRI as a predictor of functional outcome in a cohort undergoing endovascular recanalization. ⋯ Despite longer time to intervention with MRI as the initial imaging modality in posterior circulation strokes, it does not negatively affect the functional outcome. Pc-ASPECTS is an easy to use and accurate prognostic tool for the real-time evaluation of preintervention MRI in this population.
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Review Meta Analysis
The Role of Pre-operative Embolization in Carotid Body Tumor Surgery: a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.
Carotid body tumors (CBTs) are highly vascularized tumors which can render tumor resection surgery challenging. There is evidence suggesting that preoperative selective embolization can reduce blood loss during surgery and decrease the risk of perioperative complications; however, recent reports have questioned the benefits that preoperative embolization provides. The objective of this study is to investigate the impact of preoperative embolization on CBT surgical resection. ⋯ Patients who received embolization prior to CBT resection had statistically significant lower blood loss and shorter duration of operation. The rates of CN palsy, stroke, TIA, and length of stay were similar between patients who had preoperative embolization and those who did not.