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Neuro-oncology Practice Feb 2024We report our experience with using a ventriculoperitoneal shunt (VPS) with an on-off valve and in-line Ommaya reservoir for the treatment of hydrocephalus or...
BACKGROUND
We report our experience with using a ventriculoperitoneal shunt (VPS) with an on-off valve and in-line Ommaya reservoir for the treatment of hydrocephalus or intracranial hypertension in patients with leptomeningeal disease (LMD). Our goal was to determine whether control of intracranial pressure elevation combined with intrathecal (IT) chemotherapy would extend patient survival.
METHODS
In this IRB-approved retrospective study, we reviewed 58 cases of adult patients with LMD from solid cancers who received a VPS with a reservoir and an on-off valve at M D Anderson Cancer Center from November 1996 through December 2021. Primary tumors were most often melanoma ( = 19) or breast carcinoma ( = 20). Hydrocephalus was diagnosed by clinical symptoms and findings on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and LMD by MRI or cerebrospinal fluid analysis. Differences in overall survival (OS) were assessed with standard statistical techniques.
RESULTS
Patients who received a VPS and more than 3 IT chemotherapy sessions survived longer ( = 26; OS time from implantation 11.7 ± 3.6 months) than those who received an occludable shunt but no IT chemotherapy ( = 24; OS time from implantation 2.8 ± 0.7 months, < .018). Peritoneal seeding appeared after shunt insertion in only two patients (3%).
CONCLUSIONS
This is the largest series reported to date of patients with LMD who had had shunts with on-off valves placed to relieve symptoms of intracranial hypertension. Use of IT chemotherapy and control of hydrocephalus via such shunts was associated with improved survival.
PubMed: 38222058
DOI: 10.1093/nop/npad056 -
Clinical Interventions in Aging 2024The effect of Ommaya reservoirs on the clinical outcomes of patients with intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) remains unclear.
BACKGROUND
The effect of Ommaya reservoirs on the clinical outcomes of patients with intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) remains unclear.
OBJECTIVE
We aimed to determine the effect of combining the Ommaya reservoir and external ventricular drainage (EVD) therapy on IVH and explore better clinical indicators for Ommaya implantation.
METHODS
A retrospective analysis was conducted on patients diagnosed with IVH who received EVD-Ommaya drainage between January 2013 and March 2021. The patient population was divided into two groups: the Ommaya-used group, comprising patients in whom the Ommaya drainage system was activated post-surgery, and the Ommaya-unused group, comprising patients in whom the system was not activated. The study analyzed clinical, imaging, and outcome data of the patient population.
RESULTS
A total of 123 patients with IVH were included: 75 patients in the Ommaya-used group and 48 patients in the Ommaya-unused group. The patients in the Ommaya-used group showed a lower 3-month GOS than those in the Ommaya-unused group (p<0.0001). The modified Graeb scale (mGS) in the Ommaya-unused group was significantly lower than that in the Ommaya-used group before the operation (p<0.01) but not after surgery (p>0.05). The GCS in the Ommaya-unused group was significantly lower than that in the other group, and there was a close correlation between the GCS and 3-month GOS (p<0.0001). The GCS score showed significance in predicting the use of Ommaya (p<0.001).
CONCLUSION
The study demonstrated that combining EVD and Ommaya drainage was a safe and feasible treatment for IVH. Additionally, preoperative GCS was found to predict the use of Ommaya drainage in subsequent treatment, providing valuable information for pre-surgery decision-making.
Topics: Humans; Cerebral Hemorrhage; Drainage; Drug Delivery Systems; Retrospective Studies
PubMed: 38192377
DOI: 10.2147/CIA.S436522 -
Child's Nervous System : ChNS :... May 2024Mucopolysaccharidosis type II (MPS II) results from the genetic deficiency of a lysosomal enzyme and is associated with central nervous system (CNS) dysfunction. In... (Review)
Review
Ommaya reservoir placement using ultrasound guidance via anterior fontanelle combined with frameless electromagnetic neuronavigation in patients with mucopolysaccharidosis type 2: Case reports and review of the literature.
Mucopolysaccharidosis type II (MPS II) results from the genetic deficiency of a lysosomal enzyme and is associated with central nervous system (CNS) dysfunction. In Japan, in addition to intravenous enzyme administration, intracerebroventricular enzyme delivery through the Ommaya reservoir has recently gained approval. Nevertheless, the ideal approach for safely implanting the reservoir into the narrow ventricles of infantile MPS II patients remains uncertain. In this report, we present two cases of successful reservoir placement in infantile MPS II patients using ultrasound guidance via the anterior fontanelle, coupled with flameless electromagnetic neuronavigation.
Topics: Humans; Neuronavigation; Mucopolysaccharidosis II; Cranial Fontanelles; Electromagnetic Phenomena; Drug Delivery Systems
PubMed: 38165414
DOI: 10.1007/s00381-023-06265-9 -
Journal of Korean Neurosurgical Society Dec 2023To evaluate the usefulness of a cranial implantable chemoport, the H-port, as an alternative to the Ommaya reservoir for intraventricular chemotherapy/cerebrospinal...
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the usefulness of a cranial implantable chemoport, the H-port, as an alternative to the Ommaya reservoir for intraventricular chemotherapy/cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) access in patients with leptomeningeal metastasis (LM).
METHODS
One hundred fifty-two consecutive patients with a diagnosis of LM and who underwent H-port installation between 2015 and 2021 were evaluated. Adverse events associated with installation and intraventricular chemotherapy, and the rate of increased intracranial pressure (ICP) control via the port were evaluated for safety and efficacy. These indices were compared with published data of Ommaya (n=89), from our institution.
RESULTS
Time-to-install and installation-related complications of intracranial hemorrhage (n=2) and catheter malposition (n=5) were not significantly different between the two groups. Intraventricular chemotherapy-related complications of CSF leakage occurred more frequently in the Ommaya than in the H-port group (13/89 vs. 3/152, respectively, p<0.001). Intracranial hemorrhage during chemotherapy occurred only in the Ommaya group (n=4). The CSF infection rate was not statistically different between groups (14/152 vs. 12/89, respectively). The ICP control rate according to reservoir type revealed a significantly higher ICP control rate with the H-port (40/67), compared with the Ommaya result (12/58, p<0.001). Analyzing the ICP control rate based on the CSF drainage method, continuous extraventricular drainage (implemented only with the H-port), found a significantly higher ICP control rate than with intermittent CSF drainage (33/40 vs. 6/56, respectively, p<0.0001).
CONCLUSION
The H-port for intraventricular chemotherapy in patients with LM was superior for ICP control; it had equal or lower complication rates than the Ommaya reservoir.
PubMed: 38061763
DOI: 10.3340/jkns.2023.0178 -
Molecular Therapy. Methods & Clinical... Dec 2023Oligonucleotide therapeutics offer great promise in the treatment of previously untreatable neurodegenerative disorders; however, there are some challenges to overcome...
Oligonucleotide therapeutics offer great promise in the treatment of previously untreatable neurodegenerative disorders; however, there are some challenges to overcome in pre-clinical studies. (1) They carry a well-established dose-related acute neurotoxicity at the time of administration. (2) Repeated administration into the cerebrospinal fluid may be required for long-term therapeutic effect. Modifying oligonucleotide formulation has been postulated to prevent acute toxicity, but a sensitive and quantitative way to track seizure activity in pre-clinical studies is lacking. The use of intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) catheters offers a solution for repeated dosing; however, fixation techniques in large animal models are not standardized and are not reliable. Here we describe a novel surgical technique in a sheep model for i.c.v. delivery of neurotherapeutics based on the fixation of the i.c.v. catheter with a 3D-printed anchorage system composed of plastic and ceramic parts, compatible with magnetic resonance imaging, computed tomography, and electroencephalography (EEG). Our technique allowed tracking electrical brain activity in awake animals via EEG and video recording during and for the 24-h period after administration of a novel oligonucleotide in sheep. Its anchoring efficiency was demonstrated for at least 2 months and will be tested for up to a year in ongoing studies.
PubMed: 37920238
DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2023.101122 -
Continuous Intrathecal Medication Delivery With the IRRA flow Catheter: Pearls and Early Experience.Operative Neurosurgery (Hagerstown, Md.) Mar 2024Intrathecal (IT) medications are routinely introduced through catheterization of the intraventricular space or subarachnoid space. There has been sporadic use of IT...
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES
Intrathecal (IT) medications are routinely introduced through catheterization of the intraventricular space or subarachnoid space. There has been sporadic use of IT medications delivered directly to the ventricle either by intermittent injection through an external ventricular drain (EVD) or by an Ommaya reservoir with a ventricular catheter. IT medication delivery through EVD has many drawbacks, including the necessary opening of a sterile system, delivery of medication in a bolus form, and requirements to clamp the EVD after medication delivery. Despite these setbacks, IT medications delivered through EVD have been used across a wide range of applications, including antibiotic delivery treatment of vasospasm with nicardipine and delivery of tissue plasminogen activator.
METHODS
We used a newly developed active fluid exchange device to treat various severe conditions involved in the cerebral ventricles. Here, we present our treatment protocols and advice on the techniques related to successful active fluid exchange therapy.
RESULTS
Seventy patients have been treated with our system with various conditions, including subarachnoid hemorrhage, intraventricular hemorrhage, ventriculitis, and cerebral abscess. Total complication rate was 14% with only 1 catheter occlusion and low rates of hemorrhage, infection, and spinal fluid leak.
CONCLUSION
Current continuous IT medication dosages and protocols are based on reports and consensus statements evaluating intermittent instillation of medication boluses. The pharmacokinetics of continuous dosing and the therapeutic and safety profiles of the medications need to be studied in a prospective manner to evaluate the true optimal dosing standards. Furthermore, the ability to deliver continuous, sterile medications directly through an IT route will open new avenues of pharmacotherapy that were previously closed. This report serves as a basic guide for the safe and effective use of the IRRA flow active fluid exchange catheter to deliver IT medications.
Topics: Humans; Tissue Plasminogen Activator; Prospective Studies; Cerebral Ventricles; Cerebral Hemorrhage; Catheters
PubMed: 37819074
DOI: 10.1227/ons.0000000000000940 -
International Journal of Surgery... Dec 2023The pineal region tumors are challenging for neurosurgeons and can lead to secondary hydrocephalus. The introduction of the exoscope has provided clinical interventions...
BACKGROUND
The pineal region tumors are challenging for neurosurgeons and can lead to secondary hydrocephalus. The introduction of the exoscope has provided clinical interventions with high image quality and an ergonomic system for pineal region tumor operations. In this study, the authors describe the exoscopic approach used to facilitate the surgical resection of pineal region tumors and relieve hydrocephalus.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
In this retrospective cohort study, we consecutively reviewed the clinical and radiological data of 25 patients with pineal region lesions who underwent three-dimensional exoscopic tumor resection at a single center.
RESULTS
The patient cohort consisted of 16 males and 9 females, with an average age of 34.6 years (range, 6-62 years; 8 cases aged ≤18). Pathological examination confirmed eight pineal gland tumors, four gliomas, nine germ cell neoplasms, two ependymomas, and two metastatic tumors. Preoperative hydrocephalus was present in 23 patients. Prior to tumor resection, external ventricular drainage (EVD) with Ommaya reservoir implantation was performed in 17 patients. Two patients received preoperative endoscopic third ventriculostomy (ETV), and five patients received a ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt, including one who received both procedures. Gross total resection was achieved in 19 patients (76%) in the 'head-up' park bench position using the exoscope. Eight patients (31.6%) with third ventricle invasion received subtotal resection, mainly in glioma cases, which was higher than those without invasion (0%), but not statistically significant ( P =0.278, Fisher's exact test). No new neurological dysfunction was observed after surgery. Two patients (8%) developed intracranial and pulmonary infections, and two patients (8%) suffered from pneumothorax. Hydrocephalus was significantly relieved in all patients postoperatively, and four patients with relapse hydrocephalus were cured during the long-term follow-up. Postoperative adjuvant management was recommended for indicated patients, and a mean follow-up of 24.8±14.3 months showed a satisfied outcome.
CONCLUSIONS
The exoscope is a useful tool for pineal region tumor resection and hydrocephalus relief, particularly with posterior third ventricle invasion, as total resection could be achieved without obvious complication. The special superiority of the exoscope for the indicated pineal region tumors should be highlighted.
Topics: Male; Female; Humans; Adult; Pinealoma; Retrospective Studies; Treatment Outcome; Neoplasm Recurrence, Local; Pineal Gland; Glioma; Ventriculostomy; Third Ventricle; Hydrocephalus; Brain Neoplasms
PubMed: 37755386
DOI: 10.1097/JS9.0000000000000707 -
Journal of Neurosurgery Mar 2024Radionuclide shuntography (RS) performed using 99mTc-DTPA injected into the reservoir of CSF shunts enables evaluation of CSF flow for suspected shunt malfunctions. The...
OBJECTIVE
Radionuclide shuntography (RS) performed using 99mTc-DTPA injected into the reservoir of CSF shunts enables evaluation of CSF flow for suspected shunt malfunctions. The goal of this study was to report the authors' institutional experience with RS and evaluate its utility and associated complications.
METHODS
The authors retrospectively reviewed all RS studies performed between November 2003 and June 2022. Patients with shunted hydrocephalus who were ≥ 18 years of age were included. Patients undergoing RS for evaluation of Ommaya reservoirs were excluded. Demographics, hydrocephalus etiology, presenting symptoms, study results, subsequent management, complications, and intraoperative diagnoses were recorded. Chi-square tests were reported for categorical variables and standard 2 × 2 contingency methods were used for sensitivity/specificity analysis.
RESULTS
The authors identified 211 RS procedures performed in 142 patients. The mean age at procedure was 55.6 ± 20.9 years (mean ± SD). Normal pressure hydrocephalus was the most common hydrocephalus etiology (37.0%), followed by congenital malformations (26.1%) and idiopathic intracranial hypertension (15.6%). Successful radionuclide injection was achieved in 207 studies (98.1%). Shunt patency was confirmed in 63.8% of successful injections, whereas malfunction was demonstrated in 27.1% and abnormally slow flow was seen in 9.2%. RS studies demonstrating shunt malfunction were more likely to result in subsequent revisions than were studies showing patency (86.6% vs 2.9%; p < 0.0001). The overall sensitivity and specificity of RS for detecting shunt malfunction was 92.3% and 96.2%, respectively. The median follow-up time was 29 months, with 151 cases having ≥ 6 months of follow-up. There were no complications or infections attributable to RS in this cohort.
CONCLUSIONS
RS is a useful and safe tool in the workup of shunt malfunction.
Topics: Adult; Humans; Middle Aged; Aged; Retrospective Studies; Cerebrospinal Fluid Shunts; Hydrocephalus, Normal Pressure; Neurosurgical Procedures; Radioisotopes
PubMed: 37725052
DOI: 10.3171/2023.7.JNS23455 -
Journal of Medical Biography Sep 2023Dr Ayub Khan Ommaya (1930-2008) was a pioneering figure in the field of neurosurgery, with a particular focus on traumatic brain injury. As history books have held, he...
Dr Ayub Khan Ommaya (1930-2008) was a pioneering figure in the field of neurosurgery, with a particular focus on traumatic brain injury. As history books have held, he was a man of great intellect and vision, possessing a rare combination of scientific rigour and compassionate empathy. One of Dr Ommaya's most notable contributions was his development of the Ommaya reservoir, a device used to deliver drugs directly into the brain. This groundbreaking technology transformed the treatment of brain tumours and other neurological disorders, enabling clinicians to administer medications with unprecedented precision and efficacy. From his groundbreaking research on traumatic brain injury to his visionary invention of the Ommaya reservoir, Ommaya's legacy continues to inspire and inform the work of countless medical professionals around the world. This historical paper delves into Ommaya's remarkable life story, highlighting his extraordinary contributions to the field of neurosurgery.
PubMed: 37722807
DOI: 10.1177/09677720231198502 -
Medicine Sep 2023Reconstruction of wound complications in patients with advanced cancer with distant metastases is challenging for plastic surgeons. This may be due to the cancer...
RATIONALE
Reconstruction of wound complications in patients with advanced cancer with distant metastases is challenging for plastic surgeons. This may be due to the cancer patients' hypercoagulability and potential intolerance to general anesthesia. This article aimed to discuss the risk of free-flap reconstruction in such cases.
PATIENT CONCERNS
The patient was a 58-year-old female with advanced non-small cell lung cancer and brain metastasis. The patient underwent brain radiotherapy and chemotherapy through the Ommaya Reservoir.
DIAGNOSES
A year ago, she underwent several local flap closures for recurrent wound healing failure due to wound complications, including infection, wound dehiscence, and subsequent device removal.
INTERVENTIONS
A radial forearm free flap was created under general anesthesia. The patient was discharged in the third postoperative week since the flap remained stable.
OUTCOMES
At follow-up a month thereafter, the patient exhibited signs of recovery without any complications even while continuing her chemotherapeutic regimen.
LESSONS
Free flap placement is not an absolute contraindication in cancer patients with distant metastases. Nevertheless, it is associated with clinical challenges and operator hesitancy. This is a case of a successful free flap in a cancer patient with hypercoagulability and suspected floating tumor cells. Postoperative management, in this case, is appropriate.
Topics: Humans; Female; Middle Aged; Lung Neoplasms; Scalp; Carcinoma, Non-Small-Cell Lung; Free Tissue Flaps; Brain Neoplasms
PubMed: 37682134
DOI: 10.1097/MD.0000000000035097