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Comprehensive Endovascular and Open Surgical Management of Cerebral Arteriovenous Malformations
Published on: October 20, 2017
Symptomatic cavernous malformations of the brainstem: functional outcome after microsurgical resection
Christoph Schwartz1, Andreas Grillhösl, Christian Schichor
1Department of Neurosurgery, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Marchioninistrasse 15, 81377, Munich, Germany, christoph.schwartz@med.uni-muenchen.de.
Journal of Neurology
|August 27, 2013
Summary
Surgical resection of symptomatic brainstem cavernous malformations (BSCMs) offers a chance for complete removal with acceptable risks. Outcomes are mainly determined within six months, supporting surgery for accessible lesions.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Neurology
- Radiology
Background:
- Brainstem cavernous malformations (BSCMs) pose significant hemorrhage and morbidity risks.
- Symptomatic BSCMs necessitate evaluation for effective treatment strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess clinical and radiological outcomes after surgery for symptomatic BSCMs.
- To identify prognostic factors influencing patient recovery following BSCM resection.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 35 patients undergoing microsurgical resection of BSCMs.
- Pre- and postoperative neurological/neuroradiological evaluation and Scandinavian Stroke Scale scoring.
- Uni- and multivariate analyses of clinical and radiological prognostic factors.
Main Results:
- Complete resection achieved in all cases; ~20% experienced new permanent neurological deficits.
- 5/35 patients had complete symptom resolution, 14/35 improved, 9/35 remained unchanged.
- No analyzed factors significantly correlated with clinical outcome; recovery primarily within 6 months.
Conclusions:
- Surgical treatment of symptomatic BSCMs is recommended for accessible lesions.
- Complete resection is feasible with acceptable morbidity, and outcomes are predictable within 6 months post-surgery.
