Neurocritical care
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To determine the rate of subacute recanalization and reocclusion and its effect on clinical outcomes among patients with ischemic stroke treated with endovascular treatment. Subacute recanalization and reocclusion occurring hours after completion of the intravenous or intra-arterial thrombolysis for acute ischemic stroke has been reported in anecdotal cases. ⋯ We found that new or additional recanalization occurs in one-fourth of the patients within 24 h of endovascular treatment and is not associated with any adverse consequences. Subacute reocclusion occurs infrequently after endovascular treatment.
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Intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) is the most feared complication of oral anticoagulant therapy (OAT). While anticoagulated patients have increased severity of bleeding following ICH, they may also be at increased risk for thromboembolic events (TEs) given that they had been prescribed OAT prior to their ICH. We hypothesized that TEs are relatively common following ICH, and that anticoagulated patients are at higher risk for these complications. ⋯ The incidence of TEs in an unselected ICH population was 7.2%. Patients with OAT-related ICH were not at increased risk of TEs.
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Patients with traumatic brain injury commonly receive phenytoin for seizure prophylaxis. Due to the non-linear pharmacokinetics of phenytoin and narrow therapeutic window, phenytoin concentrations are monitored to ensure efficacy and prevent toxicity. Because phenytoin is hepatically metabolized, polymorphisms within cytochrome P450 enzymes can affect phenytoin concentrations. ⋯ This case reveals the clinical significance of genetic polymorphisms and the effect on phenytoin dosage requirements. Because pharmacogenomic testing is expensive and not readily available, routine monitoring of phenytoin concentrations is warranted. Further, established polymorphisms should be documented to prevent toxicity of drugs metabolized by similar pathways.
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Case Reports
Cerebral air embolism resulting in fatal stroke in an airplane passenger with a pulmonary bronchogenic cyst.
Cerebral air embolism is a rare cause of stroke, but may occur in patients undergoing invasive cardiac and pulmonary procedures, as well as in divers suffering pulmonary barotrauma from rapid ascent. Cerebral air embolism during air travel, however, is particularly rare. ⋯ This case suggests the importance of considering cerebral air embolism in patients with stroke associated with air travel; restricting air travel in patients with intrapulmonary cysts may be prudent.
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Little is known about the effects of hemodialysis on the injured brain, however; concern exists over the use of intermittent hemodialysis in patients with acute brain injury (ABI) due to its hemodynamic effects and increased intracranial pressure (ICP) associated with therapy. Continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) has become the preferred method of renal support in these patients though there is limited data to support its safety. Furthermore, exacerbations of cerebral edema have been reported. CRRT is an option for the treatment of hypervolemia and in theory may improve intracranial compliance. We report the case of a poly-trauma patient with severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) in which CRRT was implemented solely for refractory intracranial hypertension. ⋯ Though unproven, CRRT may be beneficial in patients with IH due to gentle removal of fluid, solutes, and inflammatory cytokines. Given the limited data on safety of CRRT in patients with ABI, we encourage further reports.