Neurocritical care
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Comparative Study Observational Study
Intravenous Lacosamide in Refractory Seizure Clusters and Status Epilepticus: Comparison of 200 and 400 mg Loading Doses.
The treatment of refractory status epilepticus (RSE) remains largely empirical. Lacosamide (LCM) is a new anticonvulsant available in intravenous (IV) form, but its optimal dosing regimen for the treatment of RSE is unknown. We compared safety and efficacy of two loading doses: 200 and 400 mg. ⋯ In this small prospective observational study, an initial dose of 400 mg of IV LCM was associated with a higher proportion of early termination of RSE and with a trend toward a higher response rate.
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Review Meta Analysis
Beta Blockers for Acute Traumatic Brain Injury: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is associated with a systemic hyperadrenergic state. Through activation of beta adrenoreceptors, catecholamines may induce hypermetabolism and increase both cardiac and cerebral oxygen demands. We conducted a systematic review to appraise the available evidence examining the safety and efficacy of beta blockers in patients with acute TBI. ⋯ The current body of evidence is suggestive of a benefit of beta blockers following TBI. However, methodologically sound randomized controlled trials are indicated to confirm the efficacy of beta blockers in patients with TBI.
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Review Case Reports
Sphenoid and Subdural Hemorrhage as a Presenting Sign of Ruptured Clinoid Aneurysm.
Aneurysm rupture presenting as an isolated or pure subdural hematoma (SDH) without subarachnoid hemorrhage is an extremely rare radiographic presentation. We present a case of a ruptured internal carotid artery aneurysm with a pure SDH and concurrent sphenoid sinus hemorrhage. ⋯ Acute subdural hematoma may be due to a ruptured clinoid carotid aneurysm. Acute hemorrhage into the sphenoid sinus can be an important clue.
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We hypothesized that the degree of preserved functional connectivity within the DMN during the first week after cardiopulmonary arrest (CPA) would be associated with functional outcome at hospital discharge. ⋯ Among initially comatose CPA survivors with indeterminate prognosis, task-free fMRI demonstrated graded disruption of DMN connectivity, especially in those with bad outcomes. If confirmed, connectivity strength in the PC/PCC may provide a clinically useful prognostic marker for functional recovery after CPA.
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Sympathetic nervous system hyperactivity is common after subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). We sought to determine whether uncontrolled prolonged heart rate elevation is a risk factor for adverse cardiopulmonary events and poor outcome after SAH. ⋯ PEHR is associated with major adverse cardiopulmonary events and poor outcome after SAH. Further study is warranted to determine if early sympatholytic therapy targeted at sustained heart rate control can improve outcome after SAH.