Free Article: Artificial Neural Networks and Brain Metastases

Background: Artificial neural networks (ANNs) excel at analyzing challenging data sets and can be exceptional tools for decision support in clinical environments. The present study pilots the use of ANNs for determining prognosis in neuro-oncology patients.

Objective: To determine whether ANNs perform better at predicting 1-year survival in a group of patients with brain metastasis compared with traditional predictive tools.

Methods: ANNs were trained on a multi-institutional data set of radiosurgery patients to predict 1-year survival on the basis of several input factors. A single ANN, an ensemble of 5 ANNs, and logistic regression analyses were compared for efficacy. Sensitivity analysis was used to identify important variables in the ANN model.

Free Editor Choice with CME: Management of Bilateral Vestibular Schwannomas

Background: As new treatment modalities develop for the management of vestibular schwannomas (VS) in patients with neurofibromatosis type 2, it remains crucial to ascertain the natural history of the disease.

Objective: To determine the relationship between hearing and tumor growth in patients undergoing conservative VS management.

Methods: Patients harboring bilateral VS with at least 1 year of radiological follow-up were selected. Conservative management was proposed based on the small tumor size and/or serviceable hearing at presentation. Tumor size was calculated by using the 2-component box model and reported as mean tumor diameter. Hearing was evaluated by using pure-tone average and the American Academy of Otololaryngologists and Head and Neck Surgery classification.

Free Editor Choice with CME: Diagnostic Value and Safety of Stereotactic Biopsy for Brainstem Tumors

Background: The feasibility and safety of stereotactic biopsy for brainstem tumors (BSTs) are controversial. Although magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has been reported as the preferred diagnostic tool, histopathological analysis is frequently necessary to establish a definitive diagnosis. Recent advances in molecular characterization of brainstem gliomas—accounting for the majority of BSTs—have revealed several potential targets for molecular-based therapies. Hence, a molecular stereotactic biopsy that combines histopathological diagnosis with molecular-genetic analysis will become increasingly important for patients with BSTs.

Objective: We conducted a systemic review and meta-analysis to determine the risks and benefits of stereotactic biopsy for BSTs.

Methods: A systematic search in PubMed, Embase, and the Web of Science yielded 3766 potentially eligible abstracts. Meta-analysis was conducted on 38 studies describing 1480 biopsy procedures for BSTs. Primary outcome measures were diagnostic success and procedure-related complications. Data were analyzed according to standard meta-analytic techniques.

Free Article: Ventriculostomy or Shunt for Hydrocephalus

Background: Currently, the most common treatment for idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus (INPH) is a ventriculoperitoneal shunt (VPS), generally with programmable valve implantation. Endoscopic third ventriculostomy (ETV) is another treatment option, and it does not require prosthesis implantation.

Objective: To compare the functional neurological outcome in patients after 12 months of treatment with INPH by using 2 different techniques: ETV or VPS.

Methods: Randomized, parallel, open-label trial involving the study of 42 patients with INPH and a positive response to the tap test, from January 2009 to January 2012. ETV was performed with a rigid endoscope with a 30° lens (Minop, Aesculap), and VPS was performed with a fixed-pressure valve (PS Medical, Medtronic). The outcome was assessed 12 months after surgery. The neurological function outcomes were based on the results of 6 clinical scales: mini-mental, Berg balance, dynamic gait index, functional independence measure, timed up and go, and normal pressure hydrocephalus.

Free Study Protocol: High-Dose Simvastatin for Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage

Background: Experimental evidence has indicated the benefit of simvastatin in the treatment of subarachnoid hemorrhage. However, no clinical data are available to answer whether a high-dose regimen is more effective than a normal-dose regimen, even though the biochemical actions and related neuroprotective mechanisms are thought to be dose related.

Objective: To determine whether 80 mg simvastatin daily (high dose) over 3 weeks initiated within 96 hours of the ictus will reduce the incidence of delayed ischemic deficits after subarachnoid hemorrhage compared with 40 mg simvastatin daily (normal dose), leading to improvements in clinical outcomes and thus cost-effectiveness.

Methods: The study design is a randomized, controlled, double-blind clinical trial (www.ClinicalTrials.gov; identifier: NCT01077206). Two hundred forty patients with aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (presenting within 96 hours of the ictus) from 6 neurosurgical centers are being recruited over 3 years. The primary outcome measure is the presence of delayed ischemic deficits. Secondary outcome measures include modified Rankin Disability Score at 3 months and cost-effectiveness analysis.