Saturday, September 28, 2013

Hypofractionated stereotactic radiation therapy for recurrent glioblastoma: single institutional experience

Hypofractionated stereotactic radiation therapy for recurrent glioblastoma: single institutional experience
Radiation Oncology

Background: Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common malignant primary brain tumor in adults. Tumor control and survival have improved with the use of radiotherapy (RT) plus concomitant and adjuvant chemotherapy, but the prognosis remain poor. In most cases the recurrence occurs within 7--9 months after primary treatment. Currently, many approaches are available for the salvage treatment of patients with recurrent GBM, including resection, re-irradiation or systemic agents, but no standard of care exists. Methods: We analysed a cohort of patients with recurrent GBM treated with frame-less hypofractionated stereotactic radiation therapy with a total dose of 25 Gy in 5 fractions. Results: Of 91 consecutive patients with newly diagnosed GBM treated between 2007 and 2012 with conventional adjuvant chemo-radiation therapy, 15 underwent salvage RT at recurrence. The median time interval between primary RT and salvage RT was 10.8 months (range, 6--54 months). Overall, patients undergoing salvage RT showed a longer survival, with a median survival of 33 vs. 9.9 months (p= 0.00149). Median overall survival (OS) from salvage RT was 9.5 months. No patients demonstrated clinically significant acute morbidity, and all patients were able to complete the prescribed radiation therapy without interruption. Conclusion: Our results suggest that hypofractionated stereotactic radiation therapy is effective and safe in recurrent GBM. However, until prospective randomized trials will confirm these results, the decision for salvage treatment should remain individual and based on a multidisciplinary evaluation of each patient.

Original Article: http://www.ro-journal.com/content/8/1/222

Challenges With the Diagnosis and Treatment of Cerebral Radiation Necrosis

Challenges With the Diagnosis and Treatment of Cerebral Radiation Necrosis
International Journal of Radiation Oncology * Biology * Physics

The incidence of radiation necrosis has increased secondary to greater use of combined modality therapy for brain tumors and stereotactic radiosurgery. Given that its characteristics on standard imaging are no different that tumor recurrence, it is difficult to diagnose without use of more sophisticated imaging and nuclear medicine scans, although the accuracy of such scans is controversial. Historically, treatment had been limited to steroids, hyperbaric oxygen, anticoagulants, and surgical resection. A recent prospective randomized study has confirmed the efficacy of bevacizumab in treating radiation necrosis. Novel therapies include using focused interstitial laser thermal therapy. This article will review the diagnosis and treatment of radiation necrosis.

Original Article: http://www.redjournal.org/article/S0360-3016(13)00547-6/abstract?rss=yes

The Responsibilities of a Chief Resident in Radiation Oncology: Results of a National Survey

The Responsibilities of a Chief Resident in Radiation Oncology: Results of a National Survey
International Journal of Radiation Oncology * Biology * Physics

Training programs for resident physicians in the United States often have chief residents (CRs) to develop future medical leaders who will shape clinical practice, medical education, and research. As of 2013, the responsibilities of a CR in radiation oncology are undefined.

Original Article: http://www.redjournal.org/article/S0360-3016(13)02745-4/abstract?rss=yes

A multi-disciplinary consensus statement concerning surgical approaches to low-grade, high-grade astrocytomas and diffuse intrinsic pontine gliomas in childhood (CPN Paris 2011) using the Delphi method.

A multi-disciplinary consensus statement concerning surgical approaches to low-grade, high-grade astrocytomas and diffuse intrinsic pontine gliomas in childhood (CPN Paris 2011) using the Delphi method.
Neurosurgery Blog

Neuro Oncol. 2013 Apr;15(4):462-8. doi: 10.1093/neuonc/nos330. Epub 2013 Mar 15.

A multi-disciplinary consensus statement concerning surgical approaches to low-grade, high-grade astrocytomas and diffuse intrinsic pontine gliomas in childhood (CPN Paris 2011) using the Delphi method.

Source

Children's Brain Tumour Research Centre, University of Nottingham, Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK. david.walker@nottingham.ac.uk

Abstract

Astrocytic tumors account for 42% of childhood brain tumors, arising in all anatomical regions and associated with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) in 15%. Anatomical site determines the degree and risk of resectability; the more complete resection, the better the survival rates. New biological markers and modern radiotherapy techniques are altering the risk assessments of clinical decisions for tumor resection and biopsy. The increasingly distinct pediatric neuro-oncology multidisciplinary team (PNMDT) is developing a distinct evidence base. A multidisciplinary consensus conference on pediatric neurosurgery was held in February 2011, where 92 invited participants reviewed evidence for clinical management of hypothalamic chiasmatic glioma (HCLGG), diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG), and high-grade glioma (HGG). Twenty-seven statements were drafted and subjected to online Delphi consensus voting by participants, seeking >70% agreement from >60% of respondents; where <70% consensus occurred, the statement was modified and resubmitted for voting. Twenty-seven statements meeting consensus criteria are reported. For HCLGG, statements describing overall therapeutic purpose and indications for biopsy, observation, or treatment aimed at limiting the risk of visual damage and the need for on-going clinical trials were made. Primary surgical resection was not recommended. For DIPG, biopsy was recommended to ascertain biological characteristics to enhance understanding and targeting of treatments, especially in clinical trials. For HGG, biopsy is essential, the World Health Organization classification was recommended; selection of surgical strategy to achieve gross total resection in a single or multistep process should be discussed with the PNMDT and integrated with trials based drug strategies for adjuvant therapies.

The post A multi-disciplinary consensus statement concerning surgical approaches to low-grade, high-grade astrocytomas and diffuse intrinsic pontine gliomas in childhood (CPN Paris 2011) using the Delphi method. appeared first on NEUROSURGERY BLOG.



Original Article: http://neurocirurgiabr.com/a-multi-disciplinary-consensus-statement-concerning-surgical-approaches-to-low-grade-high-grade-astrocytomas-and-diffuse-intrinsic-pontine-gliomas-in-childhood-cpn-paris-2011-using-the-delphi-metho/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=a-multi-disciplinary-consensus-statement-concerning-surgical-approaches-to-low-grade-high-grade-astrocytomas-and-diffuse-intrinsic-pontine-gliomas-in-childhood-cpn-paris-2011-using-the-delphi-metho

Thursday, September 26, 2013

Long-Term Outcomes of Fractionated Stereotactic Radiation Therapy for Pituitary Adenomas at the BC Cancer Agency

Long-Term Outcomes of Fractionated Stereotactic Radiation Therapy for Pituitary Adenomas at the BC Cancer Agency
International Journal of Radiation Oncology * Biology * Physics

Purpose: To assess the long-term disease control and toxicity outcomes of fractionated stereotactic radiation therapy (FSRT) in patients with pituitary adenomas treated at the BC Cancer Agency.Methods and Materials: To ensure a minimum of 5 years of clinical follow-up, this study identified a cohort of 76 patients treated consecutively with FSRT between 1998 and 2007 for pituitary adenomas: 71% (54/76) had nonfunctioning and 29% (22/76) had functioning adenomas (15 adrenocorticotrophic hormone-secreting, 5 growth hormone-secreting, and 2 prolactin-secreting). Surgery was used before FSRT in 96% (73/76) of patients. A median isocenter dose of 50.4 Gy was delivered in 28 fractions, with 100% of the planning target volume covered by the 90% isodose. Patients were followed up clinically by endocrinologists, ophthalmologists, and radiation oncologists. Serial magnetic resonance imaging was used to assess tumor response.Results: With a median follow-up time of 6.8 years (range, 0.6 - 13.1 years), the 7-year progression-free survival was 97.1% and disease-specific survival was 100%. Of the 2 patients with tumor progression, both had disease control after salvage surgery. Of the 22 patients with functioning adenomas, 50% (11/22) had complete and 9% (2/22) had partial responses after FSRT. Of the patients with normal pituitary function at baseline, 48% (14/29) experienced 1 or more hormone deficiencies after FSRT. Although 79% (60/76) of optic chiasms were at least partially within the planning target volumes, no patient experienced radiation-induced optic neuropathy. No patient experienced radionecrosis. No secondary malignancy occurred during follow-up.Conclusion: In this study of long-term follow-up of patients treated for pituitary adenomas, FSRT was safe and effective.

Original Article: http://www.redjournal.org/article/S0360-3016(13)02792-2/abstract?rss=yes

Long-term Evaluation of Radiation-Induced Optic Neuropathy After Single-Fraction Stereotactic Radiosurgery

Long-term Evaluation of Radiation-Induced Optic Neuropathy After Single-Fraction Stereotactic Radiosurgery
International Journal of Radiation Oncology * Biology * Physics

Purpose: To determine the long-term risk of radiation-induced optic neuropathy (RION) in patients having single-fraction stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) for benign skull base tumors.Methods and Materials: Retrospective review of 222 patients having Gamma Knife radiosurgery for benign tumors adjacent to the anterior visual pathway (AVP) between 1991 and 1999. Excluded were patients with prior or concurrent external beam radiation therapy or SRS. One hundred twenty-nine patients (58%) had undergone previous surgery. Tumor types included confirmed World Health Organization grade 1 or presumed cavernous sinus meningioma (n=143), pituitary adenoma (n=72), and craniopharyngioma (n=7). The maximum dose to the AVP was ≤8.0 Gy (n=126), 8.1-10.0 Gy (n=39), 10.1-12.0 Gy (n=47), and >12 Gy (n=10).Results: The mean clinical and imaging follow-up periods were 83 and 123 months, respectively. One patient (0.5%) who received a maximum radiation dose of 12.8 Gy to the AVP developed unilateral blindness 18 months after SRS. The chance of RION according to the maximum radiation dose received by the AVP was 0 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0-3.6%), 0 (95% CI 0-10.7%), 0 (95% CI 0-9.0%), and 10% (95% CI 0-43.0%) for patients receiving ≤8 Gy, 8.1-10.0 Gy, 10.1-12.0 Gy, and >12 Gy, respectively. The overall risk of RION in patients receiving >8 Gy to the AVP was 1.0% (95% CI 0-6.2%).Conclusions: The risk of RION after single-fraction SRS in patients with benign skull base tumors who have no prior radiation exposure is very low if the maximum dose to the AVP is ≤12 Gy. Physicians performing single-fraction SRS should remain cautious when treating lesions adjacent to the AVP, especially when the maximum dose exceeds 10 Gy.

Original Article: http://www.redjournal.org/article/S0360-3016(13)02754-5/abstract?rss=yes

Tuesday, September 24, 2013

Do Intensivist Staffing Patterns Influence Hospital Mortality Following ICU Admission? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses*

Do Intensivist Staffing Patterns Influence Hospital Mortality Following ICU Admission? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses*
Critical Care Medicine - Current Issue

imageObjective:To determine the effect of different intensivist staffing models on clinical outcomes for critically ill patients. Data Sources:A sensitive search of electronic databases and hand-search of major critical care journals and conference proceedings was completed in October 2012. Study Selection:Comparative observational studies examining intensivist staffing patterns and reporting hospital or ICU mortality were included. Data Extraction:Of 16,774 citations, 52 studies met the inclusion criteria. We used random-effects meta-analytic models unadjusted for case-mix or cluster effects and quantified between-study heterogeneity using I2. Study quality was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Score for cohort studies. Data Synthesis:High-intensity staffing (i.e., transfer of care to an intensivist-led team or mandatory consultation of an intensivist), compared to low-intensity staffing, was associated with lower hospital mortality (risk ratio, 0.83; 95% CI, 0.70–0.99) and ICU mortality (pooled risk ratio, 0.81; 95% CI, 0.68–0.96). Significant reductions in hospital and ICU length of stay were seen (–0.17 d, 95% CI, –0.31 to –0.03 d and –0.38 d, 95% CI, –0.55 to –0.20 d, respectively). Within high-intensity staffing models, 24-hour in-hospital intensivist coverage, compared to daytime only coverage, did not improved hospital or ICU mortality (risk ratio, 0.97; 95% CI, 0.89–1.1 and risk ratio, 0.88; 95% CI, 0.70–1.1). The benefit of high-intensity staffing was concentrated in surgical (risk ratio, 0.84; 95% CI, 0.44–1.6) and combined medical-surgical (risk ratio, 0.76; 95% CI, 0.66–0.83) ICUs, as compared to medical (risk ratio, 1.1; 95% CI, 0.83–1.5) ICUs. The effect on hospital mortality varied throughout different decades; pooled risk ratios were 0.74 (95% CI, 0.63–0.87) from 1980 to 1989, 0.96 (95% CI, 0.69–1.3) from 1990 to 1999, 0.70 (95% CI, 0.54–0.90) from 2000 to 2009, and 1.2 (95% CI, 0.84–1.8) from 2010 to 2012. These findings were similar for ICU mortality. Conclusions:High-intensity staffing is associated with reduced ICU and hospital mortality. Within a high-intensity model, 24-hour in-hospital intensivist coverage did not reduce hospital, or ICU, mortality. Benefits seen in mortality were dependent on the type of ICU and decade of publication.

Original Article: http://journals.lww.com/ccmjournal/Fulltext/2013/10000/Do_Intensivist_Staffing_Patterns_Influence.1.aspx

Monday, September 23, 2013

Neuro Exam for free ( english and spanish) for one week!

Neuro Exam by Fuze.cc
For free only one week ( english and Spanish) 
https://itunes.apple.com/br/app/neuro-exam/id601360691?l=en&mt=8


“Versatile MicroRNAs Choke off Cancer Blood Supply, Suppress Metastasis”, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center

"Versatile MicroRNAs Choke off Cancer Blood Supply, Suppress Metastasis", The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center
National Comprehensive Cancer Network

A family of microRNAs (miR-200) blocks cancer progression and metastasis by stifling a tumor`s ability to weave new blood vessels to support itself, researchers at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center recently reported in Nature Communications....

Original Article: http://www.mdanderson.org/newsroom/news-releases/2013/versatile-micrornas.html

Friday, September 20, 2013

A simple approach of three-isocenter IMRT planning for craniospinal irradiation

A simple approach of three-isocenter IMRT planning for craniospinal irradiation
Radiation Oncology - Latest Articles

Purpose: To develop a new IMRT technique to simplify the process and improve efficiency in radiotherapy treatment planning for craniospinal irradiation (CSI) treatment. Methods: Image data of 9 patients who received CSI treatment in 2012 were used, the prescription was 36Gy in 20 fractions. Two treatment plans were created for each patient, one was with the new technique called three-isocenter overlap-junction (TIOJ) IMRT and the other was with the three-isocenter jagged-junction (TIJJ) IMRT technique. The comparative study was conducted using the parameters of heterogeneity index (HI), conformity index (CI), and doses to the organs at risk (OARs). Results: Comparing the TIOJ IMRT plans with the TIJJ IMRT plans, the average homogeneity index is 0.071 +/- 0.003 and 0.077 +/- 0.002, respectively, and the averaged conformity number is 0.80 +/- 0.012 and 0.80 +/- 0.009, respectively. There are no significant differences (p > 0.05). Both plans provide satisfactory sparing for the OARs. Conclusions: The TIOJ IMRT technique for CSI treatment planning can create similar plans as with the TIJJ IMRT technique, but the new technique greatly simplifies the steps required to manually set field widths and boundaries and improved efficiency.

Original Article: http://www.ro-journal.com/content/8/1/217

Intracranial Hemangiopericytoma: Patterns of Failure and the Role of Radiation Therapy

Intracranial Hemangiopericytoma: Patterns of Failure and the Role of Radiation Therapy
Neurosurgery - Current Issue

imageBACKGROUND:Meningeal hemangiopericytoma (M-HPC) is a rare entity. OBJECTIVE:To characterize our institutional experience in treating M-HPC. METHODS:We reviewed the medical records of patients with M-HPC evaluated at The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center between 1979 and 2009. RESULTS:We identified 63 patients diagnosed between 1979 and 2009 with M-HPC treated with surgery alone or with postoperative radiotherapy (PORT). The majority were male (59%) and with a median age of 40.9 years (range, 0-71). Gross total resection (GTR) predominated (n = 31, 49%) followed by subtotal resection (n = 23, 37%) and unknown status (n = 9, 14.3%). PORT was delivered to 39 of the 63 patients (62%). The 5-, 10-, and 15-year overall survival were 90%, 68%, and 28%, respectively. The 5-, 10-, and 15-year local control (LC) were 70%, 37%, and 20%, respectively. The 5-, 10-, and 15-year metastasis-free survival were 85%, 39%, and 7%. PORT resulted in improved LC (hazard ratio [HR] 0.38, P = .008). Radiotherapy (RT) dose ≥60 Gy correlated with improved LC relative to <60 Gy (HR 0.12, P = .045). GTR correlated with improved LC (HR 0.40, P = .03). On multivariate analysis, PORT (HR 0.33, P = .003), GTR (HR = 0.33, P = .008), and RT dose ≥60 Gy (HR 0.33, P = .003) correlated with improved LC. Among those with GTR, PORT resulted in improved LC (HR 0.18, P = .027). Extent of resection and PORT did not correlate with improved overall survival. CONCLUSION:In M-HPC, both PORT and GTR independently correlate with improved LC. PORT improves LC following GTR. We recommend RT dose ≥60 Gy to optimize LC. ABBREVIATIONS:BED, biologically equivalent doseCSS, cause-specific survivalHPC, hemangiopericytomasLC, local controlMFS, metastasis-free survivalM-HPC, meningeal hemangiopericytomaMVA, multivariate analysisOS, overall survivalPORT, postoperative radiotherapyRFS, recurrence-free survivalRT, radiotherapySTR, subtotal resection

Original Article: http://journals.lww.com/neurosurgery/Fulltext/2013/10000/Intracranial_Hemangiopericytoma___Patterns_of.16.aspx

Tumor Histology Predicts Patterns of Failure and Survival in Patients With Brain Metastases From Lung Cancer Treated With Gamma Knife Radiosurgery

Tumor Histology Predicts Patterns of Failure and Survival in Patients With Brain Metastases From Lung Cancer Treated With Gamma Knife Radiosurgery
Neurosurgery - Current Issue

imageBACKGROUND:We review our experience with lung cancer patients with newly diagnosed brain metastases treated with Gamma Knife radiosurgery (GKRS). OBJECTIVE:To determine whether tumor histology predicts patient outcomes. METHODS:Between July 1, 2000, and December 31, 2010, 271 patients with brain metastases from primary lung cancer were treated with GKRS at our institution. Included in our study were 44 squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), 31 small cell carcinoma (SCLC), and 138 adenocarcinoma (ACA) patients; 47 patients with insufficient pathology to determine subtype were excluded. No non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients received whole-brain radiation therapy (WBRT) before their GKRS, and SCLC patients were allowed to have prophylactic cranial irradiation, but no previously known brain metastases. A median of 2 lesions were treated per patient with median marginal dose of 20 Gy. RESULTS:Median survival was 10.2 months for ACA, 5.9 months for SCLC, and 5.3 months for SCC patients (P = .008). The 1-year local control rates were 86%, 86%, and 54% for ACA, SCC, and SCLC, respectively (P = .027). The 1-year distant failure rates were 35%, 63%, and 65% for ACA, SCC, and SCLC, respectively (P = .057). The likelihood of dying of neurological death was 29%, 36%, and 55% for ACA, SCC, and SCLC, respectively (P = .027). The median time to WBRT was 11 months for SCC and 24 months for ACA patients (P = .04). Multivariate analysis confirmed SCLC histology as a significant predictor of worsened local control (hazard ratio [HR]: 6.46, P = .025) and distant failure (HR: 3.32, P = .0027). For NSCLC histologies, SCC predicted for earlier time to salvage WBRT (HR: 2.552, P = .01) and worsened overall survival (HR: 1.77, P < .0121). CONCLUSION:Histological subtype of lung cancer appears to predict outcomes. Future trials and prognostic indices should take these histology-specific patterns into account. ABBREVIATIONS:ACA, adenocarcinomaGKRS, Gamma Knife radiosurgeryNSCLC, non-small cell lung cancerPCI, prophylactic cranial irradiationSCC, squamous cell carcinomaSCLC, small cell carcinomaWBRT, whole-brain radiotherapy

Original Article: http://journals.lww.com/neurosurgery/Fulltext/2013/10000/Tumor_Histology_Predicts_Patterns_of_Failure_and.18.aspx

Factors Associated With Improved Outcomes Following Decompressive Surgery for Prostate Cancer Metastatic to the Spine

Factors Associated With Improved Outcomes Following Decompressive Surgery for Prostate Cancer Metastatic to the Spine
Neurosurgery - Current Issue

imageBACKGROUND:Metastatic spinal cord compression from prostate cancer is a debilitating disease causing neurological deficits, mechanical instability, and intractable pain. Surgical management may improve quality of life. OBJECTIVE:To define postoperative outcomes and explore associations with prolonged survival for patients with metastatic prostate cancer. METHODS:Retrospective chart reviews were performed of all patients undergoing spinal surgery for metastatic cancer from June 1, 2002 to August 31, 2011. Patient demographics, surgical details, adjuvant therapies, outcomes, complications, and postoperative survival were reviewed. RESULTS:Twenty-seven patients with prostate cancer underwent surgery at a median age of 65 years (range, 46-82 years). After surgery, 93% of patients had preserved or improved neurological status, 56% of nonambulatory patients recovered ambulation, 43% of incontinent patients recovered continence, and 23% experienced complications. Postoperative Frankel grades were significantly improved by at least 1 letter grade at 1 month (P = .03). The median analgesic and steroid usage was significantly lower up to 3 months and 6 months postoperatively, respectively (P = .007, .005). Median survival following surgery was 10.2 months, and patients with castration-resistant prostate cancer had a shorter median survival than those with hormone-naïve disease (9.8 vs 40 months). Better preoperative performance status was an independent predictor of survival (P = .02). Younger age (P = .005) and instrumentation greater than 7 spinal levels (P = .03) were associated with complications. CONCLUSION:Spinal surgery for prostate metastases improves neurological function and decreases analgesic requirements. Our findings support surgical intervention for carefully selected patients, and knowledge of preoperative hormone sensitivity and performance status may help with risk stratification. ABBREVIATIONS:CI, confidence intervalCRPC, castration-resistant prostate cancerKPS, Karnofsky Performance StatusPSA, prostate-specific antigen

Original Article: http://journals.lww.com/neurosurgery/Fulltext/2013/10000/Factors_Associated_With_Improved_Outcomes.20.aspx

Preliminary Results of High-Dose Single-Fraction Radiotherapy for the Management of Chordomas of the Spine and Sacrum

Preliminary Results of High-Dose Single-Fraction Radiotherapy for the Management of Chordomas of the Spine and Sacrum
Neurosurgery - Current Issue

imageBACKGROUND:En bloc wide-margin excision significantly decreases the risk of chordoma recurrence. However, a wide surgical margin cannot be obtained in many chordomas because they arise primarily in the sacrum, clivus, and mobile spine. Furthermore, these tumors have shown resistance to fractionated photon radiation at conventional doses and numerous chemotherapies. OBJECTIVE:To analyze the outcomes of single-fraction stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) in the treatment of chordomas of the mobile spine and sacrum. METHODS:Twenty-four patients with chordoma of the sacrum and mobile spine were treated with high-dose single-fraction SRS (median dose, 2400 cGy). Twenty-one primary and 3 metastatic tumors were treated. Seven patients were treated for postoperative tumor recurrence. In 7 patients, SRS was administered as planned adjuvant therapy, and in 13 patients, SRS was administered as neoadjuvant therapy. All patients had serial magnetic resonance imaging follow-up. RESULTS:The overall median follow-up was 24 months. Of the 24 patients, 23 (95%) demonstrated stable or reduced tumor burden based on serial magnetic resonance imaging. One patient had radiographic progression of tumor 11 months after SRS. Only 6 of 13 patients who underwent neoadjuvant SRS proceeded to surgery. This decision was based on the lack of radiographic progression and the patient's preference. Complications were limited to 1 patient in whom sciatic neuropathy developed and 1 with vocal cord paralysis. CONCLUSION:High-dose single-fraction SRS provides good tumor control with low treatment-related morbidity. Additional follow-up is required to determine the long-term recurrence risk. ABBREVIATIONS:CTV, clinical target volumeGTV, gross tumor volumePTV, planning target volume;SRS, stereotactic radiosurgery

Original Article: http://journals.lww.com/neurosurgery/Fulltext/2013/10000/Preliminary_Results_of_High_Dose_Single_Fraction.22.aspx

Monday, September 16, 2013

What happens to cognitive function following surgery for hypothalamic hamartoma?

What happens to cognitive function following surgery for hypothalamic hamartoma?
Neurology current issue

Hypothalamic hamartoma (HH) and gelastic epilepsy is a rare but well-recognized, drug-resistant, epileptic syndrome of early life. Cognitive impairments and behavior disturbance occur commonly in patients with HH and gelastic epilepsy, especially those with progressive seizure and EEG evolution during early childhood. Intellectual disability, autism, and episodic rage are commonly encountered in patients who have evolved a generalized epileptic encephalopathy.1–3



Original Article: http://www.neurology.org/cgi/content/short/81/12/1028?rss=1

Residência de Neurocirurgia no Brasil ( SBN e MEC )

Salary of neurosurgeon: Most common question ..

Salary of neurosurgeon: Most common question ..
Neurosurgery Blog

This question is one of the "key words" most popular in my Blog! When you begin to learn about blog, you learn that you should NEVER reveal the key words or google analytics of your blog. Other person, can do the same after knowing these terms …. but as I am a science guy, I think this is ideal! Other people doing, improves the content and dissemination of information!

Let's go to the topic of the post:

According to google analytics Neurosurgery Blog, questions that lead people to www.neurocirurgiabr.com are:

1. Neurosurgery Blog

2. Neurosurgery Impact Factor

3. Salary of Neurosurgeon

I'll talk more about this Key word that bothered me … "Salary of Neurosurgeon"

Nobody argues that the wage gain is very relevant. We need to pay our bills and have a comfortable life, this is the ideal for everyone. But my worries is  when I realize that this seems to be the biggest worry. How much you make? Sounds to me as if that was the big factor, the factor most revelante a choice. Of Course, this is just a thought without much evidence but still worried me. I believe that those who choose neurosurgery because money … He will frustrated by financial gains. Not why not earn well but why the daily lives is much more than the gain at the end of the month. I believe that stress, the dedication .. It will frustrate people seeking only financial gain.

My answer to this question: How much does a neurosurgeon? You  don't need worry now .. study and engaged. A dedicated and good neurosurgeon, and gain well!

I bet you don't like my answer, found "very vague …". I just created a formula to know your chances of "getting happy with their financial gains"

Satisfactory salary = Real salary – Expected salary

If you do not want to stay unhappy in the end of your life, do not create financial expectations high but work a lot and  be dedicated!

The post Salary of neurosurgeon: Most common question .. appeared first on NEUROSURGERY BLOG.



Original Article: http://neurocirurgiabr.com/salary-of-neurosurgeon-most-common-question/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=salary-of-neurosurgeon-most-common-question

Protons for Craniospinal Radiation: Are Clinical Data Important?

Protons for Craniospinal Radiation: Are Clinical Data Important?
International Journal of Radiation Oncology * Biology * Physics

Outcomes for pediatric cancer patients have steadily improved over the decades as a result of meticulously conducted clinical trials. The pediatric oncology community has sought to design such trials not only to increase cure rates but also to maximize health-related quality of life in the developing child and the adult survivor. A generation of cured patients now exists, and we have started to grasp the full scope of late effects and survivorship issues that these patients encounter. It is incumbent on our field to explore all techniques and technologies that may enhance our ability to improve the therapeutic ratio. Given the magnitude of the stakes, it is clear that, as we investigate new technologies and their impact on outcome, we must do so with the same rigorous methods of scientific testing and peer review that have been so successful in the clinical research that has led us to our present state-of-the-art care.

Original Article: http://www.redjournal.org/article/S0360-3016(13)00629-9/abstract?rss=yes

Oncology Scan—Low-Grade Gliomas: Predicting and Changing Outcome

Oncology Scan—Low-Grade Gliomas: Predicting and Changing Outcome
International Journal of Radiation Oncology * Biology * Physics

Approximately 2000 adults are diagnosed with low-grade gliomas each year in the United States . Although the World Health Organization (WHO) classification of low-grade gliomas includes both grade 1 and 2 disease, these are distinctively different entities . Grade 1 gliomas are juvenile pilocytic astrocytomas, primarily a disease of children. These typically well-circumscribed tumors are curable with gross total resection alone. In contrast, WHO grade 2 low-grade gliomas comprise diffuse astrocytomas, oligodendriogliomas, or mixed oligoastrocytomas, largely affecting older children and younger adults. Though these tumors are difficult to totally resect secondary to their infiltrative nature, median overall survival (OS) is on the order of 5-10 years. Almost inevitably these tumors recur, often transforming into higher-grade gliomas. In this article, I will discuss only WHO grade 2 low-grade gliomas in adults (LGG); high-grade gliomas have been previously discussed in an earlier Oncology Scan by Helen Shih .

Original Article: http://www.redjournal.org/article/S0360-3016(13)00538-5/abstract?rss=yes

Brain Tumor Presenting as Somnambulism in an Adolescent

Brain Tumor Presenting as Somnambulism in an Adolescent
Pediatric Neurology

Abstract: Background: Sleepwalking is typically a benign and self-limited non–rapid eye movement parasomnia of childhood.Patient: We describe an unusual 15-year-old boy referred to our sleep center for new-onset sleepwalking.Results: An overnight polysomnogram was normal from a respiratory standpoint, but a concurrent extended electroencephalogram montage showed frequent epileptiform discharges from the right parietal-temporal region and two electroclinical seizures arising from the right-frontal-central-temporal region during sleep. Magnetic resonance imaging scan revealed a right parasagittal parietal region lesion consistent with a low-grade neoplasm, and surgical resection of the lesion demonstrated a right parietal dysembryoplastic neuroepithelial tumor. Complex partial seizures and sleepwalking remitted completely with anticonvulsant therapy following surgery.Conclusions: This patient highlights the differential diagnosis of nocturnal events appearing to be typical parasomnias, especially when they arise abruptly at an older age.

Original Article: http://www.pedneur.com/article/S0887-8994(13)00275-0/abstract?rss=yes

Wednesday, September 11, 2013

Altruism Can Be Contagious

Altruism Can Be Contagious
Scientific American: Mind and Brain

Altruism inspires more altruism, according to many studies. [More]

-- Read more on ScientificAmerican.com


Original Article: http://rss.sciam.com/~r/ScientificAmerican-Global/~3/0FQ5B8d8flc/article.cfm

Motor function after stereotactic radiosurgery for brain metastases in the region of the motor cortex

Motor function after stereotactic radiosurgery for brain metastases in the region of the motor cortex
Neurosurgery Blog

Motor function after stereotactic radiosurgery for brain metastases in the region of the motor cortex
Journal of Neurosurgery: Journal of Neurosurgery: Table of Contents

Journal of Neurosurgery, Volume 119, Issue 3, Page 683-688, September 2013.
Object The authors sought to better define the clinical response of patients who underwent stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) for brain metastases located in the region of the motor cortex. Methods A retrospective analysis was performed in 2026 patients with brain metastasis who underwent SRS with the Gamma Knife between 2002 and 2012, and multiple factors that affect motor function before and after SRS were evaluated. Ninety-four patients with tumors ≥ 1.5 cm in diameter located in or adjacent to the motor strip were identified, including 2 patients with bilateral motor strip metastases. Results Motor function improved after SRS in 30 (31%) of 96 cases, remained stable in 48 (50%), and worsened over time in 18 (19%) instances. Forty-seven patients had no motor weakness prior to radiosurgery; 10 (22%) developed new Grade 3/5–4/5 weakness. Thirty (68%) of 44 patients with ≥ 3/5 pre-SRS weakness improved, 6 (14%) remained stable, and 8 (18%) worsened. Three of 5 patients with < 3/5 pre-SRS motor function improved. Motor deficits prior to SRS did not correlate with a worse outcome; however, worse outcomes were associated with larger tumor volumes. The median tumor volume in patients whose function improved or remained stable was 5.3 cm3, but it was 9.2 cm3 in patients who worsened (p < 0.05). Tumor volumes > 9 cm3 were associated with a higher risk of worsening motor function. Adverse radiation effects occurred in 5 patients. Conclusions Most intact patients with brain metastases in or adjacent to motor cortex maintained neurological function after SRS, and most patients with symptomatic motor weakness remained stable or improved. Larger tumor volumes were associated with less satisfactory outcomes.

Original Article: http://thejns.org/doi/abs/10.3171/2013.6.JNS122081?ai=ru&mi=0&af=R

The post Motor function after stereotactic radiosurgery for brain metastases in the region of the motor cortex appeared first on NEUROSURGERY BLOG.

Original Article: http://neurocirurgiabr.com/motor-function-after-stereotactic-radiosurgery-for-brain-metastases-in-the-region-of-the-motor-cortex/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=motor-function-after-stereotactic-radiosurgery-for-brain-metastases-in-the-region-of-the-motor-cortex

Lab Notes: New Light on Brain Tumors

Lab Notes: New Light on Brain Tumors
MedPage Today Neurology

(MedPage Today) -- An optical technology for discriminating brain tumors from normal brain may eventually help surgeons in the operating room. Also this week: keeping neuronal growth on the straight and narrow.

Original Article: http://www.medpagetoday.com/LabNotes/LabNotes/41434

Tuesday, September 10, 2013

Breast Ca: Chemo Brain Really Hormone Head

Breast Ca: Chemo Brain Really Hormone Head
MedPage Today Neurology

SAN FRANCISCO (MedPage Today) -- Hormonal therapy has emerged as a potentially significant contributor to decline in cognitive function among breast cancer patients, according to results from a small retrospective review.

Original Article: http://www.medpagetoday.com/MeetingCoverage/MBCS/41486

Breast Ca: Chemo Brain Really Hormone Head

Breast Ca: Chemo Brain Really Hormone Head
MedPage Today Neurology

SAN FRANCISCO (MedPage Today) -- Hormonal therapy has emerged as a potentially significant contributor to decline in cognitive function among breast cancer patients, according to results from a small retrospective review.

Original Article: http://www.medpagetoday.com/MeetingCoverage/MBCS/41486

Wednesday, September 4, 2013

Few Physicians Mention Sunscreen

Few Physicians Mention Sunscreen
Medscape Today- Medscape

A new study has found that physicians are recommending sunscreen at alarmingly low rates, even among dermatologists and for patients with a previous history of skin cancer.
Medscape Medical News

Original Article: http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/810456?src=rss

Antiviral May Boost Survival in Brain Cancer (CME/CE)

Antiviral May Boost Survival in Brain Cancer (CME/CE)
MedPage Today Neurology

(MedPage Today) -- Antiviral therapy against cytomegalovirus -- typically only thought a threat in immunosuppressed patients -- was linked to dramatically improved survival in patients with glioblastoma, based on one center's experience.

Original Article: http://www.medpagetoday.com/HematologyOncology/BrainCancer/41392

Laser-guided surgery finds brain cancer's boundary - BBC News

Laser-guided surgery finds brain cancer's boundary - BBC News
neurosurgery - Google News


BBC News

Laser-guided surgery finds brain cancer's boundary
BBC News
Dr Daniel Orringer told the BBC: "Neurosurgery is plagued by a problem, it's very difficult to see when a brain tumour ends and normal tissue begins. "If you're removing a colon cancer you can take 2cm either side with no damage, but in the brain it ...
New laser-based tool could dramatically improve the accuracy of brain tumor ...
Lasering in on tumors
New Laser-Based 'Scalpel' May Revolutionize Brain Cancer Surgery



Original Article: http://news.google.com/news/url?sa=t&fd=R&usg=AFQjCNGST8XtoPIVnptSqjkBizj8KZHvmg&url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-23960772

Small Talk Can Improve Health

Small Talk Can Improve Health
Scientific American: Mind and Brain

Loneliness is bad for our health, according to a robust body of research. And isolation is known to shorten lives--but experts were not sure if the real culprit was the pain and stress of loneliness,...

-- Read more on ScientificAmerican.com


Original Article: http://rss.sciam.com/~r/ScientificAmerican-Global/~3/SpO0uWAlMn0/article.cfm

Sunday, September 1, 2013

WPI gets $3M grant to test robotic brain tumor treatment - Worcester Telegram

WPI gets $3M grant to test robotic brain tumor treatment - Worcester Telegram
neurosurgery - Google News


WPI gets $3M grant to test robotic brain tumor treatment
Worcester Telegram
Dr. Julie Pilitsis, associate professor of surgery at Albany Medical College and former director of functional neurosurgery at University of Massachusetts Medical School, will be lead clinical advisor for the research. Matthew Gounis, associate ...
Worcester Polytechnic Institute Receives $3 Million NIH Award to Develop a ...



Original Article: http://news.google.com/news/url?sa=t&fd=R&usg=AFQjCNFMhjnm5lpDVORgGFUb3etl_uyORA&url=http://www.telegram.com/article/20130830/NEWS/308309821/1116

United Kingdom 30-day mortality rates after surgery for pediatric central nervous system tumors

United Kingdom 30-day mortality rates after surgery for pediatric central nervous system tumors
Journal of Neurosurgery: Journal of Neurosurgery: Pediatrics: Table of Contents

Journal of Neurosurgery: Pediatrics, Volume 12, Issue 3, Page 227-234, September 2013.
Object In an increasing culture of medical accountability, 30-day operative mortality rates remain one of the most objective measurements reported for the surgical field. The authors report population-based 30-day postoperative mortality rates among children who had undergone CNS tumor surgery in the United Kingdom. Methods To determine overall 30-day operative mortality rates, the authors analyzed the National Registry of Childhood Tumors for CNS tumors for the period 2004–2007. The operative mortality rate for each tumor category was derived. In addition, comparison was made with the 30-day operative mortality rates after CNS tumor surgery reported in the contemporary literature. Finally, by use of a funnel plot, institutional performance for 30-day operative mortality was compared for all units across the United Kingdom. Results The overall 30-day operative mortality rate for children undergoing CNS tumor surgery in the United Kingdom during the study period was 2.7%. When only malignant CNS tumors were analyzed, the rate increased to 3.5%. One third of the deaths occurred after discharge from the hospital in which the surgery had been performed. The highest 30-day operative mortality rate (19%) was for patients with choroid plexus carcinomas. A total of 20 institutions performed CNS tumor surgery during the study period. Rates for all institutions fell within 2 SDs. No trend associating operative mortality rates and institutional volume was found. In comparison, review of the contemporary literature suggests that the postoperative mortality rate should be approximately 1%. Conclusions The authors believe this to be the first report of national 30-day surgical mortality rates specifically for children with CNS tumors. The study raises questions about the 30-day mortality rate among children undergoing surgery for CNS tumors. International consensus should be reached on a minimum data set for outcomes and should include 30-day operative mortality rates.

Original Article: http://thejns.org/doi/abs/10.3171/2013.5.PEDS12514?ai=3f6&mi=3ba5z2&af=R

Neurosurgical treatment of oligodendroglial tumors in children and adolescents: a single-institution series of 35 consecutive patients

Neurosurgical treatment of oligodendroglial tumors in children and adolescents: a single-institution series of 35 consecutive patients
Journal of Neurosurgery: Journal of Neurosurgery: Pediatrics: Table of Contents

Journal of Neurosurgery: Pediatrics, Volume 12, Issue 3, Page 241-246, September 2013.
Object The object of this study was to delineate long-term results of the surgical treatment of pediatric CNS tumors classified as oligodendroglioma (OD) or oligoastrocytoma (OA) WHO Grade II or III. Methods A cohort of 45 consecutive patients 19 years or younger who had undergone primary resection of CNS tumors originally described as oligodendroglial during the years 1970–2009 at a single institution were reviewed in this retrospective study of surgical morbidity, mortality, and academic achievement and/or work participation. Gross motor function and activities of daily living were scored using the Barthel Index (BI). Results Patient records for 35 consecutive children and adolescents who had undergone resection for an OA (17 patients) or OD (18 patients) were included in this study. Of the 35 patients, 12 were in the 1st decade of life at the first surgery, whereas 23 were in the 2nd decade. The male/female ratio was 1.19 (19/16). No patient was lost to follow-up. The tumor was localized to the supratentorial compartment in 33 patients, the posterior fossa in 1 patient, and the cervical medulla in 1 patient. Twenty-four tumors were considered to be WHO Grade II, and 11 were classified as WHO Grade III. Among these latter lesions were 2 tumors initially classified as WHO Grade II and later reclassified as WHO Grade III following repeat surgery. Fifty-four tumor resections were performed. Two patients underwent repeat tumor resection within 5 days of the initial procedure, after MRI confirmed residual tumor. Another 10 patients underwent a second resection because of clinical deterioration and progressive disease at time points ranging from 1 month to 10 years after the initial operation. Six patients underwent a third resection, and 1 patient underwent a fourth excision following tumor dissemination to the spinal canal. Sixteen (46%) of the 35 children received adjuvant therapy: 7, fractionated radiotherapy; 4, chemotherapy; and 5, both fractionated radiotherapy and chemotherapy. One patient with primary supratentorial disease experienced clinically malignant development with widespread intraspinal dissemination 9 years after initial treatment. Only 2 patients needed treatment for persistent hydrocephalus. In this series there was no surgical mortality, which was defined as death within 30 days of resection. However, 12 patients in the study, with follow-up times from 1 month to 33 years, died. Twenty-three patients, with follow-up times from 4 to 31 years, remained alive. Among these survivors, the BI was 100 (normal) in 22 patients and 80 in 1 patient. Nineteen patients had full- or part-time work or were in normal school programs. Conclusions Pediatric oligodendroglial tumors are mainly localized to the supratentorial compartment and more often occur in the 2nd decade of life rather than the 1st. Two-thirds of the patients remained alive after follow-ups from 4 to 31 years. Twelve children succumbed to their disease, 9 of them within 3 years of resection despite combined treatment with radio- and chemotherapy. Three of them remained alive from 9 to 33 years after primary resection. Among the 23 survivors, a stable, very long-term result was attainable in at least 20. Five-, 10-, 20-, and 30-year overall survival in patients with Grade II tumors was 92%, 92%, 92%, and 88%, respectively.

Original Article: http://thejns.org/doi/abs/10.3171/2013.6.PEDS12586?ai=3f6&mi=3ba5z2&af=R

Single-fraction radiosurgery of benign cavernous sinus meningiomas

Single-fraction radiosurgery of benign cavernous sinus meningiomas
Journal of Neurosurgery: Journal of Neurosurgery: Table of Contents

Journal of Neurosurgery, Volume 119, Issue 3, Page 675-682, September 2013.
Object Stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) is an important treatment option for patients with cavernous sinus meningiomas (CSM). To analyze factors associated with local tumor control and complications after single-fraction SRS, the authors reviewed cases involving patients treated with Gamma Knife SRS between 1990 and 2008. Methods Excluded were patients with WHO Grade II or III tumors, radiation-induced tumors, multiple meningiomas, neurofibromatosis Type 2, and prior or concurrent radiotherapy. Five patients were lost to follow-up and 3 patients refused research authorization. The remaining 115 patients (29 men, 86 women) had either histologically confirmed WHO Grade I (n = 46, 40%) or presumed (n = 69, 60%) CSM. The median treatment volume was 9.3 cm3 (range 1.3–42.2 cm3). The median margin dose was 16 Gy (range 12–20 Gy). The median follow-up after SRS was 89 months (range 12–251 months). Thirty-nine patients (34%) had 10 or more years of follow-up after SRS. Results Six patients (5%) had tumor progression (in field, n = 3; marginal, n = 3) at a median of 74 months (range 42–145 months) after SRS. The local tumor control rate was 99% at 5 years and 93% at 10 years after SRS. No analyzed factor was associated with local control after SRS. Fourteen patients (12%) had permanent complications at a median onset of 23 months (range 2–146 months) including trigeminal dysfunction (n = 9), diplopia (n = 2), ischemic stroke (n = 2), and hypopituitarism (n = 1). The 2-year, 5-year, and 10-year rates of complications were 7%, 10%, and 15%, respectively. Multivariate analysis found larger treatment volume (HR 1.1, 95% CI 1.02–1.2, p = 0.01) to be associated with complications after SRS. The complication rate for patients with a treatment volume of 9.3 cm3 or less was 3% (2 of 58 cases) compared with 21% (12 of 57 cases) for patients with a treatment volume greater than 9.4 cm3. Conclusions Single-fraction SRS at the radiation doses used in this series provided durable tumor control for patients with benign CSM. Larger tumor volume remains the primary factor associated with complications after single-fraction SRS of benign CSM despite advancements in SRS technique.

Original Article: http://thejns.org/doi/abs/10.3171/2013.5.JNS13206?ai=ru&mi=0&af=R