Neurosurgery

Introduction: Several single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) for dopamine D3 receptor gene (DRD-3) have been associated with differential anti-psychotic response, including ser-9-gly (rs6280). Methods: We assessed response in 82 patients with schizophrenia retrospectively genotyped for SNPs of neuroreceptor genes associated with olanzapine activity. Baseline-to-endpoint reduction in Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS)positive sub-scores over 6 weeks of olanzapine treatment was assessed by repeated measures ANOVA. Categorical response was an endpoint rating of mild or minimal or less on each PANSS-positive item. Results: PANSS-positive reduction for 3 DRD-3 SNPs differed significantly by allelic and genotypic analyses respectively at chromosome 3 positions rs1800828 (p ϭ 0.238 and 0.0130), rs6280 (p ϭ 0.022 and 0.0045), and rs3732790 (dbSNP) (p ϭ 0.0006 and 0.0130). For each SNP, one homozygous genotype was associated with greatest response (N ϭ 10, 24, and 42, respectively) compared with the rest of the 82 patients. Of patients homozygous for the more responsive ser-9-gly SNP vs. others, 45.8% vs. 17.24% (p ϭ 0.0116) had at most minimal PANSSpositive symptoms, and 79.2% vs. 58.6% (p ϭ 0.127) had at most mild PANSS-positive symptoms at endpoint. Conclusions: DRD-3 receptor gene SNPs predicted statistically and clinically significant acute positive symptom reduction with olanzapine in substantial subsets of patients with schizophrenia.

Neurosurgery (NS) is an essential modality for large brain metastases (BM). Postoperative stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) is the standard of care adjuvant treatment. Pachymeningeal failure (PMF) is a newly described entity, distinct from classical leptomeningeal failure (LMF), that is uniquely observed in postoperative patients treated with adjuvant SRS. We sought to identify risk factors for PMF in patients treated with NS + SRS. From a prospective registry (2009 to 2021), we identi ed all patients treated with NS + SRS. Clinical, imaging, pathological, and treatment factors were analyzed. PMF incidence was evaluated using a competing risks model. 144 Patients were identi ed. The median age was 62 (23-90). PMF occurred in 21.5% (31/144). Female gender [Hazard Ratio (HR) 2.65, p = 0.013], higher Graded Prognostic Assessment (GPA) index (HR 2.4, p < 0.001), absence of prior radiation therapy (HR N/A, p = 0.018), controlled extracranial disease (CED) (HR 3.46, p = 0.0038), and pia/dura contact (PDC) (HR 3.30, p = 0.0053) were associated with increased risk for PMF on univariate analysis. In patients with PDC, wider target volumes correlated with reduced risk of PMF. Multivariate analysis indicated PDC (HR 3.51, p = 0.0053), piecemeal resection (HR 2.38, p = 0.027), and CED (HR 3.97, p = 0.0016) independently correlated with PMF risk. PMF correlated with reduced OS (HR 2.90, p < 0.001) at a lower rate compared to LMF (HR 10.15, p < 0.001). PMF correlates with tumor PDC and piecemeal resection in patients treated with NS + SRS. For unclear reasons, it is also associated with CED. In tumors with PDC, wider dural radiotherapy coverage was associated with a lower risk of PMF.

Intraoperative direct cortical stimulation (DCS) is the gold standard technique to maximize the extent of resection of tumors located in eloquent areas. To date, there are three cases reported of awake mapping for language centers in deaf patients who could communicate only with sign language. We present the case of DCS in a deaf patient who could communicate vocally, native to American Sign Language and English, that underwent intraoperative awake mapping. DCS showed similar disruption of expressive phonology to both pictorial and gestural stimuli, confirming that sign language follows the same pattern as oral language.

Purpose Neurosurgery (NS) is an essential modality for large brain metastases (BM). Postoperative stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) is the standard of care adjuvant treatment. Pachymeningeal failure (PMF) is a newly described entity, distinct from classical leptomeningeal failure (LMF), that is uniquely observed in postoperative patients treated with adjuvant SRS. We sought to identify risk factors for PMF in patients treated with NS + SRS. Methods From a prospective registry (2009 to 2021), we identified all patients treated with NS + SRS. Clinical, imaging, pathological, and treatment factors were analyzed. PMF incidence was evaluated using a competing risks model. Results 144 Patients were identified. The median age was 62 (23–90). PMF occurred in 21.5% (31/144). Female gender [Hazard Ratio (HR) 2.65, p = 0.013], higher Graded Prognostic Assessment (GPA) index (HR 2.4, p &lt; 0.001), absence of prior radiation therapy (HR N/A, p = 0.018), controlled extracranial disease (CED) (HR 3...

Primary intradural extramedullary hydatid cyst is a rare form of parasitic infection, causing focal neurological signs, commonly observed in sheep-raising areas of the world. We report a rare case of intradural, extramedullary spinal cyst, which we had misdiagnosis in the first surgery, because of rarity of the case. A 55-year-old man presented to our hospital in August 2008. He was admitted to our clinic because of lumbar pain of increasing severity and progressive difficulty with walking and stiffness of both lower limbs, which had lasted for 1 month. On the basis of imaging results, arachnoid cyst of the lumbar spine was diagnosed. Due to rapid progression of the patient’s symptoms toward spastic paraplegia, he underwent an emergency surgical decompression procedure. The patient underwent exploratory surgery using a posterior approach. A L1–L2 laminectomy was performed. After opening the dura, an intradural extramedullary cystic mass was determined. The surgical specimen measured...

Spinal hydatid cyst is a serious but fortunately uncommon manifestation of the parasite Echinococcus, involving less than 1% patients with hydatid disease. Intradural hydatid cysts are extremely rare compared to other types of spinal hydatid cysts. We report a rare case of intradural, extramedullary spinal hydatid cyst in a 9-yearold male boy, who presented with weakness of both lower limbs for the last 4 months that was confirmed histopathologically; a better understanding of this rare but clinically challenging disease is intended by reporting this case.

Introduction. Symptomatic chronic subdural haemorrhages (CSDH) continue to be one of the most common diagnoses in modern neurosurgery. The current standard procedure for symptomatic CSDH is a burr-hole craniostomy with irrigation and the installation of close-system drainage. The purpose of this study is to conduct a direct comparison of two surgical procedures for the treatment of symptomatic CSDH that are effective in prior studies. Our main goal was to compare the efficacy of placing a subperiosteal drain (SPD) and a subdural drain (SDD) after a single burr-hole craniostomy and irrigation and to show any significant differences in terms of overall surgical complications, functional outcome and mortality rate at three months, and complications at six months. Materials and methods. From August 2022 to December 2023, the study was conducted in the Department of Neurosurgery at a tertiary care centre, with a total of 25 patients in both treatment groups. Results. Overall, there was no statistically significant difference between the two groups in terms of patient general characteristics, pre-and post-operative symptoms, Markwalder grades, postoperative hematoma volume and recurrence, mortality, and functional outcome at discharge and at three months follow-up. Despite not reaching statistical significance, we found a decreased risk of surgical complications, particularly post-operative cerebral haemorrhage, with SPD system implementation. Conclusions. According to our findings, both therapy modalities are extremely successful in the treatment of CSDH. therapy with a single burr-hole craniostomy, irrigation, and implantation of the SPD system, on the other hand, has a reduced overall surgical complication rate and can be regarded as a therapy of choice for the management of symptomatic CSDH.

Tension pneumocephalus is a rare and potentially fatal neurological disease. To avoid deadly consequences, it demands urgent and rapid intervention. The most prevalent cause of tension pneumocephalus is a head injury. Air can enter the cranium by a fracture affecting the paranasal sinus or the middle ear cavity, or even more rarely, through a complex depressed fracture of the skull vault. Its treatment consists of a simple twist drill and aspiration of intracranial air with or without the insertion of an underwater seal. 100% oxygen should be delivered using a non-breathable mask that hastens air resorption. The authors provide a series of five examples with posttraumatic tension pneumocephalus, focusing on its treatment and review of literature.

Background Preoperative SARS-CoV-2 vaccination could support safer elective surgery. Vaccine numbers are limited so this study aimed to inform their prioritization by modelling. Methods The primary outcome was the number needed to vaccinate (NNV) to prevent one COVID-19-related death in 1 year. NNVs were based on postoperative SARS-CoV-2 rates and mortality in an international cohort study (surgical patients), and community SARS-CoV-2 incidence and case fatality data (general population). NNV estimates were stratified by age (18–49, 50–69, 70 or more years) and type of surgery. Best- and worst-case scenarios were used to describe uncertainty. Results NNVs were more favourable in surgical patients than the general population. The most favourable NNVs were in patients aged 70 years or more needing cancer surgery (351; best case 196, worst case 816) or non-cancer surgery (733; best case 407, worst case 1664). Both exceeded the NNV in the general population (1840; best case 1196, worst ...

Despite advances in gender equality, only 6% of German neurosurgical departments are currently led by women. With regard to their pioneering work and the importance of their role model effect, we aimed at reporting on the career pathways of the present and former female chairs of neurosurgical departments in Germany. We approached current and former female chairs in German neurosurgery and gathered descriptive information on their ways into leadership positions through structured interviews. Data were obtained from 16/22 (72.7%) female neurosurgical chairs, aged between 44 and 82 years. They completed their training within 6.5 ± 0.6 years, and it took them further 14.5 ± 5.9 years between training completion and chair acquisition. Having obtained their chair positions between 1993 and 2020, six (37.5%) of them have retired or changed career tracks. Of ten (62.5%) chairs still practicing, two are directors of university departments. Twelve (75.0%) hold professorships. Nine chairs (56...

The aim of this study was to determine whether an anterior approach to the spine with a fusion of the growth centers of the anterior column of the spine, simultaneous by with a posterior fusion and instrumentation of the spine, in young patients with severe scoliosis who have considerable remaining growth, leads to prevention of the crankshaft phenomenon. Twelve patients who have had anterior fusion of the spine associated with posterior fusion and instrumentation of the spine were studied. In t0 of them, growth progression was demonstrated by modification of the Risser sign; for these patients no important progression of the spinal deformity was noted. One patient had no progression of the Risser sign and no progression of spinal deformity. One patient had progression of spinal deformity due to the disruption of the sacral anchorage of instrumentation. We think that this procedure leads to the prevention of the crankshaft phenomenon, and we recommend this procedure in young patients with severe scoliosis and considerable remaining growth. It must include all intervertebral levels of the rigid segment of the curve.

Intracranial meningioangiomatosis is a rare, benign, focal cortical disorder characterised by a proliferative process. There is often diagnostic confusion with meningiomas or low grade glioma. Potentially amenable to surgical cure, early recognition of this condition is key to avoiding unnecessary alternative therapies. We present here the first case of meningioangiomatosis diagnosed and treated microsurgically in Bosnia and Herzegovina. A 13-year-old boy, previously well and having no family history of note, presented with a 2-year history of intractable seizures unresponsive to medical therapy. There was associated headache but no focal neurological deficit. Brain MRI showed a cortical lesion located on the medial side of the dominant frontal lobe. An interhemispheric frontal approach through a key-hole craniotomy was used and total resection of the lesion was performed. Intraoperatively, the specimen was noted to be of firm consistency with well-demarcated edges and minimal vascularity. Light microscopy showed spindle-shaped cells proliferating in a fascicular pattern. Reticulin was abundant in these areas. In the background, multiple foci of sammoma bodies were noted. Conclusion The boy remained seizure-free and off antiepileptic medications postoperatively. There was no recurrence radiologically or clinically in the 20-month follow up period.

SummarySARS‐CoV‐2 has been associated with an increased rate of venous thromboembolism in critically ill patients. Since surgical patients are already at higher risk of venous thromboembolism than general populations, this study aimed to determine if patients with peri‐operative or prior SARS‐CoV‐2 were at further increased risk of venous thromboembolism. We conducted a planned sub‐study and analysis from an international, multicentre, prospective cohort study of elective and emergency patients undergoing surgery during October 2020. Patients from all surgical specialties were included. The primary outcome measure was venous thromboembolism (pulmonary embolism or deep vein thrombosis) within 30 days of surgery. SARS‐CoV‐2 diagnosis was defined as peri‐operative (7 days before to 30 days after surgery); recent (1–6 weeks before surgery); previous (≥7 weeks before surgery); or none. Information on prophylaxis regimens or pre‐operative anti‐coagulation for baseline comorbidities was no...

OBJECTIVE: Chronic cerebral vasospasm is resistant to conventional treatments despite recent advances in treatment modalities. We studied the preventive effect of ultraviolet (UV) irradiation on development of vasospasm and its mechanism in a rat femoral artery model. METHODS: The rat femoral artery model for vasospasm was used in this investigation (n ‫؍‬ 108). The femoral arteries were divided into four groups: empty and no irradiation (control), UV irradiation (UV group), blood placement (VS group), and blood placement after UV irradiation (VS ؉ UV group). Luminal area was measured, and smooth muscle cell counts in the medial layer of the vessel wall were obtained. An immunohistochemical study was performed with cross sections of fixed femoral arteries at 12 hours and 1, 3, 5, 7, and 49 days after blood placement. The rings of femoral arteries on Day 7 were subjected to pharmacological study. RESULTS: Pretreatment with UV irradiation (VS ؉ UV group) resulted not only in significant inhibition of chronic vasospasm but also in a significant decrease in smooth muscle cells compared with the VS group on Days 5 and 7. The UV-treated arteries (UV and VS ؉ UV groups) exhibited a significant number of Bax-and Bcl-2-positive cells on Days 5 and 7, but few CPP-32 positive cells were observed at the same time points. In the pharmacological study, contractile response to KCl or phenylephrine was reduced significantly in the UV-treated arteries. CONCLUSION: These results imply that UV irradiation prevents chronic vasospasm and suggest that UV-induced cell death plays an important role in the preventive effect without causing complications during the chronic period.

Introduction: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is an important diagnostic method in modern clinical medicine. Patients' knowledge about MRI is of utmost importance for optimizing the workflow, safety, and patient comfort and saving valuable time for the MRI department. Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP) and health impacts of Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) among the patients attending in Dhaka city. Methodology: This was a cross-sectional prospective study carried out at the

Two-stage surgery may be necessary when total tumor removal cannot be accomplished in the first surgery; however, the extent and condition in which the remaining tumor should be before the next surgery have not yet been established. There is a risk of postoperative hemorrhage in the residual tumor, especially in hypervascular tumors. We report a case of hypervascular choroid plexus papilloma (CPP) in a 22-year-old male patient where the preservation of intratumoral venous drainage was considered important to avoid hemorrhagic complications during a two-stage surgery. In the first surgery, it was difficult to control the bleeding from the debulked tumor, and the surgery was terminated due to severe blood loss. Large draining veins running in the tumor were preserved as it was suspected that these were important drainage routes of the bloodstream of the tumor. The preserved draining red veins changed to normal venous color in the second surgery performed after one week. The residual tumor was not vascularized during the second surgery and underwent gross total resection with less blood loss. The patient was discharged without sequelae. There was no recurrence of the tumor and no neurological deficit during the three-year follow-up. To prevent postoperative hemorrhage associated with a residual tumor, it may be important to preserve venous drainage of the tumor in hypervascular tumor resection.

Background: Cerebellopontine angle (CPA) meningioma presents a significant management challenge due to its intricate relationship with the brainstem neurovascular bundles. The emphasis in the past has been on facial nerve preservation, but the current management standard is hearing preservation in patients with serviceable hearing; however, hearing restoration after complete loss is rare. We report an elderly man who had restoration of hearing in the right ear after complete loss following tumor resection through the retrosigmoid route. Case Description: A 73-year-old male patient presented with progressive hearing impairment in the right ear, culminating in hearing loss for about 2 months (the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery [AAO-HNS] class D). He also had mild cerebellar symptoms, but other cranial nerves and long tracts were normal. Brain magnetic resonance imaging confirmed a right CPA meningioma, and he had tumor resection through the retrosigmoid route...

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Can an iatrogenic and self-limiting pseudomeningocele from a wide-bore spinal needle function as a safe lumbar drain substitute? TO THE EDITOR: We read with great interest the article by Dotan et al. 1 wherein they reported that temporary external lumbar drain (ELD) placement led to favorable outcomes among cohorts of children with medically refractory idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) and thereby mitigated the need for permanent cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) diversion procedures (Dotan G, Hadar Cohen N, Qureshi HM, et al. External lumbar drainage in progressive pediatric idiopathic intracranial hypertension. J Neurosurg Pediatr. 2021;28[4]:490-496). In addition to positive outcomes, however, ELD placement among children has shortcomings, including low compliance alongside increased odds of drain displacement and inadvertent pullouts. There is also a concurrent risk of CSF infection. Spinal durotomy with a wide-bore needle performed using a zigzag technique can be used to create an iatrogenic but temporary and self-limiting pseudomeningocele that allows temporary egress of CSF. 2 This method prevents morbidities and complications associated with repeated lumbar punctures or continuous lumbar drain placement while managing children with IIH.

SummarySARS‐CoV‐2 has been associated with an increased rate of venous thromboembolism in critically ill patients. Since surgical patients are already at higher risk of venous thromboembolism than general populations, this study aimed to determine if patients with peri‐operative or prior SARS‐CoV‐2 were at further increased risk of venous thromboembolism. We conducted a planned sub‐study and analysis from an international, multicentre, prospective cohort study of elective and emergency patients undergoing surgery during October 2020. Patients from all surgical specialties were included. The primary outcome measure was venous thromboembolism (pulmonary embolism or deep vein thrombosis) within 30 days of surgery. SARS‐CoV‐2 diagnosis was defined as peri‐operative (7 days before to 30 days after surgery); recent (1–6 weeks before surgery); previous (≥7 weeks before surgery); or none. Information on prophylaxis regimens or pre‐operative anti‐coagulation for baseline comorbidities was no...

Object. Control of intracranial pressure (ICP) and cerebral perfusion pressure (CPP) is the foundation of traumatic brain injury (TBI) management. In this study, the authors examined whether conventional ICP-and CPP-guided neurocritical care ensures adequate brain tissue O 2 in the first 6 hours after resuscitation. Methods. Resuscitated patients with severe TBI (Glasgow Coma Scale score Յ 8 and Injury Severity Scale score Ն 16) who were admitted to a Level I trauma center and who underwent brain tissue O 2 monitoring within 6 hours of injury were evaluated as part of a prospective observational database. Therapy was directed to maintain an ICP of 25 mm Hg or less and a CPP of 60 mm Hg or higher. Data from a group of 25 patients that included 19 men and six women (mean age 39 Ϯ 20 years) were examined. After resuscitation, ICP was 25 mm Hg or less in 84% and CPP was 60 mm Hg or greater in 88% of the patients. Brain O 2 probes were allowed to stabilize; the initial brain tissue O 2 level was 25 mm Hg or less in 68% of the patients, 20 mm Hg or less in 56%, and 10 mm Hg or less in 36%. Nearly one third (29%) of patients with ICP readings of 25 mm Hg or less and 27% with CPP levels of 60 mm Hg or greater had severe cerebral hypoxia (brain tissue O 2 Յ 10 mm Hg). Nineteen patients had both optimal ICP (Ͻ 25 mm Hg) and CPP (Ͼ 60 mm Hg); brain tissue O 2 was 20 mm Hg or less in 47% and 10 mm Hg or less in 21% of these patients. The mortality rate was higher in patients with reduced brain tissue O 2 . Conclusions. Brain resuscitation based on current neurocritical care standards (that is, control of ICP and CPP) does not prevent cerebral hypoxia in some patients. This finding may help explain why secondary neuronal injury occurs in some patients with adequate CPP and suggests that the definition of adequate brain resuscitation after TBI may need to be reconsidered.

L umbar spinal stenosis (LSS) is defined as a reduction in the diameter of the spinal canal and/or neural foramina. The most frequent cause of LSS is degenerative changes, including narrowing and bulging of the intervertebral disc, hypertrophy of the facet joints, thickening and buckling of the ligamentum flavum, and/ or degenerative spondylolisthesis. Lumbar spinal stenosis most commonly affects the L4-5 segment, but can affect any lumbar level. 1 Affected patients often suffer from symptoms of back and/or leg pain, which limits their ability to stand and ambulate. Unfortunately, nonsurgical therapies for LSS may be

Introduction. In recent years, Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS), or Fast-track, has been actively developed and introduced into clinical practice in many industry of surgery in Europe and the USA. However, the ERAS® Society has not yet approved a unified protocol in spinal neurosurgery, and most of the publications on the topic have appeared only in the last few years. The purpose of the study is to present a systematic review of the literature to identify the key elements of the ERAS program and the effect of their use, as well as the impact on complications in the following areas of spinal neurosurgery: deformities, trauma, degenerative, infectious and oncology diseases. Materials and methods. The authors analyzed and systematically reviewed all published literature on ERAS in spine and spinal cord surgery up to October 10, 2020 using the main databases of medical literature and search resources PubMed and eLibrary according to the PICOS inclusion and exclusion criteria, as ...

The last decade of the XXI century was marked by the active development and introduction into clinical practice of the technology of Enhanced recovery after surgery. It allows you to ensure a quick and high‑quality recovery after surgery, reduce the number of complications, reduce the time of hospitalization and medical costs without increasing repeated hospitalizations, postoperative morbidity and the need for observation in the intensive care unit, minimize differences in the provision of perioperative care in various medical institutions and improve the quality of medical care to the population.Aim. To describe the history of development and current state of Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS or fast‑track), to present the ERAS Society protocol for spine surgery in adults and a consolidated protocol in children, and also have determined the results of the implementation of ERAS in various sections of spinal neurosurgery.

Objective. To analyze the attitude of neurosurgeons to the technology of enhanced recovery after spine and spinal cord surgery in the Russian Federation.Material and Methods. In March 2022, a continuous cohort comparative sociological study was conducted among 83 neurosurgeons of the Russian Federation, during which they were asked to fill out a specially designed online questionnaire consisting of 22 questions on the Google Forms platform.Results. The vast majority of respondents (95.2 %) noted the lack of information in the Russian literature on the technology of enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS). Nevertheless, most neurosurgeons, regardless of specialization, are familiar with the terms “fast track” (79.5 %) and “ERAS” (60.2 %). Only 44.6 % of specialists declared the implementation of ERAS recommendations into their daily clinical practice, while 78.3 % of neurosurgeons draw attention to the existence of problems that hamper adoption of enhanced recovery protocols (ERP) in ...

OBJECTIVE The objective of this paper was to determine the interobserver reliability and intraobserver reproducibility of the AO Spine Upper Cervical Injury Classification System based on surgeon experience (&lt; 5 years, 5–10 years, 10–20 years, and &gt; 20 years) and surgical subspecialty (orthopedic spine surgery, neurosurgery, and &quot;other&quot; surgery). METHODS A total of 11,601 assessments of upper cervical spine injuries were evaluated based on the AO Spine Upper Cervical Injury Classification System. Reliability and reproducibility scores were obtained twice, with a 3-week time interval. Descriptive statistics were utilized to examine the percentage of accurately classified injuries, and Pearson’s chi-square or Fisher’s exact test was used to screen for potentially relevant differences between study participants. Kappa coefficients (κ) determined the interobserver reliability and intraobserver reproducibility. RESULTS The intraobserver reproducibility was substantial for...

Introduction. In recent years, Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS), or Fast-track, has been actively developed and introduced into clinical practice in many industry of surgery in Europe and the USA. However, the ERAS® Society has not yet approved a unified protocol in spinal neurosurgery, and most of the publications on the topic have appeared only in the last few years.The purpose of the study is to present a systematic review of the literature to identify the key elements of the ERAS program and the effect of their use, as well as the impact on complications in the following areas of spinal neurosurgery: deformities, trauma, degenerative, infectious and oncology diseases.Materials and methods. The authors analyzed and systematically reviewed all published literature on ERAS in spine and spinal cord surgery up to October 10, 2020 using the main databases of medical literature and search resources PubMed and eLibrary according to the PICOS inclusion and exclusion criteria, as we...

OBJECTIVE Lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS) is a common condition that leads to significant disability, particularly in the elderly. Current therapeutic options have certain drawbacks. This study evaluates the 5-year clinical and radiographic results of a minimally invasive pedicle-lengthening osteotomy (PLO) for symptomatic LSS. METHODS A prospective, single-arm, clinical pilot study was conducted involving 20 patients (mean age 61.7 years) with symptomatic LSS treated by a PLO procedure at 1 or 2 lumbar levels. All patients had symptoms of neurogenic claudication or radiculopathy secondary to LSS, and had not improved after a minimum 6-month course of nonoperative treatment. Eleven patients had a Meyerding grade I degenerative spondylolisthesis in addition to LSS. Clinical outcomes were measured using the Oswestry Disability Index, Zürich Claudication Questionnaire, 12-Item Short Form Health Survey, and a visual analog scale for back and leg pain. Procedural variables, neurological out...

SummarySARS‐CoV‐2 has been associated with an increased rate of venous thromboembolism in critically ill patients. Since surgical patients are already at higher risk of venous thromboembolism than general populations, this study aimed to determine if patients with peri‐operative or prior SARS‐CoV‐2 were at further increased risk of venous thromboembolism. We conducted a planned sub‐study and analysis from an international, multicentre, prospective cohort study of elective and emergency patients undergoing surgery during October 2020. Patients from all surgical specialties were included. The primary outcome measure was venous thromboembolism (pulmonary embolism or deep vein thrombosis) within 30 days of surgery. SARS‐CoV‐2 diagnosis was defined as peri‐operative (7 days before to 30 days after surgery); recent (1–6 weeks before surgery); previous (≥7 weeks before surgery); or none. Information on prophylaxis regimens or pre‐operative anti‐coagulation for baseline comorbidities was no...

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) circulation is considered the third circulation of the human body. Recently, some scholars have proposed the myodural bridge (MDB) as a novel power source for CSF flow. Moreover, the suboccipital muscles can exert a driving force on the CSF via the MDB. This hypothesis is directly supported by head rotation and nodding movements, which can affect CSF circulation. The MDB has been validated as a normal structure in humans and mammals. In addition, the fusion of MDB fibers of different origins that act in concert with each other forms the MDB complex (MDBC). The MDBC may be associated with several CSF disorder-related neurological disorders in clinical practice. Therefore, the morphology of the MDBC and its influencing factors must be determined. In this study, T2-weighted imaging sagittal images of the cervical region were analyzed retrospectively in 1085 patients, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) typing of the MDBC was performed according to the imaging features of the MDBC in the posterior atlanto-occipital interspace (PAOiS) and posterior atlanto-axial interspace (PAAiS). The effects of age and age-related degenerative changes in the cervical spine on MRI staging of the MDBC were also determined. The results revealed four MRI types of the MDBC: type A (no MDBC hyposignal shadow connected to the dura mater in either the PAOiS or PAAiS), type B (MDBC hyposignal shadow connected to the dura mater in the PAOiS only), type C (MDBC hyposignal shadow connected to the dura mater in the PAAiS only), and type D (MDBC hyposignal shadow connected to the dura mater in both the PAOiS and PAAiS). The influencing factors for the MDBC typing were age (group), degree of intervertebral space stenosis, dorsal osteophytosis, and degenerative changes in the cervical spine (P < 0.05). With increasing age (10-year interval), the incidence of type B MDBC markedly decreased, whereas that of type A MDBC increased considerably. With the deepening of the degree of intervertebral space stenosis, the incidence of type C MDBC increased significantly, whereas that of type A MDBC decreased. In the presence of dorsal osteophytosis, the incidence of type C and D MDBCs significantly decreased, whereas that of type A increased. In the presence of protrusion of the intervertebral disc, the incidence of type B, C, and D MDBCs increased markedly, whereas that of type A MDBC decreased considerably, with cervical degenerative changes combined with spinal canal stenosis. Moreover, the incidence of both type C and D MDBCs increased, whereas that of type A MDBC decreased. Based on the MRI signal characteristics of the dural side of the MDBC, four types of the MDBC were identified. MDBC typing varies dynamically according to population distribution, depending on age and cervical degeneration (degree of intervertebral space stenosis, vertebral dorsal osteophytosis formation, simple protrusion of intervertebral disc, and cervical degeneration changes combined with spinal canal stenosis, except for the degree of protrusion of the intervertebral disc and the degree of spinal canal stenosis); however, it is not influenced by sex.

Background Preoperative SARS-CoV-2 vaccination could support safer elective surgery. Vaccine numbers are limited so this study aimed to inform their prioritization by modelling. Methods The primary outcome was the number needed to vaccinate (NNV) to prevent one COVID-19-related death in 1 year. NNVs were based on postoperative SARS-CoV-2 rates and mortality in an international cohort study (surgical patients), and community SARS-CoV-2 incidence and case fatality data (general population). NNV estimates were stratified by age (18–49, 50–69, 70 or more years) and type of surgery. Best- and worst-case scenarios were used to describe uncertainty. Results NNVs were more favourable in surgical patients than the general population. The most favourable NNVs were in patients aged 70 years or more needing cancer surgery (351; best case 196, worst case 816) or non-cancer surgery (733; best case 407, worst case 1664). Both exceeded the NNV in the general population (1840; best case 1196, worst ...

OBJECTIVE Surgical correction of adult spinal deformity (ASD) is a complex undertaking with high revision rates. The elderly population is poorly studied with regard to revision surgery, yet senior citizens constitute a rapidly expanding surgical demographic. Previous studies aimed at elucidating appropriate risk factors for revision surgery have been limited by small cohort sizes. The purpose of this study was to assess factors that modify the risk of revision surgery in elderly patients with ASD. METHODS The PearlDiver database (2005-2012) was used to determine revision rates in elderly ASD patients treated with a primary thoracolumbar posterolateral fusion of 8 or more levels. Analyzed risk factors included demographics, comorbid conditions, and surgical factors. Significant univariate predictors were further analyzed with multivariate analysis. The causes of revision at each year of follow-up were determined. RESULTS A total of 2293 patients who had been treated with posterolate...

Missionary hospitals in low-resource settings face unique challenges in delivering high-quality surgical care amid financial limitations, high patient volumes, and infrastructural constraints. This review explores innovative approaches to surgical interventions in such environments, focusing on strategies that simultaneously optimize costs and improve outcomes. Drawing from recent literature, we examine frugal engineering solutions like gas-insufflation-less laparoscopy, low-cost device innovations, local mentorship programs, and capacity-building models. These approaches not only reduce procedural expenses-often by 30-50%-but also enhance safety and efficacy through minimally invasive techniques and community-integrated training. Evidence from global surgery initiatives demonstrates cost-effectiveness ratios comparable to essential public health interventions, with potential to scale in missionary contexts. By prioritizing resource-sensitive protocols and sustainable local partnerships, missionary hospitals can bridge the surgery gap in underserved regions. Future directions include integrating digital tools for remote mentoring and policy advocacy for subsidized equipment procurement.

Method: Radiological examinations revealed a large anterior abnormal bony tuberance of atlas in an 11-year-old boy who complained of dysphagia of 5 years donation. Result: The anterior bony tuberance of the atlas was resected by a transoral approach. Histopathological examination of the surgical specimens showed normal bone tissue. Resection resulted in complete resolution of the dysphagia. Conclusions: Dysphagia can be caused by disorders of the cervical spine. These disorders are usually seen in elderly adults. In the pediatric population, spinal abnormality is an exceedingly rare cause of dysphagia. Abnormal inductive signals from the adjacent notocord and ventral neural tube may play role in the pathogenesis of this abnormal bony protuberance.

Introduction: Pediatric brain arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) frequently present with hemorrhage and carry a mortality rate of 5%-10%. This report evaluates the management of two pediatric cases involving different therapeutic pathways based on clinical complexity. Case Description: Case 1: An 11-year-old boy presented with isolated headaches, vomiting, lethargy, and slurred speech. Preoperative MRI/CT diagnosed an AVM of the anterior cerebral artery. The patient underwent primary endovascular embolization using SQUID-1 via an Apollo microcatheter. Post-procedural angiography confirmed complete occlusion of the AVM. At discharge, the patient showed improved sensation in the left extremities. Conclusion: Successful management of pediatric AVMs requires multimodal strategies, including endovascular embolization and microsurgery, tailored to the Spetzler-Martin grade and rupture status. Objective outcomes in these cases demonstrated that combining liquid embolic agents with surgical excision can achieve complete obliteration and stable neurological recovery.

BACKGROUND: Awake craniotomy (AC) enables real-time monitoring of cortical and subcortical functions when lesions are in eloquent brain areas. AC patients are exposed to various preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative stressors, which might affect their mental health. OBJECTIVE: To conduct a systematic review to better understand stress, anxiety, and depression in AC patients. METHODS: PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases were searched from January 1, 2000, to April 20, 2022, in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guideline. RESULTS: Four hundred forty-seven records were identified that fit our inclusion and exclusion criteria for screening. Overall, 24 articles consisting of 1450 patients from 13 countries were included. Sixteen studies (66.7%) were prospective, whereas 8 articles (33.3%) were retrospective. Studies evaluated stress, anxiety, and depression during different phases of AC. Twenty-two studies (91.7%) were conducted on adults, and 2 studies were on pediatrics (8.3 %). Glioma was the most common AC treatment with 615 patients (42.4%). Awake-awakeawake and asleep-awake-asleep were the most common protocols, each used in 4 studies, respectively (16.7%). Anxiety was the most common psychological outcome evaluated in 19 studies (79.2%). The visual analog scale and self-developed questionnaire by the authors (each n = 5, 20.8%) were the most frequently tools used. Twenty-three studies (95.8%) concluded that AC does not increase stress, anxiety, and/or depression in AC patients. One study (4.2%) identified younger age associated with panic attack. CONCLUSION: In experienced hands, AC does not cause an increase in stress, anxiety, and depression; however, the psychiatric impact of AC should not be underestimated.

Objective: We aimed to evaluate door-to-puncture time (DPT) and door-to-recanalization time (DRT) without directing healthcare by neuro-interventionalist support in the emergency department (ED) by workflow optimization and improving patients' outcomes. Methods: Records of 98 consecutive ischemic stroke patients who had undergone endovascular therapy (EVT) between 2018 to 2021 were retrospectively reviewed in a single-center study. Patients were divided into three groups: pre-intervention (2018-2019), interim-intervention (2020), and post-intervention (January 1 st 2021 to August 16 th , 2021). We compared door-to-puncture time, door-to-recanalization time (DRT), puncture-to-recanalization time (PRT), last known normal time to-puncture time (LKNPT), and patient outcomes (measured by 3 months modified Rankin Scale) between three groups using descriptive statistics. Results: Our findings indicate that process optimization measures could shorten DPT, DRT, PRT, and LKNPT. Median LKNPT was shortened by 70 min from 325 to 255 min(P < 0.05), and DPT was shortened by 119 min from 237 to 118 min. DRT shortened by 132 min from 338 to 206 min, and PRT shortened by 33 min from 92 to 59 min from the pre-intervention to post-intervention groups (all P < 0.05). Only 21.4% of patients had a favorable outcome in the preintervention group as compared to 55.6% in the interventional group (P= 0.026). Conclusion: This study demonstrated that multidisciplinary cooperation was associated with shortened DPT, DRT, PRT, and LKNPT despite challenges posed to the healthcare system such as the COVID-19 pandemic. These practice paradigms may be transported to other stroke centers and healthcare providers to improve endovascular time metrics and patient outcomes.

Objectives: This study aims to evaluate shortening door-to-needle time of intravenous recombinant tissue plasminogen activator of acute ischemic stroke patients by multidisciplinary collaboration and workflow optimization based on our hospital resources. Materials and methods: We included patients undergoing thrombolysis with intravenous recombinant

Background: The postgraduate entrance examination can be a milestone for many medical students to advance their careers. An increasing number of students are competing for limited postgraduate offers available, and failure to enter postgraduate studies can have adverse mental health consequences. In this paper, we aim to investigate the mental health status of medical students during the postgraduate application entrance examination and to provide a targeted basis for mental health education and psychological counselling. Methods: Using the Symptom Checklist-90 scale (SCL-90) questionnaire, the mental health status of 613 students who passed two rounds of the Postgraduate Entrance Examination in 2019 to enroll in Guangzhou Medical University in China was evaluated and followed up for retesting 6 months later. We used SPSS 20.0 statistical software for comparative analysis, including One-Sample T-Test, Independent-Samples T-Test, Paired Samples T-Test and Chi-square Test. Results: Our data showed that 12.10% of students had mental health problems during the postgraduate entrance examination, and it decreased significantly to 4.40% at the 6-month follow-up after the examination period finished (P < 0.01). Somatization was the most significant symptom of the students both during and after the postgraduate entrance examination stages. All SCL-90 factors were scored significantly lower both in and after the postgraduate entrance examination stages than the 2008 national college student norm score (P < 0.01). Excluding psychiatric factors, all other SCL-90 factors in the postgraduate entrance examination stage scored higher than the graduate stage (P < 0.05), and the total score of SCL-90 in female medical students was higher compared to male students (P < 0.05). Conclusion: The postgraduate entrance examination event has a significant negative influence on students' mental health. The mental health of college and graduate students as an important part of their higher education experience should be systematically studied, and psychological counselling or help should be provided to them throughout their studies, specifically during the examination period. Educating applicants about mental health should be implemented during the postgraduate entrance examination curriculum.