Clinical neurology and neurosurgery
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Clin Neurol Neurosurg · Dec 2020
Observational StudyClinical characteristics and admission patterns of stroke patients during the COVID 19 pandemic: A single center retrospective, observational study from the Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.
To compare ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke patients with COVID-19 to non-COVID-19 controls, and to describe changes in stroke admission patterns during the pandemic. ⋯ Stroke continues to occur during this pandemic and stroke pathways have been affected by the pandemic. Stroke occurs in approximately 5% of patients with COVID-19. COVID-19 associated ischemic stroke occurs in predominantly male patients who are younger, with fewer vascular risk factors, can be more severe, and have higher rates of LVO. Despite an increase in LVO during the pandemic, treatment with mechanical thrombectomy has not increased. COVID-19 associated hemorrhagic stroke does not differ from non-COVID-19 hemorrhagic stroke patients.
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Clin Neurol Neurosurg · Dec 2020
Randomized Controlled TrialPercutaneous pulsed radiofrequency treatment of dorsal root ganglion for treatment of lumbar facet syndrome.
Percutaneous radiofrequency denervation of the medial dorsal branch is often used for treatment of chronic low back pain originating from intervertebral facets, which is sometimes associated with a low success rate and a higher incidence of recurrence of pain. We theorized that implementing pulsed radiofrequency treatment to dorsal root ganglion would increase the probability of successful pain relief. ⋯ In CLBP of facet origin, pulsed radiofrequency treatment of the dorsal root ganglia provides both a higher incidence as well as an extended period of pain relief compared to radiofrequency ablation of the medial dorsal branch of the facet joint.
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Clin Neurol Neurosurg · Dec 2020
Observational StudyGeneral surgery involvement with ventriculoperitoneal shunt insertions reduces revision rates.
Ventriculoperitoneal shunts (VPS) are placed for a variety of etiologies. It is common for general surgery to assist with insertion of the distal portion in the peritoneum. ⋯ The use of general surgeons in VPS insertion can be of benefit by decreasing operative time, length of stay, total revisions, and distal revision rates. Further prospective studies are warranted to determine true benefit.