Journal of neurosurgery
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Journal of neurosurgery · Jul 2024
A brief history of neurosurgery in Bosnia and Herzegovina: historical vignette.
The modern period of neurosurgery in Bosnia and Herzegovina began with the first neurosurgical procedure performed by Dr. Karl Bayer in 1891 on 3 patients with depressed skull fractures and epilepsy. In 1956 the Department of Surgery in Sarajevo designated several beds specifically for a neurosurgical unit. ⋯ Presently, there are 7 neurosurgical departments in the country, located in Sarajevo, Tuzla, Zenica, Mostar, Banja Luka, Bihać, and Foča. The Association of Neurosurgeons in Bosnia and Herzegovina, founded in 2003, is a member of the European Association of Neurosurgical Societies and the World Federation of Neurosurgical Societies. The aim of this historical paper is to provide a concise chronology of important events and mention key individuals who have contributed to the development of modern neurosurgery in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
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Journal of neurosurgery · Jul 2024
In vitro evaluation of flow diverter performance using a human fibrinogen-based flow model.
Fibrin deposition represents a key step in aneurysm occlusion, promoting endothelization of implants and connective tissue organization as part of the aneurysm-healing mechanism. In this study, the authors introduce a novel in vitro testing platform for flow diverters based on human fibrinogen. ⋯ Rates of fibrin deposition varied widely across different configurations and additive conditions in this novel in vitro model system. Fibrin accumulation started at the aneurysm inflow zone where flow velocity and shear stress were the highest. The primary factors influencing fibrin deposition included flow velocities, shear stress, and the addition of thrombin at a physiological concentration. Further research is needed to test the clinical utility of fibrinogen-based models for patient-specific aneurysms.
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Journal of neurosurgery · Jul 2024
Deep brain stimulation in Latin America in comparison with the US and Europe in a real-world population: indications, demographics, techniques, technology, and adverse events.
The aim of this study was to provide geographic comparisons of deep brain stimulation (DBS) procedures in Latin America with the US and Europe regarding primary indications, demographic information, clinical and device-related adverse events, technology used, and patient outcomes using the Medtronic Product Surveillance Registry data as of July 31, 2021. ⋯ DBS was performed in Latin America with similar indications, techniques, and technology as in the US and Europe. Important differences were found, with Latin America implementing more regular use of rechargeable devices, including younger patients at the time of surgery, and showing more sustained quality of life improvements at 24 months of follow-up. The authors hypothesize that these disparities stem from differences in resources among regions. However, more studies are needed to standardize DBS practice across the world to improve patients' quality of life and provide high-quality care.
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The authors sought to determine the medical schools with the highest number and proportion of female graduates currently practicing neurosurgery and to identify medical school characteristics that increase female representation in neurosurgery, with the goal of addressing the gender disparity. ⋯ Achieving gender diversity in neurosurgery necessitates a multifaceted approach. Institutions with a higher number and proportion of female neurosurgery graduates emphasized female-female mentorship, fostered diversity initiatives, and implemented inclusive policies. To increase female representation in neurosurgery, it is crucial to establish robust mentorship programs that provide aspiring female neurosurgeons with the guidance, support, and motivation required to navigate a traditionally male-dominated field.
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Journal of neurosurgery · Jul 2024
Optimizing the use of Ki-67 proliferative index as a prognostic biomarker in meningiomas using digital analysis.
Ki-67 immunohistochemistry is widely used as a prognostic marker in meningiomas, but visual estimations tend to be imprecise. Whether the average Ki-67 over an entire slide, a particular block, or areas of high staining (hotspots) is prognostic for recurrence-free survival (RFS) and overall survival (OS) is unknown. This study aimed to generate evidence-based recommendations for the optimal use of Ki-67 immunohistochemistry in the workup of meningiomas. ⋯ These data on Ki-67 in meningiomas indicate the following: 1) visual estimation substantially overestimates Ki-67, 2) digital quantification of average Ki-67 across all tissue blocks provides more prognostic information than small hotspot regions or an entire single block, and 3) Ki-67 is not informative for OS. The results suggest that best practices for incorporating Ki-67 into meningioma prognostication include digital quantification of average Ki-67 over multiple blocks.