Neurosurgery
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Image guidance has transformed minimally invasive spine surgery (MISS), allowing for safer procedures without excessive bony exposure and reducing radiation exposure for the surgical team. Robotic platforms have enhanced the benefits of navigation by providing high precision and accuracy. Here we describe a case series to demonstrate the accuracy and low complication rates of real-time image-guided robotic-assisted (RA) MISS at a tertiary referral center. In addition, we performed a narrative review on how robotics and navigation facilitate MISS. ⋯ Robotic platforms have further enhanced navigation benefits by providing high precision and accuracy, with low complication rates.
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Review
Beyond Pedicle Screw Placement: Future Minimally Invasive Applications of Robotics in Spine Surgery.
Advancements in spine surgery have dramatically enhanced minimally invasive techniques, prominently through integrating robotic systems. Although pedicle screw placement remains the most widespread application of this technology, new developments are emerging to create innovative future avenues for these tools. ⋯ We also discuss the potential for integrating artificial intelligence and augmented reality with robotic systems. If the current trajectory of research and innovation continues, there is promise in creating fully autonomous robotic systems that can revolutionize spine surgery by processing, planning, and performing procedures without heavy reliance on the surgeon.
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Craniosynostosis can lead to progressive cranial and skull base deformities and can be associated with increased intracranial pressure (ICP), ophthalmological manifestations, behavioral changes, and developmental delay. Most published data on the incidence of elevated ICP include older children undergoing open surgical correction. Endoscopic-assisted release of fused sutures with postoperative helmet therapy is an established method for managing craniosynostosis presenting at an early age; however, the immediate effect of this approach on ICP in a young cohort has not been previously reported. ⋯ Elevated ICP may occur in infants with craniosynostosis at higher rates than previously reported. Endoscopic-assisted craniectomy has an immediate effect on lowering ICP and improving postoperative ophthalmological findings.
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En bloc sacrectomy is associated with sacral root transection causing loss of urinary bladder, rectum, and sexual function. The aim of the study was to determine the position of the pudendal branches (sensorimotor) and pelvic splanchnic nerves (parasympathetic) on the sacral roots relative to the sacrum, and the minimal and maximal defects in the sacral roots that can be reconstructed by grafting after various types of sacrectomy. ⋯ The reconstruction of the S2-S3 roots is anatomically feasible after partial or total sacrectomies in which the resection of the soft tissue does not extend further than approximately 1.5 to 2 cm ventrally from the sacrum.
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Surveillance studies offer sparse knowledge of predictors of future growth in sporadic vestibular schwannomas (VS).Our aim was identification of these risk factors. We propose a scoring system to estimate the risk of growth in sporadic vestibular schwannoma. ⋯ Our retrospective study revealed that younger age, cystic morphology, cisternal extent, larger volume, and growth during 1st year were strong predictors of future growth. Moreover, we propose a scoring system that accurately estimates the risks of future tumor growth.