Neurosurgery
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Cerebrospinal fluid diversion is one of the most frequent neurosurgical procedures across the world and can be challenging in select patients who fail standard distal drainage sites. ⋯ SVC, superior vena cava.
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Retrochiasmatic, retroinfundibular craniopharyngiomas are surgically challenging tumors. Anterolateral, posterolateral, and endoscopic endonasal approaches represent the most commonly used techniques to access these tumors, but all require an extensive exposure time, and each has its own risks and limitations. The subtemporal approach is a well-known neurosurgical approach that is rarely described for craniopharyngiomas. ⋯ DCL, dorsal clival line.
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Skull reconstruction can be challenging due to the complex 3-dimensional shape of some structures, such as the orbital walls, and for cases involving a large cranial vault. In such situations, computer-assisted design and modeling of prostheses is especially helpful to achieve an adequate reconstruction. Simultaneous tumor resection and skull defect reconstruction are also challenging because the preoperative imaging does not display the anticipated defect. Currently, sophisticated methods based on physical prototypes and templates are required to enable simultaneous resection and reconstruction techniques. ⋯ ROI, region of interest.
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Surgical wounds after craniotomy heal with primary closure in most cases; however, significant comorbidities, multiple procedures, and history of tumor increase the risk of wound breakdown. Craniotomy wounds often require sophisticated coverage by a plastic surgeon using regional or microvascular flaps to address exposed intracranial contents. Unfortunately, timely treatment of craniotomy wounds may be difficult as a result of limitations of plastic surgery consultation, specialized operating room staffing, and operating room time. Infected wounds may need serial debridement and antibiotic therapy before definitive closure, and patients with dehisced or infected craniotomy wounds may need medical and nutritional optimization. ⋯ DRT, dermal regeneration template.
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Traditional approaches to medial temporo-occipital intra-axial brain tumors carry the risk of visual or language deficits related to brain retraction or transgression of deep fiber tracts. To reduce these risks, the microscopic supracerebellar transtentorial approach with the patient in the sitting position has been previously described for lesions in relative proximity to the tentorium. ⋯ This small series suggests that the endoscopic supracerebellar transtentorial approach with the patient in the sitting position can be a safe and effective approach for removing medial temporo-occipital lesions. It allows excellent tumor visualization, eliminates the need for brain retraction, minimizes parenchymal transgression, and improves surgical ergonomics. Significant experience in endoscopy and excellent neuroanesthesia support are recommended before undertaking this approach.