Neurosurgery
-
Hypothalamic hamartomas (HH) are a challenging pathology that cause gelastic seizures. Magnetic Resonance Imaging-guided Laser Interstitial Thermal Therapy (MRgLITT) offers a safe and effective treatment for HHs via a minimally invasive technique. ⋯ This large series of patients confirms the safety and efficacy of MRgLITT for pediatric HH and describes morphological considerations that predict success. Our data suggest that complete ablation of the lesion is not necessary, and that the focus should be on appropriate disconnection of the epileptogenic network. We have found that a staged approach to hamartoma ablation allows adequate disconnection of the hamartoma while mitigating risk to surrounding structures.
-
The survival benefit in maximizing resection in glioblastomas (GBMs) has been demonstrated by numerous studies. The true limit of infiltration of GBMs has been an overwhelming obstacle, and several technological advances have been introduced to improve the identification of residual tumors. ⋯ In terms of the EOR, the best results can be achieved through a combination of both techniques, where the 5-ALA-guided procedure is followed by a final survey with CEUS. Compared with other intraoperative imaging techniques, CEUS is a real-time, readily repeatable, safe, and inexpensive technique that provides valuable information to the surgeon before, during, and after resection.
-
Biography Historical Article
George Chance and Frank Holdsworth: Understanding Spinal Instability and the Evolution of Modern Spine Injury Classification Systems.
The concept of spinal cord injury has existed since the earliest human civilizations, with the earliest documented cases dating back to 3000 BC under the Egyptian Empire. Howevr, an understanding of this field developed slowly, with real advancements not emerging until the 20th century. Technological advancements including the dawn of modern warfare producing mass human casualties instigated revolutionary advancement in the field of spine injury and its management. ⋯ Sir Frank Wild Holdsworth (1904-1969), a renowned British orthopedic surgeon who laid a solid foundation for rehabilitation of spinal injuries under the aegis of the Miners' Welfare Commission, described in detail the management of thoraco-lumbar junctional rotational fracture. The work of these 2 men laid the foundation for today's understanding of spinal instability, which is central to modern spine injury classification and management algorithms. This historical vignette will explore the academic legacies of Sir Frank Wild Holdsworth and George Quentin Chance, and the evolution of spinal instability and spine injury classification systems that ensued from their work.