Neurosurgery
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Robotic-assistance in endovascular intervention represents a nascent yet promising innovation. ⋯ Incorporating robotic technology in NVI can enhance procedural technique and diminish occupational hazards. Its application in the coronary and peripheral vascular settings has established safety and efficacy, but in the neurovascular setting, this has yet to be demonstrated. This study presents the first in human feasibility experience of robotic-assisted NVI in the extracranial carotid circulation.
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Many articles published in the neurosurgical literature make claims of safety regarding interventions. The strength of evidence supporting these claims has not been systematically evaluated. ⋯ Almost no articles that make claims of safety for neurosurgical interventions explicitly state the (1) patient population, (2) comparison intervention, nor (3) specific outcomes. To assure that claims of safety are supported by high-quality evidence, authors should address these elements early and systematically when designing studies.
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The Open Payments Database (OPD) started in 2013 to combat financial conflicts of interest between physicians and medical industry. ⋯ ISRF to neurosurgeons comprises a small percentage of research payments made to medical research by industry sponsors. Although a greater percentage of payments are made to neurosurgeons in teaching institutions compared to other specialties, the majority is given to neurosurgeons not affiliated with a teaching institution. A significant percentage of ISRF is given to a small percentage of neurosurgeons. There may be opportunities for more neurosurgeons to engage in industry-sponsored research to advance our field as long as full and complete disclosures can always be made.