Neurosurgery
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Sagittal balance in adult spinal deformity is a major predictor of quality of life. A temporary loss of paraspinal muscle force and somatic pain following spine surgery may limit a patient's ability to maintain posture. ⋯ Radiographic assessment of global sagittal alignment did not fully reflect surgical correction of sagittal balance until 6 mo after adult deformity surgery. Sagittal balance initially worsened then steadily improved at each interval over the first year postoperatively. At 1 yr, all clinical and radiographic measures outcomes were significantly improved.
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One criticism of transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) is the inability to increase segmental lordosis (SL). Expandable interbody cages are a relatively new innovation theorized to allow improvement in SL. ⋯ Patients undergoing single-level TLIF experienced similar improvements in SL and LL regardless of whether nonexpandable or expandable cages were placed.
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Flow diversion is typically reserved for large, giant, or morphologically complex aneurysms. Coiling remains a first-line treatment for small, morphologically simple aneurysms. ⋯ This matched analysis suggests that flow diversion provides higher occlusion rates, lower retreatment rates, and no additional morbidity compared with coiling in small, simple aneurysms amenable to both techniques. These results suggest a potential benefit for flow diversion over coiling even in small, uncomplicated aneurysms.
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Presentation on a weekend is commonly associated with higher mortality and a decreased likelihood of receiving invasive procedures. ⋯ Presentation with nontraumatic SAH on a weekend did not influence mortality, discharge destination, or type of treatment received (clip vs coil) compared with weekday presentation.