Neurology India
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Brain death is the absence of all cortical functions, including the brainstem. The apnea test (AT) is a necessary requisite to complete this diagnosis. Anecdotal reports describing hypotension and acidosis due to apnea test have been reported. However, there are few studies that evaluate complications or difficulties related to this procedure. ⋯ The apnea test is not an innocuous procedure. Complications during the AT are more common than reported and limit organ procurement for transplantation. Guidelines for performing the AT should be followed in order to avoid clinical complications.
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Review Case Reports
Cauda equina paraganglioma presenting with intracranial hypertension: case report and review of the literature.
An unusual case of intradural paragangliomas in the cauda equina region in a 29-year-old male is presented. The patient presented with signs and symptoms of raised intracranial pressure. The symptoms resolved after tumor resection.
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Ten randomly selected adult cadaveric specimens were dissected to analyse the anatomy of the vertebral artery during its course from the C3 transverse process to its entry into the spinal dural canal at the level of C1. In addition, 10 dry cadaveric C1-C2 bones were studied. The course of the artery and the parameters relevant during surgery in the region are evaluated. ⋯ The vertebral artery adopts a serpentine course in relationship to the C2 vertebra, making it susceptible to injury during the surgical procedures in the region. The multiple loops of the artery and a buffer space within the vertebral artery groove on the inferior surface of the superior facet of the C2 vertebra and over the posterior arch of atlas provide the artery an extra length and space, probably essential to avoid any stretch during neck movements.