British journal of neurosurgery
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Placement of thoracic pedicle screws is a technically demanding procedure. The risk of thoracic pedicle breaches range from 6.5 to 41%. Current image guidance systems consist of computer based systems utilizing preoperative CT scans or 2D/3D intraoperative fluoroscopy. ⋯ The iCT based spinal neuronavigation system allowed for highly safe and accurate placement (97.3%) of thoracic pedicle screws in our institution with no neurovascular injury reported.
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Traumatic extradural haematoma following a severe head injury is well documented in neurosurgical literature. We report a case of traumatic extradural haematoma which initially was concealed by the high intracranial pressure (ICP) and revealed after the contralateral decompressive craniectomy. A 21-year-old roofer sustained severe head injury from a fall. ⋯ The second surgery demonstrated a bleeding middle meningeal artery associated with the left temporal bone fracture. The clinical sequence of events, radiological and operative findings revealed this to be a traumatic extradural haematoma sustained at the initial trauma. This was revealed after the tamponade effect was released from the initial decompressive craniectomy on the contralateral side.
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In the past decades, we have witnessed waves of interest in three-dimensional (3D) stereoscopic imaging. Previously, the complexity associated with 3D technology led to its absence in the operating room. But recently, the public's resurrection of interest in this imaging modality has revived its exploration in surgery. Technological advances have also paved the way for incorporation of 3D stereoscopic imaging in neurosurgical education. ⋯ Proper 3D knowledge of surgical anatomy is important for operative success. 3D stereoscopic viewing of this anatomy may accelerate the learning curve of trainees and improve the standards of surgical teaching. More objective studies are relevant in further establishing the value of 3D technology in neurosurgical education.
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Review Comparative Study
Endoscopic skull base surgery: a comprehensive comparison with open transcranial approaches.
Little data exists comparing endoscopic endonasal approaches to pathology of the anterior skull base with more traditional transcranial and transsphenoidal microscopic approaches. In order to more fully characterize the role of endoscopy in the management of pathology of the anterior cranial base, we conducted a systematic review of case series and case reports documenting surgical and clinical outcomes. ⋯ CSF leak rates are higher for patients undergoing endoscopic surgery for meningiomas and craniopharyngiomas, but not for chordomas, esthesioneuroblastomas or giant pituitary adenomas. In certain patients, the endonasal endoscopic approach may be a safe and effective alternative for the treatment of a wide variety of skull base pathology, particularly those with small midline tumours.
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Randomized Controlled Trial Comparative Study
Post-operative day two versus day seven mobilization after burr-hole drainage of subacute and chronic subdural haematoma in Nigerians.
The traditional care of patients with subacute/chronic subdural haematoma (S/CSDH) often involves delayed mobilization after burr-hole drainage. It is thought that delayed mobilization aids brain re-expansion thereby reducing the risk of recurrence. However, there is paucity of information regarding its efficacy and safety over early mobilization. We evaluated the efficacy and complications of each type of mobilization following burr-hole drainage of S/CSDH. ⋯ It appears that both EM and LM are equally beneficial in the post-operative care of patients following burr-hole drainage of S/CSDH. There is no significant complication referable to the specific type of mobilization. The authors, therefore, advocate EM of patients to reduce the length of hospital stay.