Pediatric neurosurgery
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Pediatric neurosurgery · Jan 2009
Conservative management of acute epidural hematoma in a pediatric age group.
Craniotomy and evacuation is the standard treatment of acute epidural hematoma (EDH). Here, the authors report their experience in nonoperative management of acute EDH in children with mild head injury. ⋯ Our results demonstrated that pediatric EDH can be managed nonoperatively. The pronounced increase in the number of CT examinations for patients with head injuries has resulted in a greater proportion of EDH detected in conscious patients. We recommend such treatment be performed in specialized pediatric neurosurgical centers under close neurological observation.
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Pediatric neurosurgery · Jan 2009
Case ReportsSignificant pediatric morbidity and mortality from intracranial ballistic injuries caused by nonpowder gunshot wounds. A case series.
Nonpowder (ball-bearing and pellet) weapons derive their source of energy from compressed air or carbon dioxide. Such weapons are dangerous toys that cause serious injuries and even death to children and adolescents. A retrospective chart review study was undertaken to describe nonpowder gun injuries at a southwestern US urban level I adult and pediatric trauma center. ⋯ Injuries to the brain, eye, head, and neck were the most common sites of injury (65.6%). Specific intracranial injuries in 3 pediatric patients are described that resulted in the death of 2 children. We suggest that age warning should be adjusted to 18 years or older for unsupervised use to be considered safe of these potentially lethal weapons.
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Cavernous hemangiomas are benign vascular hamartomas caused by developmental malformations of the vascular bed. They can be found in 0.3-0.7% of the population, whereas one fourth of these lesions occur in children. ⋯ With the improvement of microsurgical techniques and modern neuroimaging, nearly all cavernomas can be safely removed. Total resection is associated with patients' clinical improvement and seizure control.
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Pediatric neurosurgery · Jan 2009
Case ReportsDecompressive hemicraniectomy in a 19-month-old female after malignant cerebral infarction.
Malignant cerebral infarction is a life-threatening condition with case fatality rates of approximately 80% in adults with malignant infarction of the middle cerebral artery. No medical treatment has been proven effective for this condition. Decompressive hemicraniectomy within 48 h of massive cerebral infarction significantly reduces mortality and improves outcome in adults 18-60 years of age. ⋯ Decompressive hemicraniectomy should be considered for the treatment of cerebral edema in children with malignant cerebral infarction. This may improve mortality and functional outcome compared to medical therapy alone. Due to the rare occurrence of stroke in children, more reports of decompressive hemicraniectomy are encouraged.