Minim Invas Neurosur
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Minim Invas Neurosur · Apr 2008
Comparative StudyComparison of techniques for decompressive lumbar laminectomy: the minimally invasive versus the "classic" open approach.
Decompressive laminectomy offers an effective surgical treatment of lumbar spinal stenosis. The purpose of this study was to compare the elements of treatment commonly associated with successful outcomes in the assessment of laminectomies - operating room times, estimated blood loss, length of stay, and complications - of the minimally invasive and open approach laminectomies. ⋯ Bilateral decompression of lumbar spinal stenosis via a unilateral approach involves shorter operating times and less blood loss, less muscle dissection, fewer and less severe complications, and better mobility in the immediate postoperative period than open decompressive techniques. In addition, this technique is very similar to the commonly performed microendoscopic discectomy and is easily mastered over time.
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Minim Invas Neurosur · Apr 2008
Case ReportsIntra-parenchymal tumor biopsy using neuroendoscopy with navigation.
Neuroendoscopy has allowed us to biopsy tumors located in the ventricle and the para-ventricle. With this technique we can obtain specimens under direct visual monitoring and examine tumor dissemination. For intra-parenchymal tumors, however, we normally use stereotactic procedures to collect tissues or perform open biopsies. We now report that we have successfully combined neuroendoscopy with navigational guidance to biopsy intra-parenchymal tumors. We explain our methods and discuss the advantages and disadvantages of this technique. ⋯ We believe that combining neuroendoscopy with navigation guidance is a safe and precise method for obtaining biopsies of intra-parenchymal tumors. Tumors with rich vasculature will not benefit from this procedure until better hemocoagulation instruments have been developed.
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Minim Invas Neurosur · Apr 2008
Case ReportsCombined subtemporal and retrosigmoid keyhole approach for extensive petroclival meningiomas surgery: report of experience with 7 cases.
The resection of petroclival meningiomas offers great challenges to the neurosurgeon. Surgery via a combined subtemporal and retrosigmoid keyhole approach surgery was evaluated for the treatment of extensive petroclival meningiomas on the basis of our experience with 7 cases. ⋯ This combined keyhole approach is suitable for the treatment of extensive petroclival meningiomas. It provides easy and quick access to the supra- and infratentorial juxta-clival regions without any petrous bone drilling. Complications related to the approach can be minimized.