Surg Neurol
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Seven geriatric patients presented with displaced Type II odontoid fractures. All patients underwent a posterior C1-C2 transarticular fixation between November 1994 and December 1996. Ages ranged between 63 and 88 years. ⋯ Posterior transarticular screw fixation is a reasonable option in treating these controversial fractures. Seven geriatric patients tolerated this surgery well, and were mobilized early, avoiding complications related to external immobilization.
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A significant concern about vagus nerve stimulation therapy has been the disposition of the spiral stimulating electrodes once treatment is considered ineffective or is no longer desired. Because the electrodes are wrapped around the vagus nerve, there is the potential for nerve injury during their removal. ⋯ Our results indicate that the spiral electrodes may be safely removed from the vagus nerve, even after the electrodes have been implanted for several years. The reversibility of lead implantation may enhance the attractiveness of vagus nerve stimulation therapy for patients with medically-intractable epilepsy.