World Neurosurg
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The cerebellum is an uncommon location for arteriovenous malformations (AVM) with unique angioarchitecture compared to the cerebrum. We evaluate the outcomes of radiosurgery in a cohort of cerebellar AVMs and assess the effect of infratentorial location by comparing them to a matched cohort of supratentorial AVMs. ⋯ Radiosurgery is an effective treatment modality for cerebellar AVMs with relatively limited adverse events. Infratentorial location did not affect radiosurgery outcomes.
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Many arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) can be treated with one modality, but with increasing complexity a combination of techniques, including surgical excision, embolization, and radiosurgery, may be beneficial. The 2 senior authors' experience in the multimodal management of AVMs from 1980-2008 is reported, including the results in all patients with rehemorrhage while awaiting treatment or after partial initial treatment has begun. The series contains a disproportionately high number of Spetzler-Martin grade IV and V lesions, owing to the nature of the referral practice. ⋯ These data suggest a higher risk of hemorrhage after partial obliteration of AVM. One should ascertain an acceptably high likelihood of complete obliteration before embarking on treatment. Using a multimodality approach, the authors were able to cure 92% of treated Spetzler-Martin grade I-IV lesions but only 53% of treated Spetzler-Martin grade V lesions. A major neurologic deficit, disabling to the patient, was incurred in 3% of cases, and 11 patients died.
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The paucity of neurosurgical care in East Africa remains largely unaddressed. A sustained investment in local health infrastructures and staff training is needed to create an independent surgical capacity. The Madaktari organization has addressed this issue by starting initiatives to train local general surgeons and assistant medical officers in basic neurosurgical procedures. We report illustrative cases since beginning of the program in Mwanza in 2009 and focus on the most recent training period. ⋯ Neurosurgical care in Tanzania needs to address a diverse, unique disease burden. We found that local surgeons could be enabled to safely perform basic cranial and spinal neurosurgical procedures through immersive, 1-on-1 on-site collaborations, multidisciplinary courses, and educational visiting fellowships.
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This study sought to evaluate the presence of atlanto-occipital and atlantoaxial instabilities as well as their clinical significance in patients with Down syndrome. ⋯ High cervical instability in patients with Down syndrome can also be observed among adults, and there is a low correlation between the radiological findings and symptoms. These findings emphasize the importance of periodic follow-up on these patients, particularly when sports activities are considered.
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Intraoperative ultrasound displays dynamic processes intraoperatively. Performing burr-hole biopsies under a real-time visual control is an interesting option for the neurosurgeon. However, the percentage of conclusive diagnoses obtained by this technique and the rate of complications must be evaluated in a larger series. ⋯ When intraoperative ultrasound-navigated biopsies were used they obtained a similar percentage of conclusive diagnoses as stereotactic biopsies. The complication rate is comparable as well. Emerging intracranial complications such as hemorrhages can be observed. However, their incidence cannot be decreased.