World Neurosurg
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The predictive value of changes in intraoperatively acquired motor-evoked potentials (MEPs) of the lower cranial nerves (LCN) IX-X (glossopharyngeal-vagus nerve) and CN XII (hypoglossal nerve) on operative outcomes was investigated. ⋯ Our study greatly contributes to the current knowledge of intraoperative MEPs as a predictor for postoperative cranial nerve function. We were able to extent previous findings on MEP values of the facial nerve on postoperative nerve function to 3 additional cranial nerves. Finding reliable predictors for postoperative nerve function is of great importance to the overall quality of life for a patient undergoing surgery of the posterior cranial fossa.
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Intracranial extraskeletal mesenchymal chondrosarcomas (MCSs) are rare tumors accounting for <0.16% of intracranial tumors. They are usually described as occurring in the age group of 20-30 years and are commonly found in the frontoparietal region arising from the falx and surrounding dura. We describe 3 cases at varying ages, locations, and outcomes. ⋯ Intracranial MCSs are rare malignant tumors with poor prognosis. Because of their rarity, it may not be considered as a differential diagnosis and it is often misdiagnosed radiologically, but the importance lies in the need of radical excision. The potential effect of postoperative radiotherapy and chemotherapy is controversial. This article sheds some light on variable prognosis of this tumor.
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Hemiballismus is a rare presentation of symptomatic carotid stenosis that is underreported in the neurosurgical literature. It is characterized by severe large-amplitude movements that are classically caused by lesions of the subthalamic nucleus. Given the arterial border zone position of the subthalamic nucleus between the anterior and posterior circulation, hemodynamically compromising carotid stenosis can lead to hypoperfusion in this location. ⋯ We suggest that neurovascular imaging should be part of the initial workup of this condition and that prompt diagnosis and treatment of carotid artery stenosis in patients who present with new-onset hemiballismus are essential for reducing risk of imminent stroke.
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Chronic subdural hematoma (cSDH) is a common neurosurgical condition, with an estimated incidence of 3-15.5 per 100,000 people, with significantly higher rates in the elderly population. Recurrence rates range from 2%-37% after surgical drainage. Studies have shown that leaving a drain postoperatively can reduce recurrence rates, but studies have not looked at whether there is a difference between leaving 1 or 2 drains. ⋯ This study demonstrates that neither the number of burr holes nor the number of drains left after a burr hole drainage of cSDH appear to affect recurrence rates, whereas liver disease does make recurrence more likely.