World Neurosurg
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Endoscopic pituitary surgery has shown favorable clinical outcomes. Less is known about the impact of surgical approaches on health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and work capacity. The present study was undertaken to compare transsphenoidal microscope-assisted surgery with endoscopic transsphenoidal surgery regarding preoperative and surgical factors for the final outcome of HRQoL and work capacity. ⋯ Surgical technique does not influence HRQoL or work capacity in this long-term follow-up although both are decreased compared with the general population. We conclude that fully endoscopic pituitary surgery, despite including larger tumors, bears the same risk for complications as microsurgery. In addition, females have a greater risk for decrease in HRQoL and work ability. This factor should be taken into account when informing patients and appreciating expectations of treatment.
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To study the anatomy and clinical application of monolateral pterional keyhole approaches for treating bilateral cerebral aneurysms. ⋯ Contralateral aneurysms of the M1 segment (anterior, superior, and inferior), MCA bifurcation (superior and lateral), A1 segment, A2 segment (anterior, posterior, and medial), internal carotid artery bifurcation, DICA (anterior and medial), and OICA (medial) were fully exposed from different angles and surgical maneuvers were performed via pterional keyhole approaches, including in patients presenting with subarachnoid hemorrhage.
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This report provides the first representative images of an intracranial osteochondroma with a cystic component mimicking cystic meningioma. A 40-year-old male presented at our outpatient clinic with decreased sensation in his right upper extremity. Preoperative computed tomography showed a tumor with a cystic meningioma-like appearance and prominent calcifications. ⋯ Intracranial osteochondroma is also a rare, benign tumor that can mimic meningioma when presenting in the dural convexity. Our report describes the joint capsule-like appearance of a convex cystic osteochondroma including a calcified cap, bonelike structure, and fluid-containing intracapsular space. The tumor was evaluated by imaging and pathologic studies.
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There is a significant burden of unmet surgical need in many low- and middle-income countries (>80% in parts of Africa). This need is even larger for specialties such as neurosurgery. Surgical capacity tools have been developed and used to assess needs and plan for resource allocation. This study piloted a new tool to assess neurosurgical capacity and describes its use. ⋯ NeuroPIPES survey scores were in keeping with the number of neurosurgeons and respective caseloads of each hospital. However, the variation in scores between respondents at the same hospital suggests that adaptations could be made to the tool that may improve reliability and validity. The methodology used to create NeuroPIPES may be successfully applied to a variety of other surgical subspecialties for similar assessments.
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The authors describe a modified technique for placement of the C1 lateral mass screw using a Steinmann pin as a guide. This technique minimizes dissection and provides atlantoaxial stabilization during arthrodesis. ⋯ The use of Steinmann pins to guide the placement of C1 lateral mass screws is safe and effective in C1-2 arthrodesis. Limiting dissection minimizes blood loss and injury, maintains efficient operative time, and assists in accurate placement of the screws. Furthermore, with less manipulation and retraction of the C2 nerve root, postoperative occipital neuralgia and the need for C2 root transection are avoided.