World Neurosurg
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Review Biography Historical Article
Ulf Fernstrom (1915-1985) and his Contributions to the Development of Artificial Disc Replacements: A Historical Vignette.
Artificial disc replacements, which serve the function of separating vertebrae to allow for proper spinal alignment, can help treat debilitating low back pain in patients who have failed other conservative methods of treatment. A Swedish surgeon, Ulf Fernström, was the pioneer of artificial disc replacement, and his contribution in the form of Fernström balls dramatically altered spinal surgery and technique by showing the proper technique and implant that should be used for areas requiring motion in many planes. ⋯ Of the wide range of implants on the market for the intervertebral disc space, all designs and applications of products stem from the initial discovery made by Fernström, thus making him a pioneer in disc replacement.
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Acquired Chiari malformations (ACM) and associated syringomyelia secondary to space-occupying lesions can cause neurologic deficits independent of or in combination with the offending mass. Although type I Chiari malformations are traditionally treated with posterior fossa decompression, optimal surgical management of ACM and associated syringomyelia remains unclear. The purpose of this study is to review the current literature surrounding the management of ACM. ⋯ Space-occupying lesions in the posterior fossa are a rare cause of ACM and syringomyelia. Surgical management of the underlying lesion improves ACM and associated syringomyelia without the need for syrinx shunting.
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Syringomyelia is a progressive cerebrospinal fluid disorder that can lead to irreversible spinal cord injury. To date, the optimal management of syringomyelic cavities remains controversial. Multiple studies have emphasized the importance of the craniocervical decompression or shunting procedures; however, except for syrinx related to Chiari malformation, nearly one-half of patients need to undergo reoperation. The purpose of the present study was to describe a simple and efficient surgical technique and to report the long-term radioclinical outcomes. ⋯ A myringotomy tube is a simple surgical technique that seems to be an efficient and safe treatment for syringomyelic cavities.
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Paragangliomas are highly vascular and predominantly benign neoplasms that traditionally have been treated by surgery, embolization, and/or external beam radiotherapy. The aim of this study was to evaluate long-term local tumor control and the safety of radiosurgery for head and neck paragangliomas. ⋯ Both single and multisession radiosurgery were confirmed as a safe and effective treatment modality for paragangliomas. Multisession radiosurgery appears effective to treat large lesions.