World Neurosurg
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Review Case Reports
Results of Atypical Hemifacial Spasm with Microvascular Decompression: 14 cases reported and lectures reviewed.
Few studies have examined atypical hemifacial spasm (AHFS), and the mechanism of AHFS remains unclear. In this study, we examined the etiology, prognosis, and treatment of AHFS. ⋯ Most of the cases of AHFS studied here were caused by neurovascular conflict in zone IV of the facial nerve distal to the root entry zone. MVD surgery is the first choice treatment for AHFS.
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An important component of the residency application for neurosurgery is research experience and the subsequent number of produced publications. Bibliometrics research has been developed to establish quantitative methods for the standardization of publishing impactful research. This study aims to quantify the research productivity of medical students who successfully matriculated into a Neurosurgery residency program. ⋯ H-index is a powerful research predictor of matching into neurosurgical research institutions and can be improved by starting research early, targeting high impact journals, and participating in original clinical and laboratory investigations.
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The association between obesity and nontraumatic subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) patient outcome is unclear. The aim of this study was to determine the impact of morbid obesity (body mass index ≥40 kg/m2) on nontraumatic SAH outcomes. ⋯ Morbid obesity is associated with increased LOS, hospital costs and charges and with acute respiratory failure. However, it is also associated with a decrease in hospital mortality.
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Review Case Reports
Predictors of outcomes in fourth ventricular epidermoid cysts: A case report and a review of literature.
To present an illustrative case of fourth ventricular epidermoid cyst and review the literature to identify predictors of surgical outcomes. ⋯ Our review found that in patients with fourth ventricular epidermoid cysts, unfavorable outcomes were predicted by older age and by longer intervals from symptom onset to diagnosis. Clinicians should maintain a high index of suspicion for fourth ventricular epidermoid cysts in patients presenting with cerebellar signs and visual disturbances.
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Essential tremor (ET) is the most common movement disorder of adults, affecting an estimated 7 million Americans. Symptoms of ET range from slightly noticeable to debilitating, with 1 cohort study finding 15% of patients were forced into early retirement. Additionally, depression has also been correlated with the severity of disability of ET. Treatment options include propranolol and primidone. Current treatment options are not very effective, with more than half (56.3%) of patients discontinuing medications because of no changes in symptoms. ⋯ With a better side-effect profile and success in a physiologically related condition, we propose more clinical trials and research be carried out on intrathecal baclofen as a potential treatment option, especially drug refractory ET, so as to increase the quality of life of this patient population.