World Neurosurg
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To present our experience with anterior transthoracic surgery for high-risk thoracic disc herniations (TDHs) using motor evoked potential monitoring (MEPm). ⋯ Maximal TDH AP diameter, SCO, SCC, (sub)total calcification, and ISC correlate with lower extremity MEP signal deterioration. In experienced hands, TMD with MEPm support is a safe, efficient procedure for high-risk TDHs.
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Case Reports
Cross-modal recruitment of auditory and orofacial areas during sign language in a deaf subject.
Modern sign languages used by deaf people are fully expressive, natural human languages that are perceived visually and produced manually. The literature contains little data concerning human brain organization in conditions of deficient sensory information such as deafness. ⋯ The intraoperative setup for sign language mapping with intraoperative electrical stimulation in deaf-mute patients is similar to the setup described in patients with oral language. To elucidate the type of language errors, a sign language interpreter in close interaction with the neuropsychologist is necessary. Sign language is perceived visually and produced manually; however, this case revealed a cross-modal recruitment of auditory and orofacial motor areas.
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We sought to report the operative techniques of the endoscopic supracerebellar transtentorial approach (ESTA) to the atrium of the lateral ventricle, especially focusing on the role of the endoscope and analyzing optically related issues. ⋯ ESTA is an alternative route to the atrium of the lateral ventricle. However, the collateral sulcus, which is highly relied on in neuronavigation, is illegible in the limited area. And the visual field deficit remains the primary challenge with this approach.
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Various risk factors for recurrence of chronic subdural hematomas (CSDHs) have been reported, including alcohol addiction and diabetes mellitus. However, the significance of malignant tumors with respect to CSDH recurrence remains unclear. ⋯ The presence of a malignant tumor can be a novel predictive factor for repeated CSDH recurrences. Patients with malignant tumors should be carefully followed, and treatment options such as subcutaneous reservoir placement may be considered to prevent further recurrences.
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Sex differences in various diseases recently have been recognized as an important factor in the approach to more efficient preventive and therapeutic medicine. We clarified sex differences in the clinical characteristics of chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) by comparing men and women with CSDH, as there is a well-known male predominance in the prevalence of CSDH. ⋯ We demonstrated sex differences in the clinical characteristics of CSDH. In the future, management of patients with CSDH with regard to sex differences in disease characteristics could be expected to improve the outcomes of women, which have been worse than in men.