World Neurosurg
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Giant aneurysms are very high-risk lesions both in terms of natural history and treatment. Bypass with distal occlusion is thought to be a safe treatment option for these aneurysms. Here, we report 2 cases of aneurysm rupture after bypass and distal occlusion, review the literature, and discuss the possible underlying mechanisms, in the hopes of influencing treatment planning and averting such complications in the future. ⋯ Aneurysm rupture can occur after bypass and distal occlusion, despite initial appearances of intraoperative stability. We suggest that the mechanisms are not a simple pressure within the dome and may be due to rapid thrombosis with subsequent aneurysm wall destabilization or stretching and capacitance causing persistent filling. When possible, it seems that complete trapping or proximal occlusion may be preferable to distal occlusion for these giant aneurysms. The optimal management of these highly morbid lesions remains to be determined.
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Traumatic spinal subdural hematoma involving the retroclival region and upper cervical spine is a rare pathology. To our knowledge, there have only been 2 prior cases in an adult trauma patient. We describe a patient with preexisting Chiari 1 malformation, who recently sustained a unilateral type 1 occipital condyle fracture with associated disruption of the tectorial membrane and transverse ligament, which returned with a retroclival subdural hematoma extending down to C7, causing spinal cord compression and symptomatic obstructive hydrocephalus. ⋯ Traumatic spinal subdural hematoma involving both the retroclival region and upper cervical spine can lead to bulbar signs and symptomatic obstructive hydrocephalus. There should be vigilance for this pathology in patients with high-energy craniocervical trauma. Disruption of the tectorial membrane and therapeutic anticoagulation may be risk factors. The clinical scenario can be complicated in the setting of a preexisting Chiari 1 malformation.
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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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Three-dimensional (3D) endoscopy has been recently introduced in endonasal skull base surgery. Only a relatively limited number of studies have compared it to 2-dimensional, high definition technology. The objective was to compare, in a preclinical setting for endonasal endoscopic surgery, the surgical maneuverability of 2-dimensional, high definition and 3D endoscopy. ⋯ In a preclinical setting for endonasal skull base surgery, 3D technology appears to confer an advantage in terms of time of execution and precision of surgical maneuvers.
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Recurrent chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) is not rare. Some studies have demonstrated the role of dexamethasone in the medical management of chronic subdural hematoma. However, no systematic study in the treatment of recurrent CSDH has been published. The aim of our study is to evaluate the efficacy and safety of dexamethasone in patients with recurrent CSDH. ⋯ Patients with recurrent CSDH can be treated successfully and safely with the nonsurgical medical treatment of dexamethasone. By use of this method, reoperation may be avoided.