World Neurosurg
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Optimal placement of electrodes is important for spinal cord stimulation. Factors affecting the difficulty of percutaneous electrode placement are not well known. In this study, we retrospectively evaluated the factors affecting the difficulty of percutaneous electrode placement. ⋯ This is the first study to evaluate factors affecting the difficulty of percutaneous electrode placement. A history of percutaneous cylindrical electrode placement did not affect the success of current placement, although it lengthened the operation time.
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Infertility is one of many complications of spinal cord injury (SCI) in male patients, who are often at the peak of their reproductive life. This study evaluated effects of hyperbaric therapy (HT) on quality of sperm of rats with SCI and correlated the findings with histologic analysis of the testicles. ⋯ SCI increased the number of round and inflammatory cells and diminished sperm viability in both groups. HT promoted greater sperm viability in rats with SCI.
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Venous thromboembolism can be a significant cause of morbidity in the trauma population. Medical and surgical specialties have been pushing the indication for prophylactic filter placement. ⋯ Conservative use of filter devices and early retrieval once their indication expires are paramount to avoid unnecessary complications.
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Integration of three-dimensional (3D) printing and stereolithography into clinical practice is in its nascence, and concepts may be esoteric to the practicing neurosurgeon. Currently, creation of 3D printed implants involves recruitment of offsite third parties. We explored a range of 3D scanning and stereolithographic techniques to create patient-specific synthetic implants using an onsite, clinician-facilitated approach. ⋯ The methods presented varying levels of complexity in acquisition and model rendering. Each technique required hardware at varying in price points from $0 to approximately $100,000. The laser scanner models produced the best quality parts, which had near-perfect fit with the original defects. Potential neurosurgical applications of this technology are discussed.
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Resident applicants in neurosurgery often wonder what factors impact their chances of successfully matching. Using data published by the National Residency Match Program for 2009-2016, we examined which components of the Electronic Residency Application Service application correlated with successful residency matching. ⋯ This is the first study to analyze National Residency Match Program data for predictors of success in neurosurgical matching. Students applying to neurosurgery residency and their mentors should be aware of which baseline objective factors are associated with match success.