World Neurosurg
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Coagulation is an important aspect of the vascular microenvironment in which brain tumors evolve. Patients with tumor often show aberrant coagulation and fibrinolysis activation. In particular, glioblastoma (GBM), the most aggressive primary brain tumor, is associated with a state of hypercoagulability, and venous thromboembolism is a common complication of this cancer and its treatment. Our study aims to investigate the clinical and prognostic significance of routine laboratory tests to assess the coagulative state of patients with brain tumors, to identify potential new prognostic factors and targets for personalized therapy. ⋯ Our data support the assumption that patients with GBM show a plasma hypercoagulable profile and that coagulation profile is related to adverse outcome in patients with GBM. If confirmed, hypercoagulability could play an important role as a prognostic factor of the disease and in the decision of an antithrombotic prophylaxis.
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The Scepter XC balloon catheter can be used for balloon-assisted coiling (BAC) of cerebral aneurysms but also accommodates delivery of a low-profile visible intraluminal stent (LVIS Jr.). We assessed the safety and effectiveness of BAC using the Scepter XC, with LVIS Jr. stent-assisted coiling (SAC) as a bailout option. ⋯ Use of the Scepter XC for BAC, with LVIS Jr. SAC as a bailout option, shows acceptable angiographic and clinical results.
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Idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) is characterized by increased intracranial pressure. IIH causes significant morbidity marked by incapacitating headaches and visual disturbances. This study investigated the long-term outcomes of venous sinus stenting in a large group of patients with IIH. ⋯ A multidisciplinary approach involving neurosurgeons, ophthalmologists, radiologists, and neurologists is integral in the management of patients with IIH to prevent the complications of papilledema. Venous sinus stenting offers a safe and effective means of treating IIH.
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Spasticity and muscle weakness are common severe neurologic sequelae after stroke. Contralateral peripheral neurotization has been applied successfully to promote motor function of the hemiplegic upper extremity in patients with central neurological injury. To our knowledge, we present the first report of contralateral lumbar to sacral nerve transfer for the lower extremities in hemiplegic patients after stroke. ⋯ Although long-term follow-up and a randomized controlled trial are required, this study demonstrates the safety and possible benefits of contralateral lumbar-to-sacral nerve transfer for hemiplegic patients after stroke. This novel surgical approach could provide a new means for lower-limb motor functional recovery.
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Upper cervical fixation with C2 pedicle screw insertion may predispose patients to vertebral artery injury, in particular, patients with craniovertebral junction anomalies. The aim of this study was to describe an alternative technique with trans-C2 inferior articular process screw (C2IAPS) insertion for rigid C2 fixation, which can be used to anchor the C2 vertebra for upper cervical fixation. ⋯ For patients who are not eligible for C2 pedicle screw fixation, C2IAPS fixation can be considered as an alternative technique for upper cervical fixation of C2.