World Neurosurg
-
Large intradural growth of tympanojugular paragangliomas (TJ-PGs) into the cerebellopontine angle is an infrequent condition that can determine an extensive involvement of vessels and brainstem, representing a surgical challenge. The current classifications lack accuracy for defining large intradural TJ-PGs and assessing their operability. This study aims to retrospectively reappraise the management of a large intradural TJ-PGs surgical series, discussing operability criteria, treatment strategies, and resection techniques. ⋯ Large intradural TJ-PGs can be effectively surgically managed with an appropriate technique combined with relevant nonsurgical strategies. Thus, operability criteria for these lesions can be extended. To share objective experience on large intradural TJ-PGs, a redefinition of Di3 tumors is recalled.
-
The reconstruction of complex cranial defects is challenging and is associated with a high complication rate. The development of a patient-specific, titanium-reinforced, calcium phosphate-based (CaP-Ti) implant with bone regenerative properties has previously been described in 2 case studies with the hypothesis that the implant may improve clinical outcome. ⋯ In the present study the CaP-Ti implant appears to have improved the clinical outcomes in a cohort of patients with a high rate of previous cranioplasty failures. The bone regenerative effect may in particular have an impact on the long-term success rate of the implant.
-
Comparative Study
Cage Subsidence and Fusion Rate in XLIF With and Without Fixation.
To examine the subsidence rate in patients undergoing extreme lateral interbody fusion (XLIF) using data from a 2-year retrospective study to assess the effect of supplemental fixation on the stand-alone procedure. ⋯ Supplemental fixation did not significantly influence cage subsidence or SL angle. Only BPS fixation significantly improved the LL angle. The 2-year fusion rate was satisfactory.
-
In the literature, there are only short series of radiofrequency of the sphenopalatine ganglion (SPG) to treat chronic refractory cluster headache (CCHr) with variable results. Furthermore, there is no consensus on which methodology to use: radiofrequency ablation (RFA) or pulsed radiofrequency (PRF). ⋯ Radiofrequency of the SPG is a safe, fast, and partially effective method for the treatment of CCHr. Given its low rate of complications and its low economic cost, we think it should be one of the first invasive treatment options, prior to techniques with greater morbidity and mortality, such as neuromodulation.
-
Case Reports
Huge greater superficial petrosal nerve schwannoma with intradural peritumoral cyst: a case report.
Schwannoma originating from the greater superficial petrosal nerve is an extremely rare type of facial nerve schwannoma located in the middle cranial fossa around the midportion of the petrous bone. Here, we provide the first report of greater superficial petrosal nerve schwannoma presenting with contralateral facial palsy and hemiparesis due to compression of the pyramidal tract by associated intradural peritumoral cyst. ⋯ The combination of extradural and intradural approaches in the appropriate order is essential for fenestration of an intradural peritumoral cyst along with removal of an interdural tumor.