World Neurosurg
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To determine association between electrolyte disturbances and mortality in patients with severe traumatic brain injury. ⋯ Hypochloremia could be an important prognostic factor to determine mortality risk and to improve treatment in patients with severe traumatic brain injury.
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Intracranial germ cell tumors are a rare group of neoplasms constituting 1% to 2% of primary intracranial tumors in North America and Europe. Germinomas of the corpus callosum are exceedingly rare, accounting for only 0.7% of all intracranial germ cell tumors. ⋯ This is a case of germinoma arising in the corpus callosum that presented clinically with an eating disorder manifested as restrictive anorexia.
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Hemicraniectomy is a commonly performed neurosurgical procedure used in the setting of medically refractory malignant intracranial hypertension. Complications from cranioplasty after hemicraniectomy can be significant, including infection and wound issues. Difficulty with scar tissue during exposure for cranioplasty can be challenging and can lead to prolonged surgical time and increased bleeding. We describe a surgical technique, termed the "dural sandwich," that could provide a significant benefit during cranioplasty as compared with traditional single-layered dural closure. ⋯ By layering bovine pericardium above and below the dura during initial hemicraniectomy, an artificial plane is created that improves ease of exposure during cranioplasty. This technique could reduce surgical time and blood loss during subsequent cranioplasty, and potentially reduce recovery time and postoperative complications.
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High-grade spondylolisthesis (HGS) is a complex clinical problem that poses significant challenges to the treating physician. Contentious debate has continued regarding the most optimal surgical approach for these patients. A variety of transsacral and transvertebral techniques have been described in reported studies. ⋯ To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report to demonstrate the utility of the sacroiliac joint fusion cage using RBT in patients with HGS with successful clinical outcome. The RBT is safe, feasible, and effective in carefully selected patients.