World Neurosurg
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Because the prognosis of high-grade aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH), classified as World Federation of Neurosurgical Societies (WFNS) grade IV-V, is generally poor, the functional outcomes of survivors have not been thoroughly explored. The aim of this retrospective cohort study is to determine predictors of functional independence in patients who survive a high-grade aSAH. ⋯ Because functional independence can be achieved in the majority of high-grade aSAH survivors, aggressive initial management of high-grade aSAH is warranted. Strategies that reduce the need for permanent cerebrospinal fluid diversion may improve functional outcomes in survivors of high-grade aSAH.
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Comparative Study
Single-Barrel Versus Double-Barrel Superficial Temporal Artery to Middle Cerebral Artery Bypass: A Comparative Analysis.
The superficial temporal artery to middle cerebral artery (STA-MCA) bypass is the most common bypass for augmenting or restoring cerebral blood flow. Although the single-barrel (SB) STA-MCA bypass is sufficient in most cases, the double-barrel (DB) STA-MCA bypass can supply the demands of different vascular territories or multiple efferent arteries. We present a comparative analysis of SB and DB STA-MCA bypass in a large, consecutive series to examine indications, surgical results, and patient outcomes. ⋯ DB STA-MCA bypasses are reserved for patients requiring revascularization of multiple vascular territories or efferent arteries. DB STA-MCA bypasses have patency rates and patient outcomes comparable to SB STA-MCA, with the advantages of a single incision and reduced operative complexity compared to high-flow bypasses. DB STA-MCA bypass is an important element in the vascular neurosurgeon's bypass armamentarium.
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The primary treatment for patients with sacral chordoma is en bloc surgical resection with negative margins, which has been shown to reduce local recurrence and tumor-related morbidity. Here we describe the use of intraoperative neuronavigation using preoperative spine magnetic resonance imaging fused to intraoperative computed tomography (CT) to create 3-dimensional tumor reconstructions in the operating room for intraoperative identification of bone and soft-tissue margins for maximal safe tumor resection. ⋯ Magnetic resonance imaging-CT fusion and 3-dimensional reconstruction techniques using an intraoperative CT scanner with image-guided navigation to aid preoperative planning and surgical resection of sacral chordomas are not well represented in the literature. This technique can be used for planning en bloc surgical resections and for more precisely identifying tumor margins intraoperatively.
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Pneumocephalus is commonly associated with cranial trauma including surgical interventions. Spontaneous pneumocephalus on the other hand is a rare diagnosis. Reported cases were predominantly unilateral. We report a unique case of a bilateral spontaneous pneumocephalus probably related to a bilateral tegmen defect related to repeated Politzer maneuvers. ⋯ Spontaneous pneumocephalus represents a rare condition often associated with increased middle ear pressure, which can be caused by autoinflation (e.g., Valsalva or Politzer maneuver), sneezing, or coughing. The described case represents a unique presentation of the bilateral spontaneous pneumocephalus associated with bilateral tegmen and dura mater defects managed surgically. Despite its rarity, spontaneous pneumocephalus originating from the temporal bone should be considered as a possible diagnosis in patients with suggestive otologic presentation (e.g., tinnitus, instability, hearing loss) and associated nonspecific neurologic symptomatology.
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Previous studies of percutaneous endoscopic lumbar discectomy (PELD) to treat lumbar disc herniation (LDH) have shown good clinical results. However, limited information has been reported regarding postoperative improvement in back muscle function. We aimed to determine whether changes in neuromuscular patterns, assessed using the flexion-relaxation phenomenon (FRP), could be observed after PELD. ⋯ PELD for individuals with LDH appears to normalize paraspinal muscle activation during lumbar flexion-extension movement. The gross range of motion and disability-related limitations of physical activity also improved.