World Neurosurg
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Iatrogenic cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leaks are associated with serious sequelae. We analyzed the causes, complications, treatments, and outcomes of iatrogenic CSF leaks. Furthermore, the comorbidities and outcomes between timely and delayed repairs of iatrogenic CSF leaks were also compared. ⋯ Delayed intervention of CSF leak after transsphenoidal surgery and craniotomy was observed, increasing the risks of meningitis. Timely intervention with grafts based on the defect sites and patient prior surgical history is crucial for avoiding life-threatening comorbidities.
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Cervical radiculopathy and cervicalgia are commonly managed with spinal epidural steroid injections in the outpatient setting. Although cervical epidural injections are routinely performed, there is potential for significant complications if proper technique and safety measures are not followed. Spinal cord infarction and stroke following transforaminal injection have been described in the literature, whereas interlaminar injections have been associated with both epidural hematomas and direct cord injury. ⋯ Epidural steroid injections are often the treatment of choice in management of neck pain and cervical radiculopathy. Devastating complications can ensue if proper safety measures and technique are not used during the procedure regardless of the approach used.
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Acute bilateral vocal fold paralysis is a life-threatening complication that can occur during spinal surgery but has almost exclusively occurred with anterior approaches. Bilateral vocal fold paralysis after posterior spinal surgery has been exceedingly rare. ⋯ We suggest that multiple system atrophy can result in an increased risk of bilateral vocal fold paralysis during surgical intervention of dropped head syndrome. Thus, our report could be of interest for those who perform spinal surgery in patients with neurological conditions.
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Owing to the rarity of acute ischemic stroke in the pediatric population, evidence supporting the efficacy in children of the various treatments used in adults is scanty. This included mechanical thrombectomy for acute ischemic stroke. ⋯ Pediatric patients likely have more reserve and collateral flow and benefit from a longer therapeutic window following acute ischemic stroke.