World Neurosurg
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To investigate the noninferiority of facet joint- and nuchal ligament-sparing laminectomy (FNL) compared with conventional open-door laminoplasty. ⋯ FNL was not inferior to conventional open-door laminoplasty in terms of clinical or radiologic outcomes, reducing the detachment of muscle from each lamina.
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Atlantoaxial spine surgery is a challenge to spinal surgeons because of its proximity to neurovascular structures. This study aimed to identify and analyze the scientific publications in atlantoaxial spine surgery from different countries and institutions. ⋯ The atlantoaxial spine surgery literature has grown continuously in recent years. The United States is the largest contributor in this field. Fixation and fusion are the most common areas, and fixation-related studies should be closely followed. The screw-rod fixation system is becoming increasingly popular.
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Few studies have used hybrid single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT)/computed tomography (CT) scan to identify degenerative facet disease. We aimed to determine the incidence of hypermetabolic facets on SPECT/CT imaging in patients with axial neck or back pain to elucidate the value of SPECT/CT scan in identifying pain generators. ⋯ Nearly half of all patients with axial neck or back pain demonstrated ZJH on SPECT/CT imaging, supporting ZJH sites as potential pain generators and targets for treatment. Our results support the role for SPECT/CT imaging in the workup of patients with axial neck or back pain, which may reduce invasive diagnostic procedures and aid in treatment planning.
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Review
Review of the Highlights from the First Annual Global Neurosurgery 2019: A Practical Symposium.
This paper provides a detailed report of Global Neurosurgery 2019: A Practical Symposium held January 18-19, 2019, at Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York, USA. The meeting convened an international faculty and audience, leaders in the world of global neurosurgery (GNS), and junior faculty and residents beginning their contribution to the field. ⋯ The goal of the symposium was to present the state of the union of GNS initiatives worldwide, to use this forum as a means to centralize resources and converge parallel efforts, and to identify the largest areas of need and successful means of advancing training and care in these areas. The meeting also served as a conduit for the presentation of funding and training opportunities for junior faculty and trainees looking for avenues to gain support and mentorship in pursuing academic and clinical endeavors globally.