World Neurosurg
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Management of acute ischemic stroke (AIS) has rapidly improved over the last 10 years, mostly because of the evidence supporting wide adoption of endovascular mechanical thrombectomy (EMT) as first-line therapy. The anesthetic management of patients during EMT and its impact on functional outcomes remain an open discussion. Currently, investigations have only been made to compare general anesthesia with endotracheal intubation (GA) versus conscious sedation (CS), and results are still a matter of debate. ⋯ GA-SAD is a novel anesthetic approach to AIS undergoing EMT which has not been yet widely explored. We discuss its advantages, pitfalls, and suggest how it might be a valid compromise between GA and CS in the management of AIS.
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Encephalocele is a common congenital malformation of the central nervous system; however, giant encephaloceles are rare. The use of folic acid supplementation and termination of pregnancies, which are prenatally diagnosed with encephaloceles and other congenital malformation of the central nervous system, has significantly reduced the occurrence of this type of congenital malformation, especially in developed countries. ⋯ This condition is more common in children conceived during the period when farm products are yet to be harvested, and whose mothers did not attend antenatal care visits. It is recommended that mothers should be educated on the necessity of preconception folic acid. Implementation of a national strategy on food fortification is also advised. We recommend surgery after the first month of life to reduce poor early postoperative outcomes. In developing countries and centers with suboptimal pediatric intensive care units, surgical intervention is preferred after the first month of life with good temperature control, adequate fluid replacement following rupture of the sac, blood transfusion availability, and, only if necessary, complex cranial reconstruction.
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The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic has consistently changed medical practice throughout specialties, regardless of their contribution in facing the disease itself. We surveyed neurosurgeons worldwide to investigate the situation they are experiencing. ⋯ Most neurosurgeons worldwide reported work reorganization and practices that respond to current international guidelines. Differences in practice might be related to the perception of the pandemic and significant differences in the health systems. Sharing data and experiences will be of paramount importance to address the present moment and challenges in the near future.
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Whether early enteral nutrition with probiotics can reduce the mortality and infection rate of patients with severe craniocerebral injury (SCI), improve their gastrointestinal function, and shorten the length of stay in the intensive care unit (ICU) has not been determined. ⋯ Enteral nutrition supplemented with probiotics effectively decreases the risk of mortality, gastrointestinal complications, and infection, and shortens the stays in ICU; therefore, it should be extensively adopted to manage these given patients.