World Neurosurg
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An intracranial dural arteriovenous fistula (DAVF) is an uncommon acquired dural shunt between an artery and a vein without a parenchymal nidus. DAVF occlusion may be achieved using either endovascular or open surgical means. Combining both techniques is also frequently used in clinical practice. ⋯ As demonstrated in this Video 1, microsurgical obliteration of DAVFs is relatively straightforward. This provides a valuable treatment option of some selected DAVFs and should be considered as a primary initial treatment option of complex DAVFs in certain locations. Open surgical obliteration is the best possible, most durable, and most effective therapeutic option when there are failures or shortcomings with endovascular management.
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Minimally invasive techniques in spine surgery have continued to advance as robotic technology has evolved over several generations. Although traditional techniques for placing pedicle screws are still widespread in practice, newer technology has increased the reliability of accurately placing instrumentation with smaller incisions and subsequent decreased length of stay. Additionally, advancements in planning software have improved the ability to align posterior instrumentation to assist with rod placement on multilevel constructs. ⋯ In our experience, this robotic technology has the potential to improve patient outcomes and is associated with advanced surgical planning compared with more traditional techniques.
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A recent systematic review and meta-analysis found that there was a lack of consensus regarding risk factors for cerebral vasospasm in aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH). ⋯ In the first nationwide analysis of cerebral vasospasm, risk factors included younger age, female sex, smoking history, hemodynamic compromise, and clinical severity of aSAH. Recently proposed biomarkers, including leukocytosis and hypokalemia, were supported by our findings. This study may assist risk stratification and earlier detection of vasospasm.
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Case Reports
Late intramedullary spinal metastases from esthesioneuroblastoma: case report and prognostic implications.
Esthesioneuroblastoma (ENB) is an uncommon neuroectodermal tumor that originates from the olfactory mucosa and often recurs locally. Distant metastases of ENB have been described, but there are few reports of intramedullary metastases to the spinal cord. ⋯ Through the presentation of this case we hope to further contribute to a better understanding of this rare disease's prognosis.
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Blast-induced traumatic brain injuries (bTBIs) are increasingly frequent in civilian settings. We present the first study of individuals with bTBI in Iraq. The study focuses on one of the deadliest suicide car bomb attacks in Iraq and uses it to show the devastating nature of bTBIs. ⋯ This study sheds light on the devastating nature of bTBIs. Neurosurgeons worldwide need to be mindful of the unique triaging, diagnostic, and management requirements of these injuries.