World Neurosurg
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Resting state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs-fMRI) is a technique for the analyzing functional connectivity (FC) between anatomically distant brain regions at rest. The purpose of this study was to analyze postoperative FC changes in patients with compression cervical myelopathy, to evaluate their relationship with clinical scores, and to examine the changes in spinal cord function associated with brain networks. ⋯ The reorganization of the sensorimotor cortex occurred postoperatively in patients with compression cervical myelopathy. In addition, each change in FC was significantly correlated with the clinical scores, thus indicating an association between the recovery of spinal cord function and plastic changes in the sensorimotor cortex.
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To determine if postoperative soft cervical orthosis use affects arthrodesis rates on a per-level or construct basis after 1-level and 2-level anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF). ⋯ Postoperative placement of soft cervical orthoses after 1-level or 2-level ACDF was not associated with improved arthrodesis or reduced rate of revision surgery.
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Neuromodulatory implants provide promising alternatives for patients with drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE) in whom resective or ablative surgery is not an option. Responsive neurostimulation (RNS) operates a unique "closed-loop" system of electrocorticography-triggered stimulation for seizure control. A comprehensive review of the current literature would be valuable to guide clinical decision-making regarding RNS. ⋯ A meta-analysis of recent RNS for DRE literature demonstrates seizure reduction and responder rates comparable with other neuromodulatory implants for epilepsy, demonstrating both the value of this intervention and the need for further research to delineate the optimal patient populations. This analysis also demonstrates a strong publication bias toward positive primary outcomes, highlighting the limitations of current literature. Currently, RNS data are optimistic for the treatment of DRE but should be interpreted cautiously.
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Endoscopic endonasal approach (EEA) procedures are inherently contaminated due to direct access through the nasopharyngeal mucosa. The reported rate of postoperative meningitis in EEA procedures is 0.7%-3%. A variety of methods exist to minimize the risk of meningitis with antibiotic prophylaxis, although their value is not completely understood. This study investigated whether there is a difference in rates of postoperative meningitis based on Staphylococcus aureus colonization and use of preoperative antibiotic prophylaxis. ⋯ Postoperative rates of meningitis after EEA surgery were not significantly changed based on MRSA/MSSA colonization status of the patient or preoperative decolonization. The utility of preoperative testing of MRSA/MSSA status and antibiotics for decolonization to prevent postoperative meningitis should be further investigated.
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Primary spinal cord astrocytomas are rare, fatal, and poorly studied. ⋯ Outcomes worsen with higher grades and lead to difficult postoperative periods. Clinicians should be vigilant for thromboembolic complications. Further research is needed to understand these rare tumors.