World Neurosurg
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Direct common carotid puncture (DCP) is conventionally used as a bailout technique in stroke patients. However, little is known about the relevant anatomy. Our objective was to examine the relationship of the common carotid artery (CCA) to surrounding structures based on different DCP trajectories passing through the artery's center. ⋯ DCP performed 2 cm above the clavicle at 0° on the right, and 90° on the left appears to minimize encounters with the IJV and thyroid gland, reducing potential complications. However, despite these findings, ultrasound guidance remains vital for DCP safety. Further focus on endovascular device safety in DCP is needed.
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Anterior intradural extramedullary meningiomas are intimidating, especially in the thoracic spine due to the spinal cord impeding conventional surgical corridor, restricted space, and precarious cord vascularity.1,2 This is possibly the first report in the literature of a minimally invasive surgery: far-lateral hybrid exoscopic and angled endoscopic approach for an anterior thoracic spine meningioma. A 60-year-old woman presented with an anterior T1-2 meningioma with a flattened cord draping over the tumor more toward the right, leaving a potential corridor on the left lateral aspect (Video 1). Under a three-dimensional exoscope, a minimally invasive retractor was placed through the left paramedian incision centered on the lamina-transverse process junction; lateral fenestration and T1-2 facetectomy were carried out with a high-speed drill and rongeurs, meticulously preserving C7-T1 articulations.3,4 Following coagulation of the anterolateral dura over the tumor, a lateral longitudinal durotomy with a T-shaped anterolateral extension was performed around the tumor. ⋯ This was followed by coagulation and excision of the dural tail. A 45° endoscope was then inserted to look for any residual tumor or dural tail.5 As the durotomy was lateral with excision of the dural tail, a multilayered soft tissue closure without dead space was sufficient to prevent cerebrospinal fluid leak.3 Fixation was not needed as only a single thoracic spine facet was disrupted.4 The patient recovered fully with radiology confirming total excision. This minimally invasive lateral rolling technique is safe and effective for anterior meningioma with the ergonomics of exoscope & the angled optics of endoscope complementing each other.
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Broad-based sidewall aneurysms of the carotid artery are primarily treated endovascularly. However, recurrence or rupture after treatment still poses a significant risk. Hence, reliable animal models mimicking this aneurysm type are essential for to evaluate the performance of new advanced endovascular devices. ⋯ The broad-based curved sidewall aneurysm model mimicking the carotid siphon showed high aneurysm patency rates with low morbidity. High comparability with human flow patterns and human intranaeurysmal biomechanical forces was shown using simulations.
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Promoting minorities within medical specialties has been postulated to be crucial to patient care and recruitment of diverse candidates. This concept has been suspected but not formally studied in the minority of women faculty and trainees in neurosurgery. We aimed to quantitatively investigate the postulated correlation relative to female representation in neurosurgery. ⋯ This study of current female representation in neurosurgery revealed a previously undocumented positive correlation between percentages of female faculty and female trainees. These data suggest a modifiable barrier to female entry into neurosurgical residency programs.
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Historical Article
Alice Rosenstein (1898-1991) First German Female Neurosurgeon.
Gender inequality has been a long-standing issue throughout history, with limited progress despite the rise of women in the workforce. Historically, women were deemed inferior to men, including within the medical profession, due to perceived bodily differences. ⋯ This paper delves into her professional journey and the significant influence she has had on the field of neurosurgery.