World Neurosurg
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This study aimed to investigate the predictive factors associated with the reactivation of herpes simplex virus (HSV) in patients with trigeminal neuralgia after surgery and to determine whether there is a correlation between reactivation and surgical efficacy. ⋯ HSV reactivation was observed in a considerable proportion of patients with trigeminal neuralgia. Long operative times (≥25 minutes), the use of internal neurolysis as a surgical technique, a history of HSV infection, and previous trigeminal nerve-damaging surgery were identified as risk factors. Further research is needed to optimize surgical procedures and develop targeted management protocols to reduce the risk of HSV reactivation.
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Currently, there is no established criterion for determining when interventional treatment is necessary or which strategy is appropriate for basilar artery (BA) aneurysms. Through this study, we aimed to propose an algorithm that can effectively determine the optimal endovascular treatment (EVT) option for BA aneurysms. ⋯ The criteria for EVT of BA aneurysms based on multi-characteristics were safe and effective. However, further evidence from large cohort studies is needed.
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Chiari malformations, characterized by the herniation of cerebellar tonsils through the foramen magnum, are complex neurosurgical conditions that pose significant diagnostic and therapeutic challenges.1 Traditional interventions, such as foramen magnum decompression, have been the mainstay of treatment but are not universally effective, especially in cases with underlying atlantoaxial instability. However, recent studies highlight the importance of atlantoaxial instability in their pathogenesis, shifting the therapeutic focus towards atlantoaxial fixation.2 Research shows that atlantoaxial fixation can effectively address the underlying instability, leading to better symptomatic relief and neurological outcomes compared to traditional decompression methods.3,4-17 The findings from these studies consistently demonstrate that atlantoaxial instability is a critical factor in the development of Chiari malformations. Atlantoaxial fixation not only resolves the mechanical instability but also leads to significant symptomatic relief and improved neurological outcomes. ⋯ This surgical Video 1 illustrates a case of a 20-year-old male patient with tonsillar herniation, syringomyelia, atlantooccipital assimilation, atlantoaxial instability, basilar invagination and dorsolumbar scoliosis, who was successfully managed with cervical fixation using a bilateral C1 lateral mass and C2 transpedicular screw construct. This surgery was able to achieve clinical and radiologic improvement without the need for a foramen magnum decompression. The patient consented to the procedure and to the publication of his images.
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Observational Study
Trends in hospitalisation and mortality rates associated with subarachnoid haemorrhage and unruptured cerebral aneurysms in Brazil.
Epidemiology of spontaneous subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) and unruptured intracranial aneurysm (UIA) is valuable for determining neurosurgical and general health care effectiveness. There is an information gap regarding these conditions in middle- and low-income countries. Therefore, we aimed to investigate hospitalization and mortality rates for SAH and UIA in Brazil from 2011 to 2019. ⋯ In Brazil, the SAH hospitalization trend is stable, although there is a worrisome increasing SAH-related mortality trend. A better scenario was observed for UIA, with an increase in hospitalizations and decrease in mortality.
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The link between tethered cord syndrome (TCS) and neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) remains unclear. To date, only 2 studies have indicated a high occurrence of TCS in the pediatric NF1 patient population. Our study aims to ascertain the incidence of TCS among Chinese pediatric patients with NF1. ⋯ In the group of pediatric patients with NF1, the incidence of TCS, presenting to the pediatric neurosurgery clinic for any reason, is significantly higher than that of the general population. However, the pathophysiological relationship between NF1 and TCS is still not clear. It is essential to provide counseling to NF1 patients and their families about the symptoms of TCS to make sure they are aware and can seek the necessary care when needed. This underscores the importance of not only diagnosing NF1 but also staying alert for related conditions like TCS, which may have a higher occurrence in this demographic.