World Neurosurg
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The dissection of the Sylvian fissure (SF) is a crucial technique requiring considerable expertise and skills traditionally acquired through years of experience. The continuous decline in surgical case-load necessitates the development of efficient alternative training opportunities. However, building a realistic and effective training simulator for the microsurgical dissection of the SF as an integral part of the neurosurgical curriculum remains a challenging endeavor. This work aims to develop and evaluate a high-fidelity phantom simulator for effective and transferable training of the SF dissection with a focus on middle cerebral artery aneurysm clipping. ⋯ The presented methodology demonstrates that the development and assessment of a high-fidelity hands-on simulator for the focused training of one of the most delicate neurosurgical procedures is achievable in a timely manner and without extensive investments.
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Double crush syndrome (DCS) is defined as multiple sites of compression along a single nerve. The combination of a compressive proximal lesion in the lumbar spine and a distal common peroneal nerve entrapment may result in compound nerve dysfunction. ⋯ This is the first series to report DCS with two active points of compression in the lumbar spine and lower extremity based on EMG and imaging findings. Common peroneal nerve decompression was found to improve average dorsiflexion strength.
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Considering the consequences of shunt infection, the importance of early diagnosis and effective treatment becomes clear. However, there is no clear parameter to predict the management of shunt infection. Since we thought that an index including cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leukocyte, glucose, and protein levels may affect treatment guidance, we aimed to investigate its effect on prognosis using the index we defined as CSF prognostic index. ⋯ The CSF prognostic index is an index that can be easily evaluated with CSF findings at the time of presentation and can predict both the duration of treatment and the need for intrathecal treatment. Considering the use of broader spectrum antibiotherapies initially in patients with a high CSF prognostic index will avoid possible complications, provide less psychosocial impact on the patient and his/her relatives, and reduce the cost of treatment.
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Epilepsy is a chronic condition that confers social stigma, reduced engagement in work and social activities, increased risks of comorbidities, and premature death. It is often treated with medications, but in about a third of patients, epilepsy may be refractory to medications. It is estimated that each year 211,456 new individuals across Africa meet criteria for surgically treatable epilepsy, and the current volume of surgically treatable epilepsy is 1,819,067 cases across the region. Here, we review previously published epilepsy surgery programs in Africa, noting their outcomes. ⋯ This review demonstrates that it is feasible to establish and sustain epilepsy surgery programs in Africa, with seizure freedom outcomes comparable to those reported in studies conducted in parts of the world with higher income.
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The dura mater, a fibrous membrane protecting the brain and spinal cord, is prone to lacerations during spinal surgery, often leading to complications such as cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage. Anatomical differences in the spinal dura mater, particularly in regions under high biomechanical stress, suggest that chronic inflammatory processes may compromise its structural integrity. This pilot study investigates the molecular and anatomical characteristics of the spinal dura mater, focusing on its response to inflammation and the challenges of surgical repair. ⋯ This pilot study aims to enhance our understanding of the inflammatory processes affecting the dura mater and their role in frequent lacerations during spinal surgery. Findings are expected to guide future clinical practices in dura repair strategies, potentially improving surgical outcomes and reducing complications related to CSF leakage.