World Neurosurg
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Review Historical Article
Historical roots of modern neurosurgical cadaveric research practices: dissection, preservation, and vascular injection techniques.
Because of the complexity of the brain and its structures, anatomical knowledge is fundamental in neurosurgery. Anatomical dissection, body preservation, and vascular injection remain essential for training, teaching, and refining surgical techniques. This article explores the historical development of these practices and provides the contextual background of modern neurosurgical cadaveric brain models. ⋯ In 1868, August Hofmann synthesized formaldehyde, markedly improving tissue preservation. Later, William Kruse introduced latex in 1939, and Sidney Sobin introduced silicone in 1965 for vascular studies. These advancements laid the foundation for modern neurosurgical cadaveric studies, many remaining relevant today.
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Review
Navigating Challenges and Embracing Opportunities: The Outlook of Functional Neurosurgery in Africa.
This narrative review explores the current landscape of functional neurosurgery in Africa, focusing on the challenges and opportunities facing the field. Drawing upon existing literature and expert insights, the review highlights the scarcity of resources, including trained personnel, infrastructure, and specialized equipment, as major hurdles impeding the widespread adoption of advanced neurosurgical techniques. ⋯ Moreover, the review underscores the significance of addressing cultural beliefs and stigmas surrounding neurological conditions to ensure equitable access to care and promote acceptance of neurosurgical interventions. By navigating these challenges and embracing emerging opportunities, functional neurosurgery in Africa holds the potential to significantly impact neurological health outcomes and enhance overall well-being.
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Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a debilitating condition with profound implications on patients' quality of life. Recent advancements in brain-computer interface (BCI) technology have provided novel opportunities for individuals with paralysis due to SCI. Consequently, research on the application of BCI for treating SCI has received increasing attention from scholars worldwide. However, there is a lack of rigorous bibliometric studies on the evolution and trends in this field. Hence, the present study aimed to use bibliometric methods to investigate the current status and emerging trends in the field of applying BCI for treating SCI and thus identify novel therapeutic options for SCI. ⋯ In recent years, there has been a steep increase in research on the use of BCI for treating SCI. Existing research focuses on the application of BCI for improving rehabilitation and quality of life of patients with SCI. Interdisciplinary collaboration is the current trend in this field.
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Japanese neurosurgery faces challenges such as a declining number of neurosurgeons and their concentration in urban areas. Particularly in rural areas, access to neurosurgical care for patients with conditions, such as stroke, is limited, raising concerns about the collapse of regional healthcare. Robot-assisted surgical technologies have advanced in recent years, contributing to the improved precision and safety of deep brain surgery. ⋯ However, challenges, such as data bias, ethical issues, costs, and regulations, remain. In Japan, issues such as the uneven distribution and decline of neurosurgeons, collapse of regional healthcare, and increase in the number of patients with spinal disorders due to aging have been highlighted. The "AI and Robot-Assisted Surgery Moonshot Plan" serves as a guide to overcome the challenges of neurosurgery in Japan and establish a sustainable medical system.
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Multicenter Study
Caregivers' Perspective and Burden of The End-of-Life Phase of Patients With Glioblastoma: A Multicenter Retrospective Study.
Glioblastoma is the most common aggressive primary brain tumor in adults. Changes in cognition, personality, and behavior of patients as well as side effects of treatments cause unique challenges for providing care and may impact caregiver burden in different ways. ⋯ The end-of-life phases of patients with glioblastoma represent a critical factor that significantly affects not only the patient but also the caregiver's burden, caregiving tasks, and time. A multidisciplinary support program is needed to address and improve caregivers' burden.