Articles: cations.
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The nomenclature adopted for endoscopic medial maxillectomies (EMMs) is exceedingly heterogeneous. The aim of this study was to objectively measure surgical exposure in a preclinical anatomic setting to validate a classification for modular EMMs. ⋯ This modular classification of EMMs, based on quantitative analysis in a preclinical setting, should allow for better personalized preoperative surgical planning and provides standardization of nomenclature.
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Basilar invagination (BI) with atlantoaxial dislocation (AAD) is a complex disease to manage. We have developed a new technique of bone grafting the atlantoaxial joints and occipitocervical fusion using a posterior approach for the reduction and fixation of BI with AAD with complete retention of the C2 nerve root. ⋯ In this preliminary study, our operation technique could treat BI with AAD by using only a posterior approach, which could retain C2 nerve roots and fuse atlantoaxial joints. This technique may be extended to other diseases requiring treatment by C1-C2 fusion.
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The bile salt-activated transcription factor farnesoid X receptor (FXR) is a key mediator of proliferative bile salt signalling, which is assumed to play a role in the early phase of compensatory liver growth. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of a potent FXR agonist (obeticholic acid, OCA) on liver growth following portal vein embolization (PVE). ⋯ OCA accelerated liver regeneration after PVE in a rabbit model. OCA treatment might increase the efficacy of PVE and, thereby, resectability. Surgical relevance Liver failure is the most feared complication after liver surgery, with no effective treatment options. Liver regeneration is essential to avoid liver failure, and recently bile acid signalling was implicated in the initiation of liver regeneration through the nuclear bile acid receptor farnesoid X receptor (FXR). In this study, the potent FXR agonist obeticholic acid accelerated liver regeneration following portal vein embolization in a rabbit model, in terms of liver volume, liver function and proliferation. Obeticholic acid treatment could enhance the efficacy of portal vein embolization, thereby increasing resectability, and could reduce the interval to surgery. In addition, obeticholic acid might have a place in the prevention of liver failure after liver surgery.