Thursday, October 31, 2013

Sessão de Medicina Baseada em Evidências HUPES 1/11/2013

Sessão de Medicina Baseada em Evidências HUPES 1/11/2013
SCIENCIA TOTUM CIRCUMIT ORBEM

Convido a todo(a)s para a Sessão de Medicina Baseada em Evidências, Local: Sala D (segundo andar) do HUPES Data/Horário: 1/11/2013 (sexta-feira), 14:00 horas Apresentação/Avaliação Clínica: Estudantes de Medicina Baseada em Evidências Cenário Clínico: Mulher de 72 anos, diabética e hipertensa, apresenta precordialgia típica de angina há 6 meses, inicialmente desencadeada por esforços

Original Article: http://limi-lip.blogspot.com/2013/10/sessao-de-medicina-baseada-em.html

Link between poor motor performance and poor academic skills in early school years

Link between poor motor performance and poor academic skills in early school years
Neurology News & Neuroscience News from Medical News Today

Children with poor motor performance at school entry were found to have poorer reading and arithmetic skills than their better performing peers during the first three years of school. However, no relationship was found between cardiovascular fitness and academic skills, according to a new study published in Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise...

Original Article: http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/releases/268026.php

Regular cocaine and cannabis use may trigger addictive behaviours

Regular cocaine and cannabis use may trigger addictive behaviours
Neurology News & Neuroscience News from Medical News Today

New cocaine and cannabis research reveals that regular cannabis users have increased levels of impulsive behaviour. It had previously been argued that this increased impulsivity after cannabis administration was only experienced by occasional users, but that regular users were no longer affected in this way...

Original Article: http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/releases/268078.php

Temporal Lobe Arteriovenous Malformations: Surgical Outcomes With a Focus on Visual Field Defects and Epilepsy

Temporal Lobe Arteriovenous Malformations: Surgical Outcomes With a Focus on Visual Field Defects and Epilepsy
Neurosurgery - Most Popular Articles

imageBACKGROUND:Temporal lobe arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) represent a subgroup of intracranial AVMs with particular characteristics and management issues. OBJECTIVE:To characterize the surgical outcomes of temporal lobe AVMs with emphasis on visual field deficits (VFDs) and seizures. METHODS:Between 1992 and 2008, 29 patients were operated on for temporal lobe AVMs. Patient data were retrospectively collected and analyzed. RESULTS:Twelve of 29 patients (41.4%) presented with seizures and 4 (13.7%) presented with VFDs. Postoperatively, 6 patients (24%) showed new VFDs and 2 improved, with a rate of preservation of full visual fields of 84%. Larger AVMs (> 3 cm) were significantly associated with postoperative VFD (P = .008). Epilepsy outcomes assessed by the Engel scale were as follows: 9 patients (75%) were in class I (seizure free), 1 patient (8.3%) was in class III, and 2 patients (16.6%) were in class IV (no change or worsening). Postoperative modified Rankin Scale outcomes were excellent (grade 0-1) in 18 patients, good (grade 2) in 7, and poor (grade 3-4) in 4. Older age at diagnosis correlated with a worse functional outcome (Spearman ρ = 0.369; P = .049). AVMs were totally removed in 27 of 29 patients (93.1%). Complete surgical excision was confirmed with angiography. Two patients needed reoperation for AVM remnant. Three patients had persistent hemiparesis (10.3% permanent morbidity). There was no mortality. CONCLUSION:Seizure control is usually underappreciated in the surgical management of AVMs. However, in temporal lobe AVMs, good outcomes with low morbidity and good visual field preservation can be accomplished. ABBREVIATIONS:AED, antiepileptic drugAVM, arteriovenous malformationmRS, modified Rankin ScaleVFD, visual field deficit

Original Article: http://journals.lww.com/neurosurgery/Fulltext/2013/11000/Temporal_Lobe_Arteriovenous_Malformations__.14.aspx

Zombie Fever: A Mathematician Studies a Pop Culture Epidemic

Zombie Fever: A Mathematician Studies a Pop Culture Epidemic
Scientific American: Mind and Brain

Helpful information for surviving the zombie apocalypse. Image: Todd Hryck, via flickr.

Zombies. They're everywhere. My dentist and his assistant spent my last visit and chatting about The Walking Dead while drilling into my head, and it seems like every reasonably large town hosts a zombie run . Science education is getting in on the trend, too. Colleges have classes about zombies , AMC (the network that broadcasts The Walking Dead) is sponsoring a free zombie-themed survival course , and Texas Instruments developed an app for teaching neuroscience using ideas from zombie movies. Even the CDC wants to help you prepare for the zombie apocalypse . Frankly, it's a little out of hand. How long will this zombie fever last?

[More]


Original Article: http://www.scientificamerican.com/blog/post.cfm?id=zombie-fever-pop-culture-epidemic

How Does Meditation Change the Brain?

How Does Meditation Change the Brain?
Scientific American: Mind and Brain

How Does Meditation Change the Brain? Meditation can sharpen attention, strengthen memory and improve other mental abilities. Scientific American editor Ferris Jabr examines the changes in brain structure behind some of these benefits.


Original Article: http://www.scientificamerican.com/video.cfm?id=how-does-meditation-change-the-brai2013-10-30

Do You Prefer to Read on Paper or Screens? [Poll]

Do You Prefer to Read on Paper or Screens? [Poll]
Scientific American: Mind and Brain

In the November issue of Scientific American associate editor Ferris Jabr investigates how reading on paper is different from reading on a screen and whether the brain prefers one over the other.

[More]


Original Article: http://www.scientificamerican.com/article.cfm?id=read-poll-do-you-prefer-paper-or-screens

Tuesday, October 29, 2013

New 'mini-neural computer' discovered in brain

New 'mini-neural computer' discovered in brain
Neurology News & Neuroscience News from Medical News Today

Neuroscientists have discovered that dendrites - branch-like projections of neurons in the brain - which were previously thought to be passive, actively process information. The discovery of this so-called mini-brain computer could provide a better understanding of neurological disorders...

Original Article: http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/268010.php

Teaching NeuroImages: Microvascular decompression of the optic nerve

Teaching NeuroImages: Microvascular decompression of the optic nerve
Neurology recent issues

Vascular compression is a known cause of cranial nerve dysfunction in a variety of disease states including trigeminal neuralgia, hemifacial spasm, and hypoglossal neuralgia.1,2



Original Article: http://www.neurology.org/cgi/content/short/81/18/e137?rss=1

Helmets Still Uncommon Among Children in Bicycle Accidents

Helmets Still Uncommon Among Children in Bicycle Accidents
Medscape Today- Medscape

Only 11% of children treated in emergency departments for bicycle-related accidents were wearing a helmet.
Medscape Medical News

Original Article: http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/813316?src=rss

Number of patients declared 'brain dead' decreasing

Number of patients declared 'brain dead' decreasing
Neurology News & Neuroscience News from Medical News Today

A new study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal shows that the number of patients being declared "brain dead" has decreased over the past 10 years, but this has serious implications for organ donations and transplants. The researchers from Canada say they believe their findings may be a result of better injury prevention and improved care...

Original Article: http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/268013.php

Record Number of Med Students for 2013-2014

Record Number of Med Students for 2013-2014
Medscape Today- Medscape

Officials from the AAMC say the higher numbers alone will not be enough to improve the impending physician shortage without lifting caps on residencies.
Medscape Medical News

Original Article: http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/813306?src=rss

Monday, October 28, 2013

Exercise may ward off Alzheimer's and Parkinson's

Exercise may ward off Alzheimer's and Parkinson's
Neurology News & Neuroscience News from Medical News Today

When US scientists gave non-exercising mice a protein produced by exercising mice, they found it switched on genes that help preserve brain health and boost growth of new nerves in regions important for learning and memory...

Original Article: http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/267396.php

In blind people, light helps activate the brain

In blind people, light helps activate the brain
Neurology News & Neuroscience News from Medical News Today

Light enhances brain activity during a cognitive task even in some people who are totally blind, according to a study conducted by researchers at the University of Montreal and Boston's Brigham and Women's Hospital. The findings contribute to scientists' understanding of everyone's brains, as they also revealed how quickly light impacts on cognition...

Original Article: http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/releases/268001.php

The Evidence for Neurosurgery

The Evidence for Neurosurgery
Neurology recent issues

The Evidence for Neurosurgery, edited by Ghogawala and colleagues, is a superb review of the clinical studies up to 2010, to support decision-making for common neurosurgical procedures. It is an essential compilation, review, and astute critique that is highly recommended to all neurosurgery residents, neurologists, and practitioners with patients facing the decision to undergo some type of neurosurgical operation. It will delectate any neurosurgeon who wants to revise his or her practice patterns and greatly help any practitioner who has to decide what to offer to patients considered for 1) spine surgery for radiculopathy or myelopathy, 2) functional neurosurgery for pain, psychiatric, or movement disorders, 3) lesionectomy for epilepsy or neoplasm, 4) cerebrovascular surgery to avoid an intracranial hemorrhage, or 5) decompressive rescue, as victims of brain or spine trauma.



Original Article: http://www.neurology.org/cgi/content/short/81/16/1477?rss=1

FDA Approves Second Brain Amyloid Imaging Tracer

FDA Approves Second Brain Amyloid Imaging Tracer
Medscape NeurologyHeadlines

The FDA announced approval today for flutemetamol (Vizamyl, GE Healthcare), a second amyloid PET tracer for evaluation of AD and dementia.
FDA Approvals

Original Article: http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/813222?src=rss

Seizure Types and Frequency in Patients Who "Fail" Temporal Lobectomy for Intractable Epilepsy

Seizure Types and Frequency in Patients Who "Fail" Temporal Lobectomy for Intractable Epilepsy
Neurosurgery - Most Popular Articles

imageBACKGROUND:Temporal lobectomy can lead to favorable seizure outcomes in medically-refractory temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE). Although most studies focus on seizure freedom after temporal lobectomy, less is known about seizure semiology in patients who "fail" surgery. Morbidity differs between seizure types that impair or spare consciousness. Among TLE patients with seizures after surgery, how does temporal lobectomy influence seizure type and frequency? OBJECTIVE:To characterize seizure types and frequencies before and after temporal lobectomy for TLE, including consciousness-sparing or consciousness-impairing seizures. METHODS:We performed a retrospective longitudinal cohort study examining patients undergoing temporal lobectomy for epilepsy at our institution from January 1995 to August 2010. RESULTS:Among 241 TLE patients who received temporal lobectomy, 174 (72.2%) patients achieved Engel class I outcome (free of disabling seizures), including 141 (58.5%) with complete seizure freedom. Overall seizure frequency in patients with persistent postoperative seizures decreased by 70% (P < .01), with larger reductions in consciousness-impairing seizures. While the number of patients experiencing consciousness-sparing simple partial seizures decreased by only 19% after surgery, the number of individuals having consciousness-impairing complex partial seizures and generalized tonic-clonic seizures diminished by 70% and 68%, respectively (P < .001). Simple partial seizure was the predominant seizure type in 19.1% vs 37.0% of patients preoperatively and postoperatively, respectively (P < .001). Favorable seizure outcome was predicted by a lack of generalized seizures preoperatively (odds ratio 1.74, 95% confidence interval 1.06-2.86, P < .5). CONCLUSION:Given important clinical and mechanistic differences between seizures with or without impairment of consciousness, seizure type and frequency remain important considerations in epilepsy surgery. ABBREVIATIONS:AED, antiepileptic drugCPS, complex partial seizureECoG, electrocorticographyEEG, electroencephalographyGTCS, generalized tonic-clonic seizureSPS, simple partial seizureTLE, temporal lobe epilepsyUCSF, University of California, San Francisco

Original Article: http://journals.lww.com/neurosurgery/Fulltext/2013/11000/Seizure_Types_and_Frequency_in_Patients_Who__Fail_.12.aspx

How our brain resists temptation in preference of 'future rewards'

How our brain resists temptation in preference of 'future rewards'
Neurology News & Neuroscience News from Medical News Today

When on a strict diet, it can be very hard to resist a bar of chocolate if it is right under your nose. Are you likely to eat it there and then? Or wait until the end of the week to intensify the satisfying experience? Whatever your answer, researchers now say they can explain the difference in people's ability to resist temptation...

Original Article: http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/267848.php

Knowledge Translation Interventions for Critically Ill Patients: A Systematic Review*

Knowledge Translation Interventions for Critically Ill Patients: A Systematic Review*
Critical Care Medicine - Most Popular Articles

imageObjective:We systematically reviewed ICU-based knowledge translation studies to assess the impact of knowledge translation interventions on processes and outcomes of care. Data Sources:We searched electronic databases (to July, 2010) without language restrictions and hand-searched reference lists of relevant studies and reviews. Study Selection:Two reviewers independently identified randomized controlled trials and observational studies comparing any ICU-based knowledge translation intervention (e.g., protocols, guidelines, and audit and feedback) to management without a knowledge translation intervention. We focused on clinical topics that were addressed in greater than or equal to five studies. Data Extraction:Pairs of reviewers abstracted data on the clinical topic, knowledge translation intervention(s), process of care measures, and patient outcomes. For each individual or combination of knowledge translation intervention(s) addressed in greater than or equal to three studies, we summarized each study using median risk ratio for dichotomous and standardized mean difference for continuous process measures. We used random-effects models. Anticipating a small number of randomized controlled trials, our primary meta-analyses included randomized controlled trials and observational studies. In separate sensitivity analyses, we excluded randomized controlled trials and collapsed protocols, guidelines, and bundles into one category of intervention. We conducted meta-analyses for clinical outcomes (ICU and hospital mortality, ventilator-associated pneumonia, duration of mechanical ventilation, and ICU length of stay) related to interventions that were associated with improvements in processes of care. Data Synthesis:From 11,742 publications, we included 119 investigations (seven randomized controlled trials, 112 observational studies) on nine clinical topics. Interventions that included protocols with or without education improved continuous process measures (seven observational studies and one randomized controlled trial; standardized mean difference [95% CI]: 0.26 [0.1, 0.42]; p = 0.001 and four observational studies and one randomized controlled trial; 0.83 [0.37, 1.29]; p = 0.0004, respectively). Heterogeneity among studies within topics ranged from low to extreme. The exclusion of randomized controlled trials did not change our results. Single-intervention and lower-quality studies had higher standardized mean differences compared to multiple-intervention and higher-quality studies (p = 0.013 and 0.016, respectively). There were no associated improvements in clinical outcomes. Conclusions:Knowledge translation interventions in the ICU that include protocols with or without education are associated with the greatest improvements in processes of critical care.

Original Article: http://journals.lww.com/ccmjournal/Fulltext/2013/11000/Knowledge_Translation_Interventions_for_Critically.18.aspx

The Impact of Previous Traumatic Brain Injury on Health and Functioning: A TRACK-TBI Study

The Impact of Previous Traumatic Brain Injury on Health and Functioning: A TRACK-TBI Study
Neurosurgery Blog

Kristen Dams-O'Connor,1 Lisa Spielman,1 Ayushi Singh,1 Wayne A. Gordon,1 John K. Yue,1 Esther L. Yuh,5 Alex B. Valadka,4 Hester F. Lingsma,7 Pratik Mukherjee,5 Ava M. Puccio,3 David O. Okonkwo,3 David M. Schnyer,6 Andrew I.R. Maas,8 and Geoffrey T. Manley2 and the TRACK-TBI Investigators including Scott S. Casey,1 Shelly R. Cooper,1 Maxwell Cheong,5 Allison J. Hricik,3 Emily E. Knight,6 David K. Menon,9 Diane J. Morabito,2 Jennifer L. Pacheco,6 Tuhin K. Sinha,5 and Mary J. Vassar2

 

The idea that multiple traumatic brain injury (TBI) can have a
cumulative detrimental effect on functioning is widely accepted. Most
research supporting this idea comes from athlete samples, and it is not
known whether remote history of previous TBI affects functioning after
acute TBI (aTBI) in community-based samples. This study investigates
whether a previous history of TBI with loss of consciousness (LOC) is
associated with worse health and functioning in a sample of individuals
who require emergency department care for an aTBI. Twenty-three percent
of the 586 individuals with aTBI in the Transforming Research and
Clinical Knowledge in Traumatic Brain Injury study reported having
sustained a previous TBI with LOC. Individuals with previous TBI were
more likely to be unemployed (χ2=17.86; p=0.000), report a variety of chronic medical and psychiatric conditions (4.75≤χ2≥24.16; p<0.05), and report substance use (16.35≤χ2≥27.57; p<0.01)
before the acute injury, compared to those with no previous TBI
history. Those with a previous TBI had less-severe acute injuries, but
experienced worse outcomes at 6-month follow-up. Results of a series of
regression analyses controlling for demographics and acute injury
severity indicated that individuals with previous TBI reported more mood
symptoms, more postconcussive symptoms, lower life satisfaction, and
had slower processing speed and poorer verbal learning, compared to
those with no previous TBI history. These findings suggest that history
of TBI with LOC may have important implications for health and
psychological functioning after aTBI in community-based samples.

Kristen Dams-O'Connor,1 Lisa Spielman,1 Ayushi Singh,1 Wayne A. Gordon,1 John K. Yue,1 Esther L. Yuh,5 Alex B. Valadka,4 Hester F. Lingsma,7 Pratik Mukherjee,5 Ava M. Puccio,3 David O. Okonkwo,3 David M. Schnyer,6 Andrew I.R. Maas,8 and Geoffrey T. Manley2 and the TRACK-TBI Investigators including Scott S. Casey,1 Shelly R. Cooper,1 Maxwell Cheong,5 Allison J. Hricik,3 Emily E. Knight,6 David K. Menon,9 Diane J. Morabito,2 Jennifer L. Pacheco,6 Tuhin K. Sinha,5 and Mary J. Vassar2
1Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York.
2Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, California.
3Department of Neurological Surgery University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
4Seton Brain and Spine Institute, Austin, Texas.
5Department of Radiology, University of California, San Francisco, California.
6Department of Psychology, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas.
7Department of Public Health, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands.
8Department of Neurosurgery, Antwerp University Hospital, Edegem, Belgium.
9Division of Anesthesia, University of Cambridge, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, United Kingdom.
Address correspondence to:
Kristen Dams-O'Connor, PhD
Department of Rehabilitation Medicine

Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai

One Gustave Levy Place
Box 1240B
New York, NY 10029

E-mail: kristen.dams-o'connor@mountsinai.org

The post The Impact of Previous Traumatic Brain Injury on Health and Functioning: A TRACK-TBI Study appeared first on NEUROSURGERY BLOG.



Original Article: http://neurocirurgiabr.com/the-impact-of-previous-traumatic-brain-injury-on-health-and-functioning-a-track-tbi-study/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=the-impact-of-previous-traumatic-brain-injury-on-health-and-functioning-a-track-tbi-study

Sunday, October 27, 2013

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Friday, October 25, 2013

National Variability in Intracranial Pressure Monitoring and Craniotomy for Children With Moderate to Severe Traumatic Brain Injury

National Variability in Intracranial Pressure Monitoring and Craniotomy for Children With Moderate to Severe Traumatic Brain Injury
Neurosurgery - Most Popular Articles

imageBACKGROUND:Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a significant cause of mortality and disability in children. Intracranial pressure monitoring (ICPM) and craniotomy/craniectomy (CRANI) may affect outcomes. Sources of variability in the use of these interventions remain incompletely understood. OBJECTIVE:To analyze sources of variability in the use of ICPM and CRANI. METHODS:Retrospective cross-sectional study of patients with moderate/severe pediatric TBI with the use of data submitted to the American College of Surgeons National Trauma Databank. RESULTS:We analyzed data from 7140 children at 156 US hospitals during 7 continuous years. Of the children, 27.4% had ICPM, whereas 11.7% had a CRANI. Infants had lower rates of ICPM and CRANI than older children. A lower rate of ICPM was observed among children hospitalized at combined pediatric/adult trauma centers than among children treated at adult-only trauma centers (relative risk = 0.80; 95% confidence interval 0.66-0.97). For ICPM and CRANI, 18.5% and 11.6%, respectively, of residual model variance was explained by between-hospital variation in care delivery, but almost no correlation was observed between within-hospital tendency toward performing these procedures. CONCLUSION:Infants received less ICPM than older children, and children hospitalized at pediatric trauma centers received less ICPM than children at adult-only trauma centers. In addition, significant between-hospital variability existed in the delivery of ICPM and CRANI to children with moderate-severe TBI. ABBREVIATIONS:AIS, Abbreviated Injury ScoreCRANI, craniotomy/craniectomyGCS, Glasgow Coma ScoreICD-9-CM,International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical ModificationICP, intracranial pressureICPM, intracranial pressure monitoringISS, Injury Severity ScoreNTDB, National Trauma DatabankTBI, traumatic brain injury

Original Article: http://journals.lww.com/neurosurgery/Fulltext/2013/11000/National_Variability_in_Intracranial_Pressure.2.aspx

Regression of cerebellar tonsillar descent and hydrocephalus after endoscopic third ventriculostomy in a patient with a quadrigeminal arachnoid cyst

Regression of cerebellar tonsillar descent and hydrocephalus after endoscopic third ventriculostomy in a patient with a quadrigeminal arachnoid cyst
Table of Contents : Surgical Neurology International : 2010 - 1(1)

Yasuaki Arakawa, Daisuke Kita, Isamu Ezuka, Yutaka Hayashi, Jun-ichiro Hamada, Yasuhiko Hayashi

Surgical Neurology International 2013 4(1):142-142

Background: Posterior fossa arachnoid cysts, including quadrigeminal cistern arachnoid cysts, can occasionally cause compression of the quadrigeminal plate, leading to Sylvian aqueduct stenosis and induction of cerebellar tonsillar descent into the foramen magnum. This, in turn, can result in obstructive hydrocephalus. In such cases, the characteristic of hydrocephalus is generally considered to be hypertensive. Case Description: We present the case of a 28-year-old female complaining of chronic and progressively worsening headaches following the delivery of her first child. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed marked tri-ventriculomegaly, the arachnoid cyst located in the quadrigeminal cistern, and cerebellar tonsillar descent. Ophthalmoscopy revealed bilateral papilledema indicating a long-standing elevation of intracranial pressure. Endoscopic third ventriculostomy (ETV) was performed successfully and resulted in complete recovery from her headaches and papilledema. Postoperative MRI revealed resolution of ventriculomegaly and cerebellar tonsillar descent, suggesting that the fourth ventricle outlet obstruction was associated with the development of the hydrocephalus in this patient. Conclusion: Our case is the first report that a quadrigeminal arachnoid cyst associated with both cerebellar tonsillar descent and hydrocephalus was well treated with ETV. It was indicated that the patient's hydrocephalus and cerebellar tonsillar descent were secondary and synergistic events, caused by the arachnoid cyst located in the quadrigeminal cistern.

Original Article: http://www.surgicalneurologyint.com/article.asp?issn=2152-7806;year=2013;volume=4;issue=1;spage=142;epage=142;aulast=Arakawa

Anatomical configuration of the Sylvian fissure and its influence on outcome after pterional approach for microsurgical aneurysm clipping

Anatomical configuration of the Sylvian fissure and its influence on outcome after pterional approach for microsurgical aneurysm clipping
Table of Contents : Surgical Neurology International : 2010 - 1(1)

Hannah M Ngando, Homajoun Maslehaty, Lutz Schreiber, Klaus Blaeser, Martin Scholz, Athanasios K Petridis

Surgical Neurology International 2013 4(1):129-129

Background: The sylvian fissure (SF) is the anatomical pathway used in a pterional approach, which leads to most aneurysms. There are four different anatomical variants of the SF described. In the present retrospective study the four different categories of the SF were studied in order to evaluate any correlation of these variants to surgical outcome. Methods: Patients treated for intracranial aneurysms by a pterional transsylvian approach during 2003-2012 (N = 237) were included in the study. The SF category was determined by analysis of preoperative computed tomography (CT) scanning. Patients were grouped into unruptured intracranial aneurysms (UIA) and ruptured intracranial aneurysms with subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) according to the Hunt and Hess grades. Brain edema, vasospasms, ischemic lesion rate, and outcome were evaluated for possible correlation with SF anatomical variants. Results: Postsurgically brain edema formation correlated significantly with more complex anatomical variants of the SF in patients with UIAs and in patients with Hunt and Hess 1 and 2. Ischemia rate, vasospasms, or clinical outcome was not negatively affected though. Conclusion: The classification of the SF as proposed by Yasargil is more than a pure anatomical observation. In this retrospective study, we show that the anatomical variants of the SF can be associated to postoperative complications like formation of brain edema or ischemic lesions Preoperative knowledge of the SF anatomy and possibly consecutive adapted extend of the surgical approach can decrease procedure-related morbidity.

Original Article: http://www.surgicalneurologyint.com/article.asp?issn=2152-7806;year=2013;volume=4;issue=1;spage=129;epage=129;aulast=Ngando

Pediatric traumatic brain injuries treated with decompressive craniectomy

Pediatric traumatic brain injuries treated with decompressive craniectomy
Table of Contents : Surgical Neurology International : 2010 - 1(1)

Neil Patel, Michael West, Joanie Wurster, Cassie Tillman

Surgical Neurology International 2013 4(1):128-128

Background: Traumatic brain injury (TBI) occurs in an estimated 80% of all pediatric trauma patients and is the leading cause of death and disability in the pediatric population. Decompressive craniectomy is a procedure used to decrease intracranial pressure by allowing the brain room to swell and therefore increase cerebral perfusion to the brain. Methods: This is a retrospective study done at St. Mary's Medical Center/Palm Beach Children's Hospital encompassing a 3 year 7 month period. All the pediatric patients who sustained a TBI and who were treated with a decompressive craniectomy were included. The patients' outcomes were monitored and scored according to the Rancho Los Amigos Score at the time of discharge from the hospital and 6 months postdischarge. Results: A total of 379 pediatric patients with a diagnosis of TBI were admitted during this time. All these patients were treated according to the severity of their injury. A total of 49 pediatric patients required neurosurgical intervention and 7 of these patients met the criteria for a decompressive craniectomy. All seven patients returned home with favorable outcomes. Conclusion: This study supports the current literature that decompressive craniectomy is no longer an intervention used as a last resort but an effective first line treatment to be considered.

Original Article: http://www.surgicalneurologyint.com/article.asp?issn=2152-7806;year=2013;volume=4;issue=1;spage=128;epage=128;aulast=Patel

Trigeminocardiac reflex in neurosurgical practice: Report of two new cases

Trigeminocardiac reflex in neurosurgical practice: Report of two new cases
Table of Contents : Surgical Neurology International : 2010 - 1(1)

Abbas Amirjamshidi, Kazem Abbasioun, Farhad Etezadi, Seyed Babak Ghasemi

Surgical Neurology International 2013 4(1):126-126

Background: Systemic hypotension, cardiac dysrhythmia especially bradycardia, apnea, and gastric hypermotility occurring presumably after stimulation of any of the sensory branches of trigeminal nerve are coined as trigeminocardiac reflex (TCR). Neither enough is known about the predisposing factors in relation with the intraoperative occurrence of this life threatening reflex, nor about the exact pathophysiology of its brain stem pathway. Encountering two cases of bradycardia and hypotension during surgery encouraged the authors to: (1) report these two cases and review similar reports in the relevant literature, (2) discuss the suggested mechanisms for such an event, and (3) report the result of a prospective cohort of precisely checked cases in a sister article, to remind the younger neurosurgical community of a possible and bothering even mortal, but avoidable complication in their everyday practice. Case Description: The first case was a 71-year-old male who developed bradycardia and hypotension while packing his large sella tursica with autologous fat after removing a large nonfunctional pituitary adenoma transsphenoidally to prevent cerebrospinal fluid leakage. The changes in his vital signs were detected and controlled rapidly. The second case was a 52-year-old female who underwent right pterional craniotomy for right clinoidal meningioma. She developed severe bradycardia and hypotension after skin closure completed and just when the subgaleal drain was connected to the aspirating bag and negative pressure maintained in the subgaleal region. Both cases could be managed successfully after on time detection of such life threatening complication and proper management. Conclusion: We do not intend only to add two new cases of TCR occurring in the perioperative period in neurosurgical practice, but we wish to raise the question: (a) what could be the predisposing factors for development of such issue for better handling of the problem and (b) stress upon careful continuous mapping of the vital signs during surgery and even till very late after operation.

Original Article: http://www.surgicalneurologyint.com/article.asp?issn=2152-7806;year=2013;volume=4;issue=1;spage=126;epage=126;aulast=Amirjamshidi

Minimally invasive one-level lumbar decompression and fusion surgery with posterior instrumentation using a combination of pedicle screw fixation and transpedicular facet screw construct

Minimally invasive one-level lumbar decompression and fusion surgery with posterior instrumentation using a combination of pedicle screw fixation and transpedicular facet screw construct
Table of Contents : Surgical Neurology International : 2010 - 1(1)

John Hsiang, Keyi Yu, Yongxiong He

Surgical Neurology International 2013 4(1):125-125

Background: Minimally invasive lumbar spine fusion surgery has gained popularity in recent years. Routinely, this technique requires bilateral parasagittal incisions for decompression, interbody fusion, and posterior instrumentation. The following study is a description of a new minimally invasive technique for one-level transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) using a unilateral parasagittal incision (Wiltse approach), with placement of pedicle screws and then a percutaneous transpedicular facet screw insertion on the contralateral side. The biomechanical stability of this posterior construct will be discussed while the efficacy and complications of this technique have been examined. Methods: Forty patients underwent this new technique of one-level TLIF with posterior instrumentation using unilateral pedicle screw fixation supplemented with contralateral percutaneous transpedicular facet screw construct. Data regarding surgical time, estimated blood loss (EBL), hospital length of stay (LOS), and complications related to the posterior instrumentation are recorded. Results: The average surgical time of this new procedure was 124 minutes; average EBL was 140 cc; average hospital LOS was 3 days. Two patients developed new leg pain on the side where the facet screw had been placed. Both patients had the facet screw removed. Conclusion: This novel technique of unilateral pedicle screw fixation combined with contralateral percutaneous transpedicular facet screw construct has further reduced the amount of normal tissue injury while maintaining the same biomechanical advantages of bilateral pedicle screw fixation. However, caution is needed during the placement of the percutaneous facet screw in order to avoid nerve root injury.

Original Article: http://www.surgicalneurologyint.com/article.asp?issn=2152-7806;year=2013;volume=4;issue=1;spage=125;epage=125;aulast=Hsiang

The history of neurosurgery in Bolivia and pediatric neurosurgery in Santa Cruz de la Sierra

The history of neurosurgery in Bolivia and pediatric neurosurgery in Santa Cruz de la Sierra
Table of Contents : Surgical Neurology International : 2010 - 1(1)

Carlos F Dabdoub, Carlos B Dabdoub

Surgical Neurology International 2013 4(1):123-123

The practice of neurosurgery in Bolivia began thousands of years ago with skull trepanation. This procedure dates from the earliest period of the Tiwanaku culture, a preInca civilization. Neurosurgical development in Bolivia has its origins in the late 19 th century and can be divided in two stages. At the beginning, before the advent of neurosurgery as a discipline, some general surgeons performed procedures on the skull and brain. Formal neurosurgery in Bolivia was developed with the arrival of neurosurgeons trained in the United States and some countries of South America. The Bolivian Neurosurgical Society was created in 1975. Nowadays, our national society has 74 members. It is affiliated with the World Federation of Neurosurgical Societies and the Latin American Federation of Neurosurgical Societies. Presently, neurosurgery in Bolivia is similar to that seen in developed countries. In this sense, government programs should dedicate more financial support to establish specialized healthcare centers where the management of complex central nervous system lesions could be offered. In contrast, we believe that encouraging the local training of young neurosurgeons is one of the most important factors in the development of neurosurgery in Bolivia or any other country.

Original Article: http://www.surgicalneurologyint.com/article.asp?issn=2152-7806;year=2013;volume=4;issue=1;spage=123;epage=123;aulast=Dabdoub

Immediate and follow-up results for 44 consecutive cases of small (<10 mm) internal carotid artery aneurysms treated with the pipeline embolization device

Immediate and follow-up results for 44 consecutive cases of small (<10 mm) internal carotid artery aneurysms treated with the pipeline embolization device
Table of Contents : Surgical Neurology International : 2010 - 1(1)

Li-Mei Lin, Geoffrey P Colby, Jennifer E Kim, Judy Huang, Rafael J Tamargo, Alexander L Coon

Surgical Neurology International 2013 4(1):114-114

Background: The pipeline embolization device (PED) provides effective, durable and safe endovascular reconstruction of large and giant intracranial aneurysms. However, 80% of all cerebral aneurysms found in the general population are less than 10 mm in size. Treatment of small aneurysms (<10 mm) with flow diverters may be advantageous over endosaccular modalities that carry risks of procedural rupture during aneurysm access or coil placement. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed a prospective, single-center aneurysm database to identify all patients with small (<10 mm) internal carotid artery (ICA) aneurysms who underwent endovascular treatment using the PED. Patient demographics, aneurysm characteristics, procedural details, complications, and technical and clinical outcomes were analyzed. Results: Forty-four cases were performed in 41 patients (age range 31-78 years). PED was successfully implanted in 42 cases. A single PED was used in 37/42 (88%) cases. Mean postprocedure hospital stay was 1.7 &#177; 0.3 days and 98% of patients were discharged home. Major complication occurred in one patient (2.3%), who died of early subarachnoid hemorrhage. Transient neurological deficit, delayed intracerebral hemorrhage (asymptomatic), and delayed groin infection occurred in one patient each. Follow-up rate was 91.8% (45 aneurysms in 35 patients) with a mean follow-up of 4.0 &#177; 1.9 months. By 6 months post-PED implantation, angiographic success (complete or near complete aneurysm occlusion) was observed in 80%. Mild (<50%), asymptomatic, nonflow limiting in-stent stenosis was observed in 5.4% (2/37 cases). All the 35 patients with follow-up remained at preprocedure neurological baseline. Conclusion: Small (<10 mm) ICA aneurysm treatment with PED implantation is safe and carries a high rate of early angiographic success.

Original Article: http://www.surgicalneurologyint.com/article.asp?issn=2152-7806;year=2013;volume=4;issue=1;spage=114;epage=114;aulast=Lin

Comparison of total versus partial revision of primary ventriculoperitoneal shunt failures

Comparison of total versus partial revision of primary ventriculoperitoneal shunt failures
Table of Contents : Surgical Neurology International : 2010 - 1(1)

Ishwar Singh, Seema Rohilla, Manjulata Kumawat, Manish Goel

Surgical Neurology International 2013 4(1):100-100

Background: Optimal surgical management of patients presenting with primary shunt failure in the era of neuroendoscopy remains complex. The value of replacing the entire shunt system as opposed to a single shunt component has not been assessed extensively. Methods: In a retrospective study, the records of all patients who underwent their first shunt revision due to mechanical obstruction between September 2007 and December 2011 were reviewed. Shunt revisions were classified as total (entire shunt replaced) or partial (only malfunctioning component replaced). Patients having a minimum follow-up of 1 year after primary shunt revision were included in the study. Kaplan-Meier (shunt survival curves) and log-rank analysis were used to compare failure rates between partially and totally revised shunts. Results: Records of 62 patients in whom cause of primary shunt failure was obstruction (proximal or distal) were analyzed retrospectively. At the end of follow-up period, 26 out of 28 partial revision group and 22 out of 34 total revision group had shunt failure. The median survival of the shunt in the partial revision and total revision groups was 60 and 270 days, respectively. The method (partial/total revision) related difference in shunt survival duration was statistically significant as shown by log-rank analysis (log-rank test value = 5.94 and P < 0.05). Conclusion: Partial revision of shunt predisposes to accelerated shunt failure as compared with total revision in cases of obstructed ventriculoperitoneal shunt.

Original Article: http://www.surgicalneurologyint.com/article.asp?issn=2152-7806;year=2013;volume=4;issue=1;spage=100;epage=100;aulast=Singh

Study Shows Higher Rate of Unruptured Cerebral Aneurysm

Study Shows Higher Rate of Unruptured Cerebral Aneurysm
Medscape NeurologyHeadlines

A survey in 2 Chinese provinces shows a prevalence rate of 7%, higher than that found in previous studies; however, of these, less than 9% of aneurysms were considered at imminent risk of rupture.
Medscape Medical News

Original Article: http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/812753?src=rss

Sleep helps 'detox' your brain

Sleep helps 'detox' your brain
Neurology News & Neuroscience News from Medical News Today

New research shows that a recently discovered mechanism that removes waste products from the brain is mainly active during sleep. This revelation could transform scientific understanding of what sleep is for, and how it works and offers new directions for brain disease treatments...

Original Article: http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/267611.php

Bird model used to study the neural mechanisms underlying speech and language in humans

Bird model used to study the neural mechanisms underlying speech and language in humans
Neurology News & Neuroscience News from Medical News Today

A study led by Xiaoching Li, PhD, at the LSU Health Sciences Center New Orleans Neuroscience Center of Excellence, has shown for the first time how two tiny molecules regulate a gene implicated in speech and language impairments as well as autism disorders, and that social context of vocal behavior governs their function. The findings are published in the Journal of Neuroscience...

Original Article: http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/releases/267620.php

Lack of sleep may increase Alzheimer's risk

Lack of sleep may increase Alzheimer's risk
Neurology News & Neuroscience News from Medical News Today

A new study suggests that reduced sleep and poor sleep quality may be linked to increased build-up of beta-amyloid plaques in the brains of older adults - a sign of Alzheimer's disease. This is according to a study published in the journal JAMA Neurology...

Original Article: http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/267710.php

Relative Residence Time Prolongation in Intracranial Aneurysms: A Possible Association With Atherosclerosis

Relative Residence Time Prolongation in Intracranial Aneurysms: A Possible Association With Atherosclerosis
Neurosurgery - Current Issue

imageBACKGROUND:Intracranial aneurysms can have atherosclerotic wall properties that may be important in predicting aneurysm history or estimating the potential risks of surgical treatments. OBJECTIVE:To investigate hemodynamic characteristics of atherosclerotic lesions in intracranial aneurysms using computational fluid dynamics. METHODS:Intraoperative video recordings of 30 consecutive patients with an unruptured middle cerebral artery aneurysm were examined to identify atherosclerotic lesions on an aneurysm wall. For computational fluid dynamics analyses, geometries of aneurysms and adjacent arteries were reconstructed from 3-dimensional rotational angiography. Transient simulations were conducted under patient-specific pulsatile inlet conditions measured by phase-contrast magnetic resonance velocimetry. Three hemodynamic wall parameters were calculated: time-averaged wall shear stress, oscillatory shear index, and relative residence time (RRT). Statistical analyses were performed to discriminate the risk factors of atherosclerotic lesion formation. RESULTS:Among 30 aneurysms, 7 atherosclerotic lesions with remarkable yellow lipid deposition were identified in 5 aneurysms. All 7 atherosclerotic lesions spatially agreed with the area with prolonged RRT. Univariate analysis revealed that male sex (P = .03), cigarette smoking (P = .047), and maximum RRT (P = .02) are significantly related to atherosclerotic lesion on the intracranial aneurysmal wall. Of those variables that influenced atherosclerotic lesion of the intracranial aneurysmal wall, male sex (P = .005) and maximum RRT (P = .004) remained significant in the multivariate regression model. CONCLUSION:The area with prolonged RRT colocalized with atherosclerotic change on the aneurysm wall. Male sex and maximum RRT were independent risk factors for atherogenesis in intracranial aneurysms. ABBREVIATIONS:CFD, computational fluid dynamicsMCA, middle cerebral arteryOSI, oscillatory shear indexRRT, relative residence timeWSS, wall shear stress

Original Article: http://journals.lww.com/neurosurgery/Fulltext/2013/11000/Relative_Residence_Time_Prolongation_in.5.aspx

Experience With a Simulator-Based Angiography Course for Neurosurgical Residents: Beyond a Pilot Program

Experience With a Simulator-Based Angiography Course for Neurosurgical Residents: Beyond a Pilot Program
Neurosurgery - Most Popular Articles

imageBACKGROUND:Simulation is an increasingly useful means of teaching in the era of duty hour restrictions. Since the completion of our diagnostic cerebral angiography simulator curriculum pilot program, we have performed this resident course at 2 Congress of Neurological Surgeons (CNS) annual meetings with larger participant numbers. OBJECTIVE:To report the ongoing results of these courses. METHODS:A 120-minute simulator-based training course was performed at 2 CNS annual meetings. Precourse written and simulator skills assessments were performed, followed by instructor-guided training on an endovascular simulator. Postcourse written and simulator practical assessments were then performed and compared with precourse scores. RESULTS:Thirty-seven neurosurgery resident participants completed the course module: 16 completed the first course provided and 21 completed the second. Posttest written scores were significantly higher than pretest scores (mean ± SEM, 8.5 ± 0.40.3 vs 4.9 ± 0.3; P < .001). Instructor assessments of practical posttest scores of participants were significantly higher than pretest practical scores for both the CNS 2011 and CNS 2012 groups (P < .001). CONCLUSION:The expansion of a curriculum-based, cerebral angiography simulator pilot program to trainees through courses at national neurosurgical meetings demonstrated excellent results with significant improvements in written test scores and instructor assessments of participant technical skills. With ever-expanding improvements in simulation technology and realism, simulator training for cerebral angiography may become an integral component of resident training in the future. ABBREVIATIONS:ACGME, Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical EducationCNS, Congress of Neurological Surgeons

Original Article: http://journals.lww.com/neurosurgery/Fulltext/2013/10001/Experience_With_a_Simulator_Based_Angiography.10.aspx

Endovascular Treatment of Children With Cerebral Venous Sinus Thrombosis: A Case Series

Endovascular Treatment of Children With Cerebral Venous Sinus Thrombosis: A Case Series
Pediatric Neurology

Abstract: Background: Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis is a potentially serious condition affecting 0.56 to 0.67 per 100,000 children annually; adverse outcomes are common. The standard of care is anticoagulation with heparin. A proportion of patients, however, remain in a severe clinical condition and in these, endovascular therapy is an alternative treatment. There is little published literature on the use of endovascular treatments in children with cerebral venous sinus thrombosis.Methods: We retrospectively reviewed case notes and imaging in a consecutive series of nine children treated using endovascular therapy after diagnosis of cerebral venous sinus thrombosis. Clinical presentation, decision to escalate therapy, methods of recanalization, and clinical outcome were assessed.Results: Nine children were treated (age range 18 months to 16 years). Diagnosis was made by computed tomography, computed tomography venography, magnetic resonance imaging, or magnetic resonance venography. Seven children were in a coma; one had signs of raised intracranial pressure with progressive cranial nerve palsies; and one was drowsy with a fluctuating hemiparesis. Eight children had been treated with heparin without improvement. Several endovascular methods were used including local tissue plasminogen activator, microguidewire and catheter disruption, balloon angioplasty, and thromboaspiration using the Penumbra device. Eight children had good functional outcomes. One child died as a result of uncontrolled intracranial hypertension secondary to cerebral venous sinus thrombosis.Conclusion: Endovascular therapy may have a role in the treatment of cerebral venous sinus thrombosis in children when medical therapy has failed and the patient is in a poor clinical condition.

Original Article: http://www.pedneur.com/article/S0887-8994(13)00418-9/abstract?rss=yes