Acta neurochirurgica
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Acta neurochirurgica · Dec 2010
Review Case ReportsHead positioning and risk of pneumocephalus, air embolism, and hemorrhage during subthalamic deep brain stimulation surgery.
The objective of the present study was to evaluate the risk of pneumocephalus, venous air embolism (VAE), and intracranial hemorrhage in subthalamic nucleus (STN) deep brain stimulation (DBS) patients operated in the strict supine (head and body flat) position. ⋯ Our data suggest that strict supine positioning during STN DBS surgery results in minimal intracranial air and is not associated with VAE or symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage when the operative method described is used.
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Acta neurochirurgica · Dec 2010
ReviewSurgical and hardware complications of deep brain stimulation. A seven-year experience and review of the literature.
Deep brain stimulation (DBS) has been established as a safe and efficient method for the treatment of various movement disorders. As the emerging applications continue to expand and more centers become eligible for the procedure, complication rates and complication avoidance become increasingly important. Our aim was to report the DBS-related complication in our department over the last 7 years, compare our rates with those reported in the literature, and highlight those practices that will aid complications avoidance. ⋯ Complication rates after DBS surgery remain low, proving that DBS is not only effective but also safe. Certain strategies do exist in order to minimize complications.