Journal of neurosurgery
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Journal of neurosurgery · Jul 2003
Image-guided resection for thoracic ossification of the ligamentum flavum.
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the advantages of using an image guidance system to aid in the resection of ossified of the ligamentum flavum (OLF) in the thoracic spine. The procedure and surgery-related outcome are discussed. ⋯ The image guidance system allows accurate resection of the OLF while preserving as much as possible the facet joints and posterior elements of the thoracic spine.
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Journal of neurosurgery · Jul 2003
Review Case ReportsMagnetic resonance imaging of intramedullary spinal cord schwannomas. Report of two cases and review of the literature.
Intramedullary spinal cord schwannomas are rare benign tumors for which resection is possible and safe. The purpose of this paper is to present the magnetic resonance (MR) imaging features in two cases of intramedullary spinal cord schwannoma to assist both neurosurgeons and pathologists in preventing misdiagnosis and resultant partial resection. The MR imaging evidence of a small- or medium-sized well-marginated intramedullary spinal cord tumor in a patient in whom no syringomyelia is present but in whom moderate edema with marked Gd enhancement can be seen shouldbe considered in the differential diagnosis of intramedullary spinal cord schwannoma. In cases in which an associated thickened Gd-enhancing spinal nerve root is seen the diagnosis of schwannoma should be assumed.
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Journal of neurosurgery · Jul 2003
Clinical TrialEfficacy of moderate hypothermia in patients with severe head injury and intracranial hypertension refractory to mild hypothermia.
This study was performed to determine whether moderate hypothermia (31 degrees C) improves clinical outcome in severely head injured patients whose intracranial hypertension cannot be controlled using mild hypothermia (34 degrees C). ⋯ The authors concluded that moderate hypothermia is not effective in improving clinical outcomes in severely head injured patients whose ICP remains higher than 40 mm Hg after treatment with mild hypothermia combined with conventional therapies.