Neurosurgery
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We analyzed the reliability of a protocol for measuring quantitative cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) flow at the cerebral aqueduct and established the range of CSF flows in normal elderly patients, patients with Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia, and patients with idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH). ⋯ CSF flow measurements of less than 18 ml/min with a sinusoidal flow pattern are normal. CSF flow of greater than 18 ml/min suggests idiopathic NPH.
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There is insufficient evidence to support treatment standards. ⋯ All trauma patients with a cervical spinal column injury or with a mechanism of injury having the potential to cause cervical spine injury should be immobilized at the scene and during transport by using one of several available methods. A combination of a rigid cervical collar and supportive blocks on a backboard with straps is effective in limiting motion of the cervical spine and is recommended. The long-standing practice of attempted cervical spine immobilization using sandbags and tape alone is not recommended.
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beta-Trace protein (beta-TP) is an immunological marker for the detection of cerebrospinal fluid traces. The aim of the study was to evaluate the predictive values of a new research assay for beta-TP. ⋯ Analysis of betas-TP via the nephelometric assay is a valuable and reliable test in cranial base surgery for the identification of CSF.
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Intramedullary spinal tuberculoma is a rare form of central nervous system tuberculosis. This article describes an affected patient who presented with left leg paresis. ⋯ The outcome was favorable. Recently, a number of authors have reported success with medical management of intraspinal tuberculoma. Intraspinal tuberculoma produces a mass effect that can jeopardize spinal cord function. The optimal treatment is a combination of microsurgical resection and antituberculosis chemotherapy.
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Stereotactic radiosurgery has become an important and minimally invasive alternative for patients with refractory trigeminal neuralgia. When a second procedure is necessary, the outcomes are unknown. The degree of pain relief and morbidity after repeat radiosurgery were studied. ⋯ Repeat radiosurgery provided a similar rate of pain relief as the first procedure, despite a modest dose reduction. The risk of new sensory symptoms was increased, but no other morbidity was identified. For patients who experience recurrent pain and choose to undergo a second procedure, our current procedure is to deliver a maximum dose of 50 to 60 Gy to a trigeminal target anterior to the root entry zone near the entrance of the nerve beneath the petrous dura.