Neurosurgery
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Review Case Reports
Lateral sacral artery aneurysm: case report and review of the literature.
We report the third case of an aneurysm of the lateral sacral artery (AnLSA). In all cases, because of an incorrect preoperative diagnosis, the surgeons were confronted with severe and unexpected hemorrhaging, and surgery was aborted without effective treatment. Our purpose is to present the preoperative features of AnLSA and its treatment modalities. ⋯ A medical history of renal transplantation with MRI scans showing an anterior epidural mass behind S1 or a spontaneous spinal epidural hematoma are features that must evoke a diagnosis of AnLSA. Treatment is mandatory and is best achieved by embolization. Surgery based on angiographic findings is indicated if the lesion is responsible for a compressive hematoma.
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Comparative Study Clinical Trial
Long-term results after fractionated radiation therapy for large brain arteriovenous malformations.
To study the results after fractionated radiotherapy of large arteriovenous malformations (AVMs). ⋯ The obliteration rate after fractionated radiotherapy with a dose per fraction of 2 to 4 Gy to a total dose of up to 50 Gy was low. The clinical outcome suggests that the radiation treatment may have caused significant side effects. Although the risk for hemorrhage in previously ruptured large AVMs is high, the use of fractionated radiotherapy using low doses per fraction cannot be recommended.
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Not infrequently, patients with bilateral cerebral aneurysms are encountered. In such patients, the ability to treat bilateral aneurysms through a unilateral approach spares the patient the risk and inconvenience associated with a separate craniotomy. The contralateral approach for aneurysm repair is technically feasible and safe in appropriately selected patients. Herein, we review our technique for maximizing contralateral exposure and clipping contralateral aneurysms through the four anatomic triangles that serve as corridors in this approach.
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Comparative Study Clinical Trial
Gravitational shunts in longstanding overt ventriculomegaly in adults.
A new entity of chronic hydrocephalus was introduced recently in the international literature: longstanding overt ventriculomegaly in adults. Previous experience with this disorder has demonstrated that shunt therapy for such patients involves a considerable risk of overdrainage. In the present study, we aimed to clarify whether this risk could be avoided by use of gravitational shunts. ⋯ Unlike conventional differential pressure shunts, gravitational shunts can be used in the treatment of high-risk patients with longstanding overt ventriculomegaly in adults. Significant risk of overdrainage can be avoided. Gravitational shunts offer a viable alternative to endoscopic third ventriculostomy, provided the choice and adjustment of the shunt opening pressure is based on a correct assessment of the hydrostatic pressure to be compensated for.
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Case Reports Comparative Study
Chronic traumatic encephalopathy in a National Football League player.
We present the results of the autopsy of a retired professional football player that revealed neuropathological changes consistent with long-term repetitive concussive brain injury. This case draws attention to the need for further studies in the cohort of retired National Football League players to elucidate the neuropathological sequelae of repeated mild traumatic brain injury in professional football. ⋯ This case highlights potential long-term neurodegenerative outcomes in retired professional National Football League players subjected to repeated mild traumatic brain injury. The prevalence and pathoetiological mechanisms of these possible adverse long-term outcomes and their relation to duration of years of playing football have not been sufficiently studied. We recommend comprehensive clinical and forensic approaches to understand and further elucidate this emergent professional sport hazard.