Neurosurgery
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The transoral approach is the most direct and commonly used method to access the ventral craniocervical junction. Recently, an endonasal, endoscopic approach to the craniovertebral junction was proposed. We reasoned that the coupling of the endoscope with the direct transoral approach and image guidance could result in a minimally invasive, simple approach to the ventral craniovertebral junction. We investigated the potential usefulness of such an approach in a cadaver model. ⋯ With the aid of the endoscope and image guidance, it is possible to approach the ventral craniovertebral junction transorally with minimal tissue dissection, no palatal splitting, and no compromise of surgical freedom. In addition, the use of an angled-lens endoscope can significantly improve the exposure of the clivus without splitting the soft palate. An endoscope-assisted transoral approach is a direct and powerful tool for the treatment of surgical pathology at the craniovertebral junction.
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Case Reports
Anatomic study of the infraorbital foramen for radiofrequency neurotomy of the infraorbital nerve.
To examine the anatomy of the infraorbital canal and foramen and the angles at which a radiofrequency probe must be directed to enter the infraorbital foramen and canal, as a guide to performing radiofrequency ablation of the infraorbital nerve in patients with relative or absolute contraindications to lesions of the trigeminal ganglion or posterior root. ⋯ The coordinates for placement of the radiofrequency probe through the infraorbital foramen and into the infraorbital canal are reviewed, along with a discussion of pitfalls in radiofrequency ablation of the nerve.
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We report our preliminary experience in a prospective series of patients with regard to feasibility, work flow, and image quality using a multislice computed tomographic (CT) scanner combined with a frameless neuronavigation system (NNS). ⋯ The system can be installed in a preexisting operating environment without the need for special surgical instruments. It increases the safety of the patient and the surgeon without necessitating a change in the existing surgical protocol and work flow. Imaging and updating of the NNS can be performed at any time during surgery with very limited time and modification of the surgical setup. Multidisciplinary use increases utilization of the system and thus improves the cost-efficiency relationship.
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We describe a novel 3-dimensional (3-D) stereoendoscope and discuss our early experience using it to provide improved depth perception during transsphenoidal pituitary surgery. ⋯ In this first reported series of purely 3-D endoscopic transsphenoidal pituitary surgery, we demonstrate subjectively improved depth perception and excellent outcomes with no increase in operative time. Three-dimensional endoscopes may become the standard tool for minimal access neurosurgery.
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Because of the difficulty in distinguishing idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus (INPH) from other neurodegenerative conditions unrelated to cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) dynamics, response to CSF shunting remains highly variable. We examined the utility of CSF drainage and CSF pressure (Pcsf) dynamics in predicting response to CSF shunting for patients with INPH. ⋯ In this study of 51 INPH patients who underwent Pcsf monitoring with waveform analysis and CSF drainage followed by shunt surgery, there was no correlation between specific Pcsf wave characteristics and objective symptomatic improvement after shunt placement. Pcsf monitoring with B-wave analysis contributes little to the diagnostic dilemma with INPH patients. Clinical response to continuous CSF drainage over a 72-hour period suggests a high likelihood of shunt responsiveness.