Neurosurgery
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The safety of PipelineTM Embolization Device (PED; Medtronic Inc, Dublin, Ireland) in posterior circulation aneurysms is still controversial. ⋯ PED implantation may be considered for the treatment of posterior circulation aneurysms, especially of saccular or dissecting type. Our major complications appear to be comparable to those reported previously after clipping and coiling in the literature. Neurointerventionists should consider the shape, size, rupture, and location of complex posterior circulation aneurysms as well as age and PED number before the PED placement.
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When clinical presentation, laboratory studies, or imaging cannot diagnose cavernous sinus (CS) and/or Meckel's cave (MC) lesions, biopsy may be necessary. ⋯ In this patient cohort, metastatic tumors were the most likely pathology. The biopsy threshold should be lower in patients with a cancer history if clinical or radiographic diagnosis is uncertain as 27% had a second disease. However, we consider biopsy as a last resort because the risk of major morbidity/mortality, while low, is not zero.
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Vertebral compression fracture (VCF) is a challenging and not infrequent complication observed following spine stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT). ⋯ VCF is an important adverse effect following SBRT. Risk factors have been identified to guide the selection of high-risk patients. Evidence-based algorithms with respect to patient selection and intervention are needed.
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The effectiveness of stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) for recurrent glioblastoma (rGBM) remains uncertain. SRS has been associated with a high risk of radionecrosis in gliomas. ⋯ A single dose of bevacizumab prior to SRS permitted safe prescription dose escalation up to 22 Gy for rGBM. Further evaluation of the efficacy of SRS for rGBM should be performed in the setting of bevacizumab treatment.
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Nelson's syndrome may be a devastating complication for patients with Cushing's disease who underwent a bilateral adrenalectomy. Previous studies have demonstrated that stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) can be used to treat patients with Nelson's syndrome. ⋯ This retrospective analysis suggests that SRS is an effective means of achieving endocrine remission and tumor control in patients with Nelson's syndrome.