Neurosurgery
-
Although several studies were performed to measure stiffness-related functional disability (SRFD) after long segmental fusion for adult spinal deformity, the evaluation of SRFD was done at a single point in time. We do not know whether the disability will stay the same, worsen, or improve over time. ⋯ SRFD was highest at 3 months, but it improved over time except for sitting on the floor. The improvement was observed greatest between 3 months and 1 year. Patients with less American Society of Anaesthesiologists grade experienced more improvement in SRFD.
-
Precise electrode position is vital for effective deep brain stimulation in treating motor symptoms in Parkinson's disease (PD). Enlarged perivascular spaces (PVSs) are associated with pathophysiology of neurodegenerative diseases including PD and may affect the microstructure of surrounding brain tissue. ⋯ This study demonstrated that the presence of enlarged PVS is unlikely to affect targeting of basal ganglia nuclei based on tractography.
-
A benchmark of success for the neurosurgeon-scientist includes obtaining individual research funding from the National Institutes of Health. Successful roadmaps to this goal highlight individual commitment and resiliency, innovative research goals, intentional mentoring, protected research time, and financial support. ⋯ To maximize potential for success as a neurosurgeon-scientist, individuals should have strong research experience on entering residency, choose residency programs that enthusiastically commit to research success among its residents, choose research mentors who will guide them expertly toward a research career, and become well-prepared to apply for research funding during residency. Moreover, individuals who wish to become leaders as neurosurgeon-researchers should seek environments that provide exposure to the widest range of experiences, perspectives, and thinking about medical and research problems.
-
The fetal-type posterior cerebral artery (FPCA) has been regarded as the risk factor for recurrence in coiled internal carotid artery-incorporating posterior communicating artery (ICA-PCoA) aneurysm. However, it has not been proven in previous literature studies. ⋯ The gathered results of all 3 analyses show more clear evidence that FPCA is not a risk factor for coiled ICA-PCoA aneurysms. Hence, we may conclude that FPCA itself is doubtful to be the major risk factor in the recurrence of coiled ICA-PCoA aneurysms.
-
Existing literature suggests that surgical intervention for odontoid fractures is beneficial but often does not control for known confounding factors. ⋯ Surgical stabilization is associated with better myelopathy scores at follow-up and causes lower rates of fracture nonunion, 30-day mortality, and 1-year mortality.