Neurosurgery
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Comparative Study
The predictive value of sympathetic block for the success of spinal cord stimulation.
The purpose of this study was to assess the predictive value of response to sympathetic blockade (SB) on the success rate of spinal cord stimulation (SCS) in patients with complex regional pain syndrome. ⋯ We conclude that patients with good response to SB before SCS are more likely to have a positive response during their SCS trial and long-term pain relief after placement of permanent SCS device.
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To assess the rate of restenosis after vertebral origin angioplasty and stenting (VOAS). ⋯ Despite a technical success rate of 97% and a low incidence of complications, VOAS is associated with a high rate of moderate-to-severe restenosis.
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Determining an appropriate site for distal catheter placement for ventricular shunting for some hydrocephalic patients can be difficult. We describe a simplification of the technique for sagittal sinus shunt placement using a guidewire. ⋯ Ventriculosagittal sinus shunting may be used as an alternative to traditional methods for patients for whom distal shunt placement is problematic. Our technique has the theoretical advantage of reducing the risks of blood loss or air embolism by not requiring a scalpel incision into the sinus.
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We investigated the effect of human bone marrow stromal cells (hMSCs) administered intravenously on functional outcome after traumatic brain injury in adult rats. ⋯ These data suggest that hMSCs may be a potential therapy for patients who have sustained traumatic brain injuries.
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The incidence and severity of venous air embolism (VAE), a potentially fatal complication, among patients undergoing selective peripheral denervation in the sitting position have never been clearly established. We designed this retrospective study to assess the incidence and severity of VAE, the incidence of paradoxical air embolism, and the occurrence of patent foramen ovale, as detected with transesophageal echocardiography, as well as the effects of its detection on patient treatment. ⋯ This is the first large study to directly assess the incidence and severity of VAE among patients undergoing selective peripheral denervation in the sitting position. We recommend that the detection of a patent foramen ovale prompt a change in position for this surgical procedure.