World Neurosurg
-
The use of nanoparticles in diagnostic imaging is rapidly gaining utility and acceptance. A handful of iron oxide nanoparticle compounds have already been approved by the U. S. ⋯ The ability of these particles to interact with cellular biology at a molecular level does have theoretical injurious potential. As with any medical intervention, its relative risks must be clearly understood. This article discusses the safety profile and potential toxicities of nanoparticles as used in diagnostic imaging, and serves to inform the prescribing physician of relative and potential risk to the patient.
-
Review Case Reports
Early multimodality treatment of intracranial abscesses.
The treatment of brain abscesses remains one of the success stories of contemporary neurosurgery; what began as a nearly uniformly fatal disease at the turn of the 20th century has become a largely curable ailment through the use of operative and pharmaceutical intervention. ⋯ Cushing employed a variety of operative drainage techniques for intracranial abscesses and implemented an early antibacterial agent to provide adjuvant treatment in one patient. Although these cases demonstrate a 50% mortality rate, they provide insight into the challenges faced by neurosurgeons treating intracranial abscesses at the turn of the 20th century.