World Neurosurg
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Safe and complete surgical excision of carotid plaque in carotid endarterectomy (CEA) is essential for preventing postoperative embolic stroke and restenosis. We considered the dissection plane for the plaque according to pathological findings of carotid atherosclerosis. We report our experiences with inner-intimal dissection in CEA. ⋯ Microsurgical interintimal dissection could accomplish good surgical outcome, including absence of significant early restenosis.
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To evaluate the quality of information available on the Internet to patients with a cervical pathology undergoing elective cervical spine surgery. ⋯ This study shows that the search for medical information on the Internet is time-consuming and often disappointing. The Internet is a potentially misleading source of information. Surgeons and professional societies must use the Internet as an ally in providing optimal information to patients.
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To present a unique case of a brainstem Curvularia fungal infection and review the diagnosis and management of this rare phenomenon. ⋯ This is the first reported case of a brainstem Curvularia infection. This case highlights the importance of an aggressive surgical and antibiotic therapy in the treatment of central nervous system Curvularia infections. There appears to be a strong relationship between heavy marijuana use and Curvularia infection, producing lung granulomas that may extend to other organs such as the central nervous system of immunocompetent patients.