World Neurosurg
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This report describes the authors' experience and technique in removing vagus nerve stimulator leads, including coils, and reuse of the same site on the vagus nerve for implantation of new coils. ⋯ Vagus nerve stimulator coils can be removed from the vagus nerve, via monopolar microneedle electrocautery, and the same site reused for immediate reimplantation with relative safety.
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A 3-dimensional temporal bone model for skull base surgical training was reconstructed via the use of a selective laser sintering technique, which is one of the 3-dimensional printing technologies. ⋯ This artificial model will pave the way to a "new era" in surgical training and medical education.
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Many studies have addressed the problem of loosening pedicle screws in spinal surgery, which is a serious concern. Titanium coating of medical implants (arthroplasty) is common, but few studies involving in vivo spine models have been reported. We evaluated the radiological, mechanical, and histological characteristics of titanium-coated pedicle screws compared with uncoated or hydroxyapatite-coated pedicle screws. ⋯ Fixation strength was greatest in the titanium-coated pedicle screw group. Osteointegration at the interface between the titanium-coated implant and bone produced prominent and firm bonding. The titanium-coated pedicle screw is a promising device for application in spinal surgery.
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Medical complications in the setting of aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) are common and associated with poor prognosis. We analyzed the incidence, risk factors, and short-term outcomes associated with acute renal failure (ARF) in aSAH. ⋯ The burden of ARF in hospitalized patients with aSAH has increased in the past decade and is detrimental to patient outcomes and healthcare costs. The identification of patient-centered risk factors may allow for close surveillance of high-risk patients.
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Matrix metalloproteinase (MMPs) and endothelin-1 may prove to be important in the generation of pain induced by inflammation and nerve lesion. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between endothelin receptors and MMPs. ⋯ In this study, CGS-26303 can attenuate SNL-induced neuropathic pain by down-regulating MMP-9, MMP-2, and ETAR expressions in the DRG and by glia cell activation in the SDH.