World Neurosurg
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Comparative Study
Assessing the Role of Preoperative Embolization in the Surgical Management of Cerebral Arteriovenous Malformations.
Preoperative embolization is established as an advantageous adjunct in multimodality treatment of cerebral arteriovenous malformations (AVMs). However, the benefit of preoperative embolization in AVMs with favorable surgical risk profile is debatable, because it has yet to be supported by evidence in comparative studies. In this study, we assessed outcome of surgically treated patients in a comparative setting. ⋯ Our data do not support substantial benefit of preoperative embolization for patients with a favorable surgical risk profile. Because of risks and costs with this intervention, the prudent use of preoperative embolization should be individually considered.
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Chronic back pain is a common problem, and imaging is crucial for effective diagnosis and treatment. In low-resource settings conventional myelography is a cheap alternative to magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography. This study was conducted to reexamine the diagnostic reliability, effectiveness for surgical decision making, and safety of conventional myelography. ⋯ Conventional myelography is a reliable and safe diagnostic test. Appropriate and sound surgical decisions can be made following conventional myelography tests.
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The aim of the study was to examine the clinical effect of postoperative hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) therapy on symptoms and signs in the ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt insertion treatment of idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus (iNPH). ⋯ HBO therapy combined with VP shunt is expected to improve the effect of iNPH treatment, especially for cognitive performance.
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To investigate a novel intermuscular surgical approach for posterior upper cervical spine fixation. ⋯ The posterior bilateral intermuscular approach for upper cervical spine injuries is a valid alternative for Hangmans' fractures type I, type II, and type Ia according to Levine and Edwards classification as well as atlantoaxial subluxation caused by upper cervical spine trauma.
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Comparative Study Observational Study
Does one size fit all? Examining the Application of Neurosurgery Residency Milestones Developed in the USA to a Taiwanese Culture.
The Milestone Project was launched in 2009, charging specialties to develop specific educational accomplishments required to establish clinical competency. The milestone assessment method was first introduced to Taiwan in 2013 and before applying milestone assessments to our medical education system, the validity and reliability of these questionnaires needed to be evaluated. ⋯ Milestone assessments have high reliability and may be a helpful assessment tool. Although milestone assessment can provide thorough feedback concerning performance and the content of the training program, they may not perfectly suit all residency-training programs, especially in different countries or different cultures. Modifications should be done before applying milestones to different areas; therefore the results can truly reflect the progress and condition of the training and learning process.