World Neurosurg
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We describe the clinical outcomes in patients with aggressive vertebral hemangiomas (AVHs) after total tumor excision and discuss the treatment options for AVHs. ⋯ Low signal intensity on T1-weighted magnetic resonance imaging was observed in all the patients with AVHs. The long-term clinical results of the preoperative transarterial embolization and total tumor excision were satisfactory. The effect of decompressive incomplete tumor excision is temporary for AVHs, and repeated tumor excision may be necessary because of tumor recurrence in the long term. Reliable total tumor excision during the initial surgery is desirable.
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Intracranial vascular malformations are increasingly being treated via the endovascular route. Though generally safe, a multitude of intraprocedural complications that potentially lead to disastrous clinical outcomes may arise. It is crucial for the operators to be well versed with the various techniques that are available to overcome any procedure-specific complications. ⋯ These novel techniques could potentially reduce mortality and morbidity associated with neurointervention.
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Forehead reconstruction is challenging. Reconstruction of the innate curvature of the forehead is difficult, and the forehead is an esthetically important part of the face. Although synthetic implants and autologous split bone grafts are useful, these cannot be used in infants. ⋯ After removal of an extensive frontal bone tumor in an infant, exchange cranioplasty with an autograft using a bioabsorbable hydroxyapatite and collagen complex at the donor site yielded good results.
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Paragangliomas are uncommon neuroendocrine tumors, rarely occurring in the lumbar spine. Primary lumbar paragangliomas are prominently vascularized, can present variably, and pose both diagnostic and surgical challenges. We report on a large case series with long-term follow-up and intraoperative footage to characterize the natural history, diagnostic approach, and operative approach to this rare surgical disease. ⋯ Primary lumbar paragangliomas are rare neoplasms of the cauda equina that typically progress slowly but may also present acutely. They are often related to the filum terminale, which should be resected prior to other attachments intraoperatively to prevent displacement of the tumor out of view. Total resection can be curative, and long-term follow-up in this series found no recurrence.
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Knowledge of the blood supply to the pituitary gland is important for clinicians and surgeons. Therefore, a good working knowledge of this anatomy is important. The goal of this article was to review current anatomic knowledge of the blood supply to the pituitary gland and its clinical relevance.