World Neurosurg
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There are few objective measures for evaluating individual performance throughout surgical residency. Two commonly used objective measures are the case log numbers and written board examination scores. The objective of this study was to investigate possible correlations between these measures. ⋯ Identifying which objective measures correlate most closely with resident education could help optimize the structure of residency training programs. We believe that early exposure to focused aspects of neurosurgery helps the young resident learn quickly and efficiently and ultimately score highly on standardized examinations. Therefore program directors may want to ensure focused exposure during the early years of residency, with particular attention to worthwhile rotations in spine neurosurgery.
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There is a paucity of clinical evidence that guides perioperative glycemia management in patients undergoing craniotomy for brain tumor resection. The purpose of this study was to better understand global perceptions and practices related to glycemia management in these patients. ⋯ Our survey results suggest that perceptions and practices related to blood glucose management in patients undergoing brain tumor resection are variable. This study highlights the need for stronger clinical evidence and guidelines to help guide decisions for when and how to manage blood glucose derangements in these patients.
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Juvenile nasopharyngeal angiofibromas (JNAs) are highly vascularized benign lesions that mainly arise in adolescent male patients. Current treatment options include observation, radiotherapy, or surgical resection. Surgical resection is the treatment of choice as it achieves immediate and complete results, thereby minimizing the risk of recurrence. ⋯ The sinonasal cavity was widely patent and no tumor recurrence was noted 5 months postoperatively. JNAs can be challenging to treat as they can invade extensively into local structures. A careful consideration of treatment options and approaches are necessary when faced with these lesions.
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The Physician Payment Sunshine Act, which became federal law in January 2012, mandated that medical device manufacturers must disclose any financial support provided to individual physicians on a publicly available Web site. The law reflects increasing concern about physician-industry relationships. ⋯ This paper adds to the national discussion about neurosurgical physician-industry conflicts of interests and the issues relative to sales representatives in the operating room.
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Observational Study
Socioeconomic status (SES) and adult gliomas (AGs) mortality risk: An observational study based on SEER data.
Socioeconomic status (SES) is presented as a complex structure and has not been studied adequately among adult patients with glioma. This study aims to identify the intrinsic linkages of community-level SES multivariables and discover the effects of the various patterns of these indicators on prognosis of adult gliomas. ⋯ The combinatorial patterns of SES indicators and pattern-based groups do influence the outcomes of adult gliomas. Special attention is given to patients living in areas with specialized economic-educational disadvantages, relocation instability, and immigration-related characteristics.