World Neurosurg
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This study explored diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) and diffusion tensor tractography (DTT) to assess the prognosis of thoracolumbar spinal cord injury (SCI). ⋯ The prognosis of complete thoracolumbar SCI may be related to the FA value and the CRFT. The application of DTI and DTT may optimize the diagnosis of thoracolumbar SCI.
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Acute spinal cord injury (ASCI) is a devastating event that can have a profound impact on the lives of patients and their families. While no definitive medical treatment exists, the role of methylprednisolone (MP) in the management of ASCI and other spinal cord pathologies has been investigated in depth; however, its use remains contentious. While MP initially showed promise in the efficacy of ASCI treatment, more recent studies have questioned its use citing numerous systemic adverse effects. Pharmacologic treatments in this area are poorly understood due to the scarcity of knowledge surrounding the pathophysiology and heterogeneity of patients presenting with these conditions. Despite these shortcomings and due to the lack of alternative treatment options, MP is still widely used by physicians. ⋯ At present, evidence regarding use of dexamethasone for MSCC is contentious, especially regarding dose regiments. Ultimately, further investigation into the use of steroids is required to determine its utility in treating patients with spinal cord pathology.
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Comparative Study
Is Unilateral Minimally Invasive Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion Sufficient in Patients with Claudication? A Comparative Matched Cohort Study.
To evaluate clinical and radiologic outcomes between bilateral decompression using the over-the-top technique (group 1) and unilateral decompression (group 2) in patients with claudication who underwent minimally invasive surgery transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (MIS-TLIF). ⋯ A unilateral approach with ipsilateral side direct decompression and contralateral indirect decompression in MIS-TLIF is sufficient for early clinical improvement in patients with claudication.
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Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is an important cause of trauma-related mortality and morbidity in Ethiopia. There are significant resource limitations along the entire continuum of care, and little is known about the neurosurgical activity and patient outcomes. ⋯ The injury panorama, surgical activity, and outcome are significantly influenced by patient selection due to deficits within both prehospital and hospital care. Still, the neurosurgical services benefit a large number of patients in the greater Addis region and are qualitatively comparable with reports from high-income countries.