World Neurosurg
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Large disparities in access to neurosurgical care are known, but there are limited data on whether geographic distribution of the neurosurgery workforce potentially plays a role in these disparities. The goal of this study was to identify the geographic distribution of neurosurgeons in the United States and to study the association of the per capita workforce distribution with socioeconomic characteristics of the population. ⋯ Regions characterized by low socioeconomic status have fewer neurosurgeons per capita in the United States. Low income, low number of college graduates, and high unemployment rate are associated with fewer numbers of neurosurgeons per capita. Further research is needed to determine if these geographic workforce disparities contribute to poor access to quality neurosurgical care.
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Pediatric pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma (PXA) is a rare brain tumor. To date, there are few studies dedicated to this kind of pediatric tumor. The aim of this study was to investigate the clinicopathologic characteristics of pediatric PXA. ⋯ Cystic components and peritumoral edema could be seen in most pediatric PXAs, and calcification was also not uncommon. The size of the tumor was correlated with the tumor site and radiologic subtype. Maximal safe resection of pediatric PXA is recommended and was shown to be beneficial for seizure control and survival.
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A Proposed Grading System for Posterior Atlanto-Occipital Membrane Complex Injuries on Cervical MRI.
The posterior atlantooccipital membrane complex consists of the posterior atlantooccipital membrane and posterior atlantoaxial membrane. Posttraumatic, posterior atlantooccipital membrane complex injuries may have varied appearances on cervical magnetic resonance imaging. The purpose of this study was to identify the different types of posterior atlantooccipital membrane complex injuries that occur in trauma patients. ⋯ A grading system for posterior atlantooccipital membrane complex injuries is proposed on the basis of these data: grade 1-edema confined to the posterior atlantooccipital and atlantoaxial membrane; grade 2-edema confined to the posterior atlantooccipital and atlantoaxial membrane and ligamentum nuchae; grade 3-stripping injury of the posterior atlantooccipital membrane with C1-C2 dorsal epidural hematoma; and grade 4-frank disruption of the posterior atlantooccipital membrane at C1 with edema in the remaining posterior atlantooccipital membrane complex.
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There is no comprehensive report of neurosurgery postgraduate education in Africa. This narrative review aimed to map out the landscape of neurosurgery training in Africa and highlight similarities and differences in training. ⋯ This review provides prospective applicants and African and global neurosurgery stakeholders with information to advocate for increased investment in African neurosurgery training programs.
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Sports-related injuries are the third commonest cause of spine fractures. Spinal fractures incurred as a result of partaking in sport by their nature are different from those associated with frailty and road traffic accidents. The patient demographics and nature of fractures associated with sports activities are not well documented. We aim to describe the management and outcome of patients with a sports-related spine fracture in a single U.K. major trauma center in a 6-year time period. ⋯ Within our population, sports most commonly associated with spinal fractures were horse riding, cycling, and boating. The majority of cases were managed nonoperatively. Further research is required to establish evidence-based guidelines on the management of sports-related spinal fractures.