World Neurosurg
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Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) application in Chiari malformation type I (CMI) is still poorly defined. This study aimed to systematically review the literature and propose perspectives toward the clinical application of DTI in CMI. ⋯ DTI might provide a valuable insight into the neurobiological foundation of symptomatic CMI presentation. The severity of white matter injury evident on DTI could serve as a reliable predictor of postoperative outcomes, therefore facilitating selection of appropriate surgical candidates. Postinterventional DTI reassessment might enable differentiation between unsuccessful surgical technique and irreversible myelopathy. The extent of tonsillar ectopia reflects the severity of microstructural brainstem injury.
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Review Historical Article
The legacy of Syriac-Aramaic scholars in transmitting neurosurgical knowledge between Antiquity and the Middle Ages.
The link between ancient Greek medicine and the Arabic translation period in the 9th century cannot be understood without studying the contributions of Syriac scholars. With their mastery of Greek and the related Semitic languages of Syriac and Arabic, they initiated a scientific translation process with methods that prevail to this day. ⋯ We analyzed the oldest known diagram of orbital anatomy along with Hunayn's genuine ideas on the optic nerve anatomy and pathology, optic chiasm, afferent pupillary reflex, and papilledema and venous congestion. We also reviewed the neurosurgical elements found in the Syriac Book of Medicines including the thought process in localizing neurologic deficits based on clinical experience and anatomic dissections and the earliest recorded description of brachial plexus pathology.
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Resection of intramedullary spinal ependymomas carries great risk of postoperative neurological deficits. The objective of this study was to describe our experience using co-neurosurgeon teams to address intramedullary ependymomas to determine if the use of 2 experienced attending neurosurgeons with expertise in both neurosurgical oncology and spine pathology can improve outcomes for intramedullary ependymoma resections. ⋯ Resection of intramedullary ependymomas by co-neurosurgeon teams resulted in similar rates of gross total resection, postoperative complications, and recurrence compared with surgeries performed by a single neurosurgeon. Functional neurological outcomes were not impacted by co-neurosurgeons performing ependymoma resections.
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We sought to investigate the association between diabetes mellitus and incidence of adverse outcomes in patients who underwent meningioma surgery. ⋯ Diabetes is an important factor associated with complications after meningioma surgery. Preventative measures must be taken to optimize postoperative outcomes in these patients.
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Surgical treatment of advanced intracranial and extracranial communicating skull base tumors is challenging, especially for the reconstruction of the large composite defect left by tumor resection. The aim of the study is to evaluate the utility of the free flap reconstruction of the defects resulting from radical resection of these tumors in a single institution. ⋯ Free flap transfer is a safe and effective method with acceptable complications, useful for reconstruction of large composite skull base defects after salvage resection of advanced intracranial and extracranial communicating tumors. The functional and cosmetic results are satisfying.