World Neurosurg
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Tracheal traction exercise (TTE) has been proposed as a preventative measure for laryngopharyngeal complications following anterior cervical discectomy and fusion. However, the exact effects of TTE remain controversial. Therefore, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials to evaluate the efficacy of TTE. ⋯ TTE can effectively reduce operation duration and postoperative dysphagia. However, it does not result in a significant difference in postoperative VAS.
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Review
Patient Selection Criteria in Ambulatory Spine Surgery: Single Canadian Provincial Experience.
Ambulatory spinal surgery is a care delivery model meant to improve patient outcomes and reduce in-hospital length of stay (LOS). We reviewed the experience of implementing an outpatient spine surgery program in Manitoba, Canada and highlight elements that can be used to reduce LOS and re-presentation to hospital. ⋯ We identified several patient and surgical criteria that correlate with prolonged length of stays following planned ambulatory spine surgery. Our work provides some empiric evidence to help guide surgeons on which patients and approaches are ideal for ambulatory surgery.
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Patients with glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) and other patients with cancer are at a greater risk of developing severe complications as a result of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection. Therefore, it is crucial to adjust therapeutic approaches to reduce exposure and complications and achieve the most appropriate treatment outcomes. ⋯ The pandemic altered medical approaches worldwide, and the management of patients in an immunocompromised state, such as patients with GBM, is challenging; therefore, special considerations must be considered.
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The decision for treatment for unruptured intracranial aneurysms (UIAs) is often difficult. Innovation in endovascular devices have improved the benefit-to-risk profile especially for elderly patients; however, the treatment guidelines from the past decade often recommend conservative management. It is unknown how these changes have affected the overall age of the patients selected for treatment. Herein, we aimed to study potential changes in the average age of the patients that are being treated over time. ⋯ The present study indicates that based on the treated UIA patient data published in the literature, older UIAs are being treated over time. This trend is likely driven by safer treatments while suggesting that re-evaluation of certain UIA treatment decision scores may be of great interest.
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Meningiomas are neoplasms derived from the arachnoid cap cells of the leptomeninges and are the most common intracranial tumor. In the present historical vignette, the evolution of the management and diagnosis of meningioma is described. ⋯ We conclude with a description of current management of meningiomas and potential avenues for further discovery. This article is effectively a lifetime biography of a tumor known and loved by neurosurgeons, the simple and yet complex meningioma.