World Neurosurg
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To compare the effectiveness of radiofrequency neurotomy (RN) and endoscopic neurotomy (EN) of lumbar medial branch (MB) for facetogenic chronic low back pain (FCLBP). ⋯ For FCLBP, EN and X-ray-assisted RN of lumbar MB are both effective treatments. However, endoscopic lumbar MB neurotomy has the better and longer effectiveness.
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Superficial siderosis (SS) of the central nervous system is a disease characterized by deposition of hemosiderin in the leptomeninges (arachnoid and pia mater) due to chronic intradural bleeding. One of the etiologic mechanisms proposed is a dural breach secondary to trauma with a consequent arachnoidocele in contact with an exuberant venous plexus. We describe a unique case of clival arachnoidocele treated by an endoscopic endonasal approach and closure of the defect with fat and nasoseptal flap. ⋯ SS may be a result of several etiologies generating repetitive meningeal bleeding. Our patient had the diagnosis of posttraumatic clival arachnoidocele and SS probably related to trauma with some dural injury. An endoscopic endonasal approach with tear reconstruction is feasible and successful to address clival arachnoidoceles and, in this case, to avoid progression of the SS.
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Using a stereotactic technique, surgeons can accurately place a depth electrode (DE), but sometimes the DE deviates from the intended target due to movement of the electrode or leakage of cerebrospinal fluid when placing the electrode. If DEs can be anchored before removing the catheter insertion guide pipe, more accurate placement may be possible. ⋯ DEs can be anchored using the side slit guide pipe for more precise placement.
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Positron emission tomography (PET) is a valuable tool for the characterization of brain tumors in vivo. However, few studies have investigated the correlation between carbon-11-methionine (11C-METH) PET metrics and the clinical, radiological, histological, and molecular features of patients affected by lower grade gliomas (LGGs). The present observational study evaluated the relationships between 11C-METH PET metrics and structural magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings with the histomolecular biomarkers in patients with LGGs who were candidates for surgery. ⋯ The 11C-METH PET metrics correlated significantly with histological grade and the molecular profile. Semiquantitative PET metrics can improve the preoperative evaluation of LGGs and thus support clinical decision-making.
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Quality Improvement (QI) is essential for improving health care delivery and is now a required component of neurosurgery residency. However, neither a formal curriculum nor implementation strategies have been established by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education. ⋯ A formal didactic curriculum and practical application of QI methodologies adds value to resident training. Further, it has the potential to positively impact practice. Consideration should be given to adopting a formal QI curriculum by other neurosurgery departments and perhaps standardization on national level.