World Neurosurg
-
With a varying annual incidence across populations, traumatic spinal cord injury (TSCI) remains a public health concern of utmost importance, especially in developing countries with an incidence rate ranging from 12.7 to 29.7 per million people and a postulated increase in the number of patients living with undesirable complications of this condition. It is against this background that we reviewed the literature to bring to light the epidemiology, burden, management, and outcomes of TSCIs across Africa. ⋯ The incidence of the traumatic condition in certain parts of Africa is significantly higher than in other parts of the world, suggesting the need for an urgent call to action regarding addressing its key drivers.
-
Review Case Reports
Predictors of Surgical Outcomes in Patients with Abducens Nerve Schwannoma: A Comprehensive Systematic Review and a Case Report.
Abducens nerve (AN) schwannomas are extremely rare tumors. Clinical characteristics and factors that influence postoperative outcomes are not well defined. ⋯ AN schwannomas are rare but serious tumors that can cause significant morbidity, with only approximately one third of patients showing complete recovery after surgery. The suboccipital approach was a protective factor for postoperative complications, especially when combined with subtotal resection. Knowledge of these factors along with tumor characteristics helps optimize surgical planning and preoperative counseling.
-
Although shunting has been shown to ameliorate symptoms in idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus (iNPH), its impact on health-related quality of life (HRQoL) has yet to be fully elucidated. Patient and caregiver subjective life satisfaction and HRQoL represent crucial indicators for assessing the well-being of individuals facing chronic illnesses, including iNPH. This study aimed to systematically analyze the existing data about HRQoL in iNPH-treated patients to evaluate the role of surgical treatment in such a scenario. ⋯ Despite that iNPH has been recognized as a potentially reversible neurological disorder, the available data about the impact of shunting on the HRQoL are unsatisfactory. To improve the well-informed clinical decision-making, it is essential to reach additional high-quality evidence regarding the effect of shunting on HRQoL. New prospective studies, using validated instruments specifically tailored for assessing HRQoL in patients with iNPH, and improved reporting standards are needed. Current evidence suggests that although shunting can provide initial benefits, affected patients may experience long-term impairment in HRQoL.