Tidsskrift for den Norske lægeforening : tidsskrift for praktisk medicin, ny række
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Considerable progress in diagnostic imaging and video EEG monitoring has improved the possibilities of localising the epileptogenic zone of the brain in patients with epilepsy. Despite the fact that epilepsy surgery can therefore be offered to more patients today than previously, relatively few patients are referred for an assessment for surgery. The aim of this review is to provide a brief account of the patient selection procedures and the investigations prior to epilepsy surgery. ⋯ Epilepsy surgery plays an ever more important role in the treatment of patients with drug resistant seizures. Doctors who treat epileptic patients should refer candidates for surgery at an early stage of the disease.
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The aim of this paper is to provide an overview of the autonomic innervation of the cardiovascular system and the cardiovascular sequelae of spinal cord injuries. ⋯ Knowledge of cardiovascular sequelae after spinal cord injuries and assessment of these is important for correct diagnostics, planning of preventive measures and optimal treatment.
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Tidsskr. Nor. Laegeforen. · May 2012
ReviewRespiratory complications associated with spinal cord injury.
Respiratory complications are the most common cause of acute and long-term morbidity and mortality in patients with spinal cord injury. ⋯ Respiratory complications are common in patients with spinal cord injury. These patients need a multidisciplinary approach. All disciplines involved must obtain knowledge of respiratory complications in the acute phase and in the longer term, to ensure patients are referred for necessary pulmonary review and follow-up.
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Chronic pain following spinal cord injury is common, and may result in a substantially reduced quality of life. The aim of the paper is to provide an overview of pain conditions resulting from spinal cord injuries and an update on therapy options. ⋯ There may be several causes of chronic pain following spinal cord injury. Different measures have been tested for the management of chronic pain after spinal cord injury, but most studies have been performed on a limited number of patients. Further studies are needed to find more effective means of relieving pain following spinal cord injuries.
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Headache is a complication of lumbar puncture that has been known for more than a hundred years. The aim of this paper is to provide an overview of the incidence and symptoms of, the risk factors for and the treatment of this type of headache. ⋯ Headache frequently occurs after lumbar puncture. There is substantial evidence for recommending the use of a thin, atraumatic needle to reduce the incidence. For practical reasons, a needle thinner than 22 G is not suitable for diagnostic lumbar puncture.