ABSTRACT
Objective To investigate the clinical features of VAE and to assess the predictive value of VAE cough. Methods We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 461 consecutive patients who underwent DBS surgery at Beijing Tiantan Hospital. Patients with VAE manifestation were enrolled in this study. The clinical features, operative courses, post-operative conditions and treatment of these patients were analyzed. The correlation between intraoperative tremor intensity , cough duration and prognosis was also investigated. Results Among 461 patients,10 (2.2%) were found with evidence of VAE, including cough, dyspnea, decreased O2 saturation (SO2). Statistical analyses revealed that severe cough was associated with greater age , a longer coughing time, more intensive tremor, greater influence, and a longer length of stay (P < 0.05, rspectively). Conclusions Early recognition and prompt management of VAE are essential to prevent unfavorable consequences. Cough intensity might be a useful tool for evaluating VAE and its prognosis , which is helpful for neurosurgeons to decide on the subsequent maneuvers.
ABSTRACT
Objective To explore the clinical value of microsurgery in the treatment of lateral ventricle tumors. Methods Microsurgery was conducted in 14 cases of lateral ventricle trmors in this department from May 1996 to August 2002. According to the location of tumors, we selected the approach close to the focus, protected the surrounding nerve tissue and the deep venous system, and resected the tumor in fractions. Results Among the 14 cases, 13 (92.9%) received total resection and 1 (7.1%) subtotal resection. A total of 11 cases of complications occurred postoperatively, including 3 cases of intracranial infection, 2 cases of hemiparalysis, 1 case of hydrocephalus, 3 cases of frontal lobe mental symptoms, 1 case of intraventricular hematoma and 1 case of nominal aphasia. Except for 1 case of hemiparalysis who were not able to resume the ability to take care of his own basic needs, the remaining 10 cases obtained full recovery. Follow-up in 9 cases for 6～60 months (mean, 29 months) showed 2 cases of recurrence of astrocytoma. Conclusions Microsurgery offers good visualization, minimal invasion and a high total resection rate for tumor.