La neuroendoscopia: una técnica revolucionaria en el campo de la neurocirugía / Neuroendoscopy: a revoluciotionary technique in neurosurgery

La neuroendoscopia es un procedimiento mínimamente invasivo que se desarrolló a principios del siglo pasado y tiene importancia en el campo de la neurocirugía, representa un método innovador ya que aporta una amplia visualización de las estructuras anatómicas con mínimo traumatismo del tejido nervioso, contribuyendo al diagnóstico y tratamiento de diversas afecciones intra y extracerebral. Se realizó una búsqueda bibliográfica con el propósito de identificar, analizar y describir algunas patologías neuroquirúrgicas que se han tratado bajo neuroendoscopia, así como los aportes más relevantes en cirugía pediátrica y de columna, con el fin de exponer el impacto que ha tenido esta técnica en el desarrollo de la cirugía moderna.

Neuroendoscopy is a minimally-invasive procedure that was developed at the beginning of the last century and plays an important role in neurosurgery. It is an innovative method since it enables a broad visualization of the anatomical structures with minimal damage to the nervous tissue, contributing to the diagnosis and treatment of a variety of intra and extracerebral conditions. A bibliographic search was carried out to identify, analyze and describe some neurological pathologies that have been treated using neuroendoscopic surgery. The most relevant contributions to pediatric and spine surgery are also outlined to show the impact that this technique has had in the progress of modern surgery.

Sagitectomía Endoscópica: Planeamiento Quirúrgico con Modelos de Simulación de Bajo Costo / Endoscopic Sagitectomy: Surgical Planning with Low-Cost Simulation Models

Objetivos: El objetivo es presentar un caso de sagitectomía asistida por endoscopía y su planificación y entrenamiento prequirúrgico con modelos de simulación de bajo costo. Métodos: Se procesó una tomografía de un paciente con escafocefalia, a partir de la cual se realizó una impresión 3D de un cráneo sin huesos parietales. Se completó el modelo de simulación con materiales de bajo costo para simular los tejidos blandos y hueso. Se realizó el entrenamiento con un endoscopio de 30º. Luego del entrenamiento, se realizó una cirugía en un paciente de 2 meses de edad que presentaba una escafocefalia. Resultados: Se creó un modelo de simulación de bajo costo (aproximadamente 20 US$) para el entrenamiento de sagitectomía asistida por endoscopía. Se realizó la cirugía en un paciente, sin complicaciones quirúrgicas ni posoperatorias. Conclusión: El entrenamiento con simuladores de bajo costo permite planificar una sagitectomía asistida por endoscopía, disminuyendo los errores y los tiempos de la curva de aprendizaje.

Tratamiento endoscópico de lesiones quísticas supratentoriales en pediatría / Endoscopic treatment of supratentorial cystic lesions in pediatrics

Introducción: La endoscopía neuroquirúrgica es una técnica mínimamente invasiva, utilizada desde principios del siglo XX para dar solución a las patologías localizadas en el sistema ventricular. En la actualidad las indicaciones de esta técnica se han ampliado notablemente. El objetivo de este trabajo consiste en presentar el tratamiento endoscópico de quistes cerebrales supratentoriales de diferentes etiologías en pediatría. Materiales y métodos: Se realizó un estudio transversal retrospectivo, desde enero de 2016 hasta diciembre de 2019, de pacientes pediátricos con lesiones quísticas supratentoriales tratados endoscópicamente en el Hospital de Niños de La Plata. Para definir el éxito se utilizó la clasificación en 5 grados de Ross et al. Resultados: Se practicaron 14 procedimientos en 12 pacientes, con edades comprendidas entre los 2 meses y los 9 años. Del total, 6 fueron quistes intraventriculares, 3 quistes de línea media, 5 quistes paraventriculares. Todos presentaban algún signo o síntoma al momento de la consulta, predominando entre ellos la alteración del estado neurológico y los vómitos. Luego de practicarse la fenestración endoscópica, presentaron una evolución clínica favorable en 12 de los 14 procedimientos y una mejoría en al menos un criterio imagenológico en 10 del total de los procedimientos.Basados en la categorización de Ross et al. se obtuvo un grado I en el 57% de los casos, lo que implica una mejoría completa permanente. La tasa de complicación global fue del 7%, presentando en solo un caso infección post endoscopia. Conclusión: La neuroendoscopía debería ser considerada como una opción de primera línea para el tratamiento en las lesiones quísticas supratentoriales. Demostró ser un método poco invasivo, con el cual se obtuvieron buenos resultados y una baja tasa de complicaciones.

Introduction: Neurosurgical endoscopy is a minimally invasive technique, used since the beginning of the 20th century to solve pathologies localized in the ventricular system. Currently the indications for this technique have been greatly expanded. The objective of this work is to present the endoscopic treatment of supratentorial brain cysts of different etiologies in pediatrics. Material and methods: We carried out a retrospective cross-sectional study, from January 2016 to December 2019, of pediatric patients with supratentorial cystic lesions treated endoscopically at the Hospital de Niños of La Plata City. To define success, we used the 5-degree classification of Ross et al. Results: 14 procedures were performed in 12 patients, aged between 2 months and 9 years. Of the total, 6 were intraventricular cysts, 3 midline cysts, 5 paraventricular cysts. All presented any signs or symptoms at the time of the consultation, prevailing among them the alteration of the neurological state and vomiting. After endoscopic fenestration was performed, they presented a favorable clinical evolution in 12 of the 14 procedures and an improvement in at least one imaging criterion in 10 of all procedures. Based on the categorization of Ross et al. we obtained a grade I in 57% of the cases, which implies a permanent complete improvement. The overall complication rate was 7%, presenting post-endoscopy infection in only one case. Conclusion: Neuroendoscopy should be considered as a first-line option for the treatment of supratentorial cystic lesions. It proved to be a non-invasive method, with which we obtained good results and a low complication rate

Pure Endoscopic Excision of Parenchymal Brain Tumors: Feasibilty, Risks, Advantages and Realities - A Beginners Perspective

Background Neuroendoscopy is gaining popularity and is reaching new realms. Young neurosurgeons are exploring the various possibilities associated with the use of neuroendoscopy. Neuroendoscopy in excision of parenchymal brain tumors is less explored, and young neurosurgeons should be aware of the realities. The present article is an approach to put forward the difficulties faced by a young neurosurgeon and the lessons learnt. Objective To report the experience of surgical excision of parenchymal brain tumors, in selected cases, using pure endoscopic approach and to discuss its feasibility, technical benefits, risks and comparison with conventional microscopic excision. Method Eight patients of variable age group with parenchymal brain tumors were operated upon by a single surgeon and followed up for a period varying from6months to 2 years. Data regarding operating time, illumination, clarity of the field, size of craniotomy, blood loss and course of recovery was evaluated. All of the tumors were resected using rigid high definition zero and 30° endoscope. Results Out of eight cases, seven had lesions in the supratentorial and one in the infratentorial location. The age group ranged from 27 to 74 years old. Near to gross total resection was achieved in all except two cases. All of the patients recovered well without any significant morbidity or mortality. Hospital stay was reduced by 1 day on average. Conclusion Excision of parenchymal brain tumors via pure endoscopic method is a safe and efficient procedure. Although there is an initial period of learning curve, it is not steep for those already practicing neuroendoscopy, but the approach has its advantages.

Microsurgical and Endoscopic Anatomy of the Cavernous Sinus

Objective To describe the endoscopic and microsurgical anatomy of the cavernous sinus (CS) with focus on the surgical landmarks in microsurgical anatomy. Materials and methods Ten formalin-fixed central skull base specimens (20 CSs) with silicone-injected carotid arteries were examined through an extended endoscopic transsphenoidal approach. Fifteen formalin-fixed heads were dissected to simulate the surgical position in CS approaches. Results Endoscopic access enables identification of the anterior and posterior surgical corridors. Structures within the CS and on its lateral wall could be visualized and studied, but none of the triangular areas relevant to the transcranial microsurgical anatomy were fully visible through the endoscopic approach. Conclusion The endoscopic approach to the CS is an important surgical technique for the treatment of pathological conditions that affect this region. Correlating endoscopic findings with the conventional (transcranial)microsurgical anatomy is a useful way of applying the established knowledge into a more recent operative technique. Endoscope can provide access to the CS and to the structures it harbors.

Nuevo modelo de simulador para neuroendoscopía / New simulator model for neuroendoscopy

Introducción: El entrenamiento en simuladores es considerado una herramienta fundamental en las especialidades quirúrgicas, contribuyendo en el aprendizaje de una determinada técnica quirúrgica.Existen modelos de simulación sintéticos que replican la anatomía ventricular con alta fidelidad sin embargo tienen un costo elevado. Algunos centros describieron el uso de cadáveres humanos pero la disponibilidad del material suele ser limitada y la adquisición dificultosa. Otros autores utilizan entrenamiento en modelos biológicos vivos (roedores de laboratorio) que presentan la ventaja de tener alta fidelidad en cuanto a la consistencia de tejidos, sin embargo, la utilización de estos modelos se encuentra cuestionados desde el aspecto ético. Material y Métodos: Se presenta un modelo de simulación que utiliza unidades de cerebro bovino y membrana amniótica. Colocamos el cerebro bovino y las unidades de membrana amniótica dentro de un recipiente esférico de poliestireno expandido. Una vez que se forma la esfera, insertamos dos trocares que nos permitirán insertar el neuroendoscopio y llenarlo con agua. Resultado: Presentamos un nuevo modelo accesible y realista para la simulación neuroendoscópica que reproduce ejercicios de biopsia, coagulación de tejidos, fenestración y dilatación de membrana. Conclusión: Los simuladores para neuroendoscopía descritos hasta ahora son confiables, pero conllevan un alto costo. Los modelos con animales vivos, aunque con menor costo, son cuestionados desde un punto de vista ético.En el trabajo actual, describimos un modelo de simulador neuroendoscópico ventricular de alta fidelidad que, debido a su bajo costo, permite ser replicado en cualquier centro de entrenamiento que tenga un neuroendoscopio.

Objectives: Ventricular endoscopy is considered an excellent technique. However, without an optimal learning curve, it could lead to deadly complications.There are synthetic simulation models that replicate the ventricular anatomy with high fidelity but high costs. Some low-cost models have been published using human corpses for endoscopic training; however, materials' acquisition is difficult. A different option is live biological models (laboratory rodents), although cost is lower, they are questioned from an ethical point of view.The ideal simulator, in addition to aspiring maximum fidelity, must be accessible, affordable and easy to replicate to facilitate repetitive training. Methods: A simulation model using bovine brain and membrane units made by a soda cup covered by an amniotic membrane. We placed the bovine brain and the amniotic membrane units inside an expanded polystyrene spherical container; once the sphere is formed, we inserted two trocars, which will enabled us to insert the neuroendoscope and fill it with water. Result: We introduced an attainable and realistic new model for neuroendoscopic simulation, which replicates biopsy, tissue coagulation, fenestration, and membrane dilatation exercises. Conclusion: Simulators for neuroendoscopy described so far are reliable, but they entail a high cost. Models with live animals, although with lower cost, are questioned from an ethical point of view.In the current work, we describe a high fidelity ventricular neuroendoscopic simulator model that, due to its low cost, allows to be replicated in any training center that has a neuroendoscope

Analysis on clinical effects of two surgical approaches in percutaneous spinal endoscopy for LS disc herniation / 中国骨伤

OBJECTIVE@#To analyze the clinical effects, complications and operational key points of the percutaneous endoscopic transforaminal discectomy (PETD) and percutaneous endoscopic interlaminar discectomy (PEID) in treating LS disc herniation.@*METHODS@#The clinical data of 158 patients with L5S1 disc herniation treated from July 2015 to March 2018 were restospectively analyzed. According to different surgical approaches, the patients were divided into PETD group or PEID group, 79 cases in each group. In PETD group, there were 41 males and 38 females, with an average age of (41.38±6.25) years and course of disease of (10.06±3.14) months. In PEID group, there were 43 males and 36 females, with an average age of (41.18±5.78) years and course of disease of (9.99±2.83) months. The operation length, intraoperative blood loss, intraoperative fluoroscopy times, days of hospital stay, and complications were recorded between two groups. Visual analogue score (VAS), Japanese Orthopedic Association(JOA) score, Oswestry Disability Index(ODI), modified Macnab criteria were used to assessed clinical effects after operation.@*RESULTS@#All patients completed surgery and were followed up for more than 1 year. (1) There were no significant differences in the intraoperative blood loss or hospitalization length between two groups(>0.05). The operation length and intraoperative fluoroscopy times in PETD group were significantly higher than in PEID group (0.05). (3)The excellence rate was 89.87% (71 / 79) in PETD group and 87.34% (69 / 79) in PEID group at the latest follow-up, with no statistical significance(>0.05). (4)Complications occurred in 2 cases in PETD group and in 3 cases in PEID group, with no significant differences between two groups.@*CONCLUSION@#The short term efficacy of the PETD is equal to that of the PEID for the LS disc herniation, but PEID is superior in the operation length, the access of stereotaxic puncture and intraoperative fluoroscopy times. The complications can be effectively reduced by following the indications, mastering the endoscopic technique, operating carefully and being familiar with the key points of common complications.

Percutaneous transforaminal endoscopic foraminoplasty for simple lumbar spinal lateral exit-zone stenosis / 中国骨伤

OBJECTIVE@#To evaluate the clinical effects of percutaneous endoscopic foraminoplasty for simple lumbar spinal lateral exit zone stenosis.@*METHODS@#A total of 36 patients with simple lumbar spinal lateral exit zone stenosis were admitted to our hospital from January 2013 to June 2018, and received selective nerve root canal radiography and radicular block. According to the symptoms and patients' personal wills, 22 cases underwent the one-stage percutaneous foraminal surgery(the one-stage operation group), and the other 14 patients were re-admitted to the hospital for operation(the delayed operation group) because of the recurrence of symptoms after discharge. The visual analogue scale (VAS) and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) were used to evaluate the clinical effects before therapy, 1 day after the radicular block, and 1 day, 3 months and 6 months after the operation.@*RESULTS@#VAS and ODI of all 36 cases were obviously improved (0.05), but when compared with its own pretherapy andbefore readmission results, the difference was significant (<0.05). There was no nerve injury in all cases. Only 2 cases were presented with the outlet root stimulation symptoms, and the symptoms relieved after short term conservative treatment.@*CONCLUSION@#The clinical effects of radicular block may be unsustainable for patients with simple lumbar spinal lateral exit zone stenosis. Instead, percutaneous endoscopic foraminoplasty was simple, safe and effective.

Application of "Zoning Method" foraminotomy in posterior cervical endoscopic surgery / 中国骨伤

OBJECTIVE@#To explore the safety, effectiveness and consistency of "Zoning Method" foraminotomy in posterior cervical endoscopic surgery.@*METHODS@#From March 2016 to October 2018, 21 patients with cervical spondylotic radiculopathy were enrolled. Endoscopic foraminotomy and nucleus pulposus enucleation were performed in the patients. There were 13 males and 8 females, aged from 35 to 56 years old with an average of (47.3±5.1) years. The surgical segment of 6 cases were C, 10 cases were C and 5 cases were C. The "Zoning Method" was proposed and used to complete the foraminotomy under endoscope, and then to perform nucleus pulposus removal and nerve root decompression. The operation length, intraoperative bleeding volume and complications were recorded, and NDI, VAS were evaluated before operation, 1 day after the operation and 1 week after the operation.@*RESULTS@#All the operations were successful. The operation length was(46.10±26.39) min, intraoperative bleeding volume was (50.10±18.25) ml, and there were no complications such as nerve injury, dural tear or vertebral artery injury. All 21 patients were followed up for 3 to 9 months, with a median of 6 months. Postoperative VAS and NDI were obvious improved (0.05).@*CONCLUSION@#Endoscopic foraminotomy with "Zoning Method" is safe clinically significant, and consistent.

Clinical efficacy and technical characteristics of percutaneous endoscopic lumbar discectomy in the treatment of upper lumbar disc herniation / 中国骨伤

OBJECTIVE@#To analyze the clinical efficacy and technical characteristics of percutaneous endoscopic lumbar discecomy in the treatment of upper lumbar disc herniation.@*METHODS@#The clinical data of 9 patients with upper lumbar disc herniation underwent percutaneous endoscopic lumbar discecomy from January 2012 to October 2019 were retrospectively analyzed. There were 6 males and 3 females, aged 26 to 79 years, including 2 patients with L disc herniation and 7 patients with L2, 3 disc herniation. Visual analogue scale (VAS) and Japanese Orthopeadic Association (JOA) score were recorded before and after surgery. The clinical efficacy was evaluated according to the modified Macnab standard.@*RESULTS@#All 9 patients were followedup, and the follow-up time was 1 day and 3 months after surgery. The operation time was 1.5 to 2.9 h and postoperative hospital stay was 5 to 8 d. No cerebrospinal fluid leakage or spinal cord injury occurred during the operation. Preoperative and postoperative at 1 day, 3 months, the VAS scores of 9 patients were 7 to 8 scores, 1 to 3 scores, 0 to 1 case, JOA scores were 5 to 7 scores, 15 to 24 scores, 21 to 26 scores, respectively. The improvement rate of JOA was 36.4% to 78.3% on the first day and 65.2% to 87.5% three months after operation. According to modified Macnab standard to evaluate effect, 4 cases got excellent results, 4 good, 1 fair.@*CONCLUSION@#Percutaneous endoscopic lumbar discecomy has reliable therapeutic effect for upper lumbar disc herniation in line with the indications, and it has the characteristics of small trauma and short operation time, so it is more suitable for middle aged and elderly patients with poor physique and can replace part of transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion.

Clinical efficacy of endoscopy in the treatment of lumbar disc herniation combined with posterior apophyseal ring separation / 中国骨伤

OBJECTIVE@#To investigate the efficacy and safety of total spine endoscopy in the treatment of lumbar disc herniation combined with posterior apophyseal ring separation.@*METHODS@#From January 2015 to January 2018, a total of 21 patients with lumbar disc herniation complicated with posterior apophyseal ring separation were treated with total spine endoscopy via interlamina approach. There were 17 males and 4 females. The age ranged from 18 to 48 years old and the median age was 27 years old. All were single segment unilateral disc herniation, interlaminar approach was adopted, and the herniated disc was removed unilaterally at the symptomatic side under the microscope, and all or part of the broken bonewas removed.@*RESULTS@#There were no complications such as incision infection, intervertebral space infection, intestinal injury, dural injury and cerebrospinal fluid leakage. The operation time ranged from 32 to 92 minutes and the median time was 57 minutes. Postoperative imaging examination showed that 2 patients had complete resection of osteotomy of posterior edge of vertebral body, 16 patients had partially resection and 3 patients had no resection. All intervertebral discs were completely removed. All 21 patients were followed up, and the duration ranged from 12 to 36 months, with a median of 15 months. The VAS of lumbago was 7.10±1.20 before surgery, 3.46±0.23 on the 3rd day after surgery, 2.36±0.19 on the 6th month after surgery; and the VAS of leg pain was 8.80±0.55 before surgery, 3.54±0.28 on the 3rd day after surgery, and 2.59±0.26 on the 6th month after surgery. The Oswestry Disability Index score was (69.71±9.37)% before surgery, (32.19±6.95)% on the 6th month after surgery, and (20.95± 6.16)% at the latest follow up. Onthe 1st year after operation, 16 patients got an excellent result, 4 good and 1 fair according to Macnab evaluation system.@*CONCLUSION@#Total spine endoscopy via interlaminal approach can be used as an option in the treatment of lumbar disc herniation combined with vertebral posterior margin dissociation, which can reduce trauma and injury to the lumbar dorsal muscle and achieve similar decompression effect as open surgery. The long term efficacy needs to be further proved by prospective randomized controlled studies with larger sample size.

Modelo de neuroendoscopia ventricular "INARUS" / Ventricular neuroendoscopy model "INARUS"

Introducción: La simulación es una herramienta de educación indispensable para un entrenamiento progresivo en un ámbito seguro, no solo para el paciente sino para el educando. La misma fue incorporada en la curricula de nuestras especialidades quirúrgicas a partir del 2013. Las habilidades neuroquirúrgicas requieren de un experticio que implica un periodo prolongado de tiempo de práctica. En la actualidad, dicho periodo, se tiende a disminuir con la enseñanza de ensayo y error, repetición de los procedimientos y automatización de maniobras que la simulación facilita con el agregado de la posibilidad de un feedback de retroalimentación entre el profesional en formación y el educador en un ambiente seguro. Objetivo: Describir un modelo de simulador físico sintético de bajo costo como herramienta inicial para mejorar la curva de aprendizaje de las técnicas de neuroendoscopia intraventricular. Descripción del simulador: es un modelo físico sintético realizado a través de técnicas de mordería con gel autoportante. El simulador ofrece la posibilidad de practicar técnicas básicas neuroendoscópicas intraventriculares, ofreciendo la particularidad de poder repetir las maniobras y gestos quirúrgicas con un coste beneficio muy elevado debido al muy bajo precio de realización del simulador. A su vez, se trata de un modelo de simulación que se puede fabricar de forma casera en cualquier centro de simulación. Discusión: Presentamos un modelo inédito de bajo costo y alta fidelidad para simulación neuroendoscópica. Consta de un cerebro sintético físico que permite replicar ejercicios de navegación intraventricular con maniobras endoscópicas, toma de biopsia de lesiones quísticas o sólidas, sección de tabiques, lavado ventricular y desobstrucción de catéteres intraventriculares. Lo consideramos una herramienta básica y de amplia ayuda para profesionales que decidan iniciar su curva de aprendizaje en la neuroendoscopia intraventricular. Planeamos su validación en futuros congresos de neurocirugía.

Introduction: Simulation is an indispensable educational tool for progressive training in a safe environment, for both patients and learning neurosurgeons. It was incorporated into the curricula of our surgical specialties as of 2013. Neurosurgical skills require an expertise that involves a prolonged period of practice time. Currently, this period tends to decrease with the teaching of trial and error, repetition of procedures and automation of maneuvers that the simulation facilitates with the addition of the possibility of feedback between the professional in training and the educator, all doing in a safe environment. Objective: To describe a low cost synthetic physical simulator model as an initial tool to improve the learning curve of intraventricular neuroendoscopy techniques. Description of the simulator: it is a synthetic physical model realized through self-supporting gel biting techniques. The simulator offers the possibility of practicing intraventricular neuroendoscopic basic techniques, offering the peculiarity of being able to repeat maneuvers and surgical gestures with a very high benefit-cost due to a very low price of its creation. At the same time, it is a simulation model that can be manufactured at home in any simulation center. Discussion: We present an unprecedented model of low cost and high fidelity for neuroendoscopic simulation. It consists of a physical synthetic brain that allows the replication of intraventricular navigation exercises with endoscopic maneuvers, a biopsy of solid or cystic lesions, the section of the ventricular septum, ventricular lavage and unblocking of intraventricular catheters. We consider this simulator as a basic tool of wide assistance for professionals who decide to start their learning curve in intraventricular neuroendoscopy. We're planning its validation in a future neurosurgery congress.

Abordaje pterional transilviano con apoyo neuroendoscópico en colesteatoma cerebral, a propósito de un caso interesante / Transsilvian pterional approach with neuroendoscopic support in cholesteatoma of the brain. A propos of an interesting case

RESUMEN Los quistes epidermoides constituyen el 1 % de los tumores intracraneales y el 7 % de los del ángulo pontocerebeloso. Los colesteatomas son lesiones benignas que se originan de restos de tejidos epitelial ectodérmicos que quedan en el sistema nervioso central, al cerrarse el tubo neural entre la tercera y quinta semana de gestación. Se trata de un paciente remitido de la Consulta de Neurooftalmología con crisis de cefalea y toma de los pares craneales III, IV, V, rama oftálmica desde hace 2 semanas. Se le realizaron estudios imagenológicos donde se constató un tumor hipodenso en región silviana frontotemporal izquierdo. Se interpretó como un quiste arcnoideo. Se le aplicó un bordaje pterional transilviano con apoyo neuroendoscópico y para sorpresa del equipo quirúrgico se abordó un tumor perlado solido identificado macroscópicamente como un colesteatoma silviano. Se resecó la totalidad del tumor cerebral.

ABSTRACT Epidermal inclusion cysts constitute 1% of the intracranial tumors and 7% of the cerebellopontine angle ones.Cholesteatoma are benign lesions originated from the remains of ectodermic epithelial tissues remaining in the central nervous system when the neural tube closes between the third and fifth week of pregnancy. The case deals with a patient remitted from the Neurophthalmologic Consultation with migraine crisis and lesion on the III, IV, V cranial nerves, ophthalmologic branch, for two weeks. Image studies were carried out, showing a hypo dense tumor in the left silvian frontotemporal region. It was taken as an arachnoid cyst. A pterional trans-silvian approach with neuroendoscopic support was applied, and the surgical team was surprised when they found a solid pearly tumor that was macroscopically identified as a silvian cholesteatoma. The cerebral tumor was totally resected.

Clinical application of percutaneous transforaminal endoscope-assisted lumbar interbody fusion / 中国骨伤

OBJECTIVE@#To conclude of the technical notes of percutaneous transforaminal endoscope-assisted lumbar interbody fusion (PT-Endo-LIF), and to investigate its safety and efficacy for treatment of degenerative lumbar disease.@*METHODS@#Twenty-four patients were treated by PT-Endo-LIF combined with posterior percutaneous pedicle screws fixation from October 2017 to April 2018. There were 16 males and 8 females, ranging in age from 39 to 72 years old, with a mean of (59.6±9.5) years old. There were 15 cases diagnosed with lumbar intervertebral disc herniation combined with degenerative disc, the other 9 cases were diagnosed as low level lumbar spondylolistheses w/o segmental instability. Single segmental fusion was performed for 22 cases(one for L₂,₃, 3 for L₃,₄ and 18 for L₄,₅) and 2 segmental fusion was performed for the other 2 cases (both for L₃,₄ and L₄,₅). PT-Endo-LIF was performed under local anesthesia with conscious sedation, followed by decompression through endoscopic technics. After that, end-plate preparation and autogenous bone and expandable cage implantation were performed. Finally, percutaneous screws and rod instrumentation were used. The visual analogue scale (VAS) and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) were used to evaluate the clinical efficacy. The operation time, intraoperative bleeding volume, intraoperative and postoperative complications were recorded. All patients underwent X-ray, CT plain scan, three-dimensional reconstruction and MRI examination to evaluate the stability of the implants and fusion rate before 3 days and 1, 3, 6, 12 and 18 months after operation.@*RESULTS@#All patients were followed up, and the duration ranged from 12 to 18 months. The operation time of single-segment fusion was (192.3±22.7) min, and that of double-segment fusion was (272.5±24.7) min. The estimated intraoperative bleeding volume was less than 50 ml per segment, and no blood transfusion was performed in all patients. The VAS improved from preoperative 7.4±1.1 to postoperative 2.3±0.8 (=-19.65, <0.000 5). The ODI improved from preoperative (41.2±3.3)% to the final follow-up (12.3±2.5)%(=-35.76, <0.000 5). Postoperative complications occurred in 4 cases, and contralateral radicular symptoms occurred in 2 cases. After contralateral foraminoscopic decompression, the symptoms were completely alleviated. One case had neurological symptoms related to percutaneous screw placement, and the symptoms were alleviated after removal of the lateral screw rod internal fixation. The other cases had surgical incision infection and improved after debridement and suture. At the latest follow-up, no displacement or loosening of the fusion cage and screw rod system occurred in all patients, and 14 cases showed signs of fusion.@*CONCLUSIONS@#PT-Endo-LIF is a minimal invasive, safe and efficient surgical procedure for treatment of degenerative lumbar disease. Nevertheless, the long-term results still need to be confirmed by a multi-center and lagre sample follow-up study.

Evolution of transmaxillary approach to tumors in pterygopalatine fossa and infratemporal fossa: anatomic simulation and clinical practice / 中华医学杂志(英文版)

BACKGROUND@#The endoscopic transnasal approach has been proven to have advantages on the removal of the tumors in pterygopalatine fossa (PPF) and infratemporal fossa (ITF). Herein, this study aimed to describe a modified approach for resection of the tumors in these areas, both in cadaveric specimen and clinical patients.@*METHODS@#The 20 adult cadaveric specimens and five patients with tumors in PPF and ITF were enrolled in this study. For the cadaveric specimens, ten were simulated anterior transmaxillary approach and ten were performed modified endoscopic transnasal transmaxillary approach. The exposure areas were compared between two groups and main anatomic structure were measured. Surgery was operated in the five patients with tumors of PPF and ITF to verify the experience from the anatomy. Perioperative management, intraoperative findings and postoperative complications were recorded and analyzed.@*RESULTS@#The modified endoscopic transnasal transmaxillary approach provided as enough surgical exposure and high operability to the PPF and ITF as the anterior transmaxillary approach did. The diameter of maxillary artery in the PPF was 3.77 ± 0.78 mm (range: 2.06-4.82 mm), the diameter of middle meningeal artery in the ITF was 2.79 ± 0.61 mm (range: 1.54-3.78 mm). Four patients who suffered schwannoma got total removal and one of adenocystic carcinoma got subtotal removal. The main complications were facial numbness and pericoronitis of the wisdom tooth. No permanent complication was found.@*CONCLUSIONS@#With the widespread use of neuroendoscopy, the modified endoscopic transnasal transmaxillary approach is feasible and effective for the resection of tumors located in PPF and ITF, which has significant advantages on less trauma and complications to the patients.

A Meta-analysis for Evaluating Efficacy of Neuroendoscopic Surgery versus Craniotomy for Supratentorial Hypertensive Intracerebral Hemorrhage

OBJECTIVE: Hypertensive intracerebral hemorrhage is a potentially life-threatening neurological deficit with the highest morbidity and mortality. In recent years, neuroendoscopy has been used to treat intracerebral hemorrhages (ICHs). However, the choice of neuroendoscopic surgery or craniotomy for patients with ICHs is controversial. The objective of this meta-analysis was to assess the efficacy of neuroendoscopic surgery compared to craniotomy in patients with supratentorial hypertensive ICH.MATERIALS AND METHODS: A systematic electronic search was performed using online electronic databases such as Pubmed, Embase, and Cochrane library updated on December 2017. The meta-analysis was performed by only including studies designed as randomized controlled trials.RESULTS: Three randomized controlled trials met our inclusion criteria. Pooled analysis of death showed that neuroendoscopic surgery decreased the rate of death compared to craniotomy (RR=0.58, 95% CI: 0.26–1.29; P=0.18). Pooled results of complications showed that neuroendoscopic surgery tended to have fewer complications than craniotomy had (RR=0.37, 95% CI: 0.28–0.49; P < 0.0001).CONCLUSION: Although the presenting analyses suggest that neuroendoscopic surgery should have fewer complications than craniotomy dose, it had no superior advantage in morbidity rate definitely. Therefore, it may be necessary for the neurosurgeons to select best optimal patients for individual treatment.

Clipado microquirúrgico de aneurisma asistido por endoscopia / Microsurgical clipping of aneurysm assisted by endoscopy

Introducción: Las complicaciones postoperatorias secundarias al compromiso inadvertido de una arteria normal durante el clipado de aneurismas son situaciones que pueden resultar catastróficas tanto para el paciente como para el neurocirujano tratante. El terreno de la neurocirugía vascular continúa siendo un desafío para la neuroendoscopia, sin embargo, al momento de realizar el control del clipado puede llegar a ser un elemento sumamente útil para evitar dichas complicaciones. Objetivos: El Objetivo del Trabajo es la presentación de un clipado de aneurisma coroideo anterior asistido mediante endoscopia. Materiales y métodos: Paciente femenina de 23 años que presenta hemorragia subaracnoidea (Fisher 2 y Hunt-Hess 2) secundaria a rotura de aneurisma comunicante anterior (ACA). En angiografía digital cerebral se evidencia a su vez aneurisma coroideo anterior derecho (ACoA). Mediante abordaje pterional derecho se realiza clipado microquirúrgico de ambos aneurismas. Para realizar revisión del clip en ACoA se utiliza endoscopio rígido de base de cráneo (0° y 45°). Se evidencia compromiso de arteria coroidea anterior por lo cual se realiza recolocación del mismo mediante guía endoscópica. Resultados: Se realizó clipado microquirúrgico asistido por endoscopia de ACA y ACoA. La paciente curso postoperatorio con vasoespasmo prolongado y tercer par derecho incompleto (ptosis y midriasis). Actualmente persiste solo la midriasis, resto del examen neurológico sin particularidades. Conclusión: El uso del endoscopio para control y asistencia durante el clipado microquirúrgico es una herramienta sumamente útil que permite realizar una revisión cercana y adecuada de la posición del clip.

Background: Surgical complications secondary to undetected clipping of a main or perforator artery next to an aneurysm can lead to a catastrophic event for both the patient and vascular neurosurgeon. Neuro-endoscopy is difficult during vascular neurosurgery; however, for surgeons desiring a multi-modality check of vessels to ensure the patency of important arteries, endoscopy could be a very useful tool. Objective: The aim of the present report is to describe our results with endoscopy-assisted anterior choroidal aneurysm clipping in a single patient. Results: A 23-year-old female presented with a subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH, Fisher 2, Hunt-Hess 2) secondary to a ruptured anterior communicating aneurysm (ACA). Digital angiography revealed an unruptured right anterior choroidal aneurysm (AChA). Surgical clipping via a right pterional approach was accomplished for both aneurysms. Clip position in the AChA was evaluated with a rigid skull-base endoscope (0° and 45°). It revealed accidental compromise of the AChA, so the clip was replaced under endoscopic guidance. Post-operatively, the patient experienced late vasospasm and a partial right third nerve palsy, manifested as ptosis and mydriasis. Currently, only the right mydriasis persists. Conclusions: In one patient with a SAH caused by a ruptured anterior communicating aneurysm, successful endoscopic-assisted surgical clipping of both the ruptured aneurism and an unruptured right anterior choroidal aneurysm was achieved.

Cervical endoscopic disc surgery: precise approach for minimally invasive decompression / Cirurgia do disco endoscópico cervical: abordagem precisa para descompressão minimamente invasiva / Cirugía de disco cervical endoscópica: enfoque preciso para la descompresión mínimamente invasiva

ABSTRACT Objective: Technological advances in recent decades have led to a complexity of choice of the most effective method for treating cervical disc herniations. The idea of removing disc herniations using endoscope techniques is not new, and is successfully used in the treatment of lumbar disc herniations. But in the case of the cervical spine, full endoscopic procedures only started to be performed at the beginning of 2014, by Yang JS and coauthors, and their effectiveness was and still is a matter of controversy. The proposed method of endoscopic portal disc herniation removal was used for the past two years, and its results were compared with the anterior microsurgical approach using a single-level cage implantation. Methods: Twenty-five patients were included in this study, with a comparator group of 25 patients operated by ordinary anterior cervical discectomy with a single-disc fusion. All patients were operated on by the same group of surgeons. Results: During the analysis of VAS data, it was confirmed that the degree of local and radicular pain in the two groups was not significantly different (p > 0.05). According to the Neck Disability Index (NDI) there was a significant difference between the two groups in relation to the endoscopic patient group. Data using the Odom criteria showed significantly better results for the endoscopic group. During the research it was observed that the patients in the endoscopically operated group were discharged from hospital more quickly, after 3 [2; 5] days compared to 5 [4; 6] days in the microsurgery group. Conclusion: The method performed is a safe and reliable alternative to convenient surgical techniques. Level of Evidenced II; Therapeutic study, investigating the results of treatment.

RESUMO Objetivo: Os avanços tecnológicos das últimas décadas determinaram a complexidade da escolha do método mais eficaz para o tratamento das hérnias discais cervicais. A idéia de remover hérnias de disco usando técnicas de endoscópios não é nova e é utilizada com sucesso no tratamento de hérnias discais lombares. Mas, no caso da coluna cervical, apenas procedimentos totalmente endoscópicos são realizados a partir de 2014 por Yang JS com coautores e sua eficácia foi e ainda é um assunto questionável. O método proposto de remoção da hérnia discal portal endoscópica foi utilizado durante os últimos 2 anos e seus resultados foram comparados com a abordagem microcirúrgica anterior utilizando um implante em gaiola de nível único. Método: 25 pacientes foram incluídos neste estudo, com um grupo comparativo de 25 pacientes operados por discectomia cervical anterior comum com uma fusão de disco único. Todos os pacientes foram operados com o mesmo grupo de cirurgiões. Resultados: Durante a análise dos dados da EAV confirmou-se que o grau de dor local e radicular nos dois grupos não foi significativamente diferente (p> 0,05). De acordo com o Neck Disability Index (NDI), houve uma diferença significativa entre dois grupos em relação ao grupo de pacientes endoscópicos. Dados usando critérios de Odom mostraram resultados significativamente melhores no grupo endoscópico. Durante a pesquisa, percebeu-se que os pacientes do grupo operado endoscopicamente tiveram alta mais rápida do hospital em 3 [2; 5] comparado com 5 [4; 6] dias no grupo microcirúrgico. Conclusão: O método realizado é uma alternativa segura e confiável para técnicas cirúrgicas convenientes. Nível de Evidência II; Estudos terapêuticos - Investigação dos resultados do tratamento.

RESUMEN Objetivo: Los avances tecnológicos durante las últimas décadas han llevado a una elección compleja sobre el método más efectivo para el tratamiento de hernias de disco cervical. La idea de eliminar las hernias discales usando técnicas endoscópicas no es nueva y se utiliza con éxito en el tratamiento de las hernias de disco lumbar. Pero en el caso de la columna cervical, procedimientos totalmente endoscópicos solamente empezaran a ser realizados en el inicio de 2014, por Yang JS y coautores, y su efectividad era y sigue siendo un tema cuestionable. El método propuesto de remoción de la hernia discal endoscópica se utilizó durante los últimos 2 años y sus resultados se compararon con el enfoque microquirúrgico anterior utilizando una implantación de caja en un solo nivel. Métodos: Se incluyeron 25 pacientes en este estudio con un grupo comparativo de 25 pacientes operados por discectomía cervical anterior común con una fusión de disco único. Todos los pacientes fueron operados con el mismo grupo de cirujanos. Resultados: Durante el análisis de los datos de EVA, se confirmó que el grado de dolor local y radicular en los dos grupos no fue significativamente diferente (p> 0,05). De acuerdo con el Indice de Discapacidad Cervical (NDI), hubo una diferencia significativa entre los dos grupos con respecto al grupo de pacientes endoscópicos. Los datos que utilizan los criterios de Odom mostraron resultados significativamente mejores en el grupo endoscópico. Durante la investigación, se observó que los pacientes del grupo que fuera operado endoscópicamente fueron dados de alta más rápidamente del hospital, en 3 [2; 5] días comparado con 5 [4; 6] días en el grupo microquirúrgico. Conclusión: El método realizado es una alternativa segura y confiable a las técnicas quirúrgicas convenientes. Niveles de Evidencia II; Estudios terapéuticos - Investigación de los resultados del tratamiento.

Advantages and weaknesses of percutaneous endoscopic lumbar discectomy: algorithm selection / Vantagens e fraquezas da discectomia lombar endoscópica percutânea: seleções de algoritmo / Ventajas y debilidades de la discectomía lumbar endoscópica percutánea: selección de algoritmo

ABSTRACT Objective: Degenerative diseases of the spine are the most common disorder seen in the practice of the neurosurgeon. According to many surgeons, microdiscectomy is the "gold standard" of surgical treatment. Analyzing the current literature, it is seen that the use of endoscopic techniques in spinal surgery is increasing. However, due to the lack of detailed information on the advantages and disadvantages of these methods, there is a need for continuing research in this area. Work to clarify the features of these methods, their specificity and algorithmization will increase the effectiveness of surgical treatment. Methods: This study included patients with herniated lumbar intervertebral discs, the presence of pain in the leg, and failed of conservative therapy. In the period 2014 to 2017, 172 endoscopic lumbar discectomies were performed, using microendoscopic discectomy and percutaneous endoscopic lumbar discectomy. The effectiveness of each technique was evaluated through comparative analysis. Results: In both groups, the methods used obtained high efficacy rates. Comparative analysis showed the advantages of the percutaneous technique in terms of shortening the return to normal activity time, hospitalization time, and disability, and reducing back pain in the early postoperative period. On the other hand, the microendoscopic discectomy enabled greater radicality to be achieved in cases with herniated disc ossification and complex anatomy of the vertebral segment. Conclusions: Analysis of the data obtained led to the formulation of an algorithm for selecting the optimum endoscopic method for achieving positive results of surgical treatment. Level of Evidence II; Therapeutic studies, investigating the results of treatment.

RESUMO Objetivo: As doenças degenerativas da coluna vertebral estão em primeiro lugar, de acordo com a frequência de ocorrência na prática de um neurocirurgião. De acordo com muitos cirurgiões, a microdiscectomia é o "padrão-ouro" do tratamento cirúrgico. Ao analisar as publicações atuais, há uma tendência em aumentar o uso de técnicas endoscópicas na cirurgia da coluna vertebral. A falta de informações detalhadas sobre as vantagens e desvantagens desses métodos leva à necessidade de continuar a pesquisa nessa direção. Realizar o trabalho detalhando as características desses métodos, sua especificidade e algoritmo aumentará a eficácia do tratamento cirúrgico. Métodos: O estudo incluiu pacientes com discos intervertebrais lombares com hérnia, presença de dor na perna e a não eficácia da terapia conservadora. No período de 2014 a 2017, 172 discectomias lombares endoscópicas foram realizadas. O estudo utilizou discectomia microendoscópica e discectomia lombar endoscópica percutânea. Sua eficácia e análise comparativa foram avaliadas. Resultados: Em ambos os grupos, foram obtidas altas taxas de eficácia dos métodos utilizados. A análise comparativa mostrou as vantagens dos métodos percutâneos sob a forma de encurtamento dos períodos de ativação, hospitalização, incapacidade e redução da dor nas costas no pós-operatório precoce. A discectomia microendoscópica permite alcançar maior radicalidade em casos de ossificação do disco herniado e anatomia complexa do segmento vertebral. Conclusões: A análise dos dados obtidos possibilitou a formulação de um algoritmo para seleção do método endoscópico, que permite alcançar resultados positivos no tratamento cirúrgico. Nível de Evidência II; Estudos terapêuticos, investigando os resultados do tratamento.

RESUMEN Objetivo: Las enfermedades degenerativas de la columna vertebral son el trastorno más común visto en la práctica de un neurocirujano. Según muchos cirujanos, la microdiscectomia es el "estándar de oro" del tratamiento quirúrgico. Al analizar publicaciones actuales, se puede notar que el uso de técnicas endoscópicas en la cirugía espinal está aumentando. Sin embargo, la falta de información detallada sobre las ventajas y desventajas de estos métodos lleva a la necesidad de continuar investigando en esta dirección. Llevar a cabo un trabajo para detallar las características de estos métodos, su especificidad y algoritmización aumentará la efectividad del tratamiento quirúrgico. Métodos: Este estudio incluyó a pacientes con discos intervertebrales lumbares herniados, la presencia de dolor en la pierna y falla de la terapia conservadora. En el período de 2014 a 2017, se realizaron 172 discectomías lumbares endoscópicas, utilizando discectomía microendoscópica y discectomía lumbar endoscópica percutánea. La efectividad de cada técnica fue evaluada a través de análisis comparativo. Resultados: En ambos grupos, se obtuvieron altas tasas de eficacia de los métodos utilizados. El análisis comparativo mostró las ventajas del método percutáneo cuanto al acortamiento de los períodos para retorno a las actividades, tiempo de hospitalización y discapacidad y reducción del dolor de espalda en el período postoperatorio temprano. Por otro lado, la discectomía microendoscópica permite lograr una mayor radicalidad en casos con osificación de disco herniado y anatomía compleja del segmento vertebral. Conclusiones: El análisis de los datos obtenidos permitió formular un algoritmo para seleccionar el mejor método endoscópico para obtener resultados positivos del tratamiento quirúrgico. Nivel de Evidencia II; Estudios terapéuticos que investigan los resultados del tratamiento.