Anterolateral decompression for traumatic spinal cord compression

Nine patients with traumatic fractures of dorsolumbar spine leading to pain and neurological deficit are presented. All had radiological evidence of spinal cord or quada equina compression, with either monoparesis, or sphincter dysfunction alone. All patients underwent anterolateral decompression through a transpleural or retroperitoneal approach. Seven patients had bone grafting and spinal stabilization with Webb-Morley system. Two patients had decompression only. The results were favourable. This approach is safe and effective and allows early mobilization and functional recovery

Posterior ethmoid sinsus mucocele presenting with unilateral blindness

A case of mucocele of posterior ethmoid sinus presneting with unilateral painful blindness without proptosis is presented. CT of the orbits and paranasal sinuses demonstrated the lesion well and showed its relationship to the optic foramen. A combined cranial excision and a transnasal drainage dealt with the problem effectively

Microvascular decompression for trigeminal neuralgia

Eleven patients with intractable trigeminal neuralgia were treated by posterior fossa microvascular decompression. Complete pain relief was achieved in 7 patients [63.3%]. Partial relief of symptoms was noted in 3 patients [27%]. There was no operative mortality. Two patients developed transient lower cranial nerve palsies whereas one patient developed a CSF leak, requiring treatment by lumbar drain. Compared to ablative procedures, microvascular decompression is an effective and safe method of treatment for trigeminal neuralgia