Learning Curve Analysis and Adverse Events After Implementation of Neurosurgical Laser Ablation Treatment: A Population-Based Single-Institution Consecutive Series.

OBJECTIVE AND METHODS: We conducted a retrospective review of the first 30 patients treated with stereotactic laser ablation (SLA) at our institution since the introduction of the technique in September 2019. We aimed to analyze our initial results and potential learning curve by investigating precision and lesion coverage and assessing the frequency and nature of adverse events according to the Landriel-Ibanez classification for neurosurgical complications. RESULTS: Indications were de novo gliomas (23%), recurrent gliomas (57%), and epileptogenic foci (20%). There was a trend toward improvement of lesion coverage and target deviation, and a statistically significant improvement in entry point deviation, over time. Four patients (13.3%) experienced a new neurological deficit, where three patients had transient and one patient had permanent deficits, respectively. Our results show a learning curve on precision measures over the first 30 cases. Based on our results the technique can safely be implemented at centers with experience in stereotaxy.

Influence of Head Orientation in Linear Measurement for Implant Planning in Cone Beam Computed Tomography.

AIM: Use of dental implants in edentulous patients has become a common treatment modality. Treatment of such implants requires radiographic evaluation, and in most cases several different imaging techniques are necessary in order to evaluate the height, width and the structure of bone at implant site. The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of head orientation in linear measurement for implant planning in cone beam computed tomography (CBCT). MATERIALS AND METHODS: In the present in vitro study, 11 human dry mandibles were used. The width and height of bone at the central, canine and molar teeth areas were measured on the left and right sides by using digital calipers (as gold standard) and on CBCT images with Reaxis option and no Reaxis. Data were analyzed with Statistical package for the social sciences (SPSS) 18, using pair t-test, Tukey test and intraclass correlation (ICC). RESULTS: Data were collected by evaluation of 11 skulls and 66 samples on the whole. There were no significant differences in bone width in any area in both Reaxis and no Reaxis option (p > 0.05). There were significant differences in bone height in the central (p = 0.005) and molar teeth areas (p = 0.010). The results did not show any significant differences between the observers (p = 0.329). CONCLUSION: Using the Reaxis option does not affect the measurement of bone width, while use of this option can make a significant difference for height measurements.