Minimizing pneumocephalus during deep brain stimulation surgery.

BACKGROUND: Deep brain stimulation (DBS) surgery is an effective treatment for movement disorders. Introduction of intracranial air following dura opening in DBS surgery can result in targeting inaccuracy and suboptimal outcomes. We develop and evaluate a simple method to minimize pneumocephalus during DBS surgery. METHODS: A retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data was performed on patients undergoing DBS surgery at our institution from 2014 to 2022. A total of 172 leads placed in 89 patients undergoing awake or asleep DBS surgery were analyzed. Pneumocephalus volume was compared between leads placed with PMT and leads placed with standard dural opening. (112 PMT vs. 60 OPEN). Immediate post-operative high-resolution CT scans were obtained for all leads placed, from which pneumocephalus volume was determined through a semi-automated protocol with ITK-SNAP software. Awake surgery was conducted with the head positioned at 15-30°, asleep surgery was conducted at 0°. RESULTS: PMT reduced pneumocephalus from 11.2 cm3±9.2 to 0.8 cm3±1.8 (P<0.0001) in the first hemisphere and from 7.6 cm3 ± 8.4 to 0.43 cm3 ± 0.9 (P<0.0001) in the second hemisphere. No differences in adverse events were noted between PMT and control cases. Lower rates of post-operative headache were observed in PMT group. CONCLUSION: We present and validate a simple yet efficacious technique to reduce pneumocephalus during DBS surgery.

Surgical Strategies in the Treatment of Giant Pituitary Adenomas.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The management of giant pituitary adenomas (GPAs) is challenging due to associated endocrinopathies and the close proximity of these tumors to critical structures, such as the optic nerves, structures of the cavernous sinus, and hypothalamus. The objective of this review article was to summarize the current management strategies for giant pituitary adenomas, including the role of open and endoscopic surgical approaches and the role of medical and radiation therapy in conjunction with surgery. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective review of GPAs operated at our institute between January 2010 and March 2023. Surgical approaches, extent of resection, and associated complications were documented. Furthermore, we conducted a thorough literature review to identify relevant studies published in the past decade, which were incorporated along with insights gained from our institutional case series of GPAs to analyze and integrate both the existing knowledge base and our institution's firsthand experience in the management of GPAs. RESULTS: A total of 46 giant pituitary adenomas (GPAs) were operated on, using various surgical approaches. Transsphenoidal approach was used in 25 cases and a staged approach using transsphenoidal and pterional was used in 15 cases. Other approaches included transcortical-transventricular, transcallosal, pterional/orbitozygomatic, and subfrontal approaches. Complications and technical nuances were reported. CONCLUSION: The management of giant pituitary adenomas remains complex, often involving several modalities-open or endoscopic resection, radiosurgery, and medical management of both the tumor and associated endocrinopathies. Surgical resections are often challenging procedures that require careful consideration of several factors, including patient characteristics, tumor location, and size, and the experience and skill of the surgical team.

The Evolving Role of Postgraduate Year 7 in Neurological Surgery Residency.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: In 2013, all neurosurgery programs were mandated to adopt a 7-year structure. We sought to characterize how programs use the seventh year of training (postgraduate year 7 [PGY7]). METHODS: We surveyed all accredited neurosurgery programs in the United States regarding the PGY7 residents' primary role and the availability of enfolded fellowships. We compiled responses from different individuals in each program: chair, program director, program coordinator, and current chiefs. RESULTS: Of 120 accredited neurological surgery residency programs within the United States, 91 (76%) submitted responses. At these programs, the primary roles of the PGY7 were chief of service (COS, 71%), enfolded fellowships (EFF, 18%), transition to practice (10%), and elective time (1%). Most residencies have been 7-year programs for >10 years (52, 57%). Sixty-seven programs stated that they offer some form of EFF (73.6%). The most common EFFs were endovascular (57, 62.6%), spine (49, 53.9%), critical care (41, 45.1%), and functional (37, 40.7%). These were also the most common specialties listed as Committee on Advanced Subspecialty Training accredited by survey respondents. Spine and endovascular EFFs were most likely to be restricted to PGY7 (24.2% and 23.1%, respectively), followed by neuro-oncology (12, 13.2%). The most common EFFs reported as Committee on Advanced Subspecialty Training accredited but not restricted to PGY7 were endovascular (24, 26.4%) and critical care (23, 25.3%). CONCLUSION: Most accredited neurological surgery training programs use the COS as the primary PGY7 role. Programs younger in their PGY7 structure seem to maintain the traditional COS role. Those more established seem to be experimenting with various roles the PGY7 year can fill, including enfolded fellowships and transition-to-practice years, predominantly. Most programs offer some form of enfolded fellowship. This serves as a basis for characterization of how neurological surgery training may develop in years to come.

Jugular Foramen Cerebrospinal Fluid Leak Repaired Via the Infralaybryinthine Approach With Adjunct Use of Intrathecal Fluorescein and Stereotactic Navigation.

OBJECTIVE: This report describes a case of a spontaneous cerebrospinal fluid leak at the jugular foramen that was surgically repaired via the infralabyrinthine approach with adjunct use of intrathecal fluorescein and stereotactic navigation. PATIENTS: A 39-year-old woman presenting with clear otorrhea confirmed to be cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) emanating from a defect in the jugular foramen. INTERVENTION: Surgical repair of the skull base defect using an infralabyrinthine approach to the jugular foramen. During surgery, intrathecal fluorescein and stereotactic navigation were used to localize the defect and confirm a successful repair. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE: Recurrence of a CSF leak. RESULTS: The defect was successfully repaired using the techniques described, resulting in cessation of the patient's CSF leak. There was no recurrence of the CSF leak up to a 4-month postoperative outpatient follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: Diagnosis and repair of spontaneous otogenic CSF leaks in an uncommon location like the jugular foramen are challenging. This report demonstrates the successful use of the infralabyrinthine approach for control of a CSF from the jugular foramen. In addition, use of techniques, such as intrathecal fluorescein and stereotactic navigation that are not routinely used in otology and neurotology allowed for safe, effective repair of the leak in this case.

Transotic Approach for Resection of Expansile Endolymphatic Sac Tumor.

Objectives and Design Endolymphatic sac tumors (ELSTs) are rare and indolent tumors that arise from the endolymphatic sac in the posterior petrous ridge. We present a video case report illustrating the use of a transotic approach for resection of an expansile ELST. Setting and Participants A 25-year-old male presented with a multiyear history of worsening left-sided hearing loss, vertigo, and headaches. Otoscopy revealed a red mass behind an intact tympanic membrane. Computed tomography revealed a large, locally aggressive mass centered in the posterior petrous temporal bone. Magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated a heterogeneously enhancing 2.4 × 3.1 × 2.4 cm tumor that exerted mass effect on the cerebellar surface with extension into the jugular foramen, tympanic cavity, internal auditory canal, and cistern of the cerebellopontine angle. A transotic approach was planned to obtain the necessary generous exposure. Main Outcome Measures and Results Preoperative angiography revealed arterial supply via the ascending pharyngeal and tumor embolization with Onyx was performed. Surgical resection began with a blind-sac closure created from the external auditory canal. The tympanic membrane and malleus were removed and the incustapedial joint was transected. A subtotal petrosectomy was performed for partial tumor exposure. The facial canal and sigmoid sinus were carefully skeletonized and a labrynthectomy was performed. The tumor was resected using a combination of bipolar cautery and blunt and sharp dissection. For closure, an abdominal fat graft was secured with overlying resorbable mesh followed by sequential closure of all skin layers. Histopathologic analysis revealed an ELST. Conclusion The transotic approach offers wide exposure and facilitates large, complex tumor removal. The link to the video can be found at https://youtu.be/YvhyN8iVi44 .

Are ape gestures like words? Outstanding issues in detecting similarities and differences between human language and ape gesture.

Opinion piece: ape gestures are made intentionally, inviting parallels with human language; but how similar are their gestures to words? Here we ask this in three ways, considering: flexibility and ambiguity, first- and second-order intentionality, and usage in interactive exchanges. Many gestures are used to achieve several, often very distinct, goals. Such apparent ambiguity in meaning is potentially disruptive for communication, but-as with human language-situational and interpersonal context may largely resolve the intended meaning. Our evidence for first-order intentional use of gesture is abundant, but how might we establish a case for the second-order intentional use critical to language? Finally, words are rarely used in tidy signal-response sequences but are exchanged in back-and-forth interaction. Do gestures share this property? In this paper, we examine these questions and set out ways in which they can be resolved, incorporating data from wild chimpanzees. This article is part of the theme issue 'Cognition, communication and social bonds in primates'.

The Scope and Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Neuroemergent Patient Transfers, Clinical Care and Patient Outcomes.

Introduction: The SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) pandemic continues to substantially alter previously established clinical practice patterns and has transformed patient care in American healthcare. However, studies to evaluate the impact of COVID-19 on neuroemergent patient care and associated clinical outcomes are limited. Herein, we describe the impact of COVID-19 on the Neuroemergency Transfer Program (NTP) - a novel, urban, high volume interhospital patient transfer program. Objective: To evaluate and describe the clinical impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the NTP. Study Design: A single-center retrospective study of prospectively collected consecutive neuroemergent patient transfer data between 2018-2021 was analyzed. Adult patients were divided based upon transfer date into a Pre-COVID (PCOV) or COVID cohort. Patient demographics, transfer characteristics and clinical data and outcomes were analyzed. Results: 3,096 patients were included for analysis. Mean age at transfer in the PCOV and COVID cohorts were 62.4 ± 0.36 and 61.1 ± 0.6 years. A significant decrease in mean transfers per month was observed between cohorts (PCOV = 97.8 vs. COV = 68.2 transfers/month, p < 0.01). Total transfer time in the PCOV cohort was 155.1 ± 3.4 min which increased to 169.3 ± 12.8 min in the COVID cohort (p = 0.13). Overall mean transfer distance was significantly longer in the PCOV cohort at 22.0 ± 0.4 miles vs. 20.3 ± 0.67 miles in the COV cohort (p = 0.03). The relative frequency of transfer diagnoses was unchanged between cohorts. A significant increase in mean inpatient length of stay was noted, 7.9 ± 0.15 days to 9.6 ± 0.33 days in the PCOV vs. COVID cohorts (p < 0.01). Ultimately, no difference in the frequency of good vs. poor clinical outcome were noted between the PCOV (79.8% and 19.4%) vs. COV (78.8% and 20.4%) cohorts. Conclusion: The impact of COVID-19 on current healthcare dynamics are far reaching. Here, we show a significant decrease in interhospital patient transfers and increased length of stay between a Pre-COVID and COVID cohort. Further work to better elucidate the specific interplay of clinical contributors to account for these changes is indicated.

Intraoperative Neuromonitoring.

Intraoperative neuromonitoring encompasses a variety of different modalities in which different neuropathways are monitored either continuously or at defined time points throughout a neurosurgical procedure. Surgical morbidity can be mitigated with careful patient selection and thoughtful implementation of the appropriate neuromonitoring modalities through the identification of eloquent areas or early detection of iatrogenic pathway disruption. Modalities covered in this article include somatosensory and motor evoked potentials, electromyography, electroencephalography, brainstem auditory evoked responses, and direct cortical stimulation.

Neurosurgery residency and fellowship education in the United States: 2 decades of system development by the One Neurosurgery Summit organizations.

The purpose of this report is to chronicle a 2-decade period of educational innovation and improvement, as well as governance reform, across the specialty of neurological surgery. Neurological surgery educational and professional governance systems have evolved substantially over the past 2 decades with the goal of improving training outcomes, patient safety, and the quality of US neurosurgical care. Innovations during this period have included the following: creating a consensus national curriculum; standardizing the length and structure of neurosurgical training; introducing educational outcomes milestones and required case minimums; establishing national skills, safety, and professionalism courses; systematically accrediting subspecialty fellowships; expanding professional development for educators; promoting training in research; and coordinating policy and strategy through the cooperation of national stakeholder organizations. A series of education summits held between 2007 and 2009 restructured some aspects of neurosurgical residency training. Since 2010, ongoing meetings of the One Neurosurgery Summit have provided strategic coordination for specialty definition, neurosurgical education, public policy, and governance. The Summit now includes leadership representatives from the Society of Neurological Surgeons, the American Association of Neurological Surgeons, the Congress of Neurological Surgeons, the American Board of Neurological Surgery, the Review Committee for Neurological Surgery of the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education, the American Academy of Neurological Surgery, and the AANS/CNS Joint Washington Committee. Together, these organizations have increased the effectiveness and efficiency of the specialty of neurosurgery in advancing educational best practices, aligning policymaking, and coordinating strategic planning in order to meet the highest standards of professionalism and promote public health.

The Materials Utilized in Cranial Reconstruction: Past, Current, and Future.

BACKGROUND: Cranioplasty (CP) is associated with high complication rates compared to other common neurosurgical procedures. Several graft materials are used for CP, which may contribute to the high complication rates, but data in the literature regarding the influence of graft material on post-CP outcomes are inconsistent making it difficult to determine if, when, and to what extent the graft material impacts the rate of perioperative complications. There is an increased demand to identify and develop superior graft materials. OBJECTIVE: To review and compare the indications, risks, complications, and patient results associated with the use of different graft materials for cranial reconstructions. DESIGN: A search through EBSCOhost was conducted using the keywords "craniectomy" or "decompressive craniectomy," "cranioplasty," and "materials." The search was limited to literature published in the English language from 2005 until the present. Ultimately, 69 articles were included in this review. Due to the heterogeneity of the study populations, results, statistical analyses, and collecting methods, no statistical analyses could be performed. CONCLUSIONS: Several graft materials have been adapted for use in cranial reconstructions with inconsistent results making it unclear if or when one material may be indicated over others. Advances in computer-aided design have led to improved patient-specific implants, but the ideal graft material is still being sought after in ongoing research efforts. Reviewing materials currently available, as well as those in clinical trials, is important to identify the limitations associated with different implants and to guide future research.

HISTORIQUE: Par rapport aux autres interventions neurochirurgicales fréquentes, la cranioplastie est associée à un taux de complications élevé. Divers matériaux de greffe sont utilisés, ce qui peut contribuer au fort taux de complications, mais les données tirées des publications sur l'effet qu'ont les matériaux de greffe sur les résultats cliniques après une cranioplastie sont contradictoires. C'est pourquoi il est difficile de déterminer si ces matériaux contribuent aux complications périopératoires, de même que le moment et la mesure selon laquelle ils le font. La demande est croissante pour trouver et créer des matériaux de greffe de qualité supérieure. OBJECTIF: Analyser et comparer les indications, les risques, les complications et les résultats cliniques des patients en fonction des divers matériaux de greffe utilisés pour les reconstructions crâniennes. MÉTHODOLOGIE: Les chercheurs ont effectué une recherche dans EBSCOhost au moyen des termes craniectomy ou decompressive craniectomy, cranioplasty et materials. Ils ont limité la recherche aux publications parues en anglais entre 2005 et maintenant. Ils ont finalement inclus 69 articles dans la présente étude. Étant donné l'hétérogénéité des populations, des résultats, des analyses statistiques et des modes de collecte, les chercheurs n'ont pu réaliser aucune analyse statistique. CONCLUSIONS: Plusieurs matériaux de greffe ont été adaptés pour les reconstructions crâniennes, mais comme les résultats sont variables, on ne sait pas si un matériau est indiqué par rapport aux autres ni les circonstances dans lesquelles il l'est. Les progrès de la conception assistée par ordinateur ont permis d'améliorer les implants, mais les recherches se poursuivent pour trouver les matériaux idéaux. Il est important d'examiner les matériaux actuellement utilisés, de même que ceux faisant l'objet d'essais cliniques, pour établir les limites associées aux divers implants et orienter les futures recherches.

Sperm Storage in a Family-Living Lizard, the Tree Skink (Egernia striolata).

The ability to produce viable offspring without recently mating, either through sperm storage or parthenogenesis, can provide fitness advantages under a suite of challenging ecological scenarios. Using genetic analysis, we demonstrate that 3 wild-caught female Tree Skinks (Egernia striolata) reproduced in captivity with no access to males for over a year, and that this is best explained by sperm storage. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first time female sperm storage has been documented in any monogamous family-living reptile, including social Australian egerniine skinks (from the subfamily Egerniinae). Furthermore, by using paternal reconstruction of genotypes we show that captive-born offspring produced by the same females in the preceding year, presumably without sperm storage, were sired by different males. We qualitatively compared aspects of these females' mates and offspring between years. The parents of each litter were unrelated, but paternal and offspring genotypes from litters resulting from stored sperm were more heterozygous than those inferred to be from recent matings. Family-living egerniine skinks generally have low rates of multiple paternity, yet our study suggests that female sperm storage, potentially from outside social partners, offers the real possibility of benefits. Possible benefits include increasing genetic compatibility of mates and avoiding inbreeding depression via cryptic female choice. Sperm storage in Tree Skinks, a family-living lizard with a monogamous mating system, suggests that females may bet-hedge through extra-pair copulation with more heterozygous males, reinforcing the idea that females could have more control on reproductive outcomes than previously thought.

Dural Venous Sinus Thrombosis after Vestibular Schwannoma Surgery: The Anticoagulation Dilemma.

Introduction Dural venous sinus thrombosis (DVST) is a relatively understudied complication of vestibular schwannoma (VS) surgery. Several studies have examined this topic; however, there is limited data on the incidence, clinical progression, and proper management of this patient population. Methods A retrospective review was performed for patients undergoing surgery for VS at a single institution. All postoperative imaging was reviewed for incidence of DVST. Demographic data were collected including tumor and surgical characteristics along with postoperative course. Results A total of 63 patients underwent resection of their VS. The incidence of DVST was 34.9%. The operative time was greater in the dural venous sinus thrombosis (DSVT) group, at an average of 6.69 hours versus 4.87 in the no DSVT cohort ( p = 0.04). Tumor size was correlationally significant ( p = 0.051) at 2.75 versus 2.12 cm greatest diameter. The translabyrinthine approach was most prevalent (68.2%). The side of the thrombosis was ipsilateral to the tumor and surgery in all patients. The sigmoid sinus was most commonly involved (95.5%). Of them, 85% patients had a codominant or thrombus contralateral to the dominant sinus. All patients were asymptomatic. No patients were treated with anticoagulation. Resolution of thrombus was seen in five (22.7%) of the patients on last follow-up imaging. There were no hemorrhagic complications. Conclusion The overall incidence of DVST was (34.9%) of 63 patients who underwent VS surgery. All patients were asymptomatic and none were treated with anticoagulation. In our study, continuing to observe asymptomatic patients did not lead to any adverse events.

Using natural travel paths to infer and compare primate cognition in the wild.

Within comparative psychology, the evolution of animal cognition is typically studied either by comparing indirect measures of cognitive abilities (e.g., relative brain size) across many species or by conducting batteries of decision-making experiments among (typically) a few captive species. Here, we propose a third, complementary approach: inferring and comparing cognitive abilities through observational field records of natural information gradients and the associated variation in decision-making outcomes, using the ranging behavior of wild animals. To demonstrate the feasibility of our proposal, we present the results of a global survey assessing the availability of long-term ranging data sets from wild primates and the willingness of primatologists to share such data. We explore three ways in which such ranging data, with or without the associated behavioral and ecological data often collected by primatologists, might be used to infer and compare spatial cognition. Finally, we suggest how ecological complexity may be best incorporated into comparative analyses.

Petrous Apex Cephaloceles: Radiology Features and Surgical Management of a Rare Entity.

OBJECTIVE: To characterize the radiologic findings of petrous apex cephalocele (PAC) in a patient cohort, and report the surgical management for three symptomatic PAC patients and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak via the middle cranial fossa approach. STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective case series. SETTING: Academic center. PATIENTS: Thirty-five patients with PAC were identified by review of the imaging archive between 2008 and 2019 (29 females; mean, 55 yrs; range, 4-86 yrs). All patients underwent magnetic resonance imaging of the skull base and/or computed tomography examination. INTERVENTIONS: Surgical repair of PAC. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Radiologic features of PAC. RESULTS: Radiological features of PAC: 25.7% bilateral; partial or expanded empty sella in 82.9%; arachnoid pits in 14.2%; and enlarged CSF space of optic nerve sheath in 20.0%. Coexisting pathology included temporal, sphenoid, and bilateral jugular foramen meningocele; as well as cribriform, middle crania fossa, and right temporal defect. Three case studies describing the surgical course of spontaneous CSF leak secondary to PAC were managed with the middle cranial fossa approach. CONCLUSIONS: PAC is an exceedingly unusual cause for CSF leak in the adult and pediatric population. A middle fossa approach may be used to treat CSF leak as a result of PAC. Typically, CSF otorrhea originates from an encephalocele that extends via a bony defect in the tegmen tympani or tegmen mastoideum. However, on occasion the source of the CSF otorrhea is not via the tegmen, instead defects in the middle fossa floor, medial to the ridge for the gasserian ganglion (tubercle of Princeteau), need to be considered.

Outcomes and Patterns of Care in Elderly Patients with Glioblastoma Multiforme.

BACKGROUND: Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most common primary malignant brain tumor in adults, with an increased incidence among the elderly. However, the optimal treatment strategy in elderly patients remains unclear. This study seeks to investigate the effect of patient selection and treatment strategies on survival trends in these patients. METHODS: Patients with diagnosis codes specific for GBM were queried from the National Cancer Database during 2004-2016. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analysis was performed to investigate outcomes. Survival curves and 5-year survival were also generated based on patient-specific factors. RESULTS: Among 104,456 patients with GBM identified, elderly patients were less likely to receive radiotherapy (61.3% vs. 77.8%; P < 0.001) or chemotherapy (47.2% vs. 62.9%; P < 0.001) or to undergo surgical resection (68.3% vs. 81.8; P < 0.001). Mean overall survival was 9.1 months (standard deviation, 10.0) and 5-year survival was 5.3%. Multivariate analysis showed age 75-84 years (hazard ratio [HR], 1.39; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.12-1.73; P = 0.003) and lower Karnofsky Performance Status (50-70: HR, 1.68, 95% CI, 1.35-2.08, P < 0.001; ≤40: HR, 1.79, 95% CI 1.18-2.72, P = 0.006) were associated with decreased overall survival, whereas surgical resection (subtotal resection: HR, 0.52, 95% CI, 0.38-0.71, P < 0.001; gross total resection: HR, 0.29, 95% CI, 0.21-0.41, P < 0.001), radiotherapy (HR, 0.65; 95% CI, 0.47-0.91; P = 0.012), and chemotherapy (HR, 0.65; 95% CI, 0.48-0.88; P = 0.006) were associated with increased overall survival in elderly patients. CONCLUSIONS: In an analysis of 104,456 patients with GBM, all treatment modalities were found to be used less frequently in elderly patients. Increasing age and poor performance status were associated with worsened survival. Gross total resection was associated with the greatest survival benefit, and chemotherapy and radiotherapy also improved survival outcomes. These treatment options improved outcomes regardless of performance status. Although maximal treatment strategies may improve survival in elderly patients with GBM, these treatment strategies must be balanced against patient-specific factors and quality-of-life concerns.

Laparoscopic-Assisted Versus Mini-Open Laparotomy for Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt Placement in the Medicare Population.

BACKGROUND: Placement of the distal shunt catheter into the peritoneum during ventriculoperitoneal shunt (VPS) surgery can be done with either laparoscopic assistance or laparotomy. OBJECTIVE: To compare outcomes in laparoscopic-assisted vs laparotomy for placement of VPS in the Medicare population. METHODS: Patients undergoing VPS placement, between 2004 and 2014, were identified by International Classification of Disease, Ninth Revision and Current Procedural Terminology codes in the Medicare database. Demographic data including age, sex, comorbidities, and indications were collected. Six- and twelve-month complication rates were analyzed. RESULTS: A total of 1966 (3.2%) patients underwent laparoscopic-assisted VPS and 60 030 (96.8%) patients underwent nonlaparoscopic-assisted VPS placement. Compared with traditional open VPS placement, the laparoscopic approach was associated with decreased odds of distal revision at 6- and 12-mo postoperatively (6 mo: odds ratio [OR] = 0.41, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.21-0.74; 12 mo: OR = 0.60, 95% CI: 0.39-0.94). At 6- and 12-mo postoperatively, multivariable regression analysis demonstrated increased odds of distal revision in patients with a body mass index (BMI) > 30 Kg/M2, history of open abdominal surgery, and history of laparoscopic abdominal surgery. Additionally, history of prior abdominal surgery and BMI > 30 Kg/M2 were significantly associated with increase odds of shunt infection at 6 and 12-mo, respectively. CONCLUSION: In the largest retrospective analysis to date, patients with a history of abdominal surgery and obesity were found to be at increased risk of infection and distal revision after VPS placement. However, the laparoscopic approach for abdominal placement of the distal catheter was associated with reduced rates of distal revision in this population, suggesting an avenue for reducing complications in well-selected patients.

Structural and Functional Imaging in Glioma Management.

The goal of glioma surgery is maximal safe resection in order to provide optimal tumor control and survival benefit to the patient. There are multiple imaging modalities beyond traditional contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) that have been incorporated into the preoperative workup of patients presenting with gliomas. The aim of these imaging modalities is to identify cortical and subcortical areas of eloquence, and their relationship to the lesion. In this article, multiple modalities are described with an emphasis on the underlying technology, clinical utilization, advantages, and disadvantages of each. functional MRI and its role in identifying hemispheric dominance and areas of language and motor are discussed. The nuances of magnetoencephalography and transcranial magnetic stimulation in localization of eloquent cortex are examined, as well as the role of diffusion tensor imaging in defining normal white matter tracts in glioma surgery. Lastly, we highlight the role of stimulated Raman spectroscopy in intraoperative histopathological diagnosis of tissue to guide tumor resection. Tumors may shift the normal arrangement of functional anatomy in the brain; thus, utilization of multiple modalities may be helpful in operative planning and patient counseling for successful surgery.

Surgical Resection of Clinoidal Meningiomas without Routine Use of Clinoidectomy.

OBJECTIVE: Meningiomas of the anterior clinoid process (ACP) present significant surgical challenges given their anatomic relation to critical neurovascular structures. Routine anterior clinoidectomy is often described as a critical step in the resection of these tumors to reduce recurrence and improve visual outcomes. Anterior clinoidectomy, however, is not without risk and its benefits have not been clearly delineated. We present the outcomes of our series of surgically managed ACP meningiomas in which an anterior clinoidectomy was not routinely employed. METHODS: A retrospective review of all ACP meningiomas operated on between August 1997 and March 2019 was conducted. Patients with a recurrent tumor or with <6 months of follow-up were excluded. Resection was typically carried out via a frontotemporal craniotomy followed by intradural removal of the tumor. Anterior clinoidectomy was only performed if hyperostosis of the ACP caused mass effect on the optic nerve. RESULTS: Twenty-nine patients were included in this study. Anterior clinoidectomy was performed in 3 patients (10.3%). Gross total resection was achieved in 22 patients (75.9%). Of the 21 patients (72.4%) who presented with visual deficits, vision improved in 18 patients (85.7%) and worsened in 2 (9.5%). Tumor recurrence occurred in 5 patients (17.2%) at a mean follow-up of 64.9 months. Perioperative morbidity was 10.3%. Permanent morbidity and mortality were 6.9% (vision deterioration) and 0%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Resection of ACP meningiomas without routine anterior clinoidectomy minimizes potential risk while achieving gross total resection, recurrence, and visual improvement rates comparable with those in previously reported series.