Case Of Cerebrospinal Fluid Leak Research Articles

Surgical pathway proposal for severe paralytic scoliosis in adolescents with myelomeningocele.

The increased life expectancy of patients with myelomeningocele led to the necessity of new management for addressing complex spine deformities with severe pelvic obliquity. Tethered cord release (TCR) and spinal fusion were described as treatment options. However, nowadays, the surgical strategy is not well defined and high rates of mechanical failures and complications are reported. Our aim was to propose a new two-stage surgical pathway to treat a selected group of severe myelomeningocele scoliosis. This is a retrospective series of myelomeningocele scoliosis in paralytic adolescent patients treated with concurrent TCR and posterior spinal fusion (PSF), followed by delayed anterior fusion (ASF) through minimally invasive lateral approach. Inclusion criteria were as follows: evolutive scoliosis in tethered cord syndrome and paraplegia, main curve >70°, pelvic obliquity >20°, and age between 10 and 18 years. Clinical, surgical, and radiographic parameters were evaluated preoperatively and at a mean follow-up (FU) of 2.8 years. Six patients out of 58 met the inclusion criteria and were included in the study (mean age 12.3 years old). The mean curve and pelvic obliquity correction were 68.8% and 82%, respectively. No loss of correction was recorded at FU. One case of cerebrospinal fluid leakage requiring revision surgery was recorded. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study proposing a two-stage surgical pathway for severe MMC spinopelvic deformity treatment. Concurrent TCR and PSF with delayed minimally invasive ASF permitted to minimize complications providing good fusion rates without loss of correction and implant failure.

Novel Surgical Treatment of Recurrent CSF Leak by Temporoparietal Temporalis Myofascial Flap: A Series of 6 Cases

With the advent of modern endoscopes and a better anatomic understanding of the skull base, the indications of endonasal approaches are increasing. These procedures may be complicated by high rates of postoperative cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak, and reconstruction of the defect remains challenging. In the anterior skull base, vascularized grafts have been reported as superior in preventing CSF leakage and infection. The Hadad-Bassagasteguy flap, being a pedicled flap, is our first line flap to reconstruct the skull base. When we were not successful with this flap, we resorted to different flaps. We modified the originally described temporoparietal fascial flap by Fortes etal and applied clinically. The objective of this paper is to briefly describe the modification of the flap and to review the clinical outcome. From 2014 to 2018, in 6 cases of CSF leak with the appropriate indication, we used the temporoparietal myofascial flap repair that is a modification of the temporoparietal fascial flap by Fortes etal. We took all the 6 patients in our study and followed them up. All of the 6 repairs were successful, and no CSF leak was found just after the operation in 6- to 48-month follow-up. We recommend our modified novel temporoparietal myofascial flap as a very good option in case of failed cases of postoperative CSF leak.

Resistant Temporal Lobe Epilepsy: Initial Steps into a Bigger Epilepsy Surgery Program.

Background Among the patients of drug-resistant epilepsy, a subset which has focal impaired seizures localizes to the temporal lobe region (TLE). A majority of these cases are surgically amenable with anterior-medial temporal lobe resection or “lesionectomy.” Objective In India, there is scarcity of “specialized centers” providing “comprehensive epilepsy care” and this dearth is further worse in populous states. In this article, we share our single center, observational, and retrospective experience of TLE in background of limited resources and utmost requirement. Methodology Our study is a retrospective analysis medically refractory epilepsy patients (2016–2019). Patients with medically refractory epilepsy were selected based upon our noninvasive protocol (clinical semiology, interictal scalp electroencephalography (EEG), long-term video EEG monitoring data, and magnetic resonance injury [MRI]). The follow-up was noted from the last out-patient visit record or through telephonic conversation (International League Against Epilepsy score). Results Of 23 cases of TLE ( n = 7, mesial temporal sclerosis; n = 16 temporal lobe like cavernomas, tumors, or arterio-venous malformations). Single photon emission computed tomography/positron emission tomography (SPECT/PET) was performed in five cases (three cases of ictal/interictal SPECT and two cases of PET scan) where there was discordance between EEG/clinical and MRI. The median follow-up was of 19 months with 18 cases being seizure free. Five cases were fully off the antiepileptic drug (AEDs) while in 15 cases, the AEDs dosages or the number were reduced. Average number of AEDs reduced from 2.9 in preoperative period to 1.2 postoperatively. Two cases had quadrantanopia and one case of cerebrospinal fluid leak. Conclusion A multidisciplinary and holistic approach is required for best patient care. The results of our initial surgical experience are encouraging.

Pituitary adenoma with posterior area invasion of cavernous sinus: surgical anatomy, approach, and outcomes

We found a series of Knosp grade 3A-4 pituitary adenomas in the posterior areas of the cavernous sinus (CS), a triangular-like structure on axial MRI. In this study, we dissected the surrounding neurovascular structure, discussed the surgical approach, and analyzed outcomes for patients with this invasion into this area. Eight embalmed adult cadaveric specimens were prepared for this study to demonstrate in detail the surgical anatomy related to this triangular-like structure. We used the "two points and one line" method to determine the surgical approach, and 35 cases with this area invasion were retrospectively reviewed. According to the endoscopic and microsurgical anatomy, the triangular-like structure appearing on the axial MRI is correlated with a square-based pyramid structure in the CS, and the upper surface is the posterior portion of the oculomotor triangle. A total of 37 posterior areas of the CS were involved in 35 patients. The accuracy of the "two points and one line" method in predicting the surgical approach is 86.5% (32/37). All three patients with Knosp 3A underwent gross total resection (GTR). Twenty (62.5%) patients with Knosp 4 underwent GTR, 9 (28.1%) patients underwent subtotal resection, and 3 (9.4%) patients underwent partial resection. Preoperative symptoms were alleviated to varying degrees, and no worsening occurred. Postoperative complications included two (5.7%) cases of cerebrospinal fluid leakage, one (2.9%) case of meningitis, two (5.7%) cases of permanent diabetes insipidus, and three (8.6%) cases of transient cranial nerve palsy. The "two points and one line" method is of great value in predicting the surgical approach of pituitary adenomas with CS invasion. The anatomic description of this particular square-based pyramid structure in the CS refines the understanding of pituitary adenomas with CS invasion.

Endoscopic Third Ventriculostomy for Hydrocephalus in Infants: A Single-center Experience.

Introduction:Hydrocephalus remains one of the more common pathologies managed in pediatric neurosurgery. Endoscopic third ventriculostomy (ETV) has become the procedure of choice for the treatment of hydrocephalus due to aqueductal stenosis with high success rate. It has an advantage over ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunting, as it enables patients to remain device free.Objective:The purpose of this study is to assess the role of ETV in the treatment of hydrocephalus in children under 1 year of age, including preterm low birth weight infants.Materials and Methods:A prospective study of 30 infants undergoing ETV in our institution between January 2014 and December 2018 was carried out. There were 25 cases of congenital hydrocephalus with aqueductal stenosis, two cases of Dandy–Walker cyst, two cases of cerebellopontine angle arachnoid cyst, and one case of posttubercular meningitis. ETV success score was calculated preoperatively to evaluate the percentage of success of ETV.Results:The overall success rate was 76.66% (23), with highest success rate of 84% in aqueductal stenosis. The mean age was 6.75 months (range: 1.5–12 months). Five infants were born preterm, four of them required a permanent VP shunt. There were two cases of intraoperative bleeding, four cases of cerebrospinal fluid leak from the wound, and one case of meningitis.Conclusion:ETV can be considered a safe and effective modality for the initial treatment of hydrocephalus in full-term normal birth weight infants, while the success of ETV in preterm low birth weight infants need further study of maturity at birth and birth weight as the determinant factors for the success of ETV in this special group.

Osteoma involving the olfactory groove: evaluation of the risk of a CSF leak during endoscopic surgery

PurposeThe olfactory groove (OG) is a common site of iatrogenic cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak during endoscopic sinus surgery. We aimed to evaluate the prevalence of CSF leak during endoscopic removal of osteomas involving the OG and identify CT findings indicating increased risk of this complication.MethodsA retrospective review was conducted of patients operated on for frontoethmoidal osteoma from 11 years in a single institution. A retrospective review of the literature, 1999 to 2019, of perioperative complications in patients operated on for frontoethmoidal osteoma using endoscopic or combined approaches.ResultsCase series: 73 patients were identified including 17 with the OG involvement. The only case of CSF leak occurred in a patient with spongious part of osteoma at the OG. Among six osteomas with spongious component at the OG, one was detached and five had to be drilled down, leaving a small remnant in four. In contrast, all the 11 osteomas with ivory part at the OG were safely detached and completely removed from the OG after debulking. The prevalence of CSF leak was not statistically different between the patients without and with involvement of the OG. Systematic review of the literature: Among the 273 identified patients there were 8 cases of intraoperative CSF leaks (3%) including 2 from the OG (0.7%).ConclusionInvolvement of the OG does not significantly increase the risk of intraoperative CSF leak. However, this risk may be increased in patients with the spongious part of the tumor attached to the OG.

Outcomes of Transzygomatic Middle Cranial Fossa Approach for Skull Base Tumors—A Single Institutional Experience

Objective This study aimed to evaluate surgical outcomes after transzygomatic middle cranial fossa (MCF) (TZ-MCF) approach for tumor control in patients with large skull base lesions involving the MCF and adjacent sites. Setting This study was done at the tertiary skull base center. Design This is a retrospective case series. Main Outcome Measures The main outcome measures were tumor control (recurrence), new-onset cranial neuropathies, facial nerve and audiometric outcomes, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak, and wound complications. Results Sixteen patients were identified with a median age of 45 years (range: 20-72). The mean maximum tumor dimension was 5.49 cm (standard deviation [SD]: 1.2, range: 3.1-7.3) and the mean tumor volume was 28.5 cm 3 (SD: 18.8, range: 2.9-63.8). Ten (62.5%) tumors were left sided. The most common pathology encountered was meningioma ( n = 7) followed by chondrosarcoma ( n = 4). Mean follow-up was 36.3 (SD: 26.9) months. Gross total resection or near total resection was achieved in nine (56.2%) and planned subtotal resection was used in seven (43.7%). Postoperative additional new cranial nerve (CN) deficits included CN V ( n = 1), CN III ( n = 2), CN VI ( n = 1), and CN X ( n = 1). Major neurological morbidity (hemiplegia) was encountered in two patients with resolution. There were no cases of CSF leak, meningitis, hemorrhage, seizures, aphasia, or death. There was no recurrence or regrowth of residual tumor. Facial nerve function was preserved in all but one patient (House-Brackmann grade 2). Conclusion Various skull base tumors involving MCF with extension to adjacent sites can be successfully resected using the TZ-MCF approach in a multidisciplinary fashion. This approach yields optimal exposure and permits excellent tumor control with acceptable CN and neurological morbidity.

Transpalpebral Approach for Microsurgical Removal of Tuberculum Sellae Meningiomas.

Background:The evolution of skull base approaches associated with individualization of surgical corridor and minimizing the collateral damage. Achieving the radical removal of tumor and preserving the neurological status of the patient is possible, both with the traditional approaches and keyhole approaches. Our work presents experience using the transpalpebral approach (TPA) for microsurgical removal of tuberculum sellae meningioma (TSM).Materials and Methods:A total of 15 patients with meningiomas underwent microsurgical removal of TSM through TPA. Ten patients were women and five were men. The standard preoperative diagnostic protocol includes magnetic resonance imaging with contrast enhancement, brain computed tomography for neuronavigation. We assess surgical complications, functional and cosmetic outcomes, and surgical parameters, including the time of surgery and intraoperative blood loss.Results:Visual impairment was finding in 100% patients, including slight decrease of vision (46,7%, seven patients), partial vision field loss (six patients, 40%), and serious visual impairment (two patients 13.3%). Visual improvement was noted in ten cases (66.7%), there was no improvement in four cases (26.7%), and one case (6.6%) had transient visual worsening for 4 days and slow improvement in 1 month. Headache disappeared in three patients (50%). There were no cases of cerebrospinal fluid leak. Transient frontal hypoesthesia was noted in all patients (100%) without permanent deficit. Transient palsy of the frontal muscle was noted in four patients for 4–6 months. Histological examination revealed WHO Grade I meningioma in 14 cases and in 1 case WHO Grade II meningioma. No deaths were identified in follow-up at 12 months. The average value of the Modified Rankin Scale was 1.4. The mean length of stay in hospital was 5.Conclusion:TPA is technically difficult and requires some experience to work in deep structures in a small surgical corridor. This technique can be good alternative to traditional fronto-lateral, supraorbital keyhole craniotomies, and endoscopic endonasal approaches.

Transglabellar approach for surgical management of unruptured anterior cerebral artery aneurysms: A set of 8 patients

ObjectivesUnruptured anterior cerebral artery aneurysms (ACAA) management is not standardized, since the decision to intervene can lead to unnecessary surgical aftermaths. One of the key issues could be to decrease the surgical consequences. We describe herein an original minimally invasive transglabellar approach in the management of ACAA. Patients and MethodsWe report our experience with the transglabellar approach which is used for two years in our centre. With an inter-eyebrow skin incision, a trans sinusal approach gives direct access to the anterior midline skull base. Aneurysm clipping is carried out. The closure requires obstruction of nasofrontal ducts and sinus mucosa removal. ResultsWe operated 8 patients using this approach. The aneurysms were clipped successfully in every case.One case of cerebrospinal fluid leak and two cases of superficial infection were observed. All the patients were satisfied with the aesthetic results. ConclusionThe transglabellar approach is an effective, safe and minimally invasive procedure for the treatment of ACAA.

Prevalence and Risk Factors of Bacterial Meningitis after Craniotomy in Shahid Bahonar Hospital of Kerman in 2016

Objective: Postoperative infections of the central nervous system are common complications of neurological surgeries, which can lead to bad consequences for the patient and increase the cost of treatment. Incorrect diagnosis or treatment of meningitis after craniotomy can lead to irrecoverable disabilities. Therefore, this study tends to investigate the prevalence and risk factors of bacterial meningitis after craniotomy in Shahid Bahonar Hospital of Kerman.
 Methods: This was a cross-sectional, analytical, descriptive study. The statistical population was 146 patients who underwent craniotomy in Shahid Bahonar Hospital of Kerman during 2016. To find out the relationship between each risk factor and meningitis, multivariate logistic regression was used. Data was analysed by SPSS software version 16. For comparison of percentages between two groups, Chi-square test or Fisher's exact test was used. In order to compare quantitative variables between the two groups, independent t-test was used; if the data was nonparametric, U-Mann-Whitney test was used.
 Results: Of 77 patients, who underwent elective surgery, 5 cases (6.5%) developed bacterial meningitis; of patents that underwent emergency surgery, 8 cases (11.6%) developed bacterial meningitis. Two of 43 female patients (4.7%) and 11 of 103 male patients (10.7%) developed bacterial meningitis of patients with underlying disease, 4 (5.6%) patients developed bacterial meningitis and 9 (12%) of other patients developed bacterial meningitis. There were 4 cases of cerebrospinal fluid leakage. Of 146 patients, 13 cases (8.9%) developed bacterial meningitis, of which 5 had positive bacterial CSF culture; one case of Acinetobacter baumannii, one case of Staphylococcus Epidermidis ,one case of Streptococcus pyogenes, one case of Staphylococcus aureus and one case of Pseudomonas aeruginosa were reported.
 Conclusion: It can be concluded that prevalence of bacterial meningitis increases with the increase in the number of received blood units, the presence of associated infection, the increase in duration of stay in hospital and ICU, the increase in duration of mechanical ventilation and repeated craniotomy and lower GCS.

Multimodal image fusion technology for diagnosis and treatment of the skull base-infratemporal tumors

To explore the value of incorporated multimodal image fusion technology with computer-aided design of the skull base-infratemporal tumor treatment. A retrospective study was carried out to enroll seventeen patients with skull base-infratemporal tumors treated at Peking University Hospital of Stomatology from February 2011 to September 2018. Plain CT, enhanced CT and MRI data were imported into the iPlan 3.0 software (BrainLab navigation system), and the image fusion was performed for each patient preoperatively. Then the three-dimensional images of the tumor, vital vessels and craniofacial bones were reconstructed to prepare virtual operation design. We evaluated the application of multimodal image fusion technology that had been incorporated with computer-aided planning during the navigation-guided biopsy or surgery, through the analysis of the biopsy and operation data and regular follow-up postoperatively. The mean age of 17 patients (7 males and 10 females) was 46 years. Primary tumors occurred in 11 cases, and recurrent tumors in 6 cases. The size of the 17 tumors ranged from 2.9 cm to 9 cm, and the mean size was 4.35 cm. There were 7 cases with skull base bone destruction and/or intracranial extension, and 10 cases with tumors adjacent to the skull base. High-quality multimodal fused images were obtained in all the 17 cases. The spatial-position relationships of the tumors, adjacent craniomaxillofacial bones and vital vessels labeled with different colors were displayed well on the generated fusion images. The multimodal image fusion technology that incorporated with computer-aided three-dimensional reconstruction and then applied in navigation-guided biopsy or surgery showed that, preoperative analysis and virtual operation design functioned with good results, especially in cases with small tumor size, recurrence or illdefined borders in the skull base-infratemporal region. Operation was carried out in 16 cases after preoperative diagnosis and assessment, and 1 case was performed by navigation-guided biopsy only. The proportions of navigation-guided surgery and biopsy were 70.6% (12/17) and 17.6% (3/17) individually. The positive rate of pathologic diagnosis using navigation-guided biopsy was 100% (3/3). All the navigation-guided biopsies or operations were carried out successfully. Complications included 1 case of cerebrospinal fluid leak from a recurred meningioma patient postoperatively, and 1 case of facial paralysis resulting from parotid-gland deep lobe tumor. Most (14/15) tumors got complete removal with safe boundary through intra-operative navigation verification and post-operative imaging confirmation, except for one case of subtotal resection to avoid the injury of cavernous sinus. The pathological results of the tumors could be classified to mesenchymal (10), adenogenous (3), neurogenic (3) or epithelial (1) resources. The follow-up time ranged from 3 to 94 months, with the median follow-up time of 9 months. Taking full advantages of individualized multimodal images, could help analyze the three-dimensional spatial position relationship of tumors, vital vessels and craniofacial bones properly, and then complete the virtual operation design well. The incorporated multimodal image fusion technology with navigation technology may improve the accuracy and safety of core needle biopsy and surgical treatment of skull base-infratemporal tumors.

Chiari malformations in adults: A single center surgical experience with special emphasis on the kinetics of clinical improvement

BackgroundThe Chiari malformation type I (CM-I) is the most commonly found type in adults. The efforts to further improve the treatment offered for these malformations are hampered by the existence of controversial methods and the absence of a uniform scoring system to evaluate clinical outcomes. ObjectivesThe goal of our study is to analyze the clinical and radiological data concerning patients operated for CM and to expose surgical techniques. Patients and treatmentThis is a retrospective study concerning patients of more than 16 years of age, operated on (from 2000 to 2016) in our institution. These patients underwent bony decompression of the cervico-occipital junction, with a duraplasty enlargement. Clinical and radiological follow-up was assessed sequentially. ResultsThe mean age of patients included in this study was 39. Headaches (n=19) and sensory disturbances (n=17) were the most common presenting complaints. Furthermore, syringomyelia symptoms were present in 34.5% of the cases (n=10). Twenty-three patients displayed a Chiari malformation of type I (79.3%), and six patients were classified as Chiari malformation type I.5 (20.7%). A syringomyelia was present in 58.6% of the cases (n=17). The postoperative complications that were encountered were: one case of pseudo-meningocele, two cases of cerebrospinal fluid leakage, two cases of meningitis, and one case of delayed wound healing. The mean follow-up period was 18 months, which showed beneficial outcomes in 82.8% of the cases (20.7% cured, and 62.1% improved) and an unfavorable outcome in 17.2% of the cases (13.8% stable patients and 3.4% worsened outcomes). Syringomyelia symptoms were improved in 60% of the patients. Among the patients who presented without a syrinx, 82.3% had good outcomes; and those who presented with a syrinx, 83.4% had good outcomes. Symptoms improved for 69% of patients within 3 months. ConclusionAn optimal craniocervical osteo-dural decompression plus duraplasty offered early and sustainable good clinical results in symptomatic CM-I and CM-I.5 patients.

Long-Term Effects of Intracapsular Debulking and Adjuvant Somatostatin Analogs for Growth Hormone-Secreting Pituitary Macroadenoma: 10 Years of Experience in a Single Institute

Long-term effects of endoscopic endonasal transsphenoidal intracapsular debulking and adjuvant somatostatin analogs (SSAs) were evaluated in patients with growth hormone- (GH) secreting pituitary macroadenomas. We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 45 patients with acromegalic macroadenoma who underwent endonasal endoscopic transsphenoidal intracapsular debulking and received adjuvant SSAs (octreotide) between 2006 and 2015 who had >1 year of follow-up. To evaluate the predictive factors for 1 year and long-term biochemical outcomes, univariate and multivariate analyses were performed. Biochemical remission was achieved in 1 year in 20 of the 45 (44.4%) patients, and in 31 of the 45 patients after long-term adjuvant SSA treatment. Tumor control was achieved in 43 of the 45 (93.3%) patients. The univariate analysis showed age (≥55 years), tumor size (diameter ≤1.5 cm), premedication GH levels (≤2.8 ng/mL), premedication insulin-like growth factor 1 levels (≤2-fold of upper limit of normal range), cavernous sinus invasion (Knops grades 2, 3, and 4), and near-total tumor resection were associated with long-term outcomes. The multivariate analysis showed near-total resection was a significant predictor for long-term outcomes (P= 0.019). There were no new pituitary dysfunctions. The observed complications included one case of cerebrospinal fluid leakage and one case of epistaxis requiring intervention. Intracapsular debulking and adjuvant SSAs are a safe and viable treatment for patients with GH secreting pituitary macroadenoma to achieve biochemical remission and tumor control. Although adjuvant SSA treatment enhances residual tumor control, cavernous sinus invasion impedes the remission of endocrine tumors.

Endoscope-assisted retrosigmoid approach in hemifacial spasm: our experience

IntroductionThe use of surgical decompression of facial hemispasm due to the loop in the internal auditory canal is not always accepted due to the risk related to the surgical procedure. Currently a new surgical technique allows surgeons to work in safer conditions. ObjectiveTo report the results with endoscope-assisted retrosigmoid approach for facial nerve microvascular decompression in hemifacial spasm due to neurovascular conflict. The surgical technique is described. MethodsWe carried out a prospective study in a tertiary referral center observing 12 (5 male, 7 female) patients, mean age 57.5 years (range 49–71) affected by hemifacial spasm, that underwent to an endoscope assisted retrosigmoid approach for microvascular decompression. We evaluated intra-operative findings, postoperative HFS resolution and complication rates. ResultsHemifacial spasm resolution was noticed in 9/12 (75%) cases within 24h after surgery and in 12/12 (100%) subjects within 45 days. A significant (p<0.001) correlation between preoperative historical duration of hemifacial spasm and postoperative recovery timing was recorded. Only 1 patient had a complication (meningitis), which resolved after intravenous antibiotics with no sequelae. No cases of cerebrospinal fluid leak, facial palsy or hearing impairment were recorded. Hemifacial spasm recurrence was noticed in the only subject where the neurovascular conflict was due to a vein within the internal auditory canal. ConclusionsThe endoscope assisted retrosigmoid approach technique offers an optimal visualization of the neurovascular conflict thorough a minimally invasive approach, thus allowing an accurate decompression of the facial nerve with low complication rates. Due to the less invasive nature, the procedure should be considered in functional surgery of the cerebellar pontine angle as hemifacial spasm treatment, specially when the procedure is performed by an otolaryngologist.

Direction-changeable lumbar cage versus traditional lumbar cage for treating lumbar spondylolisthesis: A retrospective study.

Despite the diverse designs for the lumbar interbody fusion cage, there is no consensus on the optimal design to date. The current study aimed to compare the efficacy and complications associated with the direction-changeable and traditional lumbar cages for treating lumbar spondylolisthesis.We conducted a retrospective study including 109 patients with lumbar spondylolisthesis, who were admitted to our hospital from January 2013 to December 2014. The patients were divided into the direction-changeable (group A) and traditional (group B) lumbar cage group.All patients underwent single-level transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion and were followed up for 12 to 24 months. There were 52 cases in group A and 57 cases in group B. Surgery-related parameters, including operation time, bleeding volume, and hospitalization time, were recorded; there was no significant difference between the 2 groups regarding these parameters. The visual analog scale and Oswestry disability index at the last follow-up showed significant improvement compared with preoperative values in both groups (P < .05). Patients in group A demonstrated more intervertebral space height maintenance postoperatively than patients in group B but the difference was not statistically significant (P > .05). In group A, complications included 3 cases of nonunion (5.77%) and 1 case of cerebrospinal fluid leakage (1.92%). In group B, complications included 9 cases of nonunion (15.79%) and 1 case of postoperative infection (1.75%). There was a significant difference between both groups in terms of the nonunion rate and total complication rate (P < .05).The direction-changeable lumbar cage has merits such as a higher bone fusion rate and fewer postoperative complications compared to the traditional lumbar cage.

Comparison of anterior and posterior decompression in the treatment of spinal cord injury without fracture and dislocation

Objective To investigate the clinical effect of anterior and posterior decompression internal fixation in the treatment of spinal cord injury without fracture and dislocation (CSCIWFD). Methods The clinical data of sixty-five patients with CSCIWFD in Worker's Hospital and Handan Central Hospital from December 2013 to May 2015 was analyzed.According to the surgical methods, the patients were divided into two groups, 31 cases in the anterior group, accepted the anterior cervical decompression and internal fixation, 34 cases in the posterior group, treated with posterior cervical open-door laminoplasty fixation.The operation time, intraoperative blood loss, neurological function recovery and complications of each group were recorded. Results The operative time in the anterior group was (63.2±15.1) min and in the posterior group was (113.8±21.5) min, there was significant difference between the two groups (P<0.05). The intraoperative blood loss in the anterior group was lower than that in the posterior group ( (116.3±18.9) ml vs.(236.3±41.0) ml, t=55.837, P<0.05). In the anterior group, the JOA score was (6.9±1.6) points before operation, (9.6±1.9) points at 2 weeks after operation, (11.7±2.6) points at 3 months after operation and (13.5±3.1) points at the last follow-up, there were significant differences between the preoperative level and postoperative level (F between groups=33.759, P<0.05; F grouP=5.213, P<0.05; F interaction=6.769, P<0.05). In the posterior group, the JOA score was (6.7±1.5) points before operation, (8.7±1.8) points at 2 weeks after operation, (10.9±2.5) points at 3 months after operation and (13.1±3.4) points at the last follow-up, the differences were all statistically significant (P<0.05). Based on the JOA scores, there was significant difference between the two groups at 2 weeks after operation (P<0.05). The anterior group had 1 case of recurrent laryngeal nerve injury and 1 case of cerebrospinal fluid leakage, while the posterior group had 1 case of wound infection, 1 case of liquefaction necrosis and 1 case of epidural hematoma.There was no significant difference in the complication rate between the two groups (X2=0.000, P=1.000). Conclusion The anterior decompression has the advantages of less operative trauma, shorter operation time, less intraoperative blood loss and quick recovery of nerve function.The selection of surgical method should be based on the compression section of the spinal cord. Key words: Anterior Decompression; Posterior Decompression; NON Fracture and Dislocation; Spinal Cord Injury; Efficacy Comparison

Deep brain stimulation with a PINS device in Parkinson's disease: long-term follow-up

Objective To evaluate the long-term safety and efficacy of subthalamic nucleus deep brain stimulation (STN-DBS) with a PINS stimulator in Parkinson's disease (PD). Methods Fifty patients received PINS device implantation in the subthalamic nucleus from November 2009 to August 2012 at Neurosurgery Department of Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University and were retrospectively enrolled into this study. The effects of stimulation on motor score, activities of daily living, the levodopa-equivalent dose, and the side effects were analyzed for all 50 patients with PD undergoing bilateral STN-DBS based on the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS). The scores were collected at baseline in two conditions (off medication) and at 6 months, 1, 2, and 5 years of follow-up with stimulation in the absence or presence of medication. Results The 50 patients were followed up for 5.0-7.5 years. At 6 months, 1, 2, and 5 years of follow-up, our results showed a significant decrease from baseline in both activities of daily living and motor scores (P<0.01); the daily levodopa-equivalent dose decreased compared with baseline (P<0.01). In the condition of medication off, the UPDRS Ⅲ scores decreased by 71%, 69%, 69%, 62% at 6 months, 1 year, 2 years, 5 years, respectively; and the improvement rates of UPDRS Ⅱ scores were 71%, 71%, 71%, 62%, at 6 months, 1 year, 2 years, 5 years, respectively. The daily levodopa-equivalent dose decreased by 31%, 37%, 35%, 27% at 6 months, 1 year, 2 years, 5 years, respectively. There was no death or intracranial hemorrhage in the study. Five patients suffered from transient mental and psychiatric disturbances. Two cases of infection, 1 case of cerebrospinal fluid leakage, 1 case of ptosis, and 1 case of dysphonia were observed during the follow-up. The 2 cases with preoperative dyskinesia had no significant improvement including 1 reported disappearance of dyskinesia and 1 with remaining dyskinesia following adjustment of programming parameters. Conclusion STN-DBS with the PINS device could significantly improve the motor symptoms and life quality of PD patients, which demonstrated safety and efficacy in long-term study. Key words: Parkinson disease; Deep brain stimulation; Subthalamic nucleus

Application of cortical bone trajectory screw in the revision of lumbar disease

Objective To evaluate and discuss the clinical outcomes and advantages of midline lumbar fusion (MIDLF) with cortical bone trajectory (CBT) screw in the reoperation of lumbar disease. Methods From June 2014 to August 2015, a total of 12 patients, 5 male and 7 female with an average age of 68.5±5.6 years old (ranged from 56-76 years). The indications of reoperation including: 5 cases of adjacent segment disease, 2 cases of discogenic back pain after lumbar dynamic stabilization, 5 cases of recurrent disc herniation. The interval time from primary surgery to second surgery was 3-9.5 years (average 6.0±2.0 years). Disease level: L2/3 1 case, L3/4 2 cases, L4/5 7 cases, L5/S1 2 cases. All cases were got the X-ray, CT scan and MRI examination before surgery. The operative duration, blood loss, complications were all evaluated. Back and leg pain were recorded by visual analogue scale (VAS) scores. Functional recovery was evaluated by Oswestry disability index (ODI). Results Operative time was 110-210 min, and mean duration was (158.3±36.4) min. Blood loss was 150-310 ml, and mean loss was (231.7±51.0) ml. There was 1 case of cerebrospinal fluid leakage which treated with pillow supine for 1 week after surgery, and strengthened the prevention of antibiotics, incision healing, with no headache and other low intracranial pressure of dizziness, the remaining patients had no intraoperative and postoperative complications. The time of follow-up was 12-25 months, with an average of (17.9±4.6) months. The back pain of VAS score of preoperative was 3.9±1.4, and the last follow-up was 1.9±0.5, the difference was statistically significant (t=4.506, P=0.001). The VAS score of preoperative leg pain (4.9±1.4) was significant higher than the last follow-up (1.2±0.6, t=9.134, P=0.000). The preoperative ODI was 32.9±3.4, and last follow-up was 13.3±3.2, and the difference was statistically significant (t=15.002, P=0.000). Conclusion MIDLF was applicable with good clinical outcome and technical advantages in current cases, and it might be a choice of reoperation for lumbar disease. Key words: Spinal fusion; Internal fixators; Reoperation

Combined Minimally Invasive Supraciliary and Transfacial Approach for Large Tumors with Skull Base and Sinonasal Involvement.

Tumors invading both the anterior skull base and the sinonasal area have traditionally been accessed via largely invasive open craniofacial approaches. Minimally invasive extended endoscopic endonasal approaches have recently become increasingly available but have anatomical limitations and require incremental experience and thus high patient volume. Our objective was to assess the applicability of a novel combination of the minimally invasive supraciliary incision and the limited maxillofacial osteotomy as a combined surgical approach for large tumors invading both the anterior skull base and the sinonasal area. The well-established technique of supraciliary incision with a 2.5× 3.0-cm craniotomy was combined for the first time with limited facial translocation approach. This series involves 11 cases (female/male ratio 4:7; ranging in age from 6 to 61 years). Intracranial tumor propagation with intranasal and ethmoidal extension was detected in all patients. The pathologic diagnoses included adenocarcinomas, esthesioneuroblastoma, rhabdomyosarcoma, sinonasal papilloma, meningioma, and neurofibroma. The postoperative approach-related mortality rate was zero. No case of cerebrospinal fluid leak was detected. The 3-year survival rate was 70%. The limited transfacial approach in combination with a supraciliary extension is associated with minimal mortality and morbidity and facilitates gross total tumor removal. We highly recommend this approach for the surgical treatment of large tumors invading both the anterior skull base and the sinonasal area, especially for those being out of indication for extended endoscopic endonasal surgery.

Petrous bone cholesteatoma: surgery approach and outcomes

Objective: To investigate the choice of surgical approach of petrous bone cholesteatoma (PBC)and surgical outcomes. Methods: A retrospective study was performed on 90 patients diagnosed and treated for PBC from January 2000 to December 2014 by the Chinese People's Liberation Army General Hospital otolaryngologists. According to Sanna's classification, 40 out of the 90 cases were supralabyrinthine, five infralabyrinthine, four infralabyrinthine-apical, 25 massive and 16 apical. Five cases underwent transmastoid and retrolabyrinthine approach, translabyrinthine approach was performed on six patients, 19 cases underwent subtotal petrosectomy, seven cases underwent transotic approach, 41 cases underwent middle fossa approach, combined transmastoid/middle fossa approach was performed on 11 cases, translabyrinthine and sphenoid sinus approach were performed on one case. Supralabyrinthine cases mainly applied middle fossa approach (77.5%, 31/40) and combined transmastoid and middle-fossa approach(20.0%, 8/40). Combined transmastoid-retrolabyrinthine approach were applied for all the infralabyrinthine cases (100.0%, 5/5). Infralabyrinthine-apical cases mainly applied subtotal petrosectomy (75.0%, 3/4). Massive cases mainly applied subtotal petrosectomy (60.0%, 15/25), transcochlear approach (20.0%, 5/25), and translabyrinthine approach (16.0%, 4/25). Apical cases mainly applied middle fossa approach (62.5%, 10/16). Results: Ninty percent (18/20) of the patients who had preoperative grade Ⅰ facial nerve function maintained in the postoperative period. Out of 90 cases, only 11 cases received open cavity, and the rest cases received cavityobliteration. There were three cases of recurrence, four cases of cavity infection, three cases of cerebrospinal fluid leakage, and one case of epidural hematoma, who all received surgeries. Conclusions: Sanna's classification should be used to classify different kinds of PBC cases, choose the best surgical approach for different cases, and preserve or repair facial function during removal of PBC, and thus reduce recurrence and complications.