This study aims to improve understanding of the anatomy of the deep brain nuclei relevant to deep brain stimulation as well as stereotactic lesioning procedures, including radio frequency, high-focused ultrasound, and radiosurgery. We created interactive, three-dimensional virtual models from cadaveric dissections and radiological segmentation. We used five brain specimens (ten hemispheres) obtained from routine autopsies, prepared according to Klingler's method.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFOper Neurosurg (Hagerstown)
October 2024
Background And Objectives: Bipolar electrocautery systems in neurosurgical procedures may induce thermal damage to adjacent tissues, especially neural tissues. Therefore, it is crucial to control thermal spread from the tips of bipolar forceps into adjacent tissues. The goal of this study was to compare the thermal damage induced in unintended adjacent tissues during coagulation with 6 different bipolar forceps.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFDeep brain stimulation (DBS) is a well-established treatment for motor circuit disorders such as Parkinson disease, dystonia, and essential tremor, particularly when pharmacological interventions are insufficient. The increase in DBS-related publications and the growing number of patients receiving DBS highlight the acceptance and refinement of the procedure. Despite its widespread use, comprehensive anatomical knowledge of deep brain nuclei remains critical for enhancing clinical efficacy.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFBackground And Objectives: The internal capsule is supplied by perforators originating from the internal carotid artery, middle cerebral artery, anterior choroidal artery and anterior cerebral artery. The aim of this study is to examine the vascular anatomy of the internal capsule, along with its related white matter anatomy, in order to prevent potential risks and complications during surgical interventions.
Methods: Twenty injected hemispheres prepared according to the Klingler method were dissected.
Chronic subdural hematomas (cSDH) are often managed with a burr-hole craniostomy and drainage, but surgery is associated with elevated mortality, morbidity, and recurrence. Despite reports of steroid use for such patients, its efficacy and feasibility are still debated. We present our patient series treated with low-dose hydrocortisone.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFObjective: The objective was to demonstrate the surgical steps and outcomes of the sublabial transmaxillary microsurgical approach with endoscopic assistance to treat lesions in the inferior aspect of the orbit, as well as to describe the use of patient-specific 3D models to facilitate surgical preparation and improve experience with the technique.
Methods: The authors' study evaluated data from patients who underwent an endoscope-assisted sublabial transmaxillary approach for inferior orbital lesions. For 2 patients, 3D models were created for preoperative planning and assessment of the approach.
Introduction: Achieving watertight dural closure without grafts via the retrosigmoid approach can be challenging, contributing to a significant rate of postoperative cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leaks. This study describes a dural incision technique for achieving primary dural closure without grafts following the retrosigmoid approach and presents clinical data from the authors' experience.
Methods: Clinical and surgical data of 227 patients who underwent the dural incision technique following the retrosigmoid approach for various pathologies were retrospectively reviewed.
The clinical management of aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH)-associated vasospasm remains a challenge in neurosurgical practice, with its prevention and treatment having a major impact on neurological outcome. While considered a mainstay, nimodipine is burdened by some non-negligible limitations that make it still a suboptimal candidate of pharmacotherapy for SAH. This narrative review aims to provide an update on the pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, overall evidence, and strength of recommendation of nimodipine alternative drugs for aneurysmal SAH-associated vasospasm and delayed cerebral ischemia.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFSelective amygdalohippocampectomy via the pterional transsylvian approach is a feasible option for many patients with mediobasal temporal epilepsy. However, it may be insufficient for patients when the posterior hippocampal region is involved. The paramedian supracerebellar transtentorial approach offers precise anatomical orientation when exposing the entire length of the mediobasal temporal region, including the fusiform gyrus.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFObjective: The term "sagittal stratum" was coined by Heinrich Sachs in 1892 to define a parasagittally oriented white matter layer at the temporo-occipital cortex. Although this term has been widely used for more than 100 years, the description, classification, borders, and involved fibers of the structure vary among authors and remain imprecise. Through fiber microdissection and tractography, the authors aimed to define the sagittal stratum and resolve the uncertainty by revealing the relationship of this structure to other cerebral white matter pathways and the orientation of fibers in it.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFThis study reevaluates the conventional understanding of midbrain anatomy and neuroanatomical nomenclature in the context of recent genetic and anatomical discoveries. The authors assert that the midbrain should be viewed as an integral part of the forebrain due to shared genetic determinants and evolutionary lineage. The isthmo-mesencephalic boundary is recognized as a significant organizer for both the caudal midbrain and the isthmo-cerebellar area.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFObjective: The utilization of digital technologies has experienced a notable surge, particularly in cases where access to cadavers is constrained, within the context of practical neuroanatomy training. This study evaluates augmented reality (AR)- and virtual reality (VR)-based educational models for neuroanatomy education.
Methods: Three-dimensional models were created using advanced photogrammetry.
Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of transorbital neuroendoscopic surgery (TONES) in the management of sphenoid wing meningiomas (SWMs) with cavernous sinus and orbital invasion.
Methods: The authors conducted a retrospective review of 32 patients with SWMs treated at Gazi University using TONES from October 2019 to May 2023. The study includes clinical applications to elucidate the endoscopic transorbital approach.
Objective: The anatomy and function of the brainstem have fascinated scientists for centuries; however, the brainstem remains one of the least studied regions of the human brain. As the authors delved into studying this structure, they observed a growing tendency to forget or neglect previously identified structures. The aim of this study was to describe two such structures: the transverse peduncular tract, also known as the Gudden tract, and the taenia pontis.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFThe incidence of posterior inferior cerebellar artery (PICA) aneurysms is estimated to be between 0.5% and 3% of total aneurysm cases.1 Most patients with these aneurysms typically present with subarachnoid hemorrhage, although there are instances in which patients may present with symptoms resulting from mass effect exerted on the brain stem or lower cranial nerves.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFCraniopharyngiomas are histologically benign tumors that originate from squamous rests along the pituitary stalk. They make up approximately 1.2% to 4.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFObjective: A comprehensive understanding of microsurgical neuroanatomy, familiarity with the operating room environment, patient positioning in relation to the surgery, and knowledge of surgical approaches is crucial in neurosurgical education. However, challenges such as limited patient exposure, heightened patient safety concerns, a decreased availability of surgical cases during training, and difficulties in accessing cadavers and laboratories have adversely impacted this education. Three-dimensional (3D) models and augmented reality (AR) applications can be utilized to depict the cortical and white matter anatomy of the brain, create virtual models of patient surgical positions, and simulate the operating room and neuroanatomy laboratory environment.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFOper Neurosurg (Hagerstown)
December 2023
The fiber dissection technique is one of the earliest methods used to demonstrate the internal structures of the brain, but until the development of fiber tractography, most neuroanatomy studies were related to the cerebral cortex and less attention was given to the white matter. During the historical evolution of white matter dissection, debates have arisen about tissue preservation methods, dissection methodology, nomenclature, and efforts to adopt findings from primates to the human brain. Since its first description, the sagittal stratum has been one of the white matter structures subject to controversy and has not been sufficiently considered in the literature.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFNeurosurg Focus Video
October 2023
The surgical management of ventral upper cervical meningiomas poses significant challenges due to their deep location and limited accessibility. These tumors have the potential to compress or involve nearby neurovascular structures, leading to various neurological complications including inferior cranial nerve palsy, motor deficits, and sensory disturbances such as hypoesthesia, paresthesia, and impaired coordination. To address this issue, surgical intervention through an anterolateral or far lateral approach has been recognized as the optimal treatment strategy.
View Article and Find Full Text PDF