Non-cadaveric spine surgery simulator training in neurosurgical residency.

Background: Spine surgical training faces increasing challenges due to restricted working hours and greater sub specialization. Modern simulators offer a promising approach to teaching both simple and complex spinal procedures. This study evaluated the acceptance and efficacy of spine simulator training using a lumbar herniated disc model tested by 16 neurosurgical residents (PGY-1-6), and compared 3D and 2D teaching methods.

Molecular programs guiding arealization of descending cortical pathways.

Layer 5 extratelencephalic (ET) neurons are present across neocortical areas and send axons to multiple subcortical targets. Two cardinal subtypes exist: (1) Slco2a1-expressing neurons (ET), which predominate in the motor cortex and project distally to the pons, medulla and spinal cord; and (2) Nprs1- or Hpgd-expressing neurons (ET), which predominate in the visual cortex and project more proximally to the pons and thalamus. An understanding of how area-specific ET and ET emerge during development is important because they are critical for fine motor skills and are susceptible to spinal cord injury and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.

Shunts: Is Surgical Education Safe?

Background: More data regarding complications in neurosurgery residents' cases are needed to assess patients' safety during hands-on surgical education.

Methods: A retrospective 2-center study was performed comparing consecutive patients undergoing shunt implantation by a supervised neurosurgery resident (teaching cases) versus a board-certified faculty neurosurgeon (nonteaching cases). The primary end point was surgical revision after shunting.