Publications by authors named "Sami F Almalki"

Introduction: Insufficient recognition of ominous headache red flags delays specialized care for potentially life-threatening secondary pathologies. Population-level awareness in Saudi Arabia warrants assessment to guide public health planning. The aim of the study was to evaluate headache red flag knowledge and associated care-seeking attitudes among Saudi adults through a cross-sectional survey.

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Background: Brain metastasis has a negative influence on the morbidity and mortality of cancer patients. Conventionally, whole-brain radiotherapy (WBRT) was favored as the standard treatment for brain metastases. However, it has been linked to a significant decline in neuro-cognitive function and poor quality of life.

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Background: Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a common nerve entrapment condition, and there is ongoing debate regarding the superiority of traditional open versus minimally invasive carpal tunnel surgery.

Methods: This meta-analysis reviewed six studies involving 478 patients to compare recovery and functional outcomes between the traditional longitudinal technique and the minimally invasive mini-transverse technique. The primary outcomes included the functional status scale (FSS), symptoms severity scale (SSS), pain scores, time to return to work, duration of operation, and incidence of complications.

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Background: Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a common result of external physical forces that damage the brain, affecting over 50 million people annually, with a higher prevalence in males. Children aged 0-4 years are the most susceptible, particularly in low-and middle-income countries, where 90% of TBI-related deaths occur. TBI significantly affects children's quality of life.

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Proton beam radiation therapy (PBRT) is an advanced cancer treatment modality that utilizes the distinctive physical properties of protons to precisely deliver radiation to tumor targets while sparing healthy tissue. This cannot be obtained with photon radiation. In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we aimed to comprehensively assess the risk of brainstem toxicity in pediatric brain tumor patients undergoing PBRT.

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Background: Aggressive brain tumors like glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) pose a poor prognosis. While magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is crucial for GBM management, distinguishing it from other lesions using conventional methods can be difficult. This study explores advanced MRI techniques better to understand GBM properties and their link to patient outcomes.

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Background Choosing a medical specialty poses a significant challenge for students, with initial fascinations often evolving during their academic journey. Despite its inherent appeal, neurosurgery faces hesitancy among undergraduate students, potentially due to perceived difficulties and time demands. This study aims to investigate the factors influencing medical students' intentions toward neurosurgery at two institutions in the eastern province of Saudi Arabia.

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Internal carotid artery ectasia (ICAE) is a rare vascular abnormality characterized by dilation and tortuosity of the internal carotid artery (ICA) beyond normal limits. ICAE is typically asymptomatic but can manifest with symptoms such as headache and dizziness. The exact cause of ICAE remains uncertain, but both congenital and acquired factors, including trauma, have been implicated.

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Background: Concussions, categorized as mild traumatic brain injuries, result from traumatic events and present a significant concern within the field of traumatic brain injuries. Understanding the multifaceted pathophysiology of concussions, their diverse symptomatology, and their appropriate management strategies is crucial for healthcare professionals. This study explores the knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors of medical students at King Faisal University in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia regarding concussions.

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Introduction: Neurosurgical care is paramount for addressing various neurological conditions. However, several factors may hinder individuals from accessing these services. This study aimed to identify the factors that deter Saudi citizens from receiving neurosurgical care, emphasizing perceived barriers and sociodemographic influences.

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