Combined Microscopic Tubular and Endoscopic Approach for Calcified Midline Thoracic Disc Herniation: A Bridge to Endoscopic Discectomy.

Symptomatic thoracic disc herniation (TDH) is relatively uncommon and can present with thoracolumbar pain, myelopathy, bladder dysfunction, and motor dysfunction. Midline TDHs and calcified discs are more challenging to access and treat compared to the cervical or lumbar region due to the narrow working corridor around the lungs, ribs, and thoracic spinal cord. Open approaches such as the transthoracic or retropleural approach are particularly morbid.

Development of an adjustable patient-specific rigid guide to improve the accuracy of external ventricular catheter placement.

Objective: The most common method for external ventricular drain (EVD) placement is the freehand approach, which has reported inaccuracy rates of 12.3%-44.9%, especially in the case of altered ventricular anatomy.

Discontinuation of Levetiracetam and Valproic Acid Due to Adverse Effects in Early Post-traumatic Seizure Prophylaxis.

Introduction: Levetiracetam (LEV) and valproic acid (VPA) are two anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs) routinely used for post-traumatic seizure (PTS) prophylaxis at our institution. In our practice, VPA is used for its beneficial effects on behavioral agitation and headaches, but it is also associated with abnormal liver function tests (LFTs). Both medications may be associated with thrombocytopenia.

Delayed Traumatic Intracerebral Hematoma: A Pathophysiological Classification and Literature Review.

Delayed traumatic intracerebral hematoma (DTICH) is a relatively common occurrence after a traumatic brain injury (TBI). Several case series have been performed to study DTICH, many of which offer different definitions of DTICH. Some definitions involve a delayed progression of an existing hemorrhage, and others involve a de novo intracerebral hematoma that was not evident on the initial trauma evaluation.