The Use of Augmented Reality as an Educational Tool in Minimally Invasive Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion.

Background And Objectives: One of the major challenges in training neurosurgical and orthopedic residents the technique for minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (MIS-TLIF) is the lack of visualization of surgical landmarks (pedicle, pars, lamina). This is due to the limited access to the bony spine through a tubular retractor, in addition to a smaller working corridor or patient-specific factors such as bony overgrowth, disk space collapse, and listhesis. These factors increase the possibility for surgical error and prolonged surgery time.

Urgent Call for International Support and Research Focus on Neurosurgery in Conflict-Affected Sudan.

Neurosurgical services and educational processes in Sudan have been severely disrupted by the ongoing armed conflict. The destruction of neurosurgical infrastructure and the continuous exodus of trained neurosurgeons from an already strained system have intensified the humanitarian crisis. The situation is further compounded by several factors, including attacks on medical professionals, partial suspension of neurosurgical training program, loss of communication tools, shortages of essential instruments, and disruptions in partnerships with regional and international neurosurgical associations.

Expandable cages that expand both height and lordosis provide improved immediate effect on sagittal alignment and short-term clinical outcomes following minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (MIS TLIF).

Background: Failure to restore lordotic alignment is not an uncommon problem following minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (MIS TLIF), even with expandable cages that increase disc height. This study aims to investigate the effect of the expandable cage that is specifically designed to expand both height and lordosis. We evaluated the outcomes of MIS TLIF in restoring immediate postoperative sagittal alignment by comparing two different types of expandable cages.

Presentation, Management, and Outcomes of Thoracic, Thoracolumbar, and Lumbar Spine Trauma in East Africa: A Cohort Study.

Background: Trauma to the thoracic, thoracolumbar (TL), and lumbar spine is common and can cause disability and neurological deficits. Using a cohort of patients suffering from thoracic, TL, and lumbar spine trauma in a tertiary hospital in East Africa, the current study sought to: (1) describe demographics and operative treatment patterns, (2) assess neurologic outcomes, and (3) report predictors associated with undergoing surgery, neurologic improvement, and mortality.

Methods: A retrospective cohort study of patient records from September 2016 to December 2020 was conducted at a prominent East Africa referral center.

Feasibility of High-Fidelity Simulator Models for Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery in a Resource-Limited Setting: Experience From East Africa.

Background: Spine surgery is a rapidly evolving specialty with a continuous need to learn new skills. In resource-limited settings such as Africa, the need for training is greater. The use of simulation-based training is important in different stages of skill acquisition, especially for high-stake procedures such as spine surgery.

Natural History of Degenerative Spondylolisthesis: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

Objective: The optimal treatment algorithm for patients with degenerative lumbar spondylolisthesis has not been clarified. Part of the reason for this is that the natural history of degenerative spondylolisthesis (DS) has not been sufficiently studied. Comprehension of the natural history is essential for surgical decision making.

Presentation, Management, and Outcomes of Traumatic Spinal Injuries Following Coconut Tree Fall in Tanzania: A Retrospective Study of 44 Cases.

Background: In nations where tree harvesting constitutes a significant aspect of the economy, such as Tanzania, falls from trees represent a prevalent cause of traumatic injuries. This study investigates the characteristics of traumatic spinal injuries (TSIs) resulting from falls from coconut trees. (CTFs).

Augmented Reality to Improve Surgical Workflow in Minimally Invasive Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion - A Feasibility Study With Case Series.

Objective: Minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (MIS-TLIF) is a highly reproducible procedure for the fusion of spinal segments. We recently introduced the concept of "total navigation" to improve workflow and eliminate fluoroscopy. Imageguided surgery incorporating augmented reality (AR) may further facilitate workflow.

Safety and Feasibility of Augmented Reality Assistance in Minimally Invasive and Open Resection of Benign Intradural Extramedullary Tumors.

Objective: Surgical resection of benign intradural extramedullary tumors (BIETs) is effective for appropriately selected patients. Minimally invasive surgical (MIS) techniques have been described for successful resection of BIET while minimizing soft tissue injury. Augmented reality (AR) is a promising new technology that can accurately allow for intraoperative localization from skin through the intradural compartment.