Sequential adaptive e-learning and hands-on simulator training for unilateral biportal endoscopy (UBE) of the lumbar spine - results from an EANS Young Neurosurgeons hands-on course.

Introduction: Unilateral biportal endoscopy (UBE) is a minimally invasive surgical (MIS) technique utilized for lumbar decompression, which has recently gained popularity in Europe. We aimed to explore the value of sequential adaptive e-learning, followed by simulator-based hands-on training modules for UBE at the occasion of the 2024 EANS Young Neurosurgeons meeting.

Materials And Methods: An adaptive e-learning was designed by learning engineers (Area 9 Lyceum), based on theoretical content provided by two endoscopic spine surgeons.

Parasagittal meningeal hemangiopericytoma/solitary fibrous tumor: Two case reports and a literature review.

Background: Solitary fibrous tumor/meningeal hemangiopericytoma (SFT/M-HPC) is a rare neoplasm which accounts for around 1% of the intracranial masses. This pathology has a high risk for recurrence and metastasis to distant locations such as the liver, lungs, and bones. Precise diagnosis necessitates detailed histopathological examination.

Interdisciplinary Successful Revascularization of Traumatic Occlusion of the Right Common Carotid Artery.

Blunt carotid artery injury (BCI) poses a rare yet severe threat following vascular trauma, often leading to significant morbidity and mortality. We present a case of a 33-year-old male who suffered complete thrombotic occlusion of the right common carotid artery (CCA) following a workplace accident. Clinical evaluation revealed profound neurological deficits, prompting multidisciplinary surgical intervention guided by the Denver criteria (Grade I - disruption inside the vessel that results in a narrowing of the lumen by less than 25%; Grade II - dissection or intramural hematoma causing greater than 25% stenosis; Grade III - comprises pseudoaneurysm formation; Grade IV - causes total vessel occlusion; Grade V - describes vessel transection with extravasation).

The Evaluation of Virtual Reality Neuroanatomical Training Utilizing Photorealistic 3D Models in Limited Body Donation Program Settings.

Background Neuroanatomy is one of the most complex areas of anatomy to teach to medical students. Traditional study methods such as atlases and textbooks are mandatory but require significant effort to conceptualize the three-dimensional (3D) aspects of the neuroanatomical regions of interest. Objectives To test the feasibility of human anatomy teaching medical students in a virtual reality (VR) immersive environment using photorealistic three-dimensional models (PR3DM) of human anatomy, in a limited anatomical body donation program.

Open-door extended endoscopic transorbital technique to the paramedian anterior and middle cranial fossae: technical notes, anatomomorphometric quantitative analysis, and illustrative case.

Objective: The superior eyelid endoscopic transorbital approach (SETOA) provides a direct and short minimally invasive route to the anterior and middle skull base. Nevertheless, it uses a narrow corridor that limits its angles of attack. The aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility and potential benefits of an "extended" conservative variant of the "standard" endoscopic transorbital approach-termed "open-door"-to enhance the exposure of lesions affecting the paramedian aspect of the anterior and middle cranial fossae.

The Course of the Trochlear Nerve Presented via a 3-Dimensional Photorealistic Anatomic Model.

Objectives: Several factors contribute to the anatomical complexity of the trochlear nerve, including small diameter, complex and longest intracranial course, deep location, and numerous neurovascular relationships. A 3-dimensional (3D) photorealistic model of the cranial nerves provides a detailed and immersive representation of the anatomy, enabling one to improve surgical planning, advanced surgical research, and training. The purpose of this work is to present a 3D photogrammetric study for a more intuitive and interactive way to explore and describe the entire course of trochlear nerve.

The Microsurgical Translaminar Approach: A Technical Note.

Lumbar disc herniation (LDH) is a very common cause of low back pain and unilateral radiculopathy. This pathology is traditionally approached via interlaminotomy with variable amounts of bony extensions, such as partial or total facetectomy and disturbance of soft tissue structures. However, the extensive bone removal may be the cause of spinal instability, thus necessitating lumbar fusion procedures in the longer-term perspective.

Intraoperative Videogrammetry and Photogrammetry for Photorealistic Neurosurgical 3-Dimensional Models Generated Using Operative Microscope: Technical Note.

Background And Objectives: Intraoperative orientation during microsurgery has a prolonged learning curve among neurosurgical residents. Three-dimensional (3D) understanding of anatomy can be facilitated with realistic 3D anatomic models created from photogrammetry, where a series of 2-dimensional images is converted into a 3D model. This study implements an algorithm that can create photorealistic intraoperative 3D models to exemplify important steps of the operation, operative corridors, and surgical perspectives.

Inhibition of CD40L with Frexalimab in Multiple Sclerosis.

Background: The CD40-CD40L costimulatory pathway regulates adaptive and innate immune responses and has been implicated in the pathogenesis of multiple sclerosis. Frexalimab is a second-generation anti-CD40L monoclonal antibody being evaluated for the treatment of multiple sclerosis.

Methods: In this phase 2, double-blind, randomized trial, we assigned, in a 4:4:1:1 ratio, participants with relapsing multiple sclerosis to receive 1200 mg of frexalimab administered intravenously every 4 weeks (with an 1800-mg loading dose), 300 mg of frexalimab administered subcutaneously every 2 weeks (with a 600-mg loading dose), or the matching placebos for each active treatment.

The Sellar Region as Seen from Transcranial and Endonasal Perspectives: Exploring Bony Landmarks Through New Surface Photorealistic Three-Dimensional Model Reconstruction for Neurosurgical Anatomy Training.

Background: Virtual reality-based learning of neuroanatomy is a new feasible method to explore, visualize, and dissect interactively complex anatomic regions. We provide a new interactive photorealistic three-dimensional (3D) model of sellar region microsurgical anatomy that allows side-by-side views of exocranial and endocranial surfaces to be explored, with the aim of assisting young neurosurgery residents in learning microsurgical anatomy of this complex region.

Methods: Four head specimens underwent an endoscopic endonasal approach extended to the anterior and posterior skull base to expose the main bony anatomic landmarks of the sellar region.

How I do it: cervical hemangioblastoma resection. Surgical technique and complication avoidance.

Background: Spinal cord hemangioblastomas are benign, highly vascular neoplasms that affect the brain and, rarely, the spinal cord. They can be solitary or as part of von Hippel-Lindau syndrome. Radiosurgery is not a suitable treatment option.

Photogrammetry Applied to Neurosurgery: A Literature Review.

Photogrammetry refers to the process of creating 3D models and taking measurements through the use of photographs. Photogrammetry has many applications in neurosurgery, such as creating 3D anatomical models and diagnosing and evaluating head shape and posture deformities. This review aims to summarize the uses of the technique in the neurosurgical practice and showcase the systems and software required for its implementation.

Infections of cardiac implantable electronic devices: Epidemiology, mechanisms, and preventive measures.

Cardiac implantable electronic device (CIED) infections represent a complication associated with high morbidity and mortality. Despite enormous efforts to prevent them, the rates of infections continue to rise out of proportion to the reported increase in CIED implantation rates. Following extensive research of various prevention strategies and new technologies, several organizations have issued recommendations and consensus papers covering this topic.

Simplified Easy-Accessible Smartphone-Based Photogrammetry for 3-Dimensional Anatomy Presentation Exemplified With a Photorealistic Cadaver-Based Model of the Intracranial and Extracranial Course of the Facial Nerve.

Background And Objectives: Smartphone-based photogrammetry (SMPhP) was recently presented as a practical and simple algorithm to create photorealistic 3-dimensional (3D) models that benefit from volumetric presentation of real anatomic dissections. Subsequently, there is a need to adapt the techniques for realistic depiction of layered anatomic structures, such as the course of cranial nerves and deep intracranial structures; the feasibility must be tested empirically. This study sought to adapt and test the technique for visualization of the combined intracranial and extracranial course of the facial nerve's complex anatomy and analyze feasibility and limitations.

Photorealistic 3-Dimensional Models of the Anatomy and Neurosurgical Approaches to the V2, V3, and V4 Segments of the Vertebral Artery.

Background: The vertebral artery (VA) has a tortuous course subdivided into 4 segments (V1-V4). For neurosurgeons, a thorough knowledge of the 3-dimensional (3D) anatomy at different segments is a prerequisite for safe surgery. New technologies allowing creation of photorealistic 3D models may enhance the anatomic understanding of this complex region.

Proposing national diagnostic reference levels for electrophysiology studies and catheter ablation procedures in Bulgaria.

Introduction: The implementation of diagnostic reference levels (DRLs) is an essential tool for optimisation of the routine practice, better management of patient exposure while maintaining sufficient image quality. National DRLs for electrophysiology (EP) procedures are not available in our country.

Purpose: The main purpose of the study was to propose, for first time in Bulgaria, national DRLs (NDRLs) for EP studies and ablation procedures of two different levels of complexity.

Alteration of Mesenchymal Stem Cells Isolated from Glioblastoma Multiforme under the Influence of Photodynamic Treatment.

The central hypothesis for the development of glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) postulates that the tumor begins its development by transforming neural stem cells into cancer stem cells (CSC). Recently, it has become clear that another kind of stem cell, the mesenchymal stem cell (MSC), plays a role in the tumor stroma. Mesenchymal stem cells, along with their typical markers, can express neural markers and are capable of neural transdifferentiation.

Three-Dimensional Printing in Neurosurgery: A Review of Current Indications and Applications and a Basic Methodology for Creating a Three-Dimensional Printed Model for the Neurosurgical Practice.

Introduction Three-dimensional (3D) printing is an affordable aid that is useful in neurosurgery. It allows for better visualization and tactile appreciation of the individual anatomy and regions of interest and therefore potentially lowers the risk of complications. There are various applications of this technology in the field of neurosurgery.

Three-Dimensional Immersive Photorealistic Layered Dissection of Superficial and Deep Back Muscles: Anatomical Study.

Introduction The distinct anatomy of the superficial and deep back muscles is characterized by complex layered courses, fascial planes, specific vascularization, and innervation. Knowledge of these anatomical parameters is important for some surgical approaches, including lumbar disc herniation, cerebrospinal fluid fistula repair, vascularized muscle pedicle flaps, and posterior fossa extra-intracranial bypass. In the present study, we use modern techniques of three-dimensional (3D) surface scanning to help better illustrate the layered anatomy of the back muscles.

Contrast-induced neurotoxicity presented as transient cortical blindness after stent-assisted coiling of a medium-sized unruptured basilar artery aneurysm: A case report and review of the literature.

Background: Contrast-induced neurotoxicity is a rare event after endovascular diagnostic procedures or interventions and presents as transient neurological deficit. Herewith, we present a case of reversible complete cortical blindness after uneventful stent-assisted coiling of a medium-sized unruptured basilar artery aneurysm.

Case Description: A 70-year-old woman with a medium-sized 10 mm/6 mm wide neck basilar tip aneurysm was planned for endovascular obliteration of the lesion.

A rare case of carotid body tumor associated with near complete cerebral sinus thrombosis and idiopathic intracranial hypertension. Management strategy and review of the literature.

Background: Carotid body tumors (CBTs) are rare hypervascular lesions with critical location which makes them very challenging to treat. In rare occasions, compression of the jugular vein from the tumor mass could predispose to progressive thrombosis of intracranial venous sinuses. The latter consequently leads to intracranial hypertension (pseudotumor cerebri) with the accompanying danger to the vision.