Novel concepts in the pathogenesis of hydrocephalus.

PURPOSE: Hydrocephalus is a multifactorial neurological disorder and one of the most common neurosurgical conditions characterized by excessive cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) accumulation within the brain's ventricles. It can result in dilatation of the ventricular system caused by the inadequate passage of CSF from its point of production within the ventricles to its point of absorption into the systemic circulation. Recent findings on the genetics and molecular studies of hydrocephalus have the potential to improve treatment and quality of life. METHODS: Review of literature on the novel studies of the pathogenesis of hydrocephalus. CONCLUSION: Molecular studies on the pathogenesis of hydrocephalus have provided a means to improve the treatment and follow-up of patients with hydrocephalus.

Advances in Intraoperative Flow Cytometry.

Flow cytometry is the gold-standard laser-based technique to measure and analyze fluorescence levels of immunostaining and DNA content in individual cells. It provides a valuable tool to assess cells in the G0/G1, S, and G2/M phases, and those with polyploidy, which holds prognostic significance. Frozen section analysis is the standard intraoperative assessment for tumor margin evaluation and tumor resection. Here, we present flow cytometry as a promising technique for intraoperative tumor analysis in different pathologies, including brain tumors, leptomeningeal dissemination, breast cancer, head and neck cancer, pancreatic tumor, and hepatic cancer. Flow cytometry is a valuable tool that can provide substantial information on tumor analysis and, consequently, maximize cancer treatment and expedite patients' survival.

Near-Complete Remission of Glioblastoma in a Patient Treated with an Allogenic Dendritic Cell-Based Vaccine: The Role of Tumor-Specific CD4+T-Cell Cytokine Secretion Pattern in Predicting Response and Recurrence.

Immunotherapy has brought hope to the fight against glioblastoma, but its efficacy remains unclear. We present the case of CST, a 25-year-old female patient with a large right-hemisphere glioblastoma treated with a dendritic-tumor cell fusion vaccine. CST showed a near-complete tumor response, with a marked improvement in her functional status and simultaneous increases in tumor-specific CD8+ and CD4+ T cells. Two months before recurrence, the frequency of tumor-specific T cells decreased, while that of IL-17 and CD4+ T cells increased. CST passed away 15 months after enrollment. In this illustrative case, the tumor-specific CD4+ T-cell numbers and phenotype behaved as treatment efficacy biomarkers, highlighting the key role of the latter in glioblastoma immunotherapy.

Variation of the slope of the tentorium during childhood.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Neural structures in the posterior fossa grow at different rates during development. While there are computationally intensive approaches to analyze growth of the cerebellum and brainstem, there is a paucity of information about summary measures of normal posterior fossa development suitable for real-time clinical use. The present study investigates changes in the trajectory of the tentorium as measured by the occipital and tentorial angles at different stages of development. METHODS: A retrospective study was conducted drawing from a Boston Children's Hospital database of over 1500 magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) studies. The imaging study population included fetuses older than 20 gestational weeks and children between the ages of 0 and 10 years. Two parameters were measured for all subjects: (1) the tentorial angle (the angle between the tentorium and a line from the internal occipital protuberance to the tuberculum sellae) and (2) the occipital angle (the angle between the tentorium and a line from the internal occipital protuberance to the opisthion). Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the study cohort. RESULTS: We reviewed 1510 brain MRI studies, and 367 studies met the inclusion criteria (125 fetal and 242 postnatal studies). During fetal development, the inclination of the tentorium showed an ascending course, while it plateaus after birth. CONCLUSIONS: During the second and third trimesters, the tentorial and occipital angles steadily increase reflecting the dynamic growth of the posterior fossa structures. Postnatally, the tentorial angle decreases and the tentorium slopes downward and plateaus, possibly due to stabilization of posterior fossa development and ongoing growth of the cerebrum. Together, these findings suggest that the tentorial angle can serve as an imaging biomarker of posterior fossa development during the second half of fetal life.

The role of simulation in neurosurgery.

PURPOSE: In an era of residency duty-hour restrictions, there has been a recent effort to implement simulation-based training methods in neurosurgery teaching institutions. Several surgical simulators have been developed, ranging from physical models to sophisticated virtual reality systems. To date, there is a paucity of information describing the clinical benefits of existing simulators and the assessment strategies to help implement them into neurosurgical curricula. Here, we present a systematic review of the current models of simulation and discuss the state-of-the-art and future directions for simulation in neurosurgery. METHODS: Retrospective literature review. RESULTS: Multiple simulators have been developed for neurosurgical training, including those for minimally invasive procedures, vascular, skull base, pediatric, tumor resection, functional neurosurgery, and spine surgery. The pros and cons of existing systems are reviewed. CONCLUSION: Advances in imaging and computer technology have led to the development of different simulation models to complement traditional surgical training. Sophisticated virtual reality (VR) simulators with haptic feedback and impressive imaging technology have provided novel options for training in neurosurgery. Breakthrough training simulation using 3D printing technology holds promise for future simulation practice, proving high-fidelity patient-specific models to complement residency surgical learning.

Toll Like Receptor 2, 4, and 9 Signaling Promotes Autoregulative Tumor Cell Growth and VEGF/PDGF Expression in Human Pancreatic Cancer.

Toll like receptor (TLR) signaling has been suggested to play an important role in the inflammatory microenvironment of solid tumors and through this inflammation-mediated tumor growth. Here, we studied the role of tumor cells in their process of self-maintaining TLR expression independent of inflammatory cells and cytokine milieu for autoregulative tumor growth signaling in pancreatic cancer. We analyzed the expression of TLR2, -4, and -9 in primary human cancers and their impact on tumor growth via induced activation in several established pancreatic cancers. TLR-stimulated pancreatic cancer cells were specifically investigated for activated signaling pathways of VEGF/PDGF and anti-apoptotic Bcl-xL expression as well as tumor cell growth. The primary pancreatic cancers and cell lines expressed TLR2, -4, and -9. TLR-specific stimulation resulted in activated MAP-kinase signaling, most likely via autoregulative stimulation of demonstrated TLR-induced VEGF and PDGF expression. Moreover, TLR activation prompted the expression of Bcl-xL and has been demonstrated for the first time to induce tumor cell proliferation in pancreatic cancer. These findings strongly suggest that pancreatic cancer cells use specific Toll like receptor signaling to promote tumor cell proliferation and emphasize the particular role of TLR2, -4, and -9 in this autoregulative process of tumor cell activation and proliferation in pancreatic cancer.

Eccentric neurosurgical virtuoso: the life and times of William Sharpe.

William Sharpe was an intriguing figure in the history of American neurosurgery. He was an extraordinarily bright and gifted man who led a flamboyant, colorful, and unconventional life. He had an international impact on the field of neurosurgery during the first half of the 20th century, yet few practicing neurosurgeons know his name. In this report, the authors discuss Sharpe's contributions to neurosurgery along with the remarkable quirkiness that came to define his professional and personal life.

Stereotactic radiosurgery for idiopathic glossopharyngeal neuralgia: A systematic review.

Background: Stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) has recently gained space as an accepted non-invasive alternative treatment option for drug resistant Glossopharyngeal neuralgia (GPN). The purpose of this systematic review was to provide an overview of the outcomes of SRS treatment in patients with GPN. Methods: A literature review until March 2023 was performed. Data about patient's demographics, complications and recurrence rates, additional treatment post procedure as well as pain outcomes in the short and long term were collected. Studies without reported pain outcomes were excluded. Results: Sixteen studies with a total of 97 patients diagnosed with GPN who had undergone SRS were identified. The mean reported maximal radiation dose ranged from 70 to 88.7 Gy with the glossopharyngeal meatus (GPM) being the most common target in 12/16 studies. The median time from SRS till pain response was between 2 and 120 days. The mean proportion of patients requiring further treatment after SRS ranged from 11.1 to 57.14% in a time frame between 2 and 36 months post procedure. Favourable pain response rates after SRS (BNI-IIIb) ranged from 60% to 100% and 57.1%-100% in short and long term respectively. Conclusion: SRS for GPN remains a safe alternative to surgery with low complication rates and favourable pain outcomes in both short and long term.

Endoscope-Assisted Microsurgical Subtemporal Keyhole Approach to the Posterolateral Suprasellar Region and Basal Cisterns.

BACKGROUND: Refinements in optics and instrumentation have enabled surgeons to approach deep-seated intracranial diseases with reduced exposure and brain retraction. The anterior subtemporal keyhole approach is a minimally invasive route to the posterolateral aspect of the suprasellar area and petroclival region. OBJECTIVE: In this cadaveric study, we show the benefits of endoscope-assisted microsurgical techniques in the anterior subtemporal keyhole approach. METHODS: The anterior subtemporal keyhole approach was performed bilaterally on 5 formalin-fixed human specimens using standard microneurosurgical methods. Dissections compared the exposure afforded by the microsurgical route with the endoscope-assisted technique, using 0° and 30° angled rod-lenses. Anatomic relationships among the surgical target and the surrounding neurovascular structures were described. RESULTS: Endoscope-assisted maneuvers enhanced the operative view afforded by the microscope and helped to minimize parenchymal retraction and neurovascular injury. Endoscope-assisted microsurgery provides a panoramic picture of the surgical target and its surroundings. It enables the operator to see into hidden corners beyond the microsurgical view. The endoscope provides enhanced visualization of the neurovascular structures located in the posterolateral suprasellar region, basal cisterns, upper clivus and midclivus, and interpeduncular region. CONCLUSIONS: Endoscope-assisted microsurgery provides a means to approach selected lesions located in the posterolateral suprasellar region, perimesencephalic cisterns, and upper clivus and midclivus. The operative view can be maximized by introducing the 0° and 30° angled endoscopes. Minimally invasive techniques help to optimize surgical exposure and lessen parenchymal retraction, thus improving control of the surrounding neurovascular structures.

Creation of a novel simulator for minimally invasive neurosurgery: fusion of 3D printing and special effects.

OBJECTIVE Recent advances in optics and miniaturization have enabled the development of a growing number of minimally invasive procedures, yet innovative training methods for the use of these techniques remain lacking. Conventional teaching models, including cadavers and physical trainers as well as virtual reality platforms, are often expensive and ineffective. Newly developed 3D printing technologies can recreate patient-specific anatomy, but the stiffness of the materials limits fidelity to real-life surgical situations. Hollywood special effects techniques can create ultrarealistic features, including lifelike tactile properties, to enhance accuracy and effectiveness of the surgical models. The authors created a highly realistic model of a pediatric patient with hydrocephalus via a unique combination of 3D printing and special effects techniques and validated the use of this model in training neurosurgery fellows and residents to perform endoscopic third ventriculostomy (ETV), an effective minimally invasive method increasingly used in treating hydrocephalus. METHODS A full-scale reproduction of the head of a 14-year-old adolescent patient with hydrocephalus, including external physical details and internal neuroanatomy, was developed via a unique collaboration of neurosurgeons, simulation engineers, and a group of special effects experts. The model contains "plug-and-play" replaceable components for repetitive practice. The appearance of the training model (face validity) and the reproducibility of the ETV training procedure (content validity) were assessed by neurosurgery fellows and residents of different experience levels based on a 14-item Likert-like questionnaire. The usefulness of the training model for evaluating the performance of the trainees at different levels of experience (construct validity) was measured by blinded observers using the Objective Structured Assessment of Technical Skills (OSATS) scale for the performance of ETV. RESULTS A combination of 3D printing technology and casting processes led to the creation of realistic surgical models that include high-fidelity reproductions of the anatomical features of hydrocephalus and allow for the performance of ETV for training purposes. The models reproduced the pulsations of the basilar artery, ventricles, and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), thus simulating the experience of performing ETV on an actual patient. The results of the 14-item questionnaire showed limited variability among participants' scores, and the neurosurgery fellows and residents gave the models consistently high ratings for face and content validity. The mean score for the content validity questions (4.88) was higher than the mean score for face validity (4.69) (p = 0.03). On construct validity scores, the blinded observers rated performance of fellows significantly higher than that of residents, indicating that the model provided a means to distinguish between novice and expert surgical skills. CONCLUSIONS A plug-and-play lifelike ETV training model was developed through a combination of 3D printing and special effects techniques, providing both anatomical and haptic accuracy. Such simulators offer opportunities to accelerate the development of expertise with respect to new and novel procedures as well as iterate new surgical approaches and innovations, thus allowing novice neurosurgeons to gain valuable experience in surgical techniques without exposing patients to risk of harm.

Clinical Significance of Disseminated Pluripotent Tumor Cell Signature Expression in the Bone Marrow from Patients with Colorectal Cancer.

PURPOSE: Disseminated tumor cells (DTCs) are critically involved in tumor relapse and survival in several invasive tumors. We previously showed that the ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporter, ABCB5, is a chemoresistance mediator expressed on specific cell subsets in colorectal cancer (CRC) and other malignancies. This study evaluated the molecular signature expression and its clinical relevance of DTCs in bone marrow from patients with colon cancer. METHODS: This study included 49 consecutive patients (UICC stage I-IV) that underwent curatively intended or palliative surgery for CRC. We analyzed cells from bone marrow aspirates obtained before surgery and derived from patients that had completed minimally a 5-year follow-up. The gene expression of ABCB5 in comparison to CD133 (molecule for identifying cancer initiating cells), Lgr5 (an intestinal stem cell marker) as well as Cytokeratin (CK) 20 (terminally differentiated tumor cells of epithelial origin) in these cells was evaluated. RESULTS: Bone marrow analysis showed differential expression between the analyzed genes. ABCB5 and Lgr5 and to lesser extent CD133 and CK20 genes were significantly expressed in the analyzed cells from bone marrow aspirates while only ABCB5 and Lgr5 were significantly negative associated with tumor progress and overall survival. CONCLUSION: Overexpression of ABCB5 and Lgr5 in bone marrow negatively influenced patient survival pointing to a specific chemo resistant and pluripotent cell subgroup of DTCs in the bone marrow. ABCB5 like Lgr5 positive cells seem to be involved in limited tumor related patient survival, suggesting that ABCB5- and Lgr5-positive cells may be relevant for specific clinical intervention strategies.

Upregulated Heat Shock Proteins After Hyperthermic Chemotherapy Point to Induced Cell Survival Mechanisms in Affected Tumor Cells From Peritoneal Carcinomatosis.

In patients with peritoneal carcinomatosis cytoreductive surgery combined with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) represents a promising treatment strategy. Here, we studied the role of hyperthermic chemotherapy on heat shock protein (HSP) expression and induction of tumor cell death and survival. HSP27, HSP70, and HSP90 combined with effects on tumor cell proliferation and chemosensitivity were analyzed in human colon cancer. Hyperthermic chemotherapy resulted in significant HSP27/HSP70 and HSP90 gene/protein overexpression in analyzed HT-29/SW480/SW620 colon cancer cells and peritoneal metastases from patients displaying amplified expression of proliferation markers, proliferating cell nuclear antigen and antiapoptotic protein Bcl-xL. Moreover, functionally increased chemoresistance against 5-fluorouracil/mitomycin C and oxaliplatin after hyperthermic chemotherapy points to induced survival mechanisms in cancer cells. In conclusion, the results indicate that intracellular HSP-associated antiapoptotic and proliferative effects after hyperthermic chemotherapy negatively influence beneficial effects of hyperthermic chemotherapy-induced cell death. Therefore, blocking HSPs could be a promising strategy to further improve the rate of tumor cell death and outcome of patients undergoing HIPEC therapy.

Endoscope-Assisted Microsurgical Approach to the Posterior and Posterolateral Incisural Space.

OBJECTIVE: Despite recent technological advances, direct approaches to the posterolateral incisural space remain surgical challenges. The choice of the operative route depends on the exact location and extent of the target lesion as well as individual preferences. The extreme lateral infratentorial supracerebellar approach to treat pathologies located in the ambient cistern and posterior incisural space is a technically feasible route in selected cases. In this cadaveric study, we demonstrate the benefits of endoscope-assisted microsurgical maneuvers using the extreme lateral supracerebellar infratentorial approach. METHODS: An endoscope-assisted infratentorial supracerebellar approach was performed in six formalin-fixed cadaveric heads using standard microneurosurgical methods. Dissections were performed in a stepwise fashion, comparing the exposure afforded by the microsurgical route alone to the endoscope-assisted route, using 0- and 30-degree angled lenses. Relationships among the target and the surroundings neurovascular structures were described. RESULTS: Endoscope-assisted maneuvers for the extreme lateral supracerebellar approach provide an improved operative view and have the potential to reduce parenchymal trauma and neurovascular injuries. The endoscopic techniques bring the surgeon to the anatomy, enhancing illumination and surgical visualization. CONCLUSIONS: Direct visualization of the posterior and posterolateral incisural space avoids retraction of the occipital lobe and damage to the deep venous complex. The extreme lateral infratentorial supracerebellar corridor is effective for approaching the posterolateral mesencephalic junction and the posterior incisural space in selected cases. Endoscope-assisted microsurgery can improve visualization and minimize parenchymal retraction, which should enhance surgical control.

Unsung hero: Donald Darrow Matson's legacy in pediatric neurosurgery.

Donald Darrow Matson made seminal contributions to the field of pediatric neurosurgery. Born in 1913 in Fort Hamilton, New York, Matson was the youngest of four sons of an army colonel. He graduated from Cornell University and, years later, from Harvard Medical School. Matson selected Peter Bent Brigham Hospital for his neurosurgical training, which was interrupted during World War II. As a neurosurgeon, he worked close to the front lines under Brigadier General Elliot Cutler in Europe, earning a Bronze Star. Matson returned to Boston to become Franc Ingraham's fellow and partner. He was a masterful surgeon and, with Ingraham, published Neurosurgery of Infancy and Childhood in 1954, the first pediatric neurosurgery textbook in the world. Upon Ingraham's retirement, Matson became chairman of the department of neurosurgery at Boston Children's Hospital and Peter Bent Brigham. In 1968, he became the inaugural Franc D. Ingraham Professor of Neurological Surgery at Harvard Medical School. Among his neurosurgical accomplishments, Matson served as President of the Harvey Cushing Society, later known as the American Association of Neurological Surgeons. He was unable to preside at the 1969 meeting that marked the 100th anniversary of Cushing's birth, having contracted Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease. Matson died at the age of 55, surviving his mentor Ingraham by only 4 years.

Complications of the anterior approach to the cervical spine / Complicações do acesso anterior à coluna cervical / Complicaciones de acceso a la columna cervical anterior

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the complications of anterior approach to the cervical spine in patients who underwent cervical arthrodesis with instrumentation. METHODS: Prospective and descriptive study was conducted from January 2009 to April 2010. All patients who underwent arthrodesis of the cervical spine by anterior approach were included, regardless the diagnosis. Access was made by the anterior approach on the right side. We evaluated the number of operated levels (1, 2 or 3 levels) and, the type of procedure performed: discectomy and placement of cage and plate (D+C+P), discectomy with placement of a cage (D+C) or corpectomy with placement of cage and plate (C+C+P). All complications related to surgical approach were reported. RESULTS: We studied 34 patients, 70% male. The average age was 50 years and mean follow-up was 8 months. Eighteen percent of patients had complications, distributed as follows: dysphasia (33%) and dysphonic (67%). Among patients who developed complications, most underwent to D+C+P (83%) and no complications were found in patients where no cervical plate was used. Regarding levels, both complications were identified in patients operated to one or two levels. However, in patients operated on three levels, only dysphonia was identified. CONCLUSION: The most frequent complication was dysphonia. Patients who presented more complications were those undergoing discectomy and fusion with cage and anterior cervical plate. All cases of dysphonia were in this group. The number of accessible levels does not seem to have affected the incidence of complications. .

OBJETIVO: Avaliar as complicações do acesso anterior à coluna cervical em pacientes submetidos à artrodese cervical com instrumentação. MÉTODOS: Estudo prospectivo e descritivo realizado no período de janeiro/2009 a abril/2010. Todos os pacientes submetidos à artrodese de coluna cervical por via anterior foram incluídos no estudo, independentemente do diagnóstico. O acesso foi realizado pela via anterior no lado direito. Foi avaliado o número de níveis operados (1, 2 ou 3 níveis) e o tipo de procedimento realizado: discectomia com colocação de cage e placa (D+C+P), discectomia com colocação de cage (D+C) ou corpectomia com colocação de cage e placa (C+C+P). Todas as complicações relacionadas ao acesso cirúrgico foram relatadas. RESULTADOS: Foram estudados 34 pacientes, sendo 70% do sexo masculino. A média de idade foi de 50 anos e o tempo de seguimento médio foi de oito meses. Dezoito por cento dos pacientes apresentaram complicações assim distribuídas: disfagia (33%) e disfonia (67%). Dentre os pacientes que evoluíram com complicações, a maioria foi submetida à realização de D+C+P (83%) e nenhuma complicação foi encontrada nos pacientes nos quais não foram colocadas placas cervicais. Com relação aos níveis, ambas as complicações foram identificadas nos pacientes operados em um ou dois níveis. Já nos operados em três níveis, somente a disfonia foi identificada. CONCLUSÃO: A complicação mais encontrada foi a disfonia. Os pacientes que mais apresentaram complicações foram os submetidos à discectomia e artrodese com cage e placa cervical anterior. Todos os casos de disfonia estavam neste grupo. O número de níveis acessados não parece ter interferido na ...

OBJETIVO: Evaluar las complicaciones del acceso anterior a la columna cervical en pacientes sometidos a artrodesis cervical con instrumentación. MÉTODOS: Estudio prospectivo y descriptivo realizado en el período de Enero/2009 hasta Abril/2010. Todos los pacientes sometidos a artrodesis de la columna cervical por vía anterior fueron incluidos en el estudio, independientemente del diagnóstico. El acceso fue realizado por vía anterior, por el lado derecho. Fueron evaluados el número de niveles operados (1, 2 o 3 niveles) y el tipo de procedimiento realizado: discectomía con colocación de cage y placa (D+C+P), discectomía con colocación de cage (D+C), o corpectomía con colocación de cage y placa (C+C+P). Se informaron todas las complicaciones relacionadas con el acceso quirúrgico. RESULTADOS: Fueron estudiados 34 pacientes, siendo 70% del sexo masculino. El promedio de edad fue de 50 años y el tiempo promedio de seguimiento fue de ocho meses. Dieciocho por ciento de los pacientes tuvieron complicaciones distribuidas de la siguiente manera: disfagia (33%) y disfonía (67%). De los paciente que desarrollaron complicaciones, la mayoría fue sometida a la realización de D+C+P (83%) y ninguna complicación fue relacionada con las técnicas que no utilizaron placas cervicales. Con relación a los niveles, las dos complicaciones fueron identificadas en los pacientes operados en uno o dos niveles. Sin embargo, en los operados en três niveles, sólo fue identificada la disfonía. CONCLUSIÓN: La complicación más frecuente fue la disfonía. Los pacientes que más presentaron complicaciones fueron aquellos sometidos a discectomía y artrodesis con cage y placa cervical anterior. Todos los casos de disfonía estaban en este grupo. El número de niveles operados no parece haber afectado a la incidencia ...

Estudo epidemiológico das fraturas de coluna em centro de referência para patologia espinhal no Paraná / Epidemiological study of spine fractures at a referral center for spinal disease in Parana

Objetivo: Realizar um estudo epidemiológico das fraturas de coluna ocorridas no período de março de 2007 até dezembro de 2011 em um centro de referência para patologia espinhal. Métodos: Análise retrospectiva dos prontuários de pacientes submetidos a tratamento neurocirúrgico para artrodese da coluna vertebral por causa de patologia traumática, realizada de março de 2007 até dezembro de 2011. Os dados foram compilados a partir do setor de arquivo médico do Hospital Universitário Evangélico de Curitiba (HUEC). Os elementos encontrados foram analisados observando-se as variáveis idades, sexo, o nível e a vértebra mais acometida. Resultados: Dos 104 pacientes submetidos a tratamento neurocirúrgico visando à artrodese por causa de fratura de coluna, houve uma predominância considerável do sexo masculino, com 73,07% (76). A média de idade na data do procedimento cirúrgico foi de 38,08 anos. A idade mínima registrada foi de12 anos e a máxima, de 73 anos. Houve predomínio das fraturas em coluna lombar de 59,61% (62) dos casos. O corpo de L1 foi mais acometido (30,76%). Conclusão: Há escassez de trabalhos epidemiológicos no que se refere à patologia traumática da coluna vertebral. A falta de dados em nosso país dificulta a elaboração de medidas preventivas que respeitem as características regionais, vislumbrando um melhor manejo dessa patologia que atinge, em sua maior parte, a população economicamente ativa, gerando prejuízos crescentes ao sistema de saúde.

Objective: To conduct an epidemiological study of spine fractures in the period from March 2007 until December 2011 in a referral center for spinal pathology. Methods: Retrospective analysis of patients undergoing neurosurgical treatment for arthrodesis of the spine due to traumatic pathology, held from March 2007 until December 2011. Data were compiled from the medical file of the sector Evangelical Hospital of Curitiba (HUEC). The items found were analyzed observing the variables age, sex, level and most affected vertebra. Results: Of 104 patients who underwent neurosurgical intervention aimed arthrodesis due spine fracture, there was a significant predominance in males, with 73.07% (76). The mean age at the time of surgery was 38.08 years. The minimum age recorded was 12 years and maximum 73 years. There was a predominance of fractures in the lumbar spine 59.61% (62) of cases. L1 body was the most affected (30.76%). Conclusion: There is a shortage of epidemiological studies in relation to the pathology of traumatic spinal cord. The lack of data in our country hampers the development of preventive measures that respect the regional characteristics, envisioning a better management of this disease that affects, for the most part, economically active population causing increasing damage to the health system.

Traumatismo raquimedular por ferimento de projétil de arma de fogo: avaliação epidemiológica / Traumatismo raquimedular por herida de un proyectil de arma de fuego: la evaluación epidemiológica / Spinal cord trauma by a firearm projectile: epidemiological assessment

OBJETIVO: Avaliar a incidência de trauma raquimedular causado por projétil de arma de fogo nos pacientes atendidos no pronto socorro de um hospital de Curitiba (PR). MÉTODOS: Estudo retrospectivo, realizado no período de fevereiro de 2005 a julho de 2008, incluindo todos os pacientes, vitimas de lesão na coluna vertebral causada por projétil de arma de fogo (n = 54). RESULTADOS: A grande maioria dos pacientes acometidos é do sexo masculino e em idade produtiva, com média de 27,18 anos. O segmento mais afetado foi a coluna torácica, com ferimentos transfixantes e lesão ASIA A (lesão completa). A maioria dos casos foi tratada de forma conservadora. O período da semana em que houve maior incidência foi o fim e semana, com predomínio do sábado e da sexta-feira. O motivo mais comum foi assalto. CONCLUSÃO: São lesões com alto impacto no custo de saúde pública e de previdência, uma vez que são lesões de alta taxa de morbidade e acometimento predominante de pessoas em faixa etária produtiva.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the incidence of spinal cord injury caused by firearm projectile in patients admitted to the emergency room of a hospital in Curitiba (PR). METHODS: This retrospective study from February 2005 to July 2008 including all victims of spinal injury caused by firearm projectile (n=54). The data were analyzed descriptively. RESULTS: The vast majority of patients are male and of working age, with an average of 27.18 years. The thoracic spine was the most affected segment, with transfixing injury and ASIA A (complete lesion). Most cases were treated conservatively. The period of the week where there was a higher incidence was the weekend, mostly on Saturday and Friday. The most common reason was armed robbery. CONCLUSION: These are lesions with a high impact on the cost of public health and social security, as are injuries that result in high morbidity and involve predominantly people in the productive age group.

OBJETIVO: Evaluar la incidencia del traumatismo raquimedular causado por proyectil de arma de fuego en pacientes atendidos en la sala de emergencias de un hospital en Curitiba (Paraná). MÉTODOS: Estudio retrospectivo, realizado en el período de febrero 2005 a julio de 2008, incluyendo a todos los pacientes víctimas de lesión medular en la columna vertebral causada por un proyectil de arma de fuego (n = 54 pacientes). RESULTADOS: La gran mayoría de los pacientes son varones y en edad de trabajar, con un promedio de 27,18 años. El sector más afectado ha sido la columna torácica, con heridas transfixiantes y ASIA A (lesión medular completa). La mayoría de los casos fue tratada de forma conservadora. El período de la semana, donde había una mayor incidencia fue el fin de semana, con predominio del sábado y el viernes. La razón más frecuente fue por asalto. CONCLUSIÓN: Se trata de lesiones con un alto impacto en el costo de la salud pública y la Seguridad Social, considerando que son lesiones con una alta tasa de morbilidad y afectan predominante a personas en el grupo de edad productiva.

Gliomas multiplos: relato de caso e revisão de literatura / Multiples gliomas: case report and literature review

A melhoria no diagnóstico por imagem, aumento da expectativa de vida e métodos diagnósticos menos invasivos como a biópsia estereotática tornaram possíveis um maior número de diagnósticos definitivo de lesões múltiplas cerebrais. Acreditase que o número crescente de gliomas múltiplos (GsMs) registrados seja decorrente de uma melhor investigação diagnóstica ao invés de um aumento no seu número absoluto por qualquer outro motivo. Diagnósticos presuntivos muito utilizados em relação a lesões múltiplas cerebrais em um passado recente,não encontram mais lugar na neurocirurgia atual. A descrição deste caso, bem como a revisão literária, objetiva ao neurocirurgião ter em mente o diagnóstico de GsMs, pois, apresentam características clínicas e radiológicas semelhantes a patologias benignas de excelente prognóstico bem como lesões expansivas também de prognóstico reservado, mas que exigem manejo diferente por parte do médico assistente.

IMMUNOHISTOCHEMICAL EXPRESSION OF CYCLIN D1 AND c-MYC PROTEINS IN INTRACRANIAL MENINGIOMA / EXPRESSÃO IMUNOISTOQUÍMICA DAS PROTEÍNAS CICLINA D1 E c-MYC EM MENINGIOMAS INTRACRANIANOS

Background: Intracranial meningioma is the most frequent tumor of the central nervous system and immunohistochemical markers are important to aid in targeted therapy and prognosis. Objective: To evaluate the expression of cyclin D1 and c-MYC markers in intracranial meningiomas and to correlate it with the aggressiveness and recurrence of these tumors. Method: Retrospective, observational, cross-sectional study using data from the medical records of patients diagnosed with intracranial meningioma who were hospitalized and underwent surgical resection. Epidemiological, clinical and radiological data were collected and recorded. Immunohistochemistry for cyclin D1 and cMYC markers was performed on all samples. The data regarding the histological grade of the tumors were crossed with the result obtained by immunostaining. Results: 51 patients were included (72.5% women and 27.5% men) with a mean age of 53.5 years. Headache was the most common symptom and tumors located at the base of the skull accounted for 53% of cases. Grade I meningiomas were detected in 58.8%, grade II in 29.4% and grade III in 9.8%. Tumor recurrence was observed in two cases (3.9%) and disease-free patients corresponded to 49%. The mean follow-up time was 798 days (13-2267). Cyclin D1 was identified in 100% of meningiomas and the intensity of its expression was weak in 52.4% of grade I lesions, moderate in 50% of grade II tumors and strong in 100% of grade III tumors (p<0.001). c-MYC was identified in 17.7% (4.7% grade I, 66.7% grade II and 100% grade III) and its expression was weak in 50% in grade II and moderate in 100% in grade III (p<0.001). The presence of markers had no statistically significant relationship with patient outcomes. Conclusion: Cyclin D1 was expressed in all samples of meningiomas and the c-MYC was expressed in 18% of cases. The higher the histological grade, the more intense was the expression of the markers. There was no evidence of a relationship between the markers and tumor recurrence.

Racional: Meningioma intracraniano é o tumor mais frequente do sistema nervoso central e marcadores imunoistoquímicos são importantes para auxiliar na terapia alvo e prognóstico. Objetivo: Avaliar a expressão dos marcadores ciclina D1 e c-MYC em meningiomas intracranianos e correlacioná-la com a agressividade e recorrência desses tumores. Método: Estudo retrospectivo, observacional, transversal utilizando dados dos prontuários de pacientes com diagnóstico de meningioma intracraniano que foram internados e submetidos à ressecção cirúrgica. Os dados epidemiológicos, clínicos e radiológicos foram coletados e anotados. Foi realizada imunoistoquímica para os marcadores ciclina D1 e c-MYC em todas as amostras. Os dados referentes ao grau histológico dos tumores foram cruzados com o resultado obtido pela imunomarcação. Resultados: Foram incluídos 51 pacientes (72,5% mulheres e 27,5% homens) com média de 53,5 anos. Cefaleia foi o sintoma mais comum e tumores localizados na base do crânio representaram 53% dos casos. Meningiomas grau I foram detectados em 58,8%, grau II em 29,4% e grau III em 9,8%. Recidiva tumoral foi observada em dois casos (3,9%) e pacientes livres de doença corresponderam a 49%. A média do tempo de seguimento foi de 798 dias (13-2267). A ciclina D1 foi identificada em 100% dos meningiomas e a intensidade de sua expressão foi fraca em 52,4% das lesões grau I, moderada em 50% 2 dos tumores grau II e forte em 100% dos tumores grau III (p<0,001). c-MYC foi identificado em 17,7% (4,7% grau I, 66,7% grau II e 100% grau III) e sua expressão foi fraca em 50% no grau II e moderada em 100% do grau III (p<0,001). A presença dos marcadores não teve relação estatisticamente significativa com o desfecho dos pacientes. Conclusão: A ciclina D1 apresentou expressão em todas as amostras de meningiomas e o marcador cMYC em 18% dos casos. Quanto maior o grau histológico mais intensa foi a expressão dos marcadores. Não se evidenciou relação dos marcadores com a recorrência tumoral.

Schwanoma vestibular de crescimento rápido: relato de caso e revisão de literatura / Fast-growing vestibular schwannoma: a case report

A história natural dos schwanomas vestibulares ainda não é totalmente conhecida, mas a maioria destas lesões tende ao crescimento lento, algumas vezes sem qualquer manifestação clínica durante toda a vida do indivíduo, sendo em ocasiões achado de autópsias. Consideráveis avanços no conhecimento da anatomia da base do crânio, assim como os recursos tecnológicos de eletrofisiologia, como a monitorização intra-operatória têm possibilitado índices crescentes de preservação funcional do nervo facial e da audição. Devido a isso, a ressecção cirúrgica completa da lesão permanece sendo o tratamento de escolha quando possível. No entanto, em casos selecionados, o tratamento conservador é uma opção muito bem aceita, desde que haja um seguimento radiológico estrito. Opções terapêuticas como a radiocirurgia são também válidas e devem sempre ser consideradas no armamentarium neurocirúrgico. Novos estudos com quimioterápicos (bevacizumab) também podem mudar a conduta referente às indicações cirúrgicas. Neste artigo, apresentamos o caso de um paciente sexo feminino, de 35 anos de idade, com schwanoma vestibular à direita, intracanalicular, diagnosticado em 2006 com rápido crescimento volumétrico da lesão verificado em exame de seguimento realizado cinco anos após o diagnóstico inicial. É realizada também uma revisão da literatura mundial, envolvendo os padrões de crescimento do schwanoma vestibular, bem como opções de tratamento e seguimento lesional.