Postoperative dysgeusia following microsurgical resection for acoustic neuroma: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the collated rate of postoperative dysgeusia after microsurgical intervention in acoustic neuroma patients. METHODS: The systematic review with meta-analysis was undertaken following PRISMA guidelines. A thorough search of PubMed/Medline, the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, and Epistemonikos was undertaken for studies published up until May 16, 2024 reporting postoperative taste disturbance rates after microsurgical intervention for acoustic neuroma. The methodological quality of the included studies was assessed via the Methodological Index for Non-Randomized research (MINORS) tool. Using MedCalc (v. 20.215) software, the random-effects model was developed for proportional meta-analysis. RESULTS: Eight studies, encompassing 2,402 patients (mean age = 49.06 years; 48.54% female population), were included in the analysis. The overall pooled rate of postoperative dysgeusia following microsurgical management of acoustic neuroma was 23.7% (95% CI: 9.266-42.359, p < 0.0001). When stratified by surgical approach, the rate of postoperative dysgeusia for the retrosigmoid approach was 18.8% (95% CI: 2.821-44.461, p < 0.0001). Postoperative dysgeusia data stratified for other major microsurgical approaches (subtemporal and translabirynthine approaches) was not reported by any of the included studies. CONCLUSION: Our systematic review and meta-analysis calculated a collated rate of almost 25% and recognized postoperative dysgeusia as a common complication following microsurgical management of acoustic neuromas. These results highlight the significance of preoperative counselling and the development of strategies that minimize the likelihood of harm to the chorda tympani nerve during microsurgical intervention for acoustic neuroma.

Status of functional neurosurgery in lower middle-income countries (LMICs): A multinational cross sectional survey based analysis of exposure, utilization and perceived barriers.

INTRODUCTION: Functional Neurosurgery (FNS) is a non-invasive and highly efficacious neurosurgical subspecialty but lower middle-income countries (LMICs) are disadvantaged in terms of access and availability of FNS. Through this study we have tried to assess the availability, exposure, utilization, and perceived barriers to five major FNS modalities including deep brain stimulation (DBS), vagal nerve stimulation (VNS), stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS), MRI-guided focused ultrasound (MRgfUS) and percutaneous rhizotomy in LMICs. METHODOLOGY: We designed a survey using google forms while following the CHERRIES guidelines. Responses were collected from practicing neurosurgeons, neurosurgical fellows, and residents in LMICs. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS software 26.0 RESULTS: A total of 100 responses were recorded of which 96 % were males. 68 % worked in an educational setup. Respondents had the most exposure to SRS (36 %) followed by DBS (28 %) while MRgFUS was the least exposed modality (4 %) (p<0.001). For all modalities except MRgFUS, majority of the respondents were 'Fairly confident' (p<0.001). No statistically significant association was observed in the availability of the modalities with the type of working setup. Majority of the respondents did not consider legal issues (p=0.003) and patient preferences (p=0.007) to be perceived barriers for any modality. Accessibility, affordability, Lack of training were not significant factors for any modality except DBS (52 %, p<0.001; 55 %, p<0.001 and 53 %, p=0.002 respectively) CONCLUSION: An integrated approach including international collaborations, traveling fellowships, novel policies must be adopted to enhance the reach of FNS to LMICs to share the extensive neurosurgical burden and to ease the neurosurgical decision making.

Microsurgical lesionectomy for drug-resistant insular cortex epilepsy in focal cortical dysplasia type IIB: a pediatric case report.

Introduction and importance: Focal cortical dysplasia (FCD) is a significant cause of drug-resistant epilepsy, often necessitating surgical intervention. Type IIb FCD poses challenges due to its strong association with drug-resistant seizures. Effective management involves advanced imaging, intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring, and precise surgical techniques. This case study illustrates these strategies in an 11-year-old female with drug-resistant epilepsy attributed to Type IIb FCD. Case presentation: The patient, an 11-year-old female, had drug-resistant seizures despite various anticonvulsant treatments. Preoperative 3 Tesla (3T) MRI revealed an ill-defined lesion in the right frontal operculum. The surgical team used neuro-navigation for intraoperative guidance and electrocorticography for lesionectomy. Pathology confirmed Type IIb FCD with rare concentric calcifications. Clinical discussion: Drug-resistant seizures in FCD often require surgery when medications fail. This case highlights the importance of comprehensive preoperative evaluations and advanced imaging, such as 3T MRI, to accurately identify lesions. Intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring, including electrocorticography, ensures precise resection of the epileptogenic zone. The unusual finding of concentric calcifications in Type IIb FCD is noteworthy, suggesting the need for further research to understand their impact on the disease. Conclusion: Microsurgical lesionectomy is crucial for managing drug-resistant seizures in Type IIb FCD. Combining advanced imaging with intraoperative monitoring improves surgical precision and outcomes. The rare pathological finding of calcifications highlights the diversity of FCD manifestations, warranting further study. These techniques can significantly enhance seizure control and quality of life in patients with drug-resistant epilepsy.

Giant sciatic nerve schwannoma: a rare case report and literature review.

Introduction and importance: Schwannomas are benign tumors that arise from Schwann cells commonly located in peripheral nerves. Depending on the size and location of sciatic nerve Schwannoma clinical manifestations can either varies from symptoms simulating radiculopathies such as positive Lasegue sign on the affected side, gait weakness and paresthesia or just present with pain and an associated palpable mass. Case presentation: The authors present a case of a 34-year-old female patient suffering from pain, gait weakness, and a palpable mass since many months. The palpable mass was present in the posterior region of the left lower limb. Imaging studies reveal an extensive lesion measuring 35 cm×8 cm that extends from the gluteal region to the left popliteal fossa. Clinical discussion: The finding of a palpable mass during physical examination guided us towards the diagnostic suspicion and thus necessitating the direct imaging studies. When approaching such type of patients, a history of neurofibromatosis must be ruled out due to its frequent association. Surgical resection should focus on the preservation of neurovascular structures, which offers improvement of the symptoms and the quality of life of patients. Conclusion: Giant sciatic nerve schwannoma if excised completely can lead to relieve of symptoms. Although recurrences are uncommon follow-up for years is necessary.

Addressing neurosurgical challenges in war conflict countries.

The Russo-Ukrainian war caused significant humanitarian and healthcare issues in the Russo-Ukrainian region, which were further aggravated by the escalation of the conflict on February 2022. Because of this ongoing confrontation between the two nations, which has its roots in geopolitical conflicts and historical events, there have been nearly 4 million refugees in only the first month, and 906 healthcare institutions have sustained significant damage. Consequently, the demand for medical services has increased, adding onto the burden of the pre-existing problems within the region's healthcare system, such as inequities, budget shortages, and corruption. With nearly 500,000 military deaths and an estimated 27,1499 civilian casualties, the war's immediate health effects are devastating. Due to inadequate disease surveillance and difficulties with immunization, the risk of infectious illnesses, particularly HIV/AIDS and tuberculosis, increased. Although there were originally few mental health problems, the long-term effects are yet unknown. Some of the indirect effects are the severe refugee situation, the burden on public infrastructure, and problems with the security of food and water. Unprecedented obstacles confronted neurosurgery in the Russo-Ukrainian region, including increased patient loads from war-related cases, resource limitations, and facility devastation. Many countries stepped up to aid in managing neurosurgeries however, the some of the problems still persisted, such as insufficient sterility and power outages. Strengthened security standards, financial incentives, telemedicine services, and cooperation with international medical organizations are the main points of recovery recommendations. Rebuilding the region's healthcare system and guaranteeing ongoing foreign support after the conflict require a comprehensive strategy that addresses both short- and long-term issues.

Comparative Analysis of Recurrent Glioblastoma Target Contours via 11C-Methionine, 68Ga-Prostate-Specific Membrane Antigen Positron Emission Tomography, and Magnetic Resonance Imaging: Implications for Precision Radiotherapy Planning.

Purpose: Glioblastoma (GBM) recurrence poses challenges in radiation therapy treatment planning because reirradiation has limited leeway needed for precise target delineation. Although effective radiotracers are emerging for treatment planning, comparisons of 11C-methionine positron emission tomography (MET-PET), 68Ga-prostate-specific membrane antigen PET (PSMA-PET), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for contouring recurrent GBMs are lacking in the literature. This case study aimed to highlight the differences and similarities in target contours delineated from 3 examinations, aiming to raise doubts about the adequacy of current radiation therapy planning practices. Methods and Materials: A 37-year-old female patient with recurrent Isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH)1/2 wild-type GBM underwent MRI, MET-PET, and PSMA-PET scans. Target delineations were performed, and volumes were compared using the Dice similarity coefficient, conformity index, and overlap volume, considering different planning target volume margins. Results: We found that MET-PET and MRI volumes showed superior agreement compared with PSMA-PET across all similarity parameters, indicating a more marked discrepancy between PSMA-PET and other modalities. Increasing planning target volume margins demonstrated progressive convergence in intervolume discrepancies. Notably, PSMA-PET delineated larger volumes extending beyond MRI-based volumes. Conclusions: MRI alone may not suffice for target delineation in recurrent GBMs. PET imaging modalities offer complementary insights. Combined PET-MRI guidance could improve tumor boundary detection in target delineation for reirradiation. Prospective trials are necessary to ascertain its impact on patient outcomes.

Strength in silence: the journey of mothers raising children with hydrocephalus.

BACKGROUND: Raising a child with hydrocephalus can be very challenging, especially in low- and middle-income countries. In Pakistan, mothers being the primary caregivers for their hydrocephalic children are under tremendous stress. METHODS: This study explores the challenges faced by Pakistani mothers raising children with hydrocephalus, employing a qualitative methodology through focus group discussions comprising ten mothers of hydrocephalic babies at Tertiary Care Hospital in Pakistan. RESULTS: The findings highlight three main themes: emotional toll, social isolation, and financial strain. Mothers experience significant emotional stress due to societal stigma and a lack of support, particularly from their husbands and family. Social isolation is prevalent, as mothers fear sharing their burdens and face physical confinement due to their children's needs. Financial strain is another major issue, with high medical costs adding to their economic difficulties. CONCLUSION: The study emphasizes improved access to specialized care, awareness campaigns to reduce stigma, financial assistance, and stronger community support networks to support these mothers better. Addressing these unmet needs is crucial for empowering Pakistani mothers in their caregiving roles and improving the quality of life for their children with hydrocephalus.