Noninvasive intracranial pressure monitoring throughout brain compliance guiding a ventriculoperitoneal shunt replacement in hydrocephalus-case report.

INTRODUCTION: Ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt is the primary therapy for hydrocephalus in children; however, this technique is amenable to malfunctions, which could be detected through an assessment of clinical signs and imaging results. Furthermore, early detection can prevent patient deterioration and guide clinical and surgical treatment. CASE PRESENTATION: A 5-year-old female with a premedical history of neonatal IVH, secondary hydrocephalus, multiple VP shunts revisions, and slit ventricle syndrome was evaluated using a noninvasive intracranial pressure monitor device at the early stages of the clinical symptoms, evidencing increased intracranial pressure and poor brain compliance. Serial MRI images demonstrated a slight ventricular enlargement, leading to the use of a gravitational VP shunt, promoting progressive improvement. On the follow-up visits, we used the noninvasive ICP monitoring device to guide the shunt adjustments until symptom resolution. Furthermore, the patient has been asymptomatic for the past 3 years without requiring new shunt revisions. DISCUSSION: Slit ventricle syndrome and VP shunt dysfunctions are challenging diagnoses for the neurosurgeon. The noninvasive intracranial monitoring has allowed a closer follow-up assisting early assessment of brain compliance changes related to a patient's symptomatology. Furthermore, this technique has high sensitivity and specificity in detecting alterations in the intracranial pressure, serving as a guide for the adjustments of programmable VP shunts, which may improve the patient's quality of life. CONCLUSION: Noninvasive ICP monitoring may lead to a less invasive assessment of patients with slit ventricle syndrome and could be used as a guide for adjustments of programmable shunts.

Spina bifida folate fortification in Brazil, update 2022: a cross-sectional study.

INTRODUCTION: Despite improving maternal-child indicators in Brazil, congenital malformations are still the second cause of mortality in the first years of life. This work aims to compare statistical data before and after flour fortification with folic acid (FA) in Brazil. METHODS: A cross-sectional Brazilian-population-based study compares the spina bifida (SB) rates pre- and post-fortification of the flour with folate. Data collected from the public database of the Live Birth Information System (SINASC/SUS) was performed. The period 1999-2004 (pre-fortification) was compared with 2005-2010 (post-maize and wheat fortification with FA), and another analysis comparing 2005-2010 and 2011-2020 (cassava flour fortification) was performed. The estimator was the prevalence ratio (PRR); the confidence interval selected was 95%. We used a random effects analysis model and inverse variance. RESULTS: The review showed a tendency to decrease the PRR after flour fortification; however, there is no statistical significance between studies. DATASUS data analysis comparing 5 years before and 5 years after mandatory maize and wheat flour fortification demonstrated a rate ratio of 1.05 (95% CI 0.99-1.1; p = 0.075). Furthermore, comparing 10 years after additional cassava flour folate fortification, the rate ratio increased to 1.4 (95% CI 1.34-1.45; p < 0.01). CONCLUSION: This study demonstrated an increase in SB after FA fortification. Possible explanations rely on national registry improvement, not fortified staple food, or further unidentified causes. Moreover, suggestions can be made for creating a mandatory registry for malformations, inspecting the concentrations of FA in the flour, and fortifying all food.

Equity in neurosurgery: a worldwide survey of women neurosurgeons.

OBJECTIVE: The global neurosurgery workforce does not have a defined stance on gender equity. The authors sought to study and characterize the demographic features of the international women neurosurgery community and to better understand the perceptions and reflections of their neurosurgical careers. The objective was to define and characterize the workplace inequities faced by the global women neurosurgeon community. METHODS: A 58-item cross-sectional survey was distributed to the global women neurosurgery community. The survey was distributed via an online and mobile platform between October 2018 and December 2020. Responses were anonymized. The authors utilized chi-square analysis to differentiate variables (e.g., career satisfaction) between various groups (e.g., those based on academic position). The authors calculated 95% CIs to establish significance. RESULTS: Among 237 respondents, approximately 40% were between the ages of 26 and 35 years. Within their respective departments, 45% identified themselves as the only woman neurosurgeon in their practice. Forty-three percent stated that their department supported women neurosurgeons for leadership roles. Seventy-five percent of respondents were members of organized neurosurgery professional societies; of these, 38% had been involved in leadership roles. Almost 60% of respondents postponed their decision to get pregnant because of resident or work-related influences. CONCLUSIONS: This survey provides international feedback for characterizing and understanding the experiences of women neurosurgeons worldwide. Future research should aim to understand all neurosurgeons' experiences throughout the pipeline and career life cycle of neurosurgery in order to improve the field of neurosurgery.

International Women in Neurosurgery.

The history of women in neurosurgery worldwide has been characterized by adversity and hardships in a male-dominated field, where resilient, tenacious, and ingenious women have nevertheless left their mark. The first women in neurosurgery appeared in Europe at the end of the 1920s, and since then have emerged in all continents in the world. Women neurosurgeons all over the globe have advanced the field in numerous directions, introducing neurosurgical subspecialties to their countries, making scientific and technical advances, and dedicating themselves to humanitarian causes, to name a few. The past 30 years, in particular, have been a period of increasing involvement and responsibility for women in neurosurgery. We must now focus on continual system improvements that will promote a diverse and talented workforce, building a welcoming environment for all aspiring neurosurgeons, in order to advance the specialty in the service of neurosurgical patients.

The Potential Applications of Augmented Reality in Fetoscopic Surgery for Antenatal Treatment of Myelomeningocele.

OBJECTIVE: To develop a preoperative planning method using augmented reality (AR) of a specific surgical procedure: fetoscopy for myelomeningocele repair. METHODS: Imaging data were acquired of a pregnant woman at 27 weeks of gestation whose fetus was diagnosed with myelomeningocele. The patient was identified as a candidate for fetoscopic repair of the spine defect, and an AR application for mobile device simulation was developed. The virtual customized model was created by analysis of the presurgical magnetic resonance imaging. A real-time AR interface was developed by using an application that enhanced the anatomical aspects of both mother and fetus. RESULTS: A virtual model for planning fetoscopy repair for myelomeningocele was developed. Preoperative and postoperative procedures were successfully carried out, emphasizing the beneficial role of the AR application. The use of the AR model allowed the multidisciplinary team to engage in discussion to determine the appropriate surgical approach. It also allowed a clearer explanation of the procedure to the parents enabling a better understanding of the parents regarding specifics characteristics of their baby's spine defect. CONCLUSIONS: This new preoperative platform using a virtual model represents an important tool to improve patient's comprehension, multidisciplinary discussion, and surgical planning. In addition, it can be used worldwide as a teaching tool in the fetal surgery field.

Progress in neurosurgery: Contributions of women neurosurgeons in Latin America.

Nearly 75 years after the first woman neurosurgeon was trained in Latin America, the field of neurosurgery is changing and the prominence of women neurosurgeons within the specialty is increasing. By researching the histories of individual physicians and neurosurgeons, as well as neurosurgical departments and societies, we present, for the first time, the history of the women in neurosurgery in Latin America. Women neurosurgeons in the region have made notable progress, inspiring subsequent generations and actively participating in organized neurosurgery, medical leadership outside neurosurgery, academic neurosurgery, and leadership in contemporary society. The establishment of "Women in Neurosurgery" networks and organizations has been important to the success of many of these efforts. This collaborative study, which identifies the known women neurosurgeons in Latin America for the first time, may serve to provide background and context for further contributions of women neurosurgeons for our profession and our patients.

Development and Evaluation of Pediatric Mixed-Reality Model for Neuroendoscopic Surgical Training.

OBJECTIVE: Neurosurgical training requires several years of supervised procedures and represents a long and challenging process. The development of surgical simulation platforms is essential to reducing the risk of potentially intraoperative severe errors arising from inexperience. To present and perform a phase I validation process of a mixed reality simulation (realistic and virtual simulators combined) for neuroendoscopic surgical training. METHODS: Tridimensional videos were developed by the 3DS Max program. Physical simulators were made with a synthetic thermoretractile and thermosensible rubber, which, when combined with different polymers, produces >30 different textures that simulate consistencies and mechanical resistance of human tissues. Questionnaires regarding the role of virtual and realistic simulators were applied to experienced neurosurgeons to assess the applicability of the mixed-reality simulation for neuroendoscopic surgical training. RESULTS: The model was considered as a potential tool for training new residents in neuroendoscopic surgery. It was also adequate for practical application with inexperienced surgeons. According to the overall score, 83% of the surgeons believed that the realistic physical simulator presents distortions when compared with the real anatomic structure, afterwards the model improved 66% tridimensional reconstruction and 66% reported that the virtual simulator allowed a multiangular perspective ability. CONCLUSIONS: This model provides a highly effective way of working with 3-dimensional data and significantly enhances the learning of surgical anatomy and operative strategies. The combination of virtual and realistic tools may safely improve and abbreviate the surgical learning curve.

Extended Pterional Approach for Medial Sphenoid Wing Meningioma: A Series of 47 Patients.

Background To describe our operative strategy and analyze its safety and effectiveness for the removal of medial sphenoid wing meningiomas (MSWMs) through the extended pterional approach. Method We identified 47 patients with MSWMs who were operated using this approach between 1986 and 2016. Medical charts, operative reports, imaging results, and clinical follow-up evaluations were reviewed and retrospectively analyzed. Results No surgical mortality was observed in this sample. Gross total resection was achieved in 30 (63.8%) patients. Intradural clinoidectomy was performed in 16 (34%) patients. The median length of follow-up was 8.5 years (range, 1-30 years). Conclusion The extended pterional approach associated with microsurgery techniques provided excellent results for the removal of MSWMs.

The Craniosynostosis Puzzle: New Simulation Model for Neurosurgical Training.

BACKGROUND: Neurosurgical training usually requires long hours for hands-on procedures, making it difficult for inexperienced surgeons to quickly learn in an error-proof environment. The objective of this study was to propose a puzzle-like new model for neurosurgical education that simulates craniosynostosis correction (scaphocephaly type) using Renier's H technique. A model of a 3-dimensional (3D) anatomic simulator for craniosynostosis training is presented and evaluated. METHODS: The cranial model was created using 1-mm computed tomography scan images from patients with scaphocephaly in the Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine format. This information was processed using an algorithm to generate a 3D biomodel in resin. The puzzle model and its variable training models were assessed qualitatively by a team of expert neurosurgeons. Next, the model was applied in trainees and was evaluated using specific questionnaires. RESULTS: Experts and trainees evaluated the model. The mean number of attempts without errors was 2.3 ± 0.675, for 1 error was 2.2 ± 0.918, and for 2 errors was 1.3 ± 0.707. The mean score of the simulator was 9.2 ± 0.421. Twelve residents (second evaluation) answered the questionnaire with a positive assessment of diagnosis capabilities, appropriateness of the model, time commitment, adequate environment, reliable 3D reconstruction, and teaching method. Three participants had used a 3D simulator previously, and the simulator was evaluated obtaining a 9.9 final average (range, 0-10). CONCLUSIONS: The puzzle may be a complementary tool for surgical training. It allows several degrees of immersion and realism, offering symbolic, geometric, and dynamic information with 3D visualization. It provides additional data to support the practice of complex surgical procedures without exposing real patients to undue risk.

Development and evaluation of a new pediatric mixed-reality model for neurosurgical training.

OBJECTIVE: Craniosynostosis is a premature cranial suture junction and requires a craniectomy to decrease cranial compression and remodel the affected areas of the skull. However, mastering these neurosurgical procedures requires many years of supervised training. The use of surgical simulation can reduce the risk of intraoperative error. The authors propose a new instrument for neurosurgical education, which mixes reality with virtual and realistic simulation for repair of craniosynostosis (scaphocephaly type). METHODS: This study tested reality simulators with a synthetic thermo-retractile/thermosensitive rubber joined with different polymers. To validate the model, 18 experienced surgeons participated in this study using 3D videos developed using 3DS Max software. Renier's "H" technique for craniosynostosis correction was applied during the simulation. All participants completed questionnaires to evaluate the simulator. RESULTS: An expert surgical team approved the craniosynostosis reality and virtual simulators. More than 94% of participants found the simulator relevant, considering aspects such as weight, surgical positioning, dissection by planes, and cranial reconstruction. The consistency and material resistance were also approved on average by more than 60% of the surgeons. CONCLUSIONS: The virtual simulator demands a high degree of effectiveness with 3D perception in anatomy and operative strategies in neurosurgical training. Physical and virtual simulation with mixed reality required psychomotor and cognitive abilities otherwise acquired only during practical surgical training with supervision.

Extended Retrosigmoid Approach for Cerebellopontine Angle Meningiomas: Operative Technique and Results-A Series of 28 Patients.

Background The purpose of this article is to describe our approach, surgical strategies, and results for resection of meningiomas located at cerebellopontine angle (CPA). Methods We retrospectively identified 28 patients with CPA meningiomas operated by the extended retrosigmoid approach. This approach incorporates a generous mastoidectomy and the sigmoid sinus exposure. Results The mean age was 33.8 years, with a follow-up of 12.5 years. Gross total removal (GTR) was achieved in 22 (78.5%) patients with low surgical mortality, acceptable morbidity, and recurrence rate of 7.1% (2 patients). Conclusion The extended retrosigmoid approach enhances the exposure of the CPA and posterior fossa cisterns and increases the surgical angle of maneuverability. This approach provides adequate access even to extensive CPA meningiomas, enabling, in most of cases, GTR to be safe and effective. The extended retrosigmoid approach used in this group of patients is an alternative to more extensive cranial base approaches.

O papel da simulação na prática cirúrgica e a criação de uma nova ferramenta para treinamento neurocirúrgico / The role of simulation in surgical practice and the creation of a new tool for neurosurgical training

OBJETIVOS: Testar uma nova ferramenta para educação neurocirúrgica, um "quebra-cabeça" para simular a correção cirúrgica de craniossinostose (especificamente escafocefalia), usando a técnica "H" de Renier. MÉTODOS: O modelo do crânio foi criado por meio da obtenção de imagens de tomografia computadorizada multi slice (camadas de 1mm) no formato Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine (DICOM). Essas imagens foram então processadas usando um algoritmo computadorizado para gerar um modelo tridimensional em resina. O quebra-cabeça e suas possibilidades de treinamento foram avaliados qualitativamente por uma equipe de neurocirurgiões especialistas. Após, os especialistas avaliaram a aplicação da ferramenta para residentes em neurocirurgia e os residentes também avaliaram a experiência. RESULTADOS: Participaram da avaliação cinco especialistas neurocirurgiões e 10 residentes em neurocirurgia. Todos consideraram a ferramenta positiva para o treinamento proposto. Os especialistas fizeram observações sobre o quanto o modelo pode ser interessante por instigar a compreensão dos porquês das etapas cirúrgicas e como atuar em cada uma delas. Segundo a percepção dos especialistas, após o uso do modelo os residentes apresentaram melhor clareza na visualização tridimensional do passo a passo, indiretamente auxiliando na compreensão da técnica cirúrgica. Além disso, ressaltaram uma notável redução de erros a cada tentativa de montagem do quebra-cabeça. Os residentes consideraram ser um método de ensino que torna a avaliação objetiva e clara. Entre os entrevistados, a nota fornecida ao simulador teve média de 9,9. CONCLUSÕES: O quebra-cabeça em formato de crânio mostrou-se uma ferramenta complementar para o ensino, que permite diferentes graus de imersão e realismo. Fornece uma noção de realidade física, oferecendo informações simbólicas, geométricas e dinâmicas, com rica visualização tridimensional. O uso do simulador pode, potencialmente, abreviar e melhorar a curva de aprendizado dos neurocirurgiões, de uma forma segura.

AIMS: To test a new tool for neurosurgical education, a "puzzle" to simulate the craniosynostosis surgical correction (specifically scaphocephaly) using Renier's "H" technique. METHODS: The cranial model was created by obtaining images through a multi slice (1 mm) CT scan in the Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine (DICOM) format. This information was then processed using a computing algorithm to generate a three-dimensional biomodel in resine (performed on a computer or via computer simulation). The puzzle and its training possibilities were evaluated qualitatively by a team of expert neurosurgeons. Subsequently the experts evaluated the application of the tool for residents in neurosurgery, and the residents also evaluated the experience. RESULTS: Five experts neurosurgeons and 10 neurosurgery residents participated in the evaluation. All considered the tool positive for the proposed training. The experts have commented on how interesting the model may be by instigating the understanding of the reasons for each surgical step and how to act in them. According to the experts perceptions, the residents presented better clarity in the three-dimensional visualization of the step by step, indirectly aiding in the understanding of the surgical technique. In addition, they noted a notable reduction of errors with each attempt to assemble the puzzle. Residents considered it to be a teaching method that makes assessment objective and clear. Among the interviewers, 9,9 was the averaged note given to the simulator. CONCLUSIONS: The puzzle in cranial shape can be a complementary tool, allowing varying degrees of immersion and realism. It provides a notion of physical reality, offering symbolic, geometric and dynamic information, with rich tridimensional visualization. The simulator use may potentially improve and abbreviate the surgeons learning curve, in a safe manner.

Cerebellar transcranial direct current stimulation in children with ataxic cerebral palsy: A sham-controlled, crossover, pilot study.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of the present study was to analyze the use of anodal tDCS of the cerebellar region combined with treadmill training to improve balance and functional performance in children with ataxic cerebral palsy. DESIGN: Single-blind, sham-controlled, crossover, pilot study. SETTING: Rehabilitation center and research motion analysis laboratory. PARTICIPANTS: Children (N = 6) with ataxic cerebral palsy and balance deficit. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Static balance (oscillations of the center of pressure), functional balance (Pediatric Balance Scale) and functional performance (Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory) were evaluated. RESULTS: Significant reductions occurred in oscillations of the center of pressure with eyes closed after active anodal tDCS only. The effects of treadmill training on functional balance and functional performance in mobility were maintained in the active tDCS group only. CONCLUSION: These preliminary data support the notion that anodal tDCS of the cerebellar region combined with treadmill training improves balance in children with ataxic cerebral palsy.

Motor Cortex Plasticity in Children With Spastic Cerebral Palsy: A Systematic Review.

A review of the literature was performed to answer the following questions: Does motor cortex excitability correlate with motor function? Do motor cortex excitability and cortex activation change after a rehabilitation program that results in improvements in motor outcomes? Can the 10-20 electroencephalography (EEG) system be used to locate the primary motor cortex when employing transcranial direct current stimulation? Is there a bihemispheric imbalance in individuals with cerebral palsy similar to what is observed in stroke survivors? the authors found there is an adaptation in the geometry of motor areas and the cortical representation of movement is variable following a brain lesion. The 10-20 EEG system may not be the best option for locating the primary motor cortex and positioning electrodes for noninvasive brain stimulation in children with cerebral palsy.

Spared Primary Motor Cortex and The Presence of MEP in Cerebral Palsy Dictate the Responsiveness to tDCS during Gait Training.

The current priority of investigations involving transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) and neurorehabilitation is to identify biomarkers associated with the positive results of the interventions such that respondent and non-respondent patients can be identified in the early phases of treatment. The aims were to determine whether: (1) present motor evoked potential (MEP); and (2) injuries involving the primary motor cortex, are associated with tDCS-enhancement in functional outcome following gait training in children with cerebral palsy (CP). We reviewed the data from our parallel, randomized, sham-controlled, double-blind studies. Fifty-six children with spastic CP received gait training (either treadmill training or virtual reality training) and tDCS (active or sham). Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were employed to identify clinical, neurophysiologic and neuroanatomic predictors associated with the responsiveness to treatment with tDCS. MEP presence during the initial evaluation and the subcortical injury were associated with positive effects in the functional results. The logistic regression revealed that present MEP was a significant predictor for the six-minute walk test (6MWT; p = 0.003) and gait speed (p = 0.028), whereas the subcortical injury was a significant predictor of gait kinematics (p = 0.013) and gross motor function (p = 0.021). In this preliminary study involving children with CP, two important prediction factors of good responses to anodal tDCS combined with gait training were identified. Apparently, MEP (integrity of the corticospinal tract) and subcortical location of the brain injury exerted different influences on aspects related to gait, such as velocity and kinematics.

Endoscopic surgery for the antenatal treatment of myelomeningocele: the CECAM trial.

BACKGROUND: A recent randomized clinical trial named Management of Myelomeningocele Study (MOMS trial) showed that prenatal correction of open spina bifida (OSB) via open fetal surgery was associated with improved infant neurological outcomes relative to postnatal repair, but at the expense of increased maternal morbidity. OBJECTIVE: We sought to report the final results of our phase I trial (Cirurgia Endoscópica para Correção Antenatal da Meningomielocele [CECAM]) on the feasibility, safety, potential benefits, and side effects of the fetoscopic treatment of OSB using our unique surgical technique. STUDY DESIGN: Ten consecutive pregnancies with lumbosacral OSB were enrolled in the study. Surgeries were performed percutaneously under general anesthesia with 3 ports and partial carbon dioxide insufflation. After appropriate surgical positioning of the fetus, the neuroplacode was released with scissors and the skin was undermined to place a biocellulose patch over the lesion. The skin was closed over the patch using a single running stitch. Preoperative, postoperative, and postnatal magnetic resonance imaging were performed to assess hindbrain herniation. Neurodevelopmental evaluation was performed before discharge and at 3, 6, and 12 months. All cases were delivered by cesarean delivery, at which time the uterus was assessed for evidence of thinning or dehiscence. RESULTS: The median gestational age at the time of surgery was 27 weeks (range 25-28 weeks). Endoscopic repair was completed in 8 of 10 fetuses. Two cases were unsuccessful due to loss of uterine access. The mean gestational age at birth was 32.4 weeks with a mean latency of 5.6 weeks between surgery and delivery (range 2-8 weeks). There was 1 fetal and 1 neonatal demise, and 1 unsuccessful case underwent postnatal repair. Of the 7 infants available for analysis, complete reversal of hindbrain herniation occurred in 6 of 7 babies. Three babies required ventriculoperitoneal shunting or third ventriculostomy. Functional motor level was the same or better than the anatomical level in 6 of 7 cases. There was no significant maternal morbidity and no evidence of myometrial thinning or dehiscence. However, surgeries were complicated by premature rupture of membrane and prematurity. CONCLUSION: Our study suggests that the antenatal treatment of OSB using a fetoscopic approach and our unique surgical technique can result in a watertight seal, reversal of the hindbrain herniation, and better than expected motor function. Our technique differs substantially from the classic repair of OSB used in prior open fetal surgery and fetoscopic studies, in which the dura mater is dissected and the defect is closed in multiple layers. Instead, we use a biocellulose patch placed over the lesion and simple closure of the skin. As such, our technique is an alternative to the current paradigms in the antenatal treatment of OSB. Our clinical outcomes are in line with the results of our extensive prior animal work. Maternal benefits of our approach and technique include minimal morbidity and no myometrial legacy. Current limitations of the approach include potential loss of access, premature rupture of membranes, and attendant prematurity. Phase II trials are needed to prevent these complications and to further assess the risks and benefits of our distinct surgical approach and technique.

New anatomical simulator for pediatric neuroendoscopic practice.

INTRODUCTION: The practice of neuroendoscopic procedures requires many years of training to obtain the adequate skills to perform these operations safely. In this study, we present a new pediatric neuroendoscopic simulator that facilitates training. DESCRIPTION OF THE SIMULATOR: This realistic simulator was built with a synthetic thermo-retractile and thermo-sensible rubber called Neoderma® which, when combined with different polymers, produces more than 30 different formulae, which present textures, consistencies, and mechanical resistances similar to many human tissues. Silicon and fiberglass molds, in the shape of the cerebral ventricles, constitute the basic structure of the neuroendoscopic training module. The module offers the possibility for practicing many basic neuroendoscopic techniques such as: navigating the ventricular system to visualize important anatomic landmarks (e.g., septal and thalamostriate veins, foramen of Monro, temporal horns, aqueduct, and fourth ventricle), performing third ventriculostomy and choroid plexus cauterization, and resecting intraventricular "tumors" that bleed. CONCLUSION: It is important to emphasize that it is possible to perform with this simulator not only the rigid but also the flexible endoscopy, with good correspondence to reality and no risks. Notable future perspectives can be considered regarding this new pediatric simulator, for example, to improve the learning curve for nonexperienced neurosurgeons and to spread the flexible endoscopy technique.