A training model head of plaster of Paris for stereotactic localization.

BACKGROUND: A head model for experiencing stereotactic localization will supply familiarity with stereotactic instruments and self confidence for attempters of stereotaxy before real experience. METHOD: Plaster of Paris was molded as a model head in a plastic ball. Then, it was partly chipped at its superior half, and metal pieces were inserted into those chipped surfaces. Later, the stereotactic frame was applied, and axial computed tomographic scanning was obtained. The metal pieces seen on scans were selected as targets, and their coordinates were calculated using the software of the stereotactic equipment. Lastly, the stereotactic needle was introduced with these coordinates for investigation of targeting. RESULTS: The model of plaster of Paris head was very suitable for rigid frame fixation. The metal pieces in the model head were clearly observed on computed tomographic scans. The stereotactic biopsy needle introduced with the perviously calculated coordinates was always successful in true targeting. CONCLUSION: This easily performed model head supplied us with familiarity with our stereotactic apparatus and convinced us for further attempts. This kind of model and more complicated ones may help for stereotaxy training in neurosurgery.

Restless leg syndrome and sleep quality in lumbar radiculopathy patients.

BACKGROUND: To investigate the frequency of restless leg syndrome (RLS), sleep quality impairment, depression, fatigue, and sleep behavior disorder and to determine the effects of surgery on these parameters in radiculopathy patients resistant to conservative treatment. METHODS: The present study included 66 lumbar radiculopathy patients, who were resistant to conservative treatment and had indication of surgery. Five different questionnaires were performed to assess depression (the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI)), sleep quality (the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI)), fatigue (the Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS)), and presence of RLS and rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder (RBD). The same questionnaires were also performed on a control group (n = 61). RESULTS: Of the radiculopathy patients, 68.1% had RLS and 92.4% had fatigue. Of the controls, 16.4% had RLS and 59% had fatigue. RBD was present in 8 (12.1%) patients and 3 (4.9%) controls. The PSQI revealed that sleep quality was impaired in 46 (69.7%) patients and 35 (57.4%) controls (P > 0.05). The number of individuals having substantial depression according to the BDI was significantly higher in the patients than in the controls. CONCLUSIONS: There was a significant increase in the frequency of RLS, which was significantly decreased in the postoperative period in the radiculopathy patients.