Is there a reason for performing frontal sinus trephination at 1 cm from midline? A tomographic study

The complex anatomy of the frontoethmoidal recess, as well as its anatomical relationship with the vital adjacent structures in the region explain the reason for considerable surgical care to protect these structures and minimize complications related to healing. Trephination is an accepted procedure to access the frontal sinus.

Aim

Discuss the best location for performing frontal sinus trephination.

Methods

Measuring sinus frontal depth at 3 points equidistant to the midline (crista galli) through the axial tomographic sections.

Results

We measured 138 frontal sinus (69 patients). Frontal sinus depth at 0,5 cm was statistically larger than 1 cm and 1,5 cm, as well as the 1 cm trephine point was significantly larger than 1,5 cm (12,22±4,25 vs 11,78±4,65 p<0,05; 12,22±4,25 vs 10,78±5,98 p<0,001; 11,78±4,65 vs 10,78±5,98 p<0,05). The trephine set used (maximum depth of penetration of 0,7 cm) is safe to be applied in approximately 80% of the patients.

Conclusion

Analizing the results, the trephination may be performed at variable points of the frontalsinus, but the distance of 1 cm from midline appears to be safer and shows better aestethic results.

Image-guided frontal trephination: a minimally invasive approach for hard-to-reach frontal sinus disease

OBJECTIVES

Peripherally located frontal sinus pathology may be unreachable with standard endoscopic techniques. Patients with superiorly or laterally based lesions often undergo osteoplastic flap with or without obliteration. Image-guided frontal trephination (IGFT) can localize pathology and provide excellent exposure. We present 13 patients in whom this technique was applied.

STUDY DESIGN

Medical records of 13 patients undergoing IGFT were retrospectively reviewed.

RESULTS

The patients' mean age was 49.2 years, (range 14-79); follow-up time was 29.9 months (range 12-39). Indications for IGFT were superiorly or laterally based mucoceles (3), fibrous dysplasia or osteoma (3), type 4 frontal cells (3), and frontal recess stenosis or ossification (4). In five patients, IGFT was combined with endoscopic transethmoid frontal sinusotomy; eight patients were treated through a trephination approach, and three patients underwent trephination with unilateral frontal sinus obliteration. One patient required revision; all others remain symptom free.

CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE

IGFT offers an attractive alternative to osteoplastic flap.

An alternative sinus floor elevation procedure: trephine osteotomy

Today, the sinus floor elevation procedure is not only being used on a routine basis, but clinicians are reporting high success rates. The sinus floor graft has become an important option in the treatment of the edentulous posterior maxilla, where vertical bone height is less than ideal. A review of maxillary sinus floor elevation as an integral part of restoring the posterior maxillary is discussed. The related anatomy of the area and current osteotomy techniques are reviewed. This article describes a trephine osteotomy, which is an alternative technique to the existing lateral antrostomy approach currently being used.

[The penetrating keratoplasty. A 100-year success story]

Ten precautions for prophylaxis of astigmatism in penetrating keratoplasty are recommended:1. The attempt should be made to determine donor topography for exclusion of previous refractive surgery, keratoconus/high astigmatism, and to allow for "harmonization" of donor and recipient topography.2. Donor and recipient trephination should be performed from the epithelial side with the same system, which is the prerequisite for congruent cut surfaces and angles in donor and recipient. For this purpose an artificial anterior chamber is used for donor trephination.3. Orientation structures in donor and host facilitate the correct placement of the first four or eight cardinal sutures to avoid horizontal torsion.4.A measurable improvement seems to be possible, using the Krumeich guided trephine system (GTS), the second generation Hanna trephine, and the Erlangen technique of nonmechanical trephination with the excimer laser.5. Horizontal positioning of the head and limbal plane are indispensable for state-of-the-art PKP surgery in order to avoid decentration, vertical tilt, and horizontal torsion.6. Graft size should be adjusted individually ("as large as possible, as small as necessary").7. Limbal centration should be preferred over pupil centration (especially in keratoconus).8. Excessive graft over- or undersize should be avoided to prevent stretching or compression of peripheral donor tissue.9. As long as Bowman's layer is intact a double running cross-stitch suture (according to Hoffmann) is preferred since it results in higher topographic regularity, earlier visual rehabilitation, and less suture loosening requiring only rarely suture replacement.10.Intraoperative keratoscopy should be applied after removal of lid specula and fixation sutures.

Cranioplasty after Trephination using a Novel Biodegradable Burr Hole Cover: Technical Case Report

OBJECTIVE AND IMPORTANCE

We have developed novel biodegradable polymer implants by using the rapid prototyping technology fused deposition modeling. Early results of a clinical pilot study for cranioplasty are presented.

CLINICAL PRESENTATION

Five patients with the diagnosis of chronic subdural hematoma were included in the study. After trephination and evacuation of the subdural hematoma, burr holes (diameter, 14 mm) were closed using a biodegradable implant made of polycaprolactone. Implants were computer designed with an upper rim diameter of 16 mm and a 14 mm body diameter with a fully interconnected, honeycomb-like architecture of 400 to 600 microm in pore size.

INTERVENTION

Postoperative computed tomographic scans indicated that the plugs were stably anchored in the osseous host environment with no fluid collection detectable. The postoperative course was uneventful, and patients were discharged after 5 days. Follow-up scans after 3, 6, and 12 months showed that the implants were well integrated in the surrounding calvarial bone with new bone filling the porous space.

CONCLUSION

These novel polymer scaffolds made of the slow-degrading material polycaprolactone represent a suitable implant for closure of post-trephination defects.

[Trepanation of the skull in classical antiquity]

Archaeological findings prove that cranial operations of different techniques performed on living men, women, and children have a history of 7000 years. It is often assumed, that many of these operations were carried out for reasons, that are to be found in the realm of magic or, in the case of epilepsia, to drive the evil spirit out of the head. However, study of medical literature from classical antiquity proves that in those days medical doctors had a good knowledge of severe head injuries, as a result of their precise observation of injured or sick human beings. Consequently, there were a number of accurate medical diagnoses indicating cranial operations such as: severe fractures of the skull where cranial bones pressed upon the brain, haemorrhages between cranial bones and dura mater as well as osteomyelitis. The primary reason of surgical treatment of the latter was remove necrotic osseous tissue and not to trepan the skull. With the help of the surgical instruments found in Bingen and on the basis of sources from classical antiquity, the trepanation method as applied 2000 years ago may be explained in detail. Healing processes of skulls of people who underwent surgical treatment show that in an era where anaesthesia, asepsis and antibiotics were still unknown, approximately 80 per cent of patients survived the operation, provided that the highly elastic dura mater was not damaged either by the traumatic event or during surgery. An intact dura mater was the most important protection against infections which inevitably led to death in those times.

Robot- and computer-assisted craniotomy: resection planning, implant modelling and robot safety

BACKGROUND

In cases of cranial tumour, manual resection of the cancerous tissue can be very stressful and time-consuming, due to the adhesion of the subjacent dura mater. Computer-assisted planning, navigation and robotic craniotomy, with optional skull reconstruction using customized implants, are of increasing clinical interest in craniofacial and neurosurgery.

METHODS

Using preoperative computed tomography (CT) images, an automatic segmentation of the tumour is performed, followed by resection planning. The skull reconstruction is performed using computer-assisted implant modeling and manufacturing. Risk analysis of the robot-guided intervention led to the development of a new hexapod robot system.

RESULTS

Results from registration and robot accuracy on plastic and Anatomical skull are shown. The concept of a stand-alone safety system is presented to supervise the robot during the intervention. The entire process from preoperative CT scan to intraoperative robot assisted removal of tumourous bone is shown in laboratory and anatomical trials.

CONCLUSION

The laboratory and anatomy studies conducted so far provided a substantial basis for further improvement of the system's integration in the surgical workflow and the final approval of the system for initial clinical studies.

Surface anatomy of the posterolateral cranium regarding the localization of the initial burr–hole for a retrosigmoid approach

Knowing the location of the venous sinuses is essential for the localization of the initial burr-hole for a retrosigmoid approach, in order to avoid inadvertent entry into the venous sinuses and limitation of the size of the bony opening. In this anatomic study, external landmarks of the posterolateral cranium have been studied, in order to reveal the relationship with the venous sinuses. Eighty-four dried adult human skulls were studied and study of both sides yielded 168 sides. Morphometric measurements of the posterolateral cranium have been performed and relations of the external landmarks with the venous sinuses have been studied. The anatomic position of the asterion was variable. The superior nuchal line was roughly parallel and below the lower margin of the sulcus of transverse sinus in all specimens. The sigmoid sinus, between the superior and inferior bends, seemed to descend along an axis defined by the junction of the squamosal-parietomastoid suture and the mastoid tip, in a slightly oblique fashion. In conclusion, a burr-hole placed just below the superior nuchal line and posterior to the axis defined by the mastoid tip and the squamosal-parietomastoid suture junction is appropriate for both avoiding inadvertent entry into the sinus and limiting the size of the craniotomy.

Image-guided osteoplastic frontal sinusotomy

BACKGROUND

A 6-ft Caldwell radiograph template and transillumination, typically, are used to elucidate the frontal sinus outline for osteoplastic frontal sinusotomy (OFS). These techniques can be fraught with imprecision. The consequences of imprecise OFS may result in significant complications. Computer-aided surgery may offer a safe and accurate alternative to these techniques in selected cases. Several disadvantages were noted with early computer-aided assistance. Current infrared and electromagnetic systems have eliminated many of these disadvantages. We describe our technique and experience with an infrared image-guidance system (The LandmarX Evolution; Medtronic Xomed, Jacksonville, FL) to create a precise OFS that maximizes exposure while minimizing morbidity.

METHODS

We describe the use of an infrared image guidance system, the LandmarX Evolution for OFS in three cases.

RESULTS

The LandmarX Evolution allowed for accurate placement of the OFS in each of the three cases and successful treatment of two symptomatic frontal sinus osteomas and a recurrent inverted papilloma. No complications were encountered.

CONCLUSION

Image-guided OFS results in a confident and accurate entry into the frontal sinus. Image-guided OFS creation should be considered for select cases (i.e., complete opacification and altered anatomy) where performing an OFS by standard techniques may increase the complication rate. More experience with the technique and increased accessibility to image-guided equipment must be made possible before establishing this technique as a standard.

Combined endoscopic trephination and endoscopic frontal sinusotomy for management of complex frontal sinus pathology

BACKGROUND

The advances in endoscopic sinus surgery have revolutionized the management of frontal sinus disease. Despite the successes, the purely endoscopic approach has its limitations, especially in patients with alterations in anatomy caused by previous surgical intervention or complex frontal sinus pneumatization patterns. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of combined endoscopic trephination and endoscopic frontal sinusotomy (the above and below approach) in the management of these difficult cases.

METHODS

Chart review was performed on patients undergoing the combined approach from October 1999 to June 2004. Demographic data, symptomatology, comorbidity, previous surgery, and primary pathology were determined. Outcome was assessed based on subjective symptom relief and objective endoscopic patency.

RESULTS

Twenty-two patients with a mean age of 49.2 years underwent the combined approach. The primary pathology included mucoceles (15 patients), frontal sinusitis (2 patients), inverted papilloma (2 patients), osteoma (1 patient), fibrous dysplasia (1 patient), and pneumocephalus (1 patient). A total of 25 above and below procedures (22 primary and 3 revision procedures) were performed to manage the pathology. Postoperatively, headaches resolved in 47%, improved in 35%, and remained unchanged in 18% of the patients. Orbital symptoms resolved in 63%, improved in 25%, and remained unchanged in 12% of the patients. Endoscopic patency of the frontal sinusotomy was confirmed in 19 of 22 cases (86%) at a mean follow-up of 16.2 months.

CONCLUSION

Management of complex frontal sinus pathology may require adjunct approaches in conjunction to the standard endoscopic techniques. In this series, the above and below approach was used successfully in 22 patients. The combined approach may serve as an important adjunct for management of complex frontal sinus disease.

Sinus floor elevation via hydraulic detachment and elevation of the Schneiderian membrane

OBJECTIVES

Minor sinus floor elevation is a method with relatively high predictability but is technically demanding. Improvement of the technique and increase in the predictability are desirable.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A clinical protocol for minor sinus floor elevation with SLA-ITI (large grit acid-etched implants with diameter of 4.8 mm) is described. Using trephine instead of spiral burrs enables the harvesting of autogenous grafts from the implant socket and guarantees a perfect implant socket. The latter is necessary for optimal implant anchoring and for the hydraulic seal between socket and the osteotome. The whole allows a hydraulic detachment of the Schneiderian membrane, where the blood cushion gradually detaches and elevates the membrane, preventing its contact with the graft.

RESULTS

Eight patients were successfully treated with the method described above. No membrane perforation occurred and an uneventful healing was observed in all patients. All implants were loaded prosthodontically 3 months after the implantation.

CONCLUSIONS

The clinical protocol presented provides high predictability in clinical outcome, together with extremely low morbidity and shortened surgery.

From Trephination to Tailored Resection: Neurosurgery in Germany before World War II

Evidence exists that trephination was performed in Germany as early as the Stone Age. Late medieval barber surgeons further developed instruments and techniques for this procedure. Various surgeons performed individual cranial operations before the 1870s, and neurosurgery evolved as a distinct discipline in Germany around 1934. Before the 20th century, most cranial operations in Germany, as in other European countries, were performed for trauma. Since approximately 1870, a few individuals with a devoted interest in surgery of the nervous system have developed operative techniques for the brain and spinal cord. Wilhelm Wagner, Fedor Krause, Ernst von Bergmann, and Otfrid Foerster were among these pioneers. Through independent research based on careful clinical observation, these physicians contributed significantly to an understanding of the pathophysiology of nervous system disorders that could be treated surgically. They designed techniques, such as those used for intracranial pressure regulation, and developed operative procedures, such as the osteoplastic flap of Wagner, and cortical stimulation, which was performed by Krause and Foerster.

[Application of glass-crystalline granules of biosit-elcor for reducing the size of trepanation cavity in middle ear surgery]

The authors describe experience in application of bioglass preparations (biosit-elcor) for partial obliteration of mastoid cavities in open operations on the middle ear in 17 patients. Long-term results were studied with otomicroscopy and computed tomography of the temporal bones. A good morphological result of the operation (complete epithelization of the wound surface, no discharge from the ear) was achieved in all the patients. Computed tomography showed step-by-step osteointegration of the implant.

[Neurological paleopathology in the pre-Columbine cultures of the coast and the Andean plateau (II). The history of cranial trepanations]

INTRODUCTION AND AIMS

Trepanation is one of the earliest examples of a surgical procedure being carried out by human beings and was performed from the Neolithic period onwards in a large number of primitive cultures throughout the five continents. Trepanation and cranial deformation were both common in the pre-Columbine cultures. The aim of this work was to study the trepanations carried out by the ancient Paraca, Nazca, Huari, Tiahuanaco and Inca cultures. To do so, we conducted a field study involving visits to archaeological remains and anthropological museums on the Andean plateau and the Peruvian coast.

DEVELOPMENT

In the pre-Columbine cultures, trepanation was performed on both men and women for therapeutic purposes (depressed fractures, epilepsy, vascular headaches and those associated to artificial cranial deformations) and as a ritual. Signs of trepanation have been found in 5% of skulls and 80% of these show evidence of the 'patient' having survived such an intervention. Some of them have several holes in different stages of healing. The trephining procedure involved the use of obsidian knives with wooden handles and tumis, which were ceremonial knives that were used to cut the scalp. Gold and silver cranioplasty plates have also been found in some skulls.

CONCLUSIONS

Cranial trepanation was very successful despite the rudimentary methods and instruments employed to perform it.

Q-Switched Erbium:YAG Laser Corneal Trephination

PURPOSE

To assess stromal thermal damage and cut regularity induced by nonmechanical Q-switched Er:YAG laser corneal trephination for penetrating keratoplasty.

METHODS

Corneal trephination was performed in 80 enucleated porcine eyes by Q-switched (2.94-microm) Er:YAG laser, along with donor and recipient masks made of metal or ceramic. All combinations of 0.65- or 0.96-mm spot diameter and 45- or 50-mJ/pulse energy setting were used with each of the masks at a 5-Hz repetition rate. Corneas were processed for histologic examinations. Stromal thermal damage was quantified on PAS-stained slides, and cut regularity was assessed semiquantitatively on a scale from 0 (regular) to 3 (highly irregular). Transmission electron microscopy and scanning electron microscopy were performed on selected specimens.

RESULTS

The least thermal damage (mean +/- SD = 6.2 +/- 0.7 microm) was found in the donor ceramic group with 50-mJ/pulse energy and 0.65-mm spot diameter, while the best regularity of the cut (1.2 +/- 0.4) was found in the donor ceramic group with 45-mJ pulse energy and 0.65-mm spot diameter. Thermal damage was less pronounced in donor than in recipient corneas (P < 0.01). Smaller spot diameter (0.65 mm) led to less thermal damage (P < 0.01) than the use of a 0.96-mm spot diameter. The differences in thermal damage between ceramic and metal masks were minimal.

CONCLUSIONS

After Q-switched Er:YAG laser corneal trephination for nonmechanical penetrating keratoplasty, reproducible high cut regularity and low concomitant thermal damage were observed. This is an encouraging finding in the search for a nonmechanical trephine for penetrating keratoplasty combining high precision and low cost.

Relative cerebral blood flow during the secondary expansion of a cortical lesion in rats

The size of a cerebral contusion is not finite at the moment of trauma, but liable to secondary increase during the following hours and days. In the present study we investigated whether this phenomenon may be related to changes in cortical blood flow (cCBF). In rats a cortical lesion grew to 140% of its initial volume during the first 24 h after injury. During the time of most rapid lesion expansion (<6 h after the insult) marked hypoperfusion (approximately 30% of baseline) was found in the ipsilateral hemisphere by laser Doppler scanning fluxmetry. In the peri-contusional area cCBF slowly recovered to approximately 80% of baseline, while in the distant brain not affected by delayed cell death, significant hyperperfusion (approximately 160% of baseline) was observed. Thus, early hypoperfusion might be an important mechanism for secondary lesion expansion.

A new instrument facilitates the needle trephination procedure: technical note

INTRODUCTION

Percutaneous needle trephination is a well known neurosurgical procedure. The aim of this study was to develop a new instrument, which allows a stable fixation of an 18-G spinal needle in order to improve handling and precision of percutaneous needle trephinations. METHODS AND INSTRUMENTATION: The needle stabilizer was designed in a T-shape fashion morphologically similar to a corkscrew. The length of the uncovered needle tip is adjustable for individual requirements.

RESULTS

Using the new needle stabilizing device a total number of 18 percutaneous needle trephinations were performed for the following indications: subdural hematoma, epidural hygroma, bifrontal air accumulation, superficial tumor cyst, superficial brain abscess. No complications have been observed.

DISCUSSION

Our experience using this device shows that the modified technique fulfils criteria for clinical acceptance such as simplicity, low risk, reliability and cost effectiveness.

Surgical treatment of chronic subdural hematoma based on intrahematomal membrane structure on MRI

BACKGROUND

To determine the optimal surgical management of chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH), we assessed which operative procedure, burr holes or small craniotomy, was more effective on 49 consecutive patients.

METHOD

We retrospectively classified all cases into two groups according to the intrahematomal membrane structure of CSDH on T2*-weighted magnetic resonance (MR) imaging. The first group, labeled type B, included hematomas which had no intrahematomal membrane and/or were monolayer multilobule. The second group, labeled type C, consisted of hematomas which were divided into multiple layers by the intrahematomal membrane.

FINDINGS

The outcome of type C patients treated with burr holes was significantly inferior to that of those who underwent a small craniotomy in terms of the relative outcome of neurological grading. re-operation ratio, and postoperative hospital stay (p < 0.05). Type C hematomas treated with burr holes also had inferior outcome compared with a small craniotomy in terms of the duration of hematoma until disappearance on postoperative CT (p < 0.05).

INTERPRETATION

We concluded that a considerable number of cases appeared to need craniotomy and resection of intrahematomal membrane for complete recovery in CSDH, and that T2*-weighted MR imaging could be used as a basis for selecting the operative procedure for CSDH.

Minimally invasive approach to traumatic intracerebral hematomas

Trauma is one of the leading causes of death in Brazil. We report on 28 cases of traumatic intracerebral hematomas operated on via a minimally invasive approach. A simplified method of localization and right placement of the burr hole is described in details, as well as the technique used in all cases. Every patient was submitted to pre- and postoperative CT scan (computerized tomography) and had the volume of the hematoma measured before the surgical procedure to compare the efficacy of the treatment. No patient needed a second operation, even though in some cases there were residual hematomas. We believe that this approach can be done with safety and replace a standard craniotomy in selected cases.

The "optimal" burr hole position for endoscopic third ventriculostomy: results from 31 stereotactically guided procedures

ETV is a well established and successful method in contemporary neurosurgery. With growing experience there is a more efficient patient selection and further advances in technical know how. We evaluated retrospectively a consecutive group of 27 patients who were treated in our institution by stereotactic guided ETV between 1992 and 1996. When reviewing their postoperative imaging studies (MRI/CT) we could measure the position of the burr hole as port of entry for the rigid endoscope in 17 out of 23 finally selected patients. The median lateral position was 28 mm (mean 26.5 mm) from the midline and 8 mm (mean 6.5 mm) anterior of the coronal suture. We conclude that the optimal burr hole position should be 3 cm lateral to the midline and 1 cm anterior of the coronal suture, in the patients with normal anatomical findings.

Supraorbital burr hole via a glabellar incision: a simple approach to anterior skull base

A left subfrontopolar lesion with marked edema was totally resected utilizing a minimally invasive approach. It was possible to expose and resect the lesion, which turned out to be a tuberculoma, through a burr hole placed supraorbitally through a glabellar incision. The development and significance of minimalization techniques for surgery in the skull base region are discussed.

A modified burr-hole method 'galeoduroencephalosynangiosis' in a young child with moyamoya disease. A preliminary report and surgical technique

We performed combined indirect surgical procedures using encephaloduroarteriomyosynangiosis and a burr-hole method according to descriptions by Suzuki et al. and Kawaguchi et al. with some modifications in a 4-year-old child with moyamoya disease. Transient ischemic attacks on both sides completely disappeared within 1 month and never occurred during 2.5 years follow-up period. This surgical procedure may have enough value as the first operation to prevent ischemic damage in the territories of both the anterior cerebral artery and middle cerebral artery in children with moyamoya disease.

[The surgical treatment of intracranial aneurysms from the pterion approach using small trephining openings]

In the past decade, there has been a clear trend for the use of low-invasive surgical interventions in many divisions of neurosurgery. Since each operation is bound to be followed by tissue traumatization, a decrease in the sizes of skull trepanation should be regarded as a way of reducing the incidence of intra- and extracranial complications. The proposed variant of a pterion access to intracranial aneurysms by using small trepanation holes may substantially decrease the duration of surgical interventions and to avoid postoperative epidural and subdural hematomas without preventing the visualization of arteries in both anterior and posterior Willis' circle and at the same time the variant exerts no negative effect on the possibilities of hemostasis in intraoperative aneurysm rupture. The operation yields a good cosmetic effect.

[Trephanopuncture of the frontal sinuses: the evolution of the method]

Historical evolution of frontal sinus trepanopuncture with description of its benefits and shortcomings is presented. The perfection of the method lies in introduction of technological innovations raising safety of the procedure and provision of the approach sufficient for modern therapeutic and diagnostic techniques.

[Autogenic bone plug to seal burr holes: technical note]

Many neurosurgical procedures can be performed by a single burr hole: neuro-endoscopy, microvascular decompression, stereotactic procedures, chronic subdural haematomas. It is technically difficult to suture and close the dura, located at the bottom of such holes, which can lately lead to CSF leakage. On the other hand, the surgical material used to seal the burr holes can be divided in heterogenic (metal screws, silicon plugs, gelfoam, bone wax, metilmetacrilate, hydroxyapatite), and autogenic (fat, aponeurosis, muscle, and bone dust from trephination). The heterogenic group always brings the possibility of foreign body reaction, which can complicate the procedure lately, ensuing a new surgical procedure to clean up the area. It also favors infection. We present a simple, economic, and biologically compatible "autogenic bone plug" to seal burr holes using the bone dust from the original trephination packed with surgical. The incidence of CSF fistulae on that procedures performed by a single burr hole lowered to almost zero, and foreign body reaction was not observed to present.

[On the clinical significance of the trephined cavity status in patients with radical surgery of the middle ear]

303 ears were examined otomicroscopically in 267 patients who had undergone radical operation on the middle ear (RO). Local and general symptoms in patients after RO were defined as "the operated ear disease". Otomicroscopic picture of pathomorphological changes in the trepanation cavity is provided. It is necessary to account for these changes in planning reconstructive surgery.

Surgical treatment of recurrent trigeminal neuralgia

In this retrospective investigation 7 patients operated on for recurrent trigeminal neuralgia via a suboccipital enlarged burr hole trepanation were evaluated. The intraoperative findings indicate that neo-compressive effects due to foreign material used during prior surgery are more important than adhesions around the nerve. Furthermore, the results of recurrent operations are encouraging as 6 of the 7 patients were painfree without additional neurological deficits.

Subdural haematomas in the elderly: experience with treatment by trephine craniotomy and not closing the dura or replacing the bone plate

A surgical technique was devised to treat chronic subdural haematomas (SDH) in elderly patients. Initial good results encouraged the author to use this technique in elderly patients with acute SDH. This small group is also reported. The goal was to do definitive, not expectant or incremental surgery on these fragile patients who have a high incidence of co-morbid conditions and cerebral atrophy, and to obliterate the subdural space by allowing the skin to sink into the cranial defect. The surgical technique consists of trephine craniotomy and not closing the dura or replacing the bone plate. Experience with six elderly patients with acute SDH and 23 patients with chronic SDH is reported. Of six patients with acute SDH, mean age 80 years, 2 months, three died, all with a Glasgow Coma Score (GCS) less than 9. Three recovered to preoperative status, one with initial GCS of 7 and the other of 8. Of 23 patients with chronic SDH, mean age 77 years, 21 recovered to preoperative status. The two deaths were in patients with GSC of 5 and 7. There were no recurrent SDH or postoperative surgical or cosmetic complications. All patients were followed for at least 6 months. These excellent results suggest that the procedure could be considered as a first procedure in the elderly patient. At first glance, the operation appears to be overly aggressive, but it is an example of 'aggressive-conservative' treatment which produces good long-term results with few complications and no need for second operations.

Minimally invasive bedside craniotomy using a self-controlling pre-adjustable mechanical twist drill trephine

BACKGROUND

Craniotomy with a mechanical twist drill is a standard, minimally invasive procedure in neurosurgery, widely used for the drainage of chronic subdural hematomas and the placement of ventricular drains. Nevertheless, the use of a standard twist drill trephine bears the risk of causing cerebral lesions.

METHOD

A commercially available mechanical twist drill system has been modified by a special self-controlling drill and a pre-adjustable distance holder that limits intracerebral penetration. After initial cadaver testing, the modified trephine has been used for 65 trephinations in patients (37 chronic subdural hematomas, 21 external ventricular drains, 6 frontal hygromas, 1 tumor cyst).

RESULTS

There were no complications related to the modified trephine; cerebral lesions caused by drilling too deeply or by uncontrolled penetration were safely prevented. In our series no procedure related infections occurred, and the drilling time was reduced significantly.

CONCLUSION

The described modified mechanical twist drill enables fast, easy, and safe craniotomy without jeopardizing the advantages of a mechanical twist drill. Therefore, it can be recommended particularly for difficult emergency conditions.

Endoscopic dissection of dura and craniotomy with minimal trephines: a preliminary series

The first nine clinical cases using endoscopic dissection of dura and craniotomy with minimal trephines were performed from June to August 1997 after trial dissection of 19 fresh cadavers conducted at the University of Brno's Pathology Institute in the Czech Republic. These procedures involved the refinement of craniofacial and intracranial surgical techniques using the endoscope and prototype instruments. These dissections demonstrated that intracranial structures can be explored using an endoscope without encumbrance, and that major craniofacial surgeries may also be performed with minor incisions and minimal craniotomies. Furthermore, we seek to illustrate that use of the endoscope in craniofacial surgery provides improved visualization and protection of vital structures while simultaneously allowing the surgeon to perform delicate maneuvers. This permits minimal brain retraction with less subsequent morbidity. This minimally invasive craniofacial-intracranial surgical technique using the endoscope is performed with minimal cutaneous incisions, avoiding wide exposure of subcutaneous tissue, cranium, and meningeal structures. The ultimate goal is to perform endoscopic intracranial osteotomies and obtain advancement of craniofacial skeleton with gradual distraction. Potential neurosurgical advantages include improved postoperative recovery, decreased cerebral edema, and decreased risk of hemorrhage and infection.

[Usefulness of multiple burr-hole operation for child Moyamoya disease]

Excellent results of multiple burr-hole operation (MBHO) for child moyamoya disease are reported in this study. Three patients of moyamoya disease had MBHO. After MBHO, transient, ischemic attacks disappeared in a patient despite progressing stenosis of the major cerebral arteries, and remarkable neurological improvement was recognized in a patient who had encephaloduroarteriosynangiosis. Another patient slowly improved and became able to go to junior high school. N-isopropyl-p-[123I] iodoamphetamine (IMPSPECT) findings also improved in all patients. There was no mortality or morbidity, and no new neurological deficits or bleedings developed during the follow up period. The authors recommend the MBHO as the surgical treatment of choice for not only adult but also child moyamoya disease because of its safety and effectiveness, and also report the usefulness of MBHO for the patients who have already received other bypass operations.

Useful panel of antibodies for the classification of acute leukemia by immunohistochemical methods in bone marrow trephine biopsy specimens

To evaluate the feasibility of acute leukemia typing on routinely processed bone marrow biopsy specimens, 72 cases of previously established acute leukemia covering the spectrum of 17 known subtypes were studied immunohistochemically. Most leukemic myeloblasts were positive for myeloperoxidase in 16 (84%) of 19 cases of acute myeloid leukemia, M1-M4, and M6. Most leukemic cells in 11 of 12 M4 and M5 cases were positive for CD68 (PG-M1). All six M6 cases stained with hemoglobin. Leukemic megakaryoblasts in three of four M7 cases were positive for factor VIII-related antigen. Almost all leukemic cells of 8 T-lineage acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) and 19 B-lineage ALL cases were positive for CD3 and CD79a (HM57), respectively. Staining with CD20 (L26) was positive in the more differentiated B-lineage ALL cases and strongest in L3. Immunohistochemical typing of acute leukemia is possible for most types using this panel of cell lineage-specific antibodies.

Multiple burr-hole operation for adult moyamoya disease

Excellent results from multiple burr-hole operations for adult moyamoya disease are reported in this study. Ten patients had between one and four burr holes (mean 2.1) drilled in each hemisphere. In four patients new burr holes were added on the opposite side after depression of cerebral blood flow (CBF) was detected by follow-up single-photon emission computerized tomography imaging of the brain with N-isopropyl-p-[123I]iodoamphetamine. The postoperative follow-up period ranged from 6 to 62 months (mean 34.7 months). Beginning at 6 months postsurgery, angiograms disclosed rich neovascularization at 41 of 43 burr holes, first from the middle meningeal artery, then from the superficial temporal artery. Neovascularization did not occur at two burr holes at which there was subdural effusion and local cerebral atrophy, respectively. Progression of stenosis of the major vessels was seen in six patients. Moyamoya vessels were decreased at six sites in four patients. The CBF study revealed that the reactivity to acetazolamide improved in all six patients tested. Transient ischemic attacks disappeared in all six patients presenting with this symptom, and preoperative symptoms improved in both of the patients who presented with cerebral infarction and in both patients with intraventricular hemorrhage. There was no mortality or morbidity, and no new neurological deficits or rebleeding developed during the follow-up period. The authors strongly recommend the multiple burr- hole operation as the surgical treatment of choice for adult moyamoya disease because of its safety and effectiveness.

Tactics and general principles in the treatment of polytraumatized disaster victims

The authors reviewed their experiences of treating masses of victims after disasters in Arzamas, Armenia, and Ethiopia. To handle these vast numbers of victims, local hospitals were reorganized into specialized clinics with appropriate equipment and medical personnel. Some of the patients were evacuated to multispecialized clinics or rear hospitals. A complex of diagnostic and treatment modalities were used on these patients, including intrabone injections, immunoprophylaxis for purulent complications, skin and bone grafting and external fixation systems designed in Russia. The overwhelming majority of the patients was discharged with good results. To prevent common tactical, treatment, and surgical mistakes, it is necessary to improve medical education to train multispecialized teams in disaster medicine prepared to work under extreme conditions.

Brief communication: earliest cranial surgery in North America

The archaeological evidence of ancient cranial surgery is limited to cases of trepanation and cauterization. I report here on the only known case of cranial surgery in direct association with the osseous image of a non-trauma-induced soft tissue lesion (sinus pericranii). This case, from Alameda County, California (Late Middle Period, ca. 300-500 AD), is the earliest and only definitive evidence of invasive surgery from prehistoric North America. Because this individual presents the only bony evidence of cranial surgery other than trepanation or cauterization, it contributes substantially to our extremely limited understanding of medical practices in preliterate societies.

Reduction of post-traumatic intracranial hypertension by hypertonic/hyperoncotic saline/dextran and hypertonic mannitol

Cerebral injury is seen in one of three patients with multiple traumas; thus efficient shock treatment is a most important measure against the development of secondary brain damage. Small-volume resuscitation in severe hemorrhagic shock by hypertonic/hyperoncotic saline/dextran has been shown to instantaneously normalize cardiac output and to raise systemic blood pressure. In this study, the fluid regimen was compared with hypertonic mannitol to investigate their therapeutic efficacy in intracranial hypertension. The experiments were performed in rabbits subjected to a focal lesion of the brain to induce acute, vasogenic brain edema. The resulting intracranial hypertension was enhanced in a standard manner by inflation of an epidural balloon until an intracranial pressure (ICP) of 17 mm Hg was obtained. Intravenous administration of either 7.2% saline/10% dextran-60 or of 20% mannitol rapidly decreased the elevated ICP. After the first injection, ICP lowering was maintained longer by the mannitol than by the hypertonic saline/dextran, whereas no differences in duration of ICP lowering were found when the infusions of these solutions were repeated. The systemic blood pressure increased after injection of the saline/dextran solution, but it tended to decrease after injection of the mannitol. Transient increases in plasma osmolality, colloid-osmotic pressure, and plasma-Na+ were more pronounced after administration of the saline/dextran solution than after the administration of the mannitol. No difference in the tissue water content between the traumatized and contralateral hemisphere was observed in the animals receiving mannitol; however, after saline/dextran infusion, the water content was somewhat increased in the exposed hemisphere but decreased in the nonexposed, contralateral hemisphere (decreased to a point even below the corresponding level of animals who received the mannitol). The increase of the cerebral water content of the traumatized hemisphere was associated with a respective increase of the cerebral Na+ content and a (nonsignificant) decrease of the K+ content. The present findings demonstrate that the hypertonic/hyperoncotic saline/dextran was as efficient as the mannitol in reducing ICP that had been increased by a cerebral lesion and a space-occupying mass; the underlying mechanisms responsible for the reduction might differ. Because of the powerful hemodynamic properties of the saline/dextran in circulatory shock, administration of the solution in patients with multiple traumas and head injury might be particularly advantageous for the prevention of secondary ischemic brain damage.

Avoidable factors that contribute to complications in the surgical treatment of chronic subdural haematoma

The results of a personal series of 44 consecutive patients undergoing burrhole evacuation and closed system suction drainage for chronic subdural haematoma are presented. 43 patients made a complete recovery and one was left with moderate disability. Contralateral weakness in one patient, recurrence of haematoma in another, and a new contralateral haematoma in a third were the only complications. The operative procedures responsible for the rather low complication rate in this series are described. It is concluded that to avoid complications following surgical treatment of chronic subdural haematoma, attention must be paid to the following factors: evacuation of the haematoma through two burrholes overlying the subdural collection; attention to ensure free communication through the subdural space between the two burrholes; identification and opening of additional loculations overlying the cortex; irrigation of the subdural space to ensure as complete an evacuation of the subdural collection as possible and the use of closed system suction drainage, nursing the patient flat, and intravenous hydration of the patient for three days. In addition, in patients with coagulopathy, correction of these disorders before surgery is most essential.

[The principles of the surgery of parasagittal meningiomas: the current status of the problem]

Based on the data available in the literature and their own findings of 1200 operations for removal parasagittal meningiomas, the authors give recommendations on the planning of diagnostic and therapeutical measures for this common abnormality. Technical features of each stage of the operation (a patient's position on the operating table, section of the skin, trepanation, section of the dura mater, etc.) are discussed. It is stressed that there is a need for manipulations at the site of the tumour matrix just after removal of its basic mass. Plastic aspects of the upper sagittal syndrome are discussed in the paper too.

Modified bifrontal interhemispheric approach to aneurysms of the anterior communicating artery with the use of a trephine craniotomy. A review of personal experience with 25 cases

A modified microsurgical bifrontal interhemispheric approach (small trephine craniotomy) for clipping of aneurysms of the anterior communicating artery (ACoA) is described. This approach has been used in a series of 23 patients with ACoA and 2 patients with distal anterior cerebral artery aneurysms. Feasibility, indications and problems related to this approach to ACoA aneurysms are assessed. Twenty-one patients (84%) made an excellent or good recovery. The result was poor in an 80-year-old patient who was in grade 3 pre-operatively. Three patients of this series died: one of them was pre-operatively in grade 4 and died from pneumonia; the other two died as consequence of unrelated ailments. Incidence and extent of vasospasm was within the normal range, corresponding to the amount and distribution of subarachnoid blood clots. From our experience it can be concluded that this approach is safe and feasible for patients with ACoA aneurysms graded 1-2 (Hunt-Kosnik's grading system) and evaluated as group 1-2 of Fisher's CT classification. But it is not recommended for patients with larger amounts of subarachnoid blood clots. Advantages of this microapproach to ACoA aneurysms are: a) minimal brain damage, b) adequate visualization and anatomical orientation, c) preservation of the olfactory nerves and the gyrus rectus, d) reduced operative time, e) easy clip application to aneurysms pointing in any direction.

[Single craniotomy by trephining and closed-circuit external drainage for the treatment of chronic subdural hematoma]

Chronic subdural hematoma is one of the most frequent pathological entities in the adult. Therapeutic approaches have ranged from craniotomy with excision of the membrane to close external drainage placed, under local anesthesia, at the bedside. The authors report the results of treatment of twelve (12) patients by craniotomy with placement of a closed external drainage for the gradual emptying of the chronic subdural hematoma.