51
|
Galarza M, Fabrizi AP, Maina R, Gazzeri R, Martínez-Lage JF. Degenerative lumbar spinal stenosis with neurogenic intermittent claudication and treatment with the Aperius PercLID System: a preliminary report. Neurosurg Focus 2011; 28:E3. [PMID: 20568919 DOI: 10.3171/2010.3.focus1034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECT The aim of this study was to evaluate whether clinical improvement is noticeable after a minimally invasive procedure such as that used with the Aperius PercLID System in patients with degenerative lumbar spinal stenosis (DLSS) and neurogenic intermittent claudication (NIC). METHODS The patients were treated with the aforementioned system at 3 different centers. The initial requirement to be included in the study was a minimum follow-up of 12 months. The authors studied 40 cases of DLSS in patients with NIC (age 72.7 +/- 8.08 years). Symptom severity, physical function, quality of life, and self-rated pain were assessed preoperatively and at the 12-month follow-up using the Zurich Claudication Questionnaire (ZCQ) and a visual analog scale. The procedure was conducted under spinal (35 patients) or local (5 patients) anesthesia, using biplanar fluoroscopy for visualization. RESULTS Single-level treatment was performed in 28 patients and 2-level treatment was performed in 12 patients. Based on time recordings in 24 cases, the mean procedural time was 19.9 +/- 5.0 minutes. The mean pain visual analog scale score improved significantly from 8.1 +/- 2.19 at baseline to 3.44 +/- 2.89 at the 1-year follow-up. The ZCQ score for patient satisfaction showed 90% of the patients being satisfied with the procedure. The mean rates of improvement in ZCQ score for symptom severity and physical function at 1 year were 38.7 +/- 33.3% and 33.8 +/- 29.7%, respectively, and both proved to be statistically significant. Most improvement was seen in mobility, pain/discomfort, and ability for self-care. CONCLUSIONS In this preliminary study, the Aperius system provided clinically significant improvement after 1 year of follow-up in patients older than 65 years with DLSS and NIC.
Collapse
|
52
|
Gazzeri R, Galarza M, Neroni M, Alfieri A, Giordano M. Hemostatic matrix sealant in neurosurgery: a clinical and imaging study. Acta Neurochir (Wien) 2011; 153:148-54; discussion 155. [PMID: 20703888 DOI: 10.1007/s00701-010-0762-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2010] [Accepted: 07/30/2010] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECT The aim of this study was to investigate prospectively the efficacy and safety of Floseal hemostatic matrix. METHODS A total of 214 patients (87 males, 127 females; mean age 56.2 years) undergoing cranial (71.4%), craniospinal (0.9%), and spinal (27.5%) procedures with the use of gelatin thrombin hemostatic matrix (Floseal) were included in this prospective study. The indications for its use, surgical techniques, time to bleeding control, and associated complications were recorded. RESULTS Effective hemostasis, defined as cessation of bleeding, was achieved no later than 3 min after topical agent application in all patients except in 11 cases, in which the hemostatic application was repeated. Rebleeding was disclosed in four patients 1 day after initial surgery. In one case, an intracerebral abscess developed after a malignant glioma removal. No other patient developed allergic reactions or local or systemic complications associated with the hemostatic sealant. CONCLUSION In this study, matrix hemostatic sealant helped to control operative bleeding in cranial and spinal surgery, reducing damage to the surrounding healthy nervous tissue while shortening surgical timing. Other than safe, the immediate hemostatic effect is an advantage in the settings of refractory bleeding.
Collapse
|
53
|
Alfieri A, Gazzeri R, Galarza M, Neroni M. Surgical treatment of intracranial Erdheim-Chester disease. J Clin Neurosci 2010; 17:1489-92. [PMID: 20843693 DOI: 10.1016/j.jocn.2010.03.062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2010] [Revised: 03/23/2010] [Accepted: 03/28/2010] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
We review the clinical presentation, radiological and histological characteristics, and the natural history, of intracranial Erdheim-Chester disease (ECD). ECD is a rare form of non-Langerhans histiocytosis that affects multiple organs. It is clinically characterized by leg pain, exophthalmos and diabetes insipidus (DI). Central nervous system involvement is rare, with only 27 patients reported in the international literature. DI and cerebellar signs represent the most common neurological symptoms. Its treatment is controversial. Intracranial surgical procedures for ECD have been reported in 11 patients with a complete surgical resection performed in six, and an intracerebral biopsy performed in five patients. In seven patients the cranial procedures represented the initial diagnostic method. Surgical resection and radiation therapy have been used in the further management of these cerebral lesions.
Collapse
|
54
|
Galarza M, López-Guerrero AL, Martínez-Lage JF. Posterior fossa arachnoid cysts and cerebellar tonsillar descent: short review. Neurosurg Rev 2010; 33:305-14; discussion 314. [PMID: 20480382 DOI: 10.1007/s10143-010-0262-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2009] [Revised: 03/07/2010] [Accepted: 03/08/2010] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
|
55
|
Galarza M, Martínez-Lage JF, Ham S, Sood S. Cerebral anomalies and Chiari type 1 malformation. Pediatr Neurosurg 2010; 46:442-9. [PMID: 21540621 DOI: 10.1159/000327220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2011] [Accepted: 03/07/2011] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To analyze the association of diverse cerebral anomalies in a series of pediatric patients with cerebellar tonsillar ectopia. METHODS We reviewed the medical records of 60 children diagnosed with Chiari type 1 malformation (CM1), of these, 20 patients (11 boys and 9 girls; mean age 7.2 years, range 2-16 years) had an associated cerebral anomaly. Symptoms of tonsillar ectopia evolved over a mean of 12 months (range 3 months to 4 years). Syringomyelia was present in 5 cases. All patients underwent a posterior fossa decompression. RESULTS Disclosed anomalies included: congenital hydrocephalus (n = 11), cervicomedullary kinking (n = 5), focal cerebral heterotopia with epilepsy (n = 4), partial agenesis of the corpus callosum (n = 4), hypoplastic brain stem (n = 2), holoprosencephaly (n = 1), and subcortical dysplasia in the context of neurofibromatosis type 1 (n = 1). Other malformations included: subcortical hamartoma associated with neurofibromatosis type 1, craniofacial dysmorphism secondary to Noonan syndrome, congenital occipital plagiocephaly, os odontoideum, craniofacial cleft, juvenile rheumathoid arthritis with platybasia, and osteogenesis imperfecta with bathrocephaly and scoliosis. CONCLUSION Craniocerebral anomalies in children treated for CM1 may be found consistently. The association of hydrocephalus, which was the most common anomaly in this cohort, with cerebellar tonsillar ectopia may contribute to a poor outcome in regard to tonsillar herniation symptoms.
Collapse
|
56
|
Martínez-Lage JF, Guillén-Navarro E, Almagro MJ, Felipe-Murcia M, López López-Guerrero A, Galarza M. Hydrocephalus and Chiari type 1 malformation in macrocephaly-cutis marmorata telangiectatica congenita: a case-based update. Childs Nerv Syst 2010; 26:13-8. [PMID: 19763591 DOI: 10.1007/s00381-009-0972-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Macrocephaly-cutis marmorata telangiectatica congenita (M-CMTC) is a newly described condition characterized by macrocephaly (megalencephaly), cutis marmorata telangiectatica congenita, macrosomia and/or asymmetric growth, central nervous system abnormalities and neurological manifestations. DISCUSSION This condition is usually documented in the Genetics' literature but it has been scarcely disseminated among neurosurgeons. Sudden death of uncertain origin has been reported in children with M-CMTC. Hydrocephalus and tonsillar herniation often occur in this syndrome. The appearance of symptoms and signs of intracranial hypertension or of brain stem compression in M-CMTC patients may herald the development of irreversible neurological damage or death. ILLUSTRATIVE CASES We report two children diagnosed with M-CMTC and hydrocephalus who were given a ventriculo-peritoneal shunt. In addition, one of them exhibited tonsillar herniation. CONCLUSIONS Given the high incidence of hydrocephalus and/or tonsillar herniation that occurs in M-CMTC, serial neuroimaging studies and neurosurgical referral seem to be warranted in children with this syndrome.
Collapse
|
57
|
Gazzeri R, Faiola A, Galarza M, Tamorri M. Universal Clamp system in thoracolumbar spinal fixation: technical note. Acta Neurochir (Wien) 2009; 151:1673-80. [PMID: 19727545 DOI: 10.1007/s00701-009-0495-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2009] [Accepted: 08/05/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Universal Clamp is a polyester band passed under the lamina and connected to a rod by a titanium clamp that has been recently reported as an alternative for replacing screws and hooks for thoracolumbar spinal diseases. To date, there is no report of an evaluation of the effectiveness and safety of posterior fixation and fusion using this technique. METHODS This study was a prospective evaluation of a cohort of 18 patients with thoracolumbar disorders that were surgically treated between November 2006 and June 2007 with Universal Clamps for spinal fixation. Fifteen cases were traumatic fractures with others two with degenerative severe stenosis and one kyphotic stenosis. Levels treated were thoracolumbar in 15 cases, thoracic in two cases, and lumbar in one case. Seventeen patients underwent correction and instrumentation using a hybrid construct of screws and clamps, while one patient underwent fixation using Universal Clamps only. Intraoperative evoked potentials were monitored in all cases. One patient had infection that resolved after antibiotic therapy without implant removal. No neurological adverse event was seen. There was no rod breakage or clamp loosening during a follow-up of 12 months. CONCLUSIONS The polyester band is soft and flexible, and the anterior-posterior spinal canal space occupied by the band is less than by sublaminar wire steel cable, thus avoiding direct spinal cord trauma during sublaminar passage. The flat configuration of the cable distributes the load over a larger contact area under the lamina compared to metal wires without producing imaging artefacts in postoperative imaging. This preliminary report demonstrates the efficacy and safety of this technique for the stabilization of thoracolumbar spinal disorders.
Collapse
|
58
|
Galarza M, Gazzeri R. Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis associated with oral contraceptives: the case for neurosurgery. Neurosurg Focus 2009; 27:E5. [DOI: 10.3171/2009.8.focus09158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Object
The goal of this study was to provide data about neurosurgical management of cerebral venous sinus thrombosis in young women after use of oral contraceptives.
Methods
Between 1990 and 2007, the authors treated 15 women (age range 23–45 years) in whom neurosurgical management was used for overt thrombosis of cerebral sinus. All were healthy, with a history of use of oral contraceptives. Severe headache was the most common symptom, followed by motor focal deficits and comatose state. Deep infarcts were located in the thalamic and basal ganglia region in 11 cases. Seven women had associated intracerebral hemorrhage, and 3 had ventricular dilation. Angiographic MR imaging was done in 10 patients, and conventional angiography was done in 7. Genetic analysis of chromosomal abnormalities associated with stroke was done in 5 cases.
Results
The intracranial pressure (ICP) was monitored in all cases. Three patients underwent external ventricular drainage, and 1 had a decompressive craniotomy. All had absence of signal in the cerebral sinus rectus, with associated thrombosis of the transverse sinus in 7 cases. Angiograms were negative for additional vascular malformation. Medical treatment included sodium heparin and mannitol in 9 cases, and enoxaparin in the other 6 patients. Genetic analysis was positive for prothrombin mutation G20210A (factor II variant) in 2 cases. The mean follow-up duration of 53 months demonstrated no neurological deficit in 10 patients, hemiparesis in 3, and severe hemiparesis with aphasia in 1 case. One woman died 5 days after a decompressive craniotomy.
Conclusions
Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis secondary to oral contraception in young women, including lesions in critical and deep regions, can be treated medically with acceptable morbidity. In spite of this, a subgroup of patients needed basic neurosurgical management of the lesions, including surgical measures for controlling raised ICP.
Collapse
|
59
|
Galarza M, Gazzeri R, Gazzeri G, Zuccarello M, Taha J. Cubital tunnel surgery in patients with cervical radiculopathy: double crush syndrome? Neurosurg Rev 2009; 32:471-8. [PMID: 19685252 DOI: 10.1007/s10143-009-0219-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2008] [Revised: 07/12/2009] [Accepted: 07/16/2009] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
To determine differences in clinical outcomes in patients harboring both cubital tunnel syndrome (CuTS) and cervical radiculopathy and the influence of the so-called double crush syndrome. Both procedures were performed in 24 patients, mean age 55 years; first group of 14 patients underwent CuTS surgery as a first procedure. Second group of 10 patients underwent anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) then ulnar nerve release (UNR). Two patients underwent bilateral nerve surgery and six multiple cervical discectomies. Surgeries consisted in 26 nerve releases with associated external neurolysis in five, and 34 ACDF procedures, with plating in six. Clinical complaints (mean time 12 months) were sensory in 20 arms, with associated motor weakness and hypothenar atrophy involvement in another six. Electromyography changes were mild (two arms), moderate (16 arms), and severe (eight arms). Mean time of follow-up was 3 years (range 18 months-14 years). Clinical improvement was evidenced in 14 patients. Sensory nerve symptoms improved in 13 limbs in both groups and motor improvement was evident in three patients with UNR as first surgery. A comparative cohort of 20 patients with UNR but without cervical radiculopathy was studied to disclose outcome differences. Of these, 13 patients had clinical improvement. No differences were found among groups. In patients with double crush syndrome, factors that seemed to influence a poor CuTS outcome were evolution of symptoms longer than a year, history of multiple neuropathies or radiculopathies, and ACDF performed before UNR.
Collapse
|
60
|
Gazzeri R, Galarza M, Neroni M, Alfieri A, Esposito S. Minimal craniotomy and matrix hemostatic sealant for the treatment of spontaneous supratentorial intracerebral hemorrhage. J Neurosurg 2009; 110:939-42. [DOI: 10.3171/2008.8.jns17642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
The authors describe a minimally invasive technical note for the surgical treatment of primary intracerebral hematoma. Thirty-one patients with supratentorial intracerebral hematomas and no underlying vascular anomalies or bleeding disorders underwent treatment with a single linear skin incision followed by a 3-cm craniotomy. After evacuation of the hematoma, a matrix hemostatic sealant (FloSeal) was injected into the surgical cavity, and immediate hemostasis was achieved in all cases. A second operation was necessary in only 1 case. In this preliminary experience, a small craniotomy combined with FloSeal helped to control operative bleeding, reducing brain exposure and damage to the surrounding tissue while reducing the length of the surgery.
Collapse
|
61
|
Gazzeri R, Galarza M, Costanzo DB, Carotenuto V, D'Angelo V. Large pure intracranial vagal schwannoma. J Clin Neurosci 2009; 16:565-7. [PMID: 19200737 DOI: 10.1016/j.jocn.2008.05.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2008] [Revised: 05/07/2008] [Accepted: 05/18/2008] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
We report a patient with a large, pure intracranial vagal schwannoma, compressing the medulla who presented with essential hypertension. Based on this and on previous cases, we suggest that a differentiation of pure intracranial schwannomas (subtype A1) from intracranial schwannomas with some extension in the jugular foramen (type A) should be used.
Collapse
|
62
|
Gazzeri R, Galarza M, Gazzeri G. Giant olfactory groove meningioma: ophthalmological and cognitive outcome after bifrontal microsurgical approach. Acta Neurochir (Wien) 2008; 150:1117-25; discussion 1126. [PMID: 18936875 DOI: 10.1007/s00701-008-0142-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2008] [Accepted: 07/09/2008] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECT Olfactory groove meningiomas arise in the midline along the dura of the cribriform plate and may reach a large size before producing symptoms. We conducted a retrospective study of patients with these lesions focused on pre- and post-operative investigations for ophthalmological, personality and cognitive disturbances. METHODS The authors reviewed 36 patients with giant olfactory groove meningiomas surgically treated via a bifrontal approach. Ophthalmological evaluation included visual acuity, fundoscopy and visual fields while psychological evaluation included a Mini-Mental State Examination. Data was collected before, 1 and 12 months after surgery. Formal pre- and post-operative ophthalmological examinations discovered visual deficits in 55.5% of the patients. Within the first month after surgery, improvement of visual acuity and of visual field deficits was observed. In post-operative neuropsychological testing, higher mental functions showed improvement. The most frequent post-operative complication was persistent rhinorrhoea in two patients. CONCLUSIONS Results at longest follow up indicate that cognitive changes and visual deficits will improve in patients with giant olfactory groove meningiomas after a bifrontal approach, without additional neurological deficits.
Collapse
|
63
|
D'Angelo VA, Galarza M, Catapano D, Monte V, Bisceglia M, Carosi I. Lateral ventricle tumors: surgical strategies according to tumor origin and development--a series of 72 cases. Neurosurgery 2008; 62:1066-75. [PMID: 18695527 DOI: 10.1227/01.neu.0000333772.35822.37] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Optimal surgical management in lateral ventricle tumors remains controversial. We conducted a retrospective study of patients with these lesions treated with a surgical strategy on the basis of tumor origin: primary or secondary ventricular and associated transependymal development. METHODS A total of 72 patients underwent surgery for lateral ventricle tumors. The mean patient age was 39 years (range, 6 mo to 78 yr). Raised intracranial pressure occurred in 53% of patients, followed by mental disturbances or psychiatric symptoms (32%) and motor deficits (21%). The transcortical approach was used in 44 patients, and an interhemispheric approach was used in 28 patients; a transcallosal approach was used in 16 patients, and a parasplenial approach was used in 12 patients. Neuropsychological tests were performed in selected patients. RESULTS Total resection was performed in 82% of patients. Sixty-five percent of tumors were benign and low-grade tumors. There was no surgical mortality, and the morbidity rate was 11%. Postoperative epilepsy (5.9%) was significantly increased in the transcortical group. The mean follow-up period was 55 months; 59% of patients achieved good recovery and moderate disability. In postoperative neuropsychological testing sessions, deficits in verbal memory were observed in six patients (8%). Final morbidity correlated well with preoperative clinical condition and pathological diagnosis. CONCLUSION Lateral ventricle tumors can be treated best by careful selection of the approach according to tumor origin and development. Overall, the transcallosal approach is preferred, but in patients with transependymal growth or large primary or secondary ventricular tumors, the transcortical is a better option.
Collapse
|
64
|
Gazzeri R, Neroni M, Galarza M, Esposito S. Intracerebral hemorrhage associated with use of tadalafil (Cialis). Neurology 2008; 70:1289-90. [PMID: 18391160 DOI: 10.1212/01.wnl.0000308939.16685.b6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
|
65
|
Gazzeri R, Galarza M, Gazzeri G. Growth of a meningioma in a transsexual patient after estrogen-progestin therapy. N Engl J Med 2007; 357:2411-2. [PMID: 18057351 DOI: 10.1056/nejmc071938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
|
66
|
Gazzeri R, Tamorri M, Galarza M, Faiola A, Gazzeri G. Balloon-assisted endoscopic retroperitoneal gasless approach (BERG) for lumbar interbody fusion: is it a valid alternative to the laparoscopic approach? ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2007; 50:150-4. [PMID: 17882750 DOI: 10.1055/s-2007-985144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In the last years the use of interbody fusion devices with an anterior spinal lumbar approach has become a common procedure for the treatment of degenerative disc disease and spinal instability. We analysed our series of a simplified endoscopic approach to the anterior spine and made a review of the retroperitoneal endoscopically assisted approach to the anterior lumbar spine in the international literature. METHODS AND RESULTS From 1999 through 2002, twenty consecutive "balloon-assisted endoscopic retroperitoneal gasless (BERG)" lumbar fusions were performed at San Filippo Neri Hospital in Rome, Italy. The surgical indications included patients with grade I or II spondylolisthesis and symptomatic degenerative disc disease with foraminal stenosis. Fourteen patients underwent a single level fusion (4 cases at L4-L5; 10 cases at L5-S1) and six patients underwent a double level fusion (L4-L5 and L5-S1). Mean operating time was 135 minutes (single level fusion), 175 minutes (double level fusion) and the mean intraoperative blood loss was 177 mL. No perioperative complications were observed and no procedure was converted to open surgical fusion. Patients were allowed to ambulate on the second postoperative day. Fusion was achieved in nineteen patients (fusion rate of 95%) 12 months after surgery. CONCLUSIONS The BERG technique is a safe, effective, simplified, less technically demanding alternative approach when performing ALIF procedures, without the morbidity associated with laparoscopic or traditional approaches.
Collapse
|
67
|
Abstract
STUDY DESIGN Case report and clinical discussion. OBJECTIVE To describe a rare case of intradural cervical disc herniation in a patient with Klippel-Feil syndrome (KFS). SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA KFS is a congenital spinal malformation characterized by the failure in segmentation of 2 or more cervical vertebrae. The development of a cervical disc herniation in a nonfused segment is uncommon. Intradural disc herniation is rare, with only 21 cases reported in the cervical region. METHODS We present a case of a 52-year-old woman with KFS (C5-C6 fusion) who developed acute radiculopathy secondary to an intradural cervical disc herniation. Neurologic examination revealed a mild (Grade 3/5) decrease in motor function of the fingers and difficulty in performing fine motor tasks with right hand. RESULTS The patient underwent microsurgical removal of the herniated disc via an anterior approach followed by interbody fixation and anterior plating; exploration of the surgical field revealed 2 intradural disc fragments. After surgery, she experienced a complete remission of the symptoms. CONCLUSION To our knowledge, this is the first case of intradural cervical disc herniation in a KFS patient described in the literature.
Collapse
|
68
|
Gazzeri R, Canova A, Fiore C, Galarza M, Neroni M, Giordano M. Acute Hemorrhagic Cyst of the Ligamentum Flavum. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2007; 20:536-8. [PMID: 17912132 DOI: 10.1097/bsd.0b013e31804b4605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
STUDY DESIGN A case report and clinical discussion. OBJECTIVE To describe a rare complication of a cyst of the ligamentum flavum, which bled spontaneously, provoking an acute lower limb monoparesis and lumbar sciatic pain. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUNDS DATA: Cysts of the ligamentum flavum have been rarely reported. Intraspinal degenerative cysts described in literature are usually juxta-articular (synovial and ganglion) cysts and have a similar radiologic appearance. They are preferentially located in the lumbar spine, while the cervical localization is unusual. Hemorrhage into the cyst is an uncommon complication and an extremely rare cause of nerve root compression. METHODS A 59-year-old woman presented with sudden severe radicular lumbar deficit and pain secondary to acute hemorrhage into a ligamentum flavum cyst. Magnetic resonance imaging showed at L3-L4 level a lobulated slightly hyperintense mass with a ventral area of marked hyperintensity in T1 images, hypointense on T2 images. Signal within the lesion was suggestive of intralesional hemorrhage. RESULTS Complete resection of the lesion was performed, resulting in immediate recovery. The cyst was quite rounded, brownish, and contained rest of both partially fresh and coagulated hematoma. Histologic examination revealed myxoid degeneration of the ligamentum flavum with an hemorrage in the cystic cavity without a synovial layer. CONCLUSIONS This report identifies a rare case of radicular lumbar deficit and pain secondary to acute hemorrhage into a ligamentum flavum cyst. The pathogenesis and clinicopathologic characteristics of this lesion are described.
Collapse
|
69
|
Gazzeri R, Refice GM, Galarza M, Neroni M, Esposito S, Gazzeri G. Knee pain in saphenous nerve schwannoma: case report. Neurosurg Focus 2007; 22:E11. [PMID: 17613202 DOI: 10.3171/foc.2007.22.6.12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
The differential diagnosis of anteromedial knee pain is extensive and can be associated with meniscal tear, medial collateral ligament sprain, or pes anserinus bursitis. An association between knee pain and a peripheral nerve sheath tumor has rarely been reported. The authors describe the case of a 44-year-old man with a saphenous nerve schwannoma who presented with vague pain in the medial aspect of his knee mimicking the clinical presentation of a meniscal tear.
Collapse
|
70
|
Galarza M, Sood S, Ham S. Relevance of surgical strategies for the management of pediatric Chiari type I malformation. Childs Nerv Syst 2007; 23:691-6. [PMID: 17252266 DOI: 10.1007/s00381-007-0297-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2006] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In face of continuing controversy to the optimal treatment of Chiari type I malformation, the authors analyzed three different surgical strategies. MATERIALS AND METHODS Sixty patients (30 boys and 30 girls, mean age 8.2 years) presented with clinical Chiari malformation. Additional syringomyelia was present in 24 children, whereas cine flow studies showed no flow in the craniocervical junction in 48 children. All patients underwent a limited occipital craniectomy; a duraplasty was performed in 21 cases; and additional tonsillar reduction was performed in 19 cases. Clinical improvement was seen in 24 patients who underwent posterior decompression with or without duraplasty. In the tonsillar group, clinical improvement was evident in 18 patients. CONCLUSIONS Duraplasty and tonsillar reduction were equally effective but significantly better than bone decompression alone. Among patients with syringomyelia, tonsillar reduction was associated with a significantly better outcome. Postoperative flow studies improved in 39 patients but did not correlate to the clinical outcome.
Collapse
|
71
|
Galarza M, Peretta P, Gazzeri R, Cinalli G, Forni M, Morra I, Ragazzi P, Sandri S. Spinal cord gliomas and hydrocephalus: utility of neuroendoscopy. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2007; 49:347-52. [PMID: 17323261 DOI: 10.1055/s-2006-955066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study is to report on the role of neuroendoscopy during the management of hydrocephalus that led to the diagnosis of intracranial tumoral dissemination and the subsequent finding of a spinal cord glioma. METHODS AND RESULTS We present two children each with an intramedullary astrocytoma that presented initially with hydrocephalus without spinal cord symptoms. In both cases leptomeningeal gliomatous dissemination was asserted during routine endoscopy for the management of hydrocephalus. The diagnosis of a cervical and a lower thoracic intramedullary tumor was made soon after on magnetic resonance imaging. CONCLUSIONS Spinal cord MRI with contrast should be considered initially in selected cases of hydrocephalus without evident diagnosis. The intraoperative diagnosis of gliomatous dissemination and secondary hydrocephalus due to unrecognized spinal cord gliomas was possible, in our experience, with the routine use of the neuroendoscope.
Collapse
|
72
|
Gazzeri R, Galarza M, Neroni M, Canova A, Refice GM, Esposito S. Continuous subgaleal suction drainage for the treatment of chronic subdural haematoma. Acta Neurochir (Wien) 2007; 149:487-93; discussion 493. [PMID: 17387427 DOI: 10.1007/s00701-007-1139-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2006] [Accepted: 02/21/2007] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic subdural haematoma is one of the most common entities encountered in daily practice. Many methods of treatment have been reported, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. METHOD The authors present a novel technique for the management of chronic subdural haematoma which is a variation of a closed drainage system. After evacuation of the haematoma through a single burr hole, we inserted a Jackson Pratt drain into the subgaleal space, with suction facing the burr hole, allowing for continuous drainage of the remaining haematoma. FINDINGS We used the method for over 4 years to treat 224 patients. Seventeen patients (7.6%) needed a second operation for a recurrence of the haematoma no patient required a third operation. Postoperative complications developed in 3 patients. Two patients died while in the hospital, a mortality rate of 0.9%. CONCLUSIONS The use of suction assisted evacuation, is followed by results that compare satisfactorily to reports of previous methods, with a low rate of recurrence and complications. It is relatively less invasive and can be used in high risk patients.
Collapse
|
73
|
Caruso G, Galarza M, Borghesi I, Pozzati E, Vitale M. Acute presentation of spinal epidural cavernous angiomas: case report. Neurosurgery 2007; 60:E575-6; discussion E576. [PMID: 17327768 DOI: 10.1227/01.neu.0000255345.48829.0b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Spinal extramedullary hematomas stemming from cavernous angiomas in the epidural compartment are rare. It is more common for spinal epidural cavernous angiomas to present with slow and progressive myelopathy or radiculopathy. They seldom present with clinical evidence of acute spinal cord or nerve root compression. CLINICAL PRESENTATION Three consecutive cases of acute spinal cavernous angiomas with overt neurological deficits were presented. These presentations included acute onset of neck pain and tetraparesis, bilateral lower extremity pain and paraparesis, and acute sciatic pain with plantar flexor weakness. The lesions were located in the cervical, thoracic, and sacral spine, respectively. The cases included either abrupt lesion enlargement secondary to a pure intralesional hemorrhage or a cavernous hemorrhage that invaded the epidural space. INTERVENTION All patients were treated with either laminotomy or complete resection of the hematoma and cavernoma within 12 hours after admission. CONCLUSION Spontaneous spinal epidural hematomas presented with significant pain and acute spinal cord and nerve root compression may represent the manifestation of a cavernous angioma. Appropriate interpretation of preoperative imaging studies may prevent delay in proper management, especially for patients in whom nerve root deficit is the only clinical expression.
Collapse
|
74
|
Gazzeri R, Galarza M, Neroni M, Esposito S, Alfieri A. Fulminating septicemia secondary to oxygen-ozone therapy for lumbar disc herniation: case report. Spine (Phila Pa 1976) 2007; 32:E121-3. [PMID: 17268255 DOI: 10.1097/01.brs.0000254125.85406.6e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
STUDY DESIGN A case report and clinical discussion. OBJECTIVE To describe a rare but fatal complication secondary to oxygen-ozone therapy for the treatment of herniated lumbar disc. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA Previously reported complications secondary to oxygen-ozone therapy are rarely reported. Septic discitis and epidural abscesses have been reported after myelography, lumbar puncture, paravertebral injections, epidural anesthesia, acupuncture, and intradiscal therapy with chymopapain. We report the first case of a local infection with systemic fatal dissemination secondary to this treatment. METHODS A 57-year-old man previously treated with oxygen-ozone therapy presented low back and bilateral pain. The lumbar computed tomography revealed the presence of L4-L5 and L5-S1 herniated discs. RESULTS Three days after admission in the hospital, the patient developed a fulminant septicemia. An abdominal-pelvic and chest computed tomography and blood culture led to the diagnosis of pyogenic lumbar muscle involvement, accompanied with septic pulmonary embolism secondary to Escherichia coli infection. CONCLUSIONS This case report identifies a rare and fatal complication of oxygen-ozone therapy in the treatment of a herniated lumbar disc. Acute fatal septicemia should be considered among the major complications of the oxygen-ozone therapy in the treatment of a herniated lumbar disc.
Collapse
|
75
|
Galarza M, Gazzeri R, Elfeky HA, Johnson RR. Primary diffuse large B-cell lymphoma of the dura mater and cranial vault. Neurosurg Focus 2006; 21:E10. [PMID: 17134112 DOI: 10.3171/foc.2006.21.5.11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
✓ Primary high-grade lymphoma of the dura mater and cranial vault has rarely been reported. The authors treated a 61-year-old man who presented with a slow-growing scalp mass that involved the cranial vertex. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed an oval mass of the dural type with peripheral edema in the bilateral parietal region, with attachment to the cranial vault and extension to the subgaleal space. After subtotal resection, pathological examination yielded a diagnosis of malignant large B-cell lymphoma. Twenty-three months postoperatively, after undergoing radiation therapy and chemotherapy, the patient is neurologically intact and without systemic dissemination of the malignancy. This is a case of primary malignant B-cell lymphoma of the dura mater with extensive involvement of the skull, which is a very rare event. Imaging-based diagnosis and combined therapy consisting of surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy for the disease are discussed, and the literature on extraaxial malignant lymphomas is extensively reviewed.
Collapse
|