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John J, Wellman M, Dixon C, Kellermann T, Wisniewski P, Kopeć K, Trzciński J, Kopeć D, Ciach T, Fieggen G, Kaestner L, Lazarus J. Introducing an lsoprenaline Eluting Guidewire: Report on its Design and the Results of the Dose-Determining Pilot Study. J Endourol 2024. [PMID: 38468539 DOI: 10.1089/end.2023.0745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS) is associated with complications, many of which are related to the intrarenal pressure (IRP). We aim to describe the design of a novel isoprenaline-eluting guidewire ("IsoWire") and present the results from the first in vitro release studies and the first animal studies showing its effect on IRP. Materials and Methods: The IsoWire comprises a Nitinol core surrounded by a stainless-steel wire wound into a tight coil. The grooves created by this coil provided a reservoir for adding a hydrogel coating into which isoprenaline, a beta-agonist, was loaded. Animal studies were performed using a porcine model. For the control, IRP, heart rate (HR), and mean arterial pressure (MAP) were measured continuously for 6 minutes with a standard guidewire in place. For the experiment, the standard hydrophilic guidewire was removed, the IsoWire was inserted into the renal pelvis, and the same parameters were measured. Results: In vitro analysis of the isoprenaline release profile showed that most (63.9 ± 5.9%) of the loaded drug mass was released in the 1st minute, and almost all of the drug was released in the first 4 minutes exponentially. Porcine studies showed a 25.1% reduction in IRP in the IsoWire that released 10 μg in the 1st minute; however, there was a marked increase in HR. The average percentage reduction in IRP was 8.95% and 21.3% in the IsoWire that released 5 and 7.5 μg of isoprenaline, respectively, with no changes in HR or MAP. Conclusions: The IsoWire, which releases 5 and 7.5 μg of isoprenaline in the 1st minute, appears to be safe and effective in reducing the IRP. Further studies are needed to establish whether the isoprenaline-induced ureteral relaxation will render easier insertion of a ureteral access sheath, reduce IRP during sheathless RIRS, or even promote the practice of sheathless RIRS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeff John
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, Groote Schuur Hospital and University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, Frere Hospital and Walter Sisulu University, East London, South Africa
| | - Mark Wellman
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, Groote Schuur Hospital and University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Charné Dixon
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Medicine, University of Stellenbosch, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Tracy Kellermann
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Medicine, University of Stellenbosch, Cape Town, South Africa
| | | | - Kamil Kopeć
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioprocess Engineering, Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering, Warsaw University of Technology, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Jakub Trzciński
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioprocess Engineering, Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering, Warsaw University of Technology, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Daniel Kopeć
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioprocess Engineering, Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering, Warsaw University of Technology, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Tomasz Ciach
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioprocess Engineering, Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering, Warsaw University of Technology, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Graham Fieggen
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, Groote Schuur Hospital and University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Lisa Kaestner
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, Groote Schuur Hospital and University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - John Lazarus
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, Groote Schuur Hospital and University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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Hale AT, Boudreau H, Devulapalli R, Duy PQ, Atchley TJ, Dewan MC, Goolam M, Fieggen G, Spader HL, Smith AA, Blount JP, Johnston JM, Rocque BG, Rozzelle CJ, Chong Z, Strahle JM, Schiff SJ, Kahle KT. The genetic basis of hydrocephalus: genes, pathways, mechanisms, and global impact. Fluids Barriers CNS 2024; 21:24. [PMID: 38439105 PMCID: PMC10913327 DOI: 10.1186/s12987-024-00513-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Hydrocephalus (HC) is a heterogenous disease characterized by alterations in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) dynamics that may cause increased intracranial pressure. HC is a component of a wide array of genetic syndromes as well as a secondary consequence of brain injury (intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH), infection, etc.) that can present across the age spectrum, highlighting the phenotypic heterogeneity of the disease. Surgical treatments include ventricular shunting and endoscopic third ventriculostomy with or without choroid plexus cauterization, both of which are prone to failure, and no effective pharmacologic treatments for HC have been developed. Thus, there is an urgent need to understand the genetic architecture and molecular pathogenesis of HC. Without this knowledge, the development of preventive, diagnostic, and therapeutic measures is impeded. However, the genetics of HC is extraordinarily complex, based on studies of varying size, scope, and rigor. This review serves to provide a comprehensive overview of genes, pathways, mechanisms, and global impact of genetics contributing to all etiologies of HC in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew T Hale
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, FOT Suite 1060, 1720 2ndAve, Birmingham, AL, 35294, UK.
| | - Hunter Boudreau
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, FOT Suite 1060, 1720 2ndAve, Birmingham, AL, 35294, UK
| | - Rishi Devulapalli
- Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, UK
| | - Phan Q Duy
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Travis J Atchley
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, FOT Suite 1060, 1720 2ndAve, Birmingham, AL, 35294, UK
| | - Michael C Dewan
- Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Monroe Carell Jr. Children's Hospital, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Mubeen Goolam
- Neuroscience Institute, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Graham Fieggen
- Neuroscience Institute, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Red Cross War Memorial Children's Hospital, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Heather L Spader
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Anastasia A Smith
- Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Children's of Alabama, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, UK
| | - Jeffrey P Blount
- Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Children's of Alabama, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, UK
| | - James M Johnston
- Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Children's of Alabama, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, UK
| | - Brandon G Rocque
- Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Children's of Alabama, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, UK
| | - Curtis J Rozzelle
- Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Children's of Alabama, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, UK
| | - Zechen Chong
- Heflin Center for Genomics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, UK
| | - Jennifer M Strahle
- Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, St. Louis Children's Hospital, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Steven J Schiff
- Department of Neurosurgery, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Kristopher T Kahle
- Department of Neurosurgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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Francis P, Chu K, Isiagi M, Fieggen G, Gordon C, Maswime S. Developing a Pipeline of African Global Surgery Scholars. S Afr Med J 2023; 113:10-11. [PMID: 37882035 DOI: 10.7196/samj.2023.v113i7.1104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Global surgery is developing as new discipline in many countries. Global surgery primarily aims to improve access to quality surgery in low-and-middle Income countries (LMICs). Thus, ensuring appropriate LMIC representation and leadership in global surgery research, projects, and innovations, is essential. There is a paucity of pathways for students and young clinicians in LMICs to attain training in and exposure to global surgery research and projects. If equity in global surgery leadership and scholarship is truly desired, steps need to be taken to ensure that more students and young clinicians in LMICs are exposed to global surgery as an academic discipline and are offered pathways to practice and leadership. This paper explores ways of ensuring this through increased exposure, increased training and increased funding.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Francis
- Global Surgery Division, Department of Surgery, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, South Africa.
| | - K Chu
- Centre for Global Surgery, Department of Global Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa.
| | - M Isiagi
- Global Surgery Division, Department of Surgery, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, South Africa.
| | - G Fieggen
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, South Africa.
| | - C Gordon
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, South Africa.
| | - S Maswime
- Global Surgery Division, Department of Surgery, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, South Africa.
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Kancherla V, Botto LD, Rowe LA, Shlobin NA, Caceres A, Arynchyna-Smith A, Zimmerman K, Blount J, Kibruyisfaw Z, Ghotme KA, Karmarkar S, Fieggen G, Roozen S, Oakley GP, Rosseau G, Berry RJ. Mandatory food fortification with folic acid – Authors' reply. The Lancet Global Health 2022; 10:e1391-e1392. [DOI: 10.1016/s2214-109x(22)00375-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2022] [Revised: 08/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
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Ukachukwu AEK, Still MEH, Seas A, von Isenburg M, Fieggen G, Malomo AO, Shokunbi MT, Egger JR, Haglund MM, Fuller AT. Fulfilling the specialist neurosurgical workforce needs in Africa: a systematic review and projection toward 2030. J Neurosurg 2022; 138:1102-1113. [PMID: 35962968 DOI: 10.3171/2022.2.jns211984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2021] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Africa contributes significantly to the global neurosurgical disease burden but has only 1% of the neurosurgery workforce. This study appraises the neurosurgical workforce and training capacity in Africa and projects the workforce capacity by 2030. METHODS The authors conducted a systematic review of the online literature on neurosurgical workforce and training in Africa obtained from three journal databases (PubMed, Embase, and African Index Medicus), as well as from a gray literature search, between September and December 2020. Included literature passed a two-level screening conducted using a systematic review software by a team of two independent reviewers. Data were extracted from selected articles and documented and analyzed on spreadsheets. RESULTS One hundred and fifty-nine eligible articles were analyzed: 1974 neurosurgeons serve 1.3 billion people in Africa (density 0.15 per 100,000 persons, ratio 1:678,740), with uneven distribution between the regions. North Africa has 64.39% of the neurosurgical workforce (n = 1271), followed by Southern Africa (12.66%, n = 250), West Africa (11.60%, n = 229), East Africa (8.26%, n = 163), and Central Africa (3.09%, n = 61). At an exponential growth rate of 7.03% (95% CI 5.83%-8.23%) per annum, Africa will have 3418 (95% CI 1811-6080) neurosurgeons by 2030, with a deficit of 5191 neurosurgeons, based on population workforce targets. In terms of training, there are 106 neurosurgery training institutions in 26 African countries. North Africa has 52 training centers (49.05%), West Africa 23 (21.70%), East Africa 15 (14.15%), Southern Africa 14 (13.21%), and Central Africa 2 (1.89%). The major regional training programs are those of the West African College of Surgeons (24 sites in 7 countries) and the College of Surgeons of East, Central, and Southern Africa (17 sites in 8 countries). CONCLUSIONS The study is limited as it is based on the online literature, some of which includes modeled estimates with questionable reliability. However, the results indicate that while countries in North Africa are expected to surpass their population workforce requirements, sub-Saharan African countries are likely to have significant workforce deficits accentuated by the paucity of neurosurgery training programs. To meet the 2030 population workforce requirements, the continent's exponential growth rate should be scaled up to 15.87% per annum. Scaling up neurosurgical training would help to meet this target and requires collaborative efforts from continental, regional, and national agencies and international organizations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alvan-Emeka K Ukachukwu
- 1Duke Global Neurosurgery and Neurology, Duke University, Durham.,2Department of Neurosurgery, Duke University Health System, Durham, North Carolina.,3Neurosurgery Unit, Asokoro District Hospital, Abuja FCT, Nigeria
| | - Megan E H Still
- 4Lillian S. Wells Department of Neurosurgery, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
| | - Andreas Seas
- 1Duke Global Neurosurgery and Neurology, Duke University, Durham
| | - Megan von Isenburg
- 5Duke University Medical Center Library and Archives, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Graham Fieggen
- 6Division of Neurosurgery and Neuroscience Institute, University of Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Adefolarin O Malomo
- 7Department of Neurological Surgery, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Nigeria; and
| | - Matthew T Shokunbi
- 7Department of Neurological Surgery, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Nigeria; and
| | - Joseph R Egger
- 8Duke Global Health Institute, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Michael M Haglund
- 1Duke Global Neurosurgery and Neurology, Duke University, Durham.,2Department of Neurosurgery, Duke University Health System, Durham, North Carolina.,8Duke Global Health Institute, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Anthony T Fuller
- 1Duke Global Neurosurgery and Neurology, Duke University, Durham.,2Department of Neurosurgery, Duke University Health System, Durham, North Carolina.,8Duke Global Health Institute, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
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Lazarus J, Maswime S, Fieggen G, Cairncross LL, Irlam J, Reed A, Peters S, Fagan JJ. Call for the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority to revisit regulations relating to single- use medical devices. S Afr Med J 2022; 112:13547. [PMID: 35587800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- J Lazarus
- Professor and Head, Division of Urology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, South Africa.
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Caceres A, Blount JP, Messing-Jünger M, Chatterjee S, Fieggen G, Salomao JF. The International Society for Pediatric Neurosurgery resolution on mandatory folic acid fortification of staple foods for prevention of spina bifida and anencephaly and associated disability and child mortality. Childs Nerv Syst 2021; 37:1809-1812. [PMID: 33942142 DOI: 10.1007/s00381-021-05191-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2021] [Accepted: 04/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Adrian Caceres
- Department of Neurosurgery, Hospital Nacional de Ninos ¨Dr. Carlos Saenz Herrera¨, Paseo Colon y Calle 20 Sur, San Jose, 10103, Costa Rica.
| | - Jeffrey P Blount
- Department of Neurosurgery, Hospital Nacional de Ninos ¨Dr. Carlos Saenz Herrera¨, Paseo Colon y Calle 20 Sur, San Jose, 10103, Costa Rica
| | - Martina Messing-Jünger
- Department of Neurosurgery, Hospital Nacional de Ninos ¨Dr. Carlos Saenz Herrera¨, Paseo Colon y Calle 20 Sur, San Jose, 10103, Costa Rica
| | - Sandip Chatterjee
- Department of Neurosurgery, Hospital Nacional de Ninos ¨Dr. Carlos Saenz Herrera¨, Paseo Colon y Calle 20 Sur, San Jose, 10103, Costa Rica
| | - Graham Fieggen
- Department of Neurosurgery, Hospital Nacional de Ninos ¨Dr. Carlos Saenz Herrera¨, Paseo Colon y Calle 20 Sur, San Jose, 10103, Costa Rica
| | - Jose Francisco Salomao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Hospital Nacional de Ninos ¨Dr. Carlos Saenz Herrera¨, Paseo Colon y Calle 20 Sur, San Jose, 10103, Costa Rica
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Kanmounye US, Robertson FC, Thango NS, Doe AN, Bankole NDA, Ginette PA, Ondoma S, Balogun JA, Opoku I, Jokonya L, Mbaye T, Shabhay ZA, Ashour AM, Silva ACV, Cheserem B, Karekezi C, Hassani FD, Mentri N, Laeke T, Aklilu AT, Sanoussi S, Musara A, Ntalaja J, Ssenyonga P, Bakhti S, El Abbadi N, Mahmud MR, El-Ghandour NMF, Al-Habib A, Kolias AG, Servadei F, Fieggen G, Qureshi M, Esene I. Needs of Young African Neurosurgeons and Residents: A Cross-Sectional Study. Front Surg 2021; 8:647279. [PMID: 34124134 PMCID: PMC8193351 DOI: 10.3389/fsurg.2021.647279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2020] [Accepted: 04/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Africa has many untreated neurosurgical cases due to limited access to safe, affordable, and timely care. In this study, we surveyed young African neurosurgeons and trainees to identify challenges to training and practice. Methods: African trainees and residents were surveyed online by the Young Neurosurgeons Forum from April 25th to November 30th, 2018. The survey link was distributed via social media platforms and through professional society mailing lists. Univariate and bivariate data analyses were run and a P-value < 0.05 was considered to be statistically significant. Results: 112 respondents from 20 countries participated in this study. 98 (87.5%) were male, 63 (56.3%) were from sub-Saharan Africa, and 52 (46.4%) were residents. 39 (34.8%) had regular journal club sessions at their hospital, 100 (89.3%) did not have access to cadaver dissection labs, and 62 (55.4%) had never attended a WFNS-endorsed conference. 67.0% of respondents reported limited research opportunities and 58.9% reported limited education opportunities. Lack of mentorship (P = 0.023, Phi = 0.26), lack of access to journals (P = 0.002, Phi = 0.332), and limited access to conferences (P = 0.019, Phi = 0.369) were associated with the country income category. Conclusion: This survey identified barriers to education, research, and practice among African trainees and young neurosurgeons. The findings of this study should inform future initiatives aimed at reducing the barriers faced by this group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ulrick S Kanmounye
- Research Department, Association of Future Africa Neurosurgeons, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - Faith C Robertson
- Department of Neurosurgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Nqobile S Thango
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Alvin Nah Doe
- Neurosurgery Sub-Unit, Department of Surgery, John F. Kennedy Medical Center, Monrovia, Liberia
| | - Nourou Dine Adeniran Bankole
- Neurosurgery Department, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Ibn Sina Rabat- Mohamed V University of Rabat, Rabat, Morocco
| | - Pape Aicha Ginette
- Division of Neurosurgery, Felix Houphouet Boigny University of Abidjan, Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire
| | - Solomon Ondoma
- Mercy One Neurosurgery, Mercy One Hospital of North Iowa, Mason, IA, United States
| | - James A Balogun
- Division of Neurological Surgery, Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Isabella Opoku
- Department of Neurosurgery, China International Neuroscience Institute (China-INI), Beijing, China
| | - Luxwell Jokonya
- Division of Neurosurgery, College of Health Sciences, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Thioub Mbaye
- Department of Neurosurgery, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Fann, Dakar, Senegal
| | - Zarina A Shabhay
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, Muhimbili Orthopedic Institute, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Ahmed M Ashour
- Department of Neurosurgery, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | | | - Beverly Cheserem
- Department of Neurosurgery, Aga Khan University Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Claire Karekezi
- Neurosurgery Unit, Department of Surgery, Rwanda Military Hospital, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Fahd Derkaoui Hassani
- Department of Neurosurgery, Cheikh Zaid International Hospital, Abulcasis International University of Health Sciences, Rabat, Morocco
| | - Nesrine Mentri
- Department of Neurosurgery, Bejaia University Hospital, Béjaïa, Algeria
| | - Tsegazeab Laeke
- Neurosurgery Unit, Department of Surgery, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Abenezer Tirsit Aklilu
- Neurosurgery Unit, Department of Surgery, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Samuila Sanoussi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Niamey National Hospital, Niamey, Niger
| | - Aaron Musara
- Division of Neurosurgery, College of Health Sciences, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Jeff Ntalaja
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Lubumbashi, Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - Peter Ssenyonga
- Department of Neurosurgery, CURE Children's Hospital of Uganda, Mbale, Uganda
| | - Souad Bakhti
- Pediatric Neurosurgery Division, Department of Neurosurgery, Academic Hospital Mustapha Pacha, Algiers, Algeria
| | - Najia El Abbadi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Cheikh Zaid International Hospital, Abulcasis International University of Health Sciences, Rabat, Morocco
| | - Muhammad Raji Mahmud
- Neurosurgery Unit, Department of Surgery, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Nigeria
| | | | - Amro Al-Habib
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Angelos G Kolias
- NIHR Global Health Research Group on Neurotrauma, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Franco Servadei
- Department of Neurosurgery, Humanitas University and Research Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Graham Fieggen
- Division of Neurosurgery, Neurosciences Institute, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Mahmood Qureshi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Aga Khan University Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Ignatius Esene
- Neurosurgery Division, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Bamenda, Bambili, Cameroon
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Mahmud MR, Cheserem B, Esene IN, Kalangu K, Sanoussi S, Musara A, El-Ghandour NMF, Fieggen G, Qureshi M. The Impact of COVID-19 on Neurosurgical Services in Africa. World Neurosurg 2021; 146:e747-e754. [PMID: 33248310 PMCID: PMC7836545 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2020.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2020] [Revised: 10/31/2020] [Accepted: 11/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION COVID-19 has affected the global provision of neurosurgical services. We sought to review the impact of COVID-19 on the neurosurgical services in Africa. METHODS A cross-sectional survey was distributed to African neurosurgeons seeking to review demographics, national and neurosurgical preparedness, and change in clinical services in April 2020. RESULTS A total of 316 responses from 42 countries were received. Of these, 81.6% of respondents were male and 79.11% were under the age of 45 years. In our sample, 123 (38.92%) respondents were in training. Most (94.3%) respondents stated they had COVID-19 cases reported in their country as of April 2020. Only 31 (41.50%) had received training on managing COVID-19. A total of 173 (54.70%) respondents were not performing elective surgery. There was a deficit in the provision of personal protective equipment (PPE): surgical masks (90.80%), gloves (84.80%), N95 masks (50.80%), and shoe covers (49.10%). Health ministry (80.40%), World Health Organization (74.50%), and journal papers (41.40%) were the most common sources of information on COVID-19. A total of 43.60% had a neurosurgeon in the COVID-19 preparedness team; 59.8% were concerned they may contract COVID-19 at work with a further 25.90% worried they may infect their family. Mental stress as a result of COVID-19 was reported by 14.20% of respondents. As of April 2020, 73.40% had no change in their income. CONCLUSIONS Most African countries have a national COVID-19 policy response plan that is not always fully suited to the local neurosurgery services. There is an ongoing need for PPE and training for COVID-19 preparedness. There has been a reduction in clinical activities both in clinic and surgeries undertaken.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Raji Mahmud
- Neurosurgery Unit, Department of Surgery, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Kaduna, Nigeria
| | - Beverly Cheserem
- Department of Neurosurgery, Weill Cornell, New York, New York, USA; Department of Neurosurgery, Aga Khan University Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya.
| | - Ignatius N Esene
- Neurosurgery Division, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Bamenda, Bamenda, Cameroon
| | - Kazadi Kalangu
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Samuila Sanoussi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Niamey National Hospital, Niamey, Niger Republic
| | - Aaron Musara
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | | | - Graham Fieggen
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Capetown, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Mahmood Qureshi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Aga Khan University Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya
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10
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Cheserem JB, Esene IN, Mahmud MR, Kalangu K, Sanoussi S, Musara A, El-Ghandour NMF, Fieggen G, Qureshi M. A Continental Survey on the Impact of COVID-19 on Neurosurgical Training in Africa. World Neurosurg 2020; 147:e8-e15. [PMID: 33186788 PMCID: PMC7834456 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2020.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2020] [Revised: 10/31/2020] [Accepted: 11/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Background Containment measures for COVID-19 have affected surgical training globally. We sought to assess how neurosurgical training has been affected across Africa in April 2020. Methods A cross-sectional survey was distributed to African Neurosurgical trainees seeking to review demographics and effects of COVID on training. Results A total of 123 neurosurgery trainees responded from 23 African countries and a further 6 were abroad. A total of 91.80% were men, and 96.70% were training in public institutions. Only 41% had received training in COVID-19 with 61.79% worried that they would contract COVID-19 while performing their clinical duties. There was a marked reduction in clinical activities including a median reduction of elective surgery (−80%), clinics (−83%), and emergency surgery (−38.50%). A total of 23.58% of residents did not receive a formal salary, with 50% on less than $1000 USD gross per month. Conclusions This is the first continental survey of neurosurgery trainees in Africa. COVID-19 has significantly affected clinical and learning opportunities. There are concerns of the long-term effects on their training activities for an uncertain period of time during this pandemic. Although there has been a global increase in e-learning, there is need to evaluate if this is accessible to all trainees.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jebet Beverly Cheserem
- Department of Neurosurgery, Weill Cornell, New York, New York, USA; Department of Neurosurgery, Aga Khan University Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya.
| | - Ignatius N Esene
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Bamenda, Bamenda, Cameroon
| | - Muhammad Raji Mahmud
- Neurosurgery Unit, Department of Surgery, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Kaduna, Nigeria
| | - Kazadi Kalangu
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Samuila Sanoussi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Niamey National Hospital, Niamey, Niger Republic
| | - Aaron Musara
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | | | - Graham Fieggen
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Mahmood Qureshi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Aga Khan University Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya
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11
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Jokonya L, Reid T, Kasambala M, Mduluza-Jokonya TL, Fieggen G, Mduluza T, Kalangu KKN, Naicker T. Antimicrobial effects of craniopharyngioma cystic fluid. Childs Nerv Syst 2020; 36:2641-2646. [PMID: 32700040 DOI: 10.1007/s00381-020-04825-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2020] [Accepted: 07/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tumours are known to increase the risk of infections, especially those occurring in the central nervous system where insertion of surgical hardware/shunts such as in craniopharyngiomas may be required. However, infections are surprisingly scarce in craniopharyngioma cases. In this study, we explored the possibility of antimicrobial effects of craniopharyngioma cystic fluid. METHODS The antibacterial effect of craniopharyngioma cystic fluid samples against selected human pathogens: Escherichia. coli, S. aureus and S. pneumoniae were determined using the agar disc diffusion method. Streptomycin and ampicillin were used as controls. The test organisms were cultured in Mueller-Hinton broth overnight at 37 °C. McFarland standard was used as a reference to adjust the inoculum size of each test organism to a concentration of 1 × 106 CFU/ml using sterile broth. RESULTS The craniopharyngioma cystic fluid inhibited growth of Gram-positive bacteria S. aureus and S. pneumoniae, but not the Gram-negative bacteria, E. coli. The samples showed the highest zones of S. pneumoniae growth inhibition of up to 20.0 ± 1.0 mm compared with 18.0 ± 1.0 mm of streptomycin and 9.0 ± 0.0 mm of ampicillin. CONCLUSION Craniopharyngioma cystic fluid showed significant antibacterial properties against Gram-positive bacteria. This novel finding has implications in the way we view infections in craniopharyngioma patients. More studies need to be carried out to further elucidate this unique finding and possibly exploit these antimicrobial properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luxwell Jokonya
- Optics & Imaging, Doris Duke Medical Research Institute, College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.
- Department of Surgery, College of Health Sciences, University of Zimbabwe, P.O. Box A 178, Avondale, Harare, Zimbabwe.
| | - Tsungai Reid
- Biochemistry Department, University of Zimbabwe, P.O. Box MP 167, Mt Pleasant, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Maritha Kasambala
- Biochemistry Department, University of Zimbabwe, P.O. Box MP 167, Mt Pleasant, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Tariro Lavender Mduluza-Jokonya
- Optics & Imaging, Doris Duke Medical Research Institute, College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
| | - Graham Fieggen
- Department of Neurosurgery, Neuroscience Institute, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Takafira Mduluza
- Biochemistry Department, University of Zimbabwe, P.O. Box MP 167, Mt Pleasant, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Kazadi K N Kalangu
- Department of Surgery, College of Health Sciences, University of Zimbabwe, P.O. Box A 178, Avondale, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Thajasvarie Naicker
- Optics & Imaging, Doris Duke Medical Research Institute, College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
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12
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Robertson FC, Esene IN, Kolias AG, Kamalo P, Fieggen G, Gormley WB, Broekman ML, Park KB. Task-Shifting and Task-Sharing in Neurosurgery: An International Survey of Current Practices in Low- and Middle-Income Countries. World Neurosurg X 2020; 6:100059. [PMID: 32309800 PMCID: PMC7154228 DOI: 10.1016/j.wnsx.2019.100059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2019] [Accepted: 08/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Because nearly 23,000 more neurosurgeons are needed globally to address 5 million essential neurosurgical cases that go untreated each year, there is an increasing interest in task-shifting and task-sharing (TS/S), delegating neurosurgical tasks to nonspecialists, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). This global survey aimed to provide a cross-sectional understanding of the prevalence and structure of current neurosurgical TS/S practices in LMICs. METHODS The survey was distributed to a convenience sample of individuals providing neurosurgical care in LMICs with a Web-based survey link via electronic mailing lists of continental societies and various neurosurgical groups, conference announcements, e-mailing lists, and social media platforms. Country-level data were analyzed by descriptive statistics. RESULTS The survey yielded 127 responses from 47 LMICs; 20 countries (42.6%) reported ongoing TS/S. Most TS/S procedures involved emergency interventions, the top 3 being burr holes, craniotomy for hematoma evacuation, and external ventricular drain. Most (65.0%) believed that their Ministry of Health does not endorse TS/S (24.0% unsure), and only 11% believed that TS/S training was structured. There were few opportunities for TS/S providers to continue medical education (11.6%) or maintenance of certification (9.4%, or receive remuneration (4.2%). CONCLUSIONS TS/S is ongoing in many LMICs without substantial structure or oversight, which is concerning for patient safety. These data invite future clinical outcomes studies to assess effectiveness and discussions on policy recommendations such as standardized curricula, certification protocols, specialist oversight, and referral networks to increase the level of TS/S care and to continue to increase the specialist workforce.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faith C. Robertson
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Computational Neuroscience Outcomes Center, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Ignatius N. Esene
- Neurosurgery Division, Department of Surgery, University of Bamenda, Cameroon
| | - Angelos G. Kolias
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge and Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, United Kingdom
- NIHR Global Health Research Group on Neurotrauma, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Patrick Kamalo
- University of Malawi, College of Medicine, Department of Surgery, Blantyre, Malawi
- Stellenbosch University, Centre for Medical Ethics and Law, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Graham Fieggen
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - William B. Gormley
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Computational Neuroscience Outcomes Center, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Marike L.D. Broekman
- Leiden University Medical Center, Neurosurgery, Leiden, Netherlands
- Department of Neurosurgery, Haaglanden Medical Center, The Hague, Netherlands
| | - Kee B. Park
- Global Neurosurgery Initiative, Program in Global Surgery and Social Change, Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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13
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Estevez-Ordonez D, Davis MC, Hopson B, Arynchyna A, Rocque BG, Fieggen G, Rosseau G, Oakley G, Blount JP. Reducing inequities in preventable neural tube defects: the critical and underutilized role of neurosurgical advocacy for folate fortification. Neurosurg Focus 2019; 45:E20. [PMID: 30269587 DOI: 10.3171/2018.7.focus18231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Neural tube defects (NTDs) are one of the greatest causes of childhood mortality and disability-adjusted life years worldwide. Global prevalence at birth is approximately 18.6 per 10,000 live births, with more than 300,000 infants with NTDs born every year. Substantial strides have been made in understanding the genetics, pathophysiology, and surgical treatment of NTDs, yet the natural history remains one of high morbidity and profound impairment of quality of life. Direct and indirect costs of care are enormous, which ensures profound inequities and disparities in the burden of disease in countries of low and moderate resources. All indices of disease burden are higher for NTDs in developing countries. The great tragedy is that the majority of NTDs can be prevented with folate fortification of commercially produced food. Unequivocal evidence of the effectiveness of folate to reduce the incidence of NTDs has existed for more than 25 years. Yet, the most comprehensive surveys of effectiveness of implementation strategies show that more than 100 countries fail to fortify, and consequently only 13% of folate-preventable spina bifida is actually prevented. Neurosurgeons harbor a disproportionate, central, and fundamental role in the management of NTDs and enjoy high standing in society. No organized group in medicine can speak as authoritatively or convincingly. As a result, neurosurgeons and organized neurosurgery harbor disproportionate potential to advocate for more comprehensive folate fortification, and thereby prevent the most common and severe birth defect to impact the human nervous system. Assertive, proactive, informed advocacy for folate fortification should be a central and integral part of the neurosurgical approach to NTDs. Only by making the prevention of dysraphism a priority can we best address the inequities often observed worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Matthew C Davis
- 1Department of Neurosurgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Alabama
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- 1Department of Neurosurgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Alabama.,2Children's of Alabama, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Anastasia Arynchyna
- 1Department of Neurosurgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Alabama.,2Children's of Alabama, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Brandon G Rocque
- 1Department of Neurosurgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Alabama.,2Children's of Alabama, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Graham Fieggen
- 4Red Cross Children's Hospital, University of Cape Town, South Africa; and
| | - Gail Rosseau
- 5Department of Neurosurgery, NorthShore University Health System, Evanston, Illinois
| | | | -
- 3Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health of Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Jeffrey P Blount
- 1Department of Neurosurgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Alabama.,2Children's of Alabama, Birmingham, Alabama
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14
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Robertson FC, Esene IN, Kolias AG, Kamalo P, Fieggen G, Gormley WB, Broekman ML, Park KB. Task-Shifting and Task-Sharing in Neurosurgery: An International Survey of Current Practices in Low- and Middle-Income Countries. World Neurosurg X 2019. [PMID: 32309800 PMCID: PMC7154228 DOI: 10.1016/j.wnsx.2019.100059;] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Because nearly 23,000 more neurosurgeons are needed globally to address 5 million essential neurosurgical cases that go untreated each year, there is an increasing interest in task-shifting and task-sharing (TS/S), delegating neurosurgical tasks to nonspecialists, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). This global survey aimed to provide a cross-sectional understanding of the prevalence and structure of current neurosurgical TS/S practices in LMICs. METHODS The survey was distributed to a convenience sample of individuals providing neurosurgical care in LMICs with a Web-based survey link via electronic mailing lists of continental societies and various neurosurgical groups, conference announcements, e-mailing lists, and social media platforms. Country-level data were analyzed by descriptive statistics. RESULTS The survey yielded 127 responses from 47 LMICs; 20 countries (42.6%) reported ongoing TS/S. Most TS/S procedures involved emergency interventions, the top 3 being burr holes, craniotomy for hematoma evacuation, and external ventricular drain. Most (65.0%) believed that their Ministry of Health does not endorse TS/S (24.0% unsure), and only 11% believed that TS/S training was structured. There were few opportunities for TS/S providers to continue medical education (11.6%) or maintenance of certification (9.4%, or receive remuneration (4.2%). CONCLUSIONS TS/S is ongoing in many LMICs without substantial structure or oversight, which is concerning for patient safety. These data invite future clinical outcomes studies to assess effectiveness and discussions on policy recommendations such as standardized curricula, certification protocols, specialist oversight, and referral networks to increase the level of TS/S care and to continue to increase the specialist workforce.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faith C. Robertson
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA,Computational Neuroscience Outcomes Center, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA,To whom correspondence should be addressed: Faith C. Robertson, M.D., M.Sc.
| | - Ignatius N. Esene
- Neurosurgery Division, Department of Surgery, University of Bamenda, Cameroon
| | - Angelos G. Kolias
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge and Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, United Kingdom,NIHR Global Health Research Group on Neurotrauma, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Patrick Kamalo
- University of Malawi, College of Medicine, Department of Surgery, Blantyre, Malawi,Stellenbosch University, Centre for Medical Ethics and Law, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Graham Fieggen
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - William B. Gormley
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA,Computational Neuroscience Outcomes Center, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA,Department of Neurological Surgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Marike L.D. Broekman
- Leiden University Medical Center, Neurosurgery, Leiden, Netherlands,Department of Neurosurgery, Haaglanden Medical Center, The Hague, Netherlands
| | - Kee B. Park
- Global Neurosurgery Initiative, Program in Global Surgery and Social Change, Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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15
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Figaji A, Fieggen G, Enslin N, Taylor A, Rohlwink U. Cerebrospinal fluid protein and shunt obstruction in tuberculous meningitis. Int J Tuberc Lung Dis 2019; 23:765. [PMID: 31315712 DOI: 10.5588/ijtld.18.0745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- A Figaji
- Division of Neurosurgery, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, Neuroscience Institute, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa ,
| | - G Fieggen
- Division of Neurosurgery, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, Neuroscience Institute, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa ,
| | - N Enslin
- Division of Neurosurgery, University of Cape Town, Cape Town
| | - A Taylor
- Division of Neurosurgery, University of Cape Town, Cape Town
| | - U Rohlwink
- Division of Neurosurgery, University of Cape Town, Cape Town
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16
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Padayachy L, Brekken R, Fieggen G, Selbekk T. Noninvasive Transorbital Assessment of the Optic Nerve Sheath in Children: Relationship Between Optic Nerve Sheath Diameter, Deformability Index, and Intracranial Pressure. Oper Neurosurg (Hagerstown) 2019; 16:726-733. [PMID: 30169680 DOI: 10.1093/ons/opy231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2018] [Accepted: 07/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Measurement of optic nerve sheath diameter (ONSD) is a promising technique for noninvasive assessment of intracranial pressure (ICP), but has certain limitations. A recent study showed that the deformability index (DI), a dynamic parameter quantifying the pulsatile nature of the optic nerve sheath, could differentiate between patients with high vs normal ICP. OBJECTIVE To further evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of the DI, when interpreted together with ONSD. METHODS This prospective study included children undergoing invasive ICP measurement as part of their clinical management. Ultrasound images of the optic nerve sheath were acquired prior to measuring ICP, the images were further processed to obtain the DI. Patients were dichotomized into high (≥20 mm Hg) or normal ICP groups and compared using the Mann-Whitney U-test. Diagnostic accuracy was described using area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), sensitivity and specificity, correlation between DI, ONSD, and ICP was investigated using linear regression. RESULTS A total of 28 patients were included (19 high ICP). The DI was lower in the high ICP group (0.105 vs 0.28, P = .001). AUC was 0.87, and a cut-off value of DI ≤ 0.185 demonstrated sensitivity of 89.5% and specificity of 88.9%. Diagnostic accuracy improved when combining DI with ONSD (AUC 0.98, sensitivity 94.7%, specificity 88.9%) and correlation with ICP improved when combined analysis of DI and ONSD was performed (Pearson correlation coefficient: 0.82 vs 0.42, respectively, P = .012). CONCLUSION The DI was significantly lower for patients with high vs normal ICP. This relationship improved further when the DI and ONSD were interpreted together.
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Affiliation(s)
- Llewellyn Padayachy
- Division of Neurosurgery, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.,Red Cross War Memorial Children's Hospital, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Reidar Brekken
- Department of Health Research, Medical Technology, SINTEF, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Graham Fieggen
- Division of Neurosurgery, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.,Red Cross War Memorial Children's Hospital, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Tormod Selbekk
- Department of Health Research, Medical Technology, SINTEF, Trondheim, Norway
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17
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Figaji A, Taylor A, Mahmud MR, Bello S, Wegoye E, Ssenyonga P, Mogere E, Mankahla N, Fieggen G, Qureshi M. On progress in Africa, by African experts. Lancet Neurol 2019; 17:114. [PMID: 29413307 DOI: 10.1016/s1474-4422(17)30457-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2017] [Accepted: 12/06/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Allan Taylor
- University of Cape Town, Cape Town 7700, South Africa
| | | | - Shehu Bello
- Federal University Birnin Kebbi, Kalgo, Nigeria
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18
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Abstract
Pediatric spinal infection includes spinal epidural abscess, spondylodiscitis and intradural (extramedullary and intramedullary) spinal infections. However, these entities are extremely rare and no clear guidelines exist for their management. Pertinent literature was searched and a detailed narrative review of this topic is presented.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Graham Fieggen
- Division of Neurosurgery, Red Cross War memorial Children's Hospital and Groote Schuur Hospital, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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19
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Dewan MC, Rattani A, Fieggen G, Arraez MA, Servadei F, Boop FA, Johnson WD, Warf BC, Park KB. Global neurosurgery: the current capacity and deficit in the provision of essential neurosurgical care. Executive Summary of the Global Neurosurgery Initiative at the Program in Global Surgery and Social Change. J Neurosurg 2018:1-10. [PMID: 29701548 DOI: 10.3171/2017.11.jns171500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 189] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2017] [Accepted: 11/10/2017] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Worldwide disparities in the provision of surgical care result in otherwise preventable disability and death. There is a growing need to quantify the global burden of neurosurgical disease specifically, and the workforce necessary to meet this demand. METHODS Results from a multinational collaborative effort to describe the global neurosurgical burden were aggregated and summarized. First, country registries, third-party modeled data, and meta-analyzed published data were combined to generate incidence and volume figures for 10 common neurosurgical conditions. Next, a global mapping survey was performed to identify the number and location of neurosurgeons in each country. Finally, a practitioner survey was conducted to quantify the proportion of disease requiring surgery, as well as the median number of neurosurgical cases per annum. The neurosurgical case deficit was calculated as the difference between the volume of essential neurosurgical cases and the existing neurosurgical workforce capacity. RESULTS Every year, an estimated 22.6 million patients suffer from neurological disorders or injuries that warrant the expertise of a neurosurgeon, of whom 13.8 million require surgery. Traumatic brain injury, stroke-related conditions, tumors, hydrocephalus, and epilepsy constitute the majority of essential neurosurgical care worldwide. Approximately 23,300 additional neurosurgeons are needed to address more than 5 million essential neurosurgical cases-all in low- and middle-income countries-that go unmet each year. There exists a gross disparity in the allocation of the surgical workforce, leaving large geographic treatment gaps, particularly in Africa and Southeast Asia. CONCLUSIONS Each year, more than 5 million individuals suffering from treatable neurosurgical conditions will never undergo therapeutic surgical intervention. Populations in Africa and Southeast Asia, where the proportion of neurosurgeons to neurosurgical disease is critically low, are especially at risk. Increasing access to essential neurosurgical care in low- and middle-income countries via neurosurgical workforce expansion as part of surgical system strengthening is necessary to prevent severe disability and death for millions with neurological disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael C Dewan
- 1Global Neurosurgery Initiative-Program in Global Surgery and Social Change, Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts.,2Department of Neurological Surgery, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Abbas Rattani
- 1Global Neurosurgery Initiative-Program in Global Surgery and Social Change, Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts.,3Meharry Medical College School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Graham Fieggen
- 4Department of Surgery, University of Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Miguel A Arraez
- 5Department of Neurosurgery, Carlos Haya University Hospital, Malaga, Spain
| | - Franco Servadei
- 6Department of Neurosurgery, Humanitas University and Research Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Frederick A Boop
- 7Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Tennessee Health Sciences Center, LeBonheur Children's Hospital Neurosciences Institute, Semmes-Murphey Clinic, Memphis, Tennessee
| | - Walter D Johnson
- 8Emergency & Essential Surgical Care Programme Lead, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Benjamin C Warf
- 9Department of Neurological Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts; and.,10CURE Children's Hospital of Uganda, Mbale, Uganda
| | - Kee B Park
- 1Global Neurosurgery Initiative-Program in Global Surgery and Social Change, Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
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20
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Dewan MC, Rattani A, Mekary R, Glancz LJ, Yunusa I, Baticulon RE, Fieggen G, Wellons JC, Park KB, Warf BC. Global hydrocephalus epidemiology and incidence: systematic review and meta-analysis. J Neurosurg 2018:1-15. [PMID: 29701543 DOI: 10.3171/2017.10.jns17439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 121] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2017] [Accepted: 10/18/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVEHydrocephalus is one of the most common brain disorders, yet a reliable assessment of the global burden of disease is lacking. The authors sought a reliable estimate of the prevalence and annual incidence of hydrocephalus worldwide.METHODSThe authors performed a systematic literature review and meta-analysis to estimate the incidence of congenital hydrocephalus by WHO region and World Bank income level using the MEDLINE/PubMed and Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews databases. A global estimate of pediatric hydrocephalus was obtained by adding acquired forms of childhood hydrocephalus to the baseline congenital figures using neural tube defect (NTD) registry data and known proportions of posthemorrhagic and postinfectious cases. Adult forms of hydrocephalus were also examined qualitatively.RESULTSSeventy-eight articles were included from the systematic review, representative of all WHO regions and each income level. The pooled incidence of congenital hydrocephalus was highest in Africa and Latin America (145 and 316 per 100,000 births, respectively) and lowest in the United States/Canada (68 per 100,000 births) (p for interaction < 0.1). The incidence was higher in low- and middle-income countries (123 per 100,000 births; 95% CI 98-152 births) than in high-income countries (79 per 100,000 births; 95% CI 68-90 births) (p for interaction < 0.01). While likely representing an underestimate, this model predicts that each year, nearly 400,000 new cases of pediatric hydrocephalus will develop worldwide. The greatest burden of disease falls on the African, Latin American, and Southeast Asian regions, accounting for three-quarters of the total volume of new cases. The high crude birth rate, greater proportion of patients with postinfectious etiology, and higher incidence of NTDs all contribute to a case volume in low- and middle-income countries that outweighs that in high-income countries by more than 20-fold. Global estimates of adult and other forms of acquired hydrocephalus are lacking.CONCLUSIONSFor the first time in a global model, the annual incidence of pediatric hydrocephalus is estimated. Low- and middle-income countries incur the greatest burden of disease, particularly those within the African and Latin American regions. Reliable incidence and burden figures for adult forms of hydrocephalus are absent in the literature and warrant specific investigation. A global effort to address hydrocephalus in regions with the greatest demand is imperative to reduce disease incidence, morbidity, mortality, and disparities of access to treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael C Dewan
- 1Global Neurosurgery Initiative, Program in Global Surgery and Social Change, Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts.,2Department of Neurological Surgery, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Abbas Rattani
- 1Global Neurosurgery Initiative, Program in Global Surgery and Social Change, Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts.,3Meharry Medical College, School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Rania Mekary
- 4Department of Pharmaceutical Business and Administrative Sciences, School of Pharmacy, MCPHS University, Boston, Massachusetts.,5Department of Neurosurgery, Cushing Neurosurgical Outcomes Center, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Laurence J Glancz
- 6Department of Neurosurgery, Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Ismaeel Yunusa
- 4Department of Pharmaceutical Business and Administrative Sciences, School of Pharmacy, MCPHS University, Boston, Massachusetts.,5Department of Neurosurgery, Cushing Neurosurgical Outcomes Center, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Ronnie E Baticulon
- 7University of the Philippines College of Medicine-Philippine General Hospital, Manila, Philippines
| | - Graham Fieggen
- 8Departments of Surgery and Neurosurgery, University of Cape Town, South Africa
| | - John C Wellons
- 2Department of Neurological Surgery, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Kee B Park
- 1Global Neurosurgery Initiative, Program in Global Surgery and Social Change, Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Benjamin C Warf
- 1Global Neurosurgery Initiative, Program in Global Surgery and Social Change, Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts.,9Department of Neurological Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts; and.,10CURE Children's Hospital of Uganda, Mbale, Uganda
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Padayachy L, Brekken R, Fieggen G, Selbekk T. Pulsatile Dynamics of the Optic Nerve Sheath and Intracranial Pressure: An Exploratory In Vivo Investigation. Neurosurgery 2017; 79:100-7. [PMID: 26813857 PMCID: PMC4900421 DOI: 10.1227/neu.0000000000001200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Raised intracranial pressure (ICP) may lead to increased stiffness of the optic nerve sheath (ONS). OBJECTIVE To develop a method for analyzing ONS dynamics from transorbital ultrasound and investigate a potential difference between patients with raised ICP vs normal ICP. METHODS We retrospectively analyzed data from 16 patients (≤12 years old) for whom ultrasound image sequences of the ONS had been acquired from both eyes just before invasive measurement of ICP. Eight patients had an ICP ≥20 mm Hg. The transverse motion on each side of the ONS was estimated from ultrasound, and Fourier analysis was used to extract the magnitude of the displacement corresponding to the heart rate. By calculating the normalized absolute difference between the displacements on each side of the ONS, a measure of ONS deformation was obtained. This parameter was referred to as the deformability index. According to our hypothesis, because deformability is inversely related to stiffness, we expected this parameter to be lower for ICP ≥20 mm Hg compared with ICP <20 mm Hg. The one-sided Mann-Whitney U test was used for statistical comparison. RESULTS The deformability index was significantly lower in the group with ICP ≥20 mm Hg (median value 0.11 vs 0.24; P = .002). CONCLUSION We present a method for assessment of ONS pulsatile dynamics using transorbital ultrasound imaging. A significant difference was noted between the patient groups, indicating that deformability of the ONS may be relevant as a noninvasive marker of raised ICP. The clinical implications are promising and should be investigated in future clinical studies. ABBREVIATIONS AUC, area under curveICP, intracranial pressureONS, optic nerve sheathONSD, optic nerve sheath diameterROC, receiver operating characteristic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Llewellyn Padayachy
- ‡Division of Neurosurgery, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa; §Red Cross War Memorial Children's Hospital, Cape Town, South Africa; ¶Department of Medical Technology, SINTEF, Trondheim, Norway
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Parkes J, Hendricks M, Ssenyonga P, Mugamba J, Molyneux E, Schouten-van Meeteren A, Qaddoumi I, Fieggen G, Luna-Fineman S, Howard S, Mitra D, Bouffet E, Davidson A, Bailey S. SIOP PODC adapted treatment recommendations for standard-risk medulloblastoma in low and middle income settings. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2015; 62:553-64. [PMID: 25418957 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.25313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2014] [Accepted: 09/16/2014] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Effective treatment of children with medulloblastoma requires a functioning multi-disciplinary team with adequate neurosurgical, neuroradiological, pathological, radiotherapy and chemotherapy facilities and personnel. In addition the treating centre should have the capacity to effectively screen and manage any tumour and treatment-associated complications. These requirements have made it difficult for many low and middle-income countries (LMIC) centres to offer curative treatment. This article provides management recommendations for children with standard-risk medulloblastoma (localised tumours in children over the age of 3-5 years) according to the level of facilities available.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeannette Parkes
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Groote Schuur Hospital and University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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Padayachy LC, Fieggen G. Intraoperative Ultrasound-Guidance in Neurosurgery. World Neurosurg 2014; 82:e409-11. [DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2013.09.052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2013] [Accepted: 09/30/2013] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Seggie JL, Fieggen G, Greenburg J, Kathard H, Henley L. Centenary of the UCT Faculty of Health Sciences. S Afr Med J 2012; 102:388. [PMID: 22768396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2023] Open
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION Prolactinomas in childhood and adolescence are rare. However, in male patients in particular they may become extremely large and invasive, resulting in visual impairment without necessarily producing endocrine symptoms. CASE REPORTS We report on two adolescent males who presented with deteriorating vision over a long period of time and who had optic atrophy on examination. Magnetic resonance imaging identified tumours with extensive anterior skull base invasion and suprasellar extension. Prolactin levels in both patients were markedly elevated, and a diagnosis of prolactinoma was made. Bromocriptine treatment was started resulting in lowered prolactin levels, improved vision and tumour shrinkage on imaging. CONCLUSION A male child or adolescent presenting with diminished vision and found to have suprasellar or anterior skull base tumour should have their prolactin levels checked to rule out a prolactinoma, which can be successfully managed with medical therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Semple
- OH 53 OMB, Groote Schuur Hospital, Observatory 7925, Cape Town, South Africa.
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Abstract
Paradoxical enlargement and development of new intracranial tuberculomas and tuberculous brain abscesses on adequate antituberculosis treatment are well recognized and supposedly cytokine mediated. These lesions are often unresponsive to conventional antituberculosis treatment, corticosteroids, and surgery. We therefore assessed the effect of adjunctive thalidomide, a tumor necrosis factor alpha-modulating drug, in intractable intracranial tuberculosis that did not respond to standard medical and surgical therapy. Four consecutive children (three children with bacteriologic proof and one child with clinical evidence of intracranial tuberculosis) were studied. Three patients each had a giant tuberculous abscess, and the fourth had chronic basal arachnoiditis with progressive loss of vision. Three of the four patients had relentless neurologic deterioration, and all showed disease progression on neuroimaging despite full medical and appropriate surgical treatment. Marked clinical and neuroradiologic improvement occurred after thalidomide was added to the antituberculosis treatment regimen of these four patients. Adjunctive thalidomide might have a role in the management of intractable intracranial tuberculosis and needs further investigation in this regard.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johan F Schoeman
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Tygerberg Children's Hospital, Faculty of Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, South Africa.
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Abstract
Forty-eight children with neurofibromatosis 1 presenting between 2000 and 2004 were reviewed for their clinical phenotype, and data were compared with published reports. The median age at presentation was 4 years (range 10 days to 12 years). The male to female ratio was similar (22 male:26 female). There were frequencies of café au lait spots, axillary freckling, Lisch nodules, and new mutations comparable to those cited in the literature. Fewer patients had neurofibromas (4%), but more patients had plexiform neurofibromas of the head and neck (16%). Three patients of the 22 who had neuroimaging had optic gliomas (14%). The most consistent disability, with maximum impact, related to the patient's cognitive level of functioning. School problems, defined as learning and behavioral problems observed in the classroom, were reported in 70% of school-aged children (n = 21), compared with international figures of 29.8% to 45%. This high prevalence has reinforced the clinic service policy of formal neuropsychology assessments in all children with reported school problems. In addition, earlier referral of children to the service (preschool n = 18) has enabled formal developmental assessments and planning of specific educational placement to optimize learning. This is the first description of the neurofibromatosis 1 phenotype from the African continent. The multidisciplinary approach to management has proved beneficial in the South African context. The combined clinic has resulted in a holistic approach to patient care, early detection of pathology, consistent therapies across the specialties, and better patient attendance and compliance. (J Child Neurol 2006;21:63-70).
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Affiliation(s)
- Veruschka Ramanjam
- Department of Paediatric Neurology, Red Cross Children's Hospital and School of Child and Adolescent Health, University of Cape Town, South Africa.
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Sichizya K, Fieggen G, Taylor A, Peter J. Brain abscesses--the Groote Schuur experience, 1993-2003. S AFR J SURG 2005; 43:79-82. [PMID: 16180392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To review management and outcome of patients with brain abscess treated at Groote Schuur Hospital (GSH) between 1993 and 2003. PATIENTS AND METHODS Case notes, radiological results and laboratory records were reviewed retrospectively for 121 patients at GSH who underwent a neurosurgical procedure for treatment of a brain abscess between 1993 and 2003. Patients not treated surgically were excluded. Follow-up with serial computed tomography (CT) scans, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels and the temperature chart were used to determine the duration of parenteral antibiotic treatment and the need for repeat surgical evacuation of pus by either aspiration or excision of the capsule. RESULTS The mean patient age was 33 years, with a male-to-female ratio of 5:1. Headache, depressed level of consciousness and pyrexia were the commonest presenting symptoms. Other symptoms included seizures and hemiparesis. The frontal lobe was the commonest site (44%); the majority of abscesses occurred as a result of infection following trauma. Mastoiditis (21%) and sinusitis (8%) were the second and third most common causes. Organisms were identified in 81% of cases; polymicrobial infections occurred in half of these. Thirty-three different organisms were identified, the majority of which were Gram-positive bacteria. Anaerobes were present in 23%, while methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus was identified in 1 patient. Nocardia was seen in 3 patients, 2 of whom were diabetic. The average duration of parenteral antibiotic therapy was 15 and 19 days for excision and aspiration respectively. Accurate ESR records were available in 75% of cases, with a positive predictive value in 81%, while CRP (in use since 1999) was helpful in 92% of cases. OUTCOME Sixteen patients (13%) died, 12 of whom had been admitted with a Glasgow Coma Score (GCS) of less than 4T/15. Thirteen patients developed epilepsy. On discharge, patients continued to take oral antibiotics for another 4 weeks, at the end of which they were reviewed at the neurosurgery outpatient department. CONCLUSION Compared with previous studies from this hospital, mortality and morbidity have been diminishing progressively. GCS at the time of admission remains the most important prognostic factor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kachinga Sichizya
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Cape Town and Groote Schuur Hospital, Cape Town
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Johar A, Lim DL, Arif SAM, Hawarden D, Toit GD, Weinberg EG, Motala C, Fieggen G, Yeang HY, Potter PC. Low prevalence of latex sensitivity in South African spina bifida children in Cape Town. Pediatr Allergy Immunol 2005; 16:165-70. [PMID: 15787875 DOI: 10.1111/j.1399-3038.2005.00221.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Spina bifida children have a high prevalence of latex allergy in studies reported from Europe and the USA. This study investigated the prevalence of latex allergy in a cohort of 24 spina bifida children at the Red Cross Children's Hospital from Cape Town, South Africa. The children were investigated using a detailed questionnaire, skin prick tests (ALK-Abello), ImmunoCap RASTs, Western blotting and ELISA, using the purified latex proteins Hev b1 and Hev b3 and whole latex preparation. A low overall prevalence of latex sensitization of 16.7% was found in the children. Children who were sensitive reacted to water insoluble to Hev b1 and Hev b3 proteins. The low prevalence of latex sensitization in the South African children may not be entirely explained by stringent latex avoidance. The children were from a low socioeconomic social status and 'hygiene' and other factors should be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asmah Johar
- Department of Dermatology, Hospital Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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Abstract
We present three patients with neurologic complications of the spine from hydatid disease. The first was a 6-year-old girl with lower limb paralysis evolving over 2 weeks. Neuroimaging revealed a cystic mass compressing the spinal cord at the level of T8 and extending from the vertebral body. She underwent surgical decompression. Histopathologic examination confirmed hydatid disease. At 6-month follow-up, functional improvement had occurred with full ambulation. She continues on long-term albendazole therapy. Two other patients are described, one with primary spinal disease and the other with cerebral disease and secondary seeding to the spine. Spinal hydatid disease is a rarity, even more so in children. Although secondary disease, primarily affecting bone, carries a poorer long-term outlook, the first patient made a dramatic recovery and has raised therapeutic dilemmas as to the total duration of continuing albendazole therapy. The literature documents some 37 reports, mostly in adults. Considering the frequency of hydatid disease in South Africa, the incidence in our population could be under-recorded. Unless the clinician includes spinal hydatid disease, in endemic areas, as part of the differential list for paralysis and considers performing neuroimaging, this potentially treatable diagnosis will be missed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alvin P Ndondo
- Department of Paediatric Neurology, School of Child and Adolescent Health, Red Cross Children's Hospital, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch, Cape Town, South Africa
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Fieggen G, Millar A, Rode H, Ngiloi P, Andronikou S, Peter J. Spinal cord involvement in pygopagus conjoined twins: case report and review of the literature. Childs Nerv Syst 2003; 19:183-7. [PMID: 12644871 DOI: 10.1007/s00381-002-0712-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2002] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Pygopagus conjoined twins are joined at the rump and have union of the gastrointestinal and genitourinary systems as well occasional involvement of neural elements. CASE REPORT We report a case where the terminal spinal cords were fused, despite which there was only a minor motor deficit in the lower limbs after separation. The pre-operative and intra-operative findings are described and issues of long-term follow-up discussed. DISCUSSION Seven other cases reported in the literature with varying degrees of involvement of the spinal cord and cauda equina are reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Graham Fieggen
- Division of Paediatric Neuroscience (Neurosurgery), School of Child and Adolescent Health, University of Cape Town, South Africa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Graham Fieggen
- Department of Neurosurgery and Paediatric Surgery, Red Cross War Memorial Children's Hospital, Cape Town, South Africa
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Abstract
Current classifications, indications for surgery, operative options and outcome statistics available to neurosurgeons for the management of congenital encephaloceles, arachnoid cysts and the Dandy-Walker complex are reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- J C Peter
- Department of Neurosurgery, H53 Old Groote Schuur Hospital Building, University of Cape Town Medical School, Observatory 7925, Cape Town, South Africa.
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van der Spuy ZM, Wood M, Fieggen G, Hendricks MS. Serum CA 125 concentrations in women with endometriosis or uterine fibroids treated with gonadotrophin-releasing hormone agonist analogues. S Afr Med J 1993; 83:510-3. [PMID: 8211493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
We assessed the possible role of CA 125 in the monitoring of gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonist analogue therapy in women with endometriosis and uterine fibroids. Serum concentrations of this cell surface antigen did not correlate with uterine volume and appeared to have no value in the assessment of shrinkage of uterine fibroids during GnRH agonist treatment. While CA 125 levels were not always elevated in subjects with endometriosis, they fell during treatment in all patients. The change accurately reflected therapeutic progress in these women and was of particular value in those patients who had commenced therapy with elevated levels. It is suggested that CA 125 may be useful in the monitoring of therapeutic progress in selected patients with endometriosis treated with GnRH agonists; the need for surgical follow-up may be obviated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Z M van der Spuy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Groote Schuur Hospital
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