Kostas Fountas - Academia.edu (original) (raw)

Papers by Kostas Fountas

Journal of Neurosurgery, 2008

The association of vitreous and/or subhyaloid hemorrhage with aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage ... more The association of vitreous and/or subhyaloid hemorrhage with aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) has been frequently identified since the original description by Terson in 1900. In this prospective clinical study the authors examined the actual incidence of Terson hemorrhage in patients suffering aneurysmal SAH, they attempted to identify those parameters that could predispose its development, and they evaluated its prognostic significance in the overall patients' outcome. A total of 174 patients suffering aneurysmal SAH were included in this study. The admitting Glasgow Coma Scale scores (GCS), World Federation of Neurological Societies (WFNS) scale scores, Hunt and Hess grades, and Fisher grades were recorded. A careful ophthalmological evaluation was performed in all participants. The exact anatomical locations and the largest diameter of the dome of the ruptured aneurysms were also recorded. Surgical clipping or endovascular coiling was used in 165 patients. Clinical outcome was evaluated at discharge from the hospital by using the Glasgow Outcome Scale and the modified Rankin Scale. Periodic ophthalmological evaluations were performed for 2 years. In this series, the observed incidence of Terson hemorrhage was 12.1%. Statistical analysis of our data demonstrated that patients with low GCS scores and high WFNS scores, Hunt and Hess grades, and Fisher grades had an increased incidence of Terson hemorrhage. The mortality rate for patients with Terson hemorrhage was 28.6%, whereas that for patients without Terson hemorrhage was 2.0%. Moreover, patients with Terson hemorrhage who survived had significantly worse outcomes than those in patients without Terson hemorrhage. Terson hemorrhage constitutes a common SAH-associated complication. Its incidence is increased in patients with low GCS and high WFNS scores, and high Hunt and Hess and Fisher grades. Its presence is associated with increased mortality and morbidity rates.

Stereotactic and Functional Neurosurgery, 1998

We present a series of 21 patients, 12 males and 9 females, aged 41–76 years, with the preoperati... more We present a series of 21 patients, 12 males and 9 females, aged 41–76 years, with the preoperative diagnosis of a brain tumor. Both preoperatively and postoperatively, all of our patients underwent either a brain computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). All the radiographic studies were taped and loaded preoperatively in the Stereotactic Microscopic Navigator (SMN) workstation (Zeiss,

Global spine journal, 2012

Study Design This case report describes an acute Schmorl's node (SN) in an elite monofin athl... more Study Design This case report describes an acute Schmorl's node (SN) in an elite monofin athlete during exercise. The patient presented with severe back pain and leg numbness and was managed successfully with conservative treatment. Objective The aim of our communication was to describe a rare presentation of a common pathological condition during an intense sport. Background Swimming is not generally considered to be a sport activity that leads to spinal injuries. SNs are usually asymptomatic lesions, incidentally found on imaging studies. There is no correlation between swimming and symptomatic SN formation. Case Report A 16-year-old monofin elite athlete suffered from an acute nonradiating back pain during extreme exercise. His back pain was associated with a fracture of the superior L5 end plate and an acute SN at the L5 vertebral body with perilesional bone marrow edema. The pain resolved with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and bed rest. The athlete had an excellent o...

Neurosurgical focus, Jan 15, 2002

The authors studied whether the amount of retraction pressure applied to a compromised nerve root... more The authors studied whether the amount of retraction pressure applied to a compromised nerve root during lumbar discectomy has an impact on intra- or postoperative outcome. The authors conducted a prospective analysis of 20 patients. There were 12 men and 12 women whose mean age (+/- standard deviation [SD]) was 42.25 years +/- 15 years (range 21-65 years). During intraoperative electromyography (EMG) monitoring, measurements were obtained during routine retraction of the affected nerve root by using a specially designed and constructed nerve root retractor connected to a reconfigured personal computer for this specific purpose. Follow-up results were assessed in the immediate postoperative period and at up to 1 year. The maximum measured force applied during random periods of time was 9.85 N/second (mean 6.95 +/- N/second [+/- SD]). The mean retraction time was 39.5 +/- 21 (SD). No intraoperative EMG-detected irritation was noted during or after routine retraction. In four of 20 pa...

Acta Neurochirurgica Supplements, 2007

The concept of seizure abortion after prompt detection by employing stimulation is a very appeali... more The concept of seizure abortion after prompt detection by employing stimulation is a very appealing one. Several investigators in previous experimental and clinical studies have used stimulation of various anatomical targets with promising results. In this chapter, the authors present their experience with a novel, implantable, local closed-loop responsive neuro-stimulation system (RNS) (Neuropace, Inc., Mountain View, CA, USA). This system consists of a cranially implanted pulse generator, one or two quadripolar subdural strip or depth leads and an external programmer. The system components and technical characteristics are presented. The criteria for selecting candidates for implantation as well as the preliminary results of a clinical trial are also presented. Closed-loop stimulation system appears to be a safe treatment option with promising results for the management of patients with well-localized, focal medically-refractory epilepsy, who are not candidates for surgical resection.

Southern Medical Journal, 2006

Intraorbital hydatid disease (IHD) is quite rare and represents < 1% of the Echino... more Intraorbital hydatid disease (IHD) is quite rare and represents < 1% of the Echinococcus cases. In our current communication, we report two children with solitary, primary intraorbital hydatid cysts. Both children presented with nontender, nonpulsatile proptosis. Imaging workup, including CT and MRI scans of the head and the orbits, revealed a retro-bulbar cyst in both patients. Surgical resection was performed by employing a fronto-temporo-orbito-zygomatic (FTOZ) approach. Accidental intraoperative rupture occurred in one case with no further consequences. Albendazole was postoperatively employed for 12 weeks. Outcome was excellent in both cases with complete resolution of their symptoms and complete visual recovery. Pertinent literature was reviewed with this opportunity.

Journal of Spinal Disorders & Techniques, 2006

In this case report of a screw extrusion into the gastrointestinal tract of a patient 16 months a... more In this case report of a screw extrusion into the gastrointestinal tract of a patient 16 months after anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF), the authors describe a rare but potentially lethal complication and review the literature on this topic. A 70-year-old white man with a surgical history of ACDF at C3-4 underwent an ACDF at C5-6 with autologous bone graft and a dynamic plate using locking, expanding screws. Sixteen months after the operation the patient presented with severe dysphagia. Radiographic findings indicating pulling out of the implanted plate and screws prompted a surgical removal of the instrumentation. One of the screws was not found during the operation and was visualized after surgery by abdominal radiography in the right lower abdominal quadrant. A subsequent Gastrografin swallowing test revealed an esophageal tear. The screw was removed endoscopically and the patient received antibiotics and had no oral intake for 4 days. He was discharged without symptoms on a soft mechanical diet; at 24 weeks, follow-up revealed no changes or symptoms. Screw extrusion into the gastrointestinal tract following ACDF is a rare but potentially lethal complication. The use of locking, expanding screws does not extinguish the risk of this complication, particularly in cases of suboptimal initial placement of the anterior instrumentation. Close follow-up is of paramount importance in detecting any pull-out of the implanted plate. Any signs of postoperative dysphagia or throat soreness should prompt immediate evaluation of the patient and, if indicated, surgical removal of the failed instrumentation.

Neurologia i Neurochirurgia Polska, 2014

Recent MRI advances have focused on the development and application of molecular and physiologica... more Recent MRI advances have focused on the development and application of molecular and physiological imaging capabilities. One of these relatively new MRI methods, Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy (MRS) reflects the continuing evolution from purely anatomic to physiological and molecular imaging of the brain. Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy yields images of the distribution and concentration of naturally occurring molecules such as N-acetyl aspartate

Stereotactic and Functional Neurosurgery, 2004

Proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H MRS) constitutes a promising modality to assess intrac... more Proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H MRS) constitutes a promising modality to assess intracranial pathology. We present our experience using this method in grading solid brain astrocytomas. Using a 1.5-Tesla MRI unit, 71 patients with the radiographic diagnosis of astrocytoma were examined. Water-suppressed single-voxel 1H MRS was employed in all of our patients. The concentrations of choline (Cho), N-acetyl-aspartate (NAA), phosphocreatine-creatine (Pcr-Cr), myo-inositol (MI), lactate (Lac), lipids (Lip) as well as the metabolite ratios of Cho/Pcr-Cr, NAA/PCr-Cr and NAA/Cho were calculated. An appropriate surgical biopsy was performed. Standard pathology examination was employed in a double-blinded fashion. An increased concentration of Cho and decreased concentrations of Pcr-Cr and NAA were detected. The concentrations of Lac, Lip and MI varied inconsistently, even among tumors of the same histologic grade. The Cho/Pcr-Cr ratio was calculated. This ratio was found to be 2.15 +/- 0.26 in 27 patients with astrocytomas grade I and II, 2.78 +/- 0.09 in 18 patients with grade III, and 5.40 +/- 0.16 in 26 patients with grade IV. The increased concentration of Cho is due to the increased cellularity and a relatively increased number of membranous structures in highly malignant tumors. In abnormal anaerobic metabolic tumor states there is relatively less phosphorylization of creatine. By using the Cho/Pcr-Cr ratio the concomitant effects of structural and metabolic alteration can thereby be emphasized for diagnostic advantage. The Cho/Pcr-Cr is a very important and statistically significant marker (p = 0.043) determining the degree of intracranial astrocytoma malignancy.

Neurosurgery, 2000

Close Window. Close Window. Thank you for choosing to subscribe to the eTOC for Neurosurgery. Ent... more Close Window. Close Window. Thank you for choosing to subscribe to the eTOC for Neurosurgery. Enter your Email address: Wolters Kluwer Health may email you for journal alerts and information, but is committed to maintaining ...

Southern Medical Journal, 2004

Two cases of epidural abscess as a complication of frontal sinusitis are presented. The diagnoses... more Two cases of epidural abscess as a complication of frontal sinusitis are presented. The diagnoses were suspected on the basis of history and were confirmed by magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography. Both patients were treated successfully by means of surgery and intravenous antibiotics. One patient developed meningitis in the postoperative course and was treated by changing the antibiotic regimen. However, further follow-up in the outpatient clinic by physical examinations and brain computed tomography scans showed no longterm neurologic complications in either case. Intracranial suppuration, including epidural abscesses, can complicate acute and chronic frontal sinusitis. These complications are diagnosed by maintaining a high index of suspicion and using the appropriate neuroimaging studies without delay.

Southern Medical Journal, 2006

Kyphoplasty, a minimally invasive technique, has recently been developed to provide immediate pai... more Kyphoplasty, a minimally invasive technique, has recently been developed to provide immediate pain relief, biomechanical stabilization, prevention of fracture progression, vertebral height restoration, and prevention or reversal of kyphosis to patients with osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures (VCF). We retrospectively reviewed 24 patients treated with kyphoplasty. A total of 37 vertebral levels were augmented. Visual analog scale (VAS) scores were documented in the immediate pre- and postoperative period, as well as 4, 12, and 72 weeks after the procedure. Vertebral body height restoration was assessed on postoperative x-rays. Mean preoperative VAS score was 9.3 and improved to 5.4 in the immediate postoperative period. At 4, 12 and 72 weeks post-operatively, mean VAS scores were 5.1, 5.9, and 6.1 respectively. All patients returned to their daily activities within 24 hours. No significant restoration of vertebral body height was observed. In regards to pain relief and postoperative functional outcome, kyphoplasty is a safe and effective treatment modality for osteoporotic VCFs, even when no significant restoration of vertebral body height is achieved.

Stereotactic and functional neurosurgery, 2006

Gamma knife radiosurgery represents an established treatment option for the management of medical... more Gamma knife radiosurgery represents an established treatment option for the management of medically refractory trigeminal neuralgia (TN). In our current communication we present our experience in radiosurgically treating patients with idiopathic TN. Over a period of 5 years, 77 patients underwent gamma knife radiosurgery. The patients were divided into 2 groups based on their previous surgical treatment. In the group of patients with no previous surgeries, the initial response rate was 92.4% (48/52 patients), while in the group with previous surgeries it was 84% (21/25 patients). The excellent outcome rates (complete pain relief with no pain medications) at the completion of 1, 2 and 3 years after treatment for the group with no previous surgeries were: 80.8% (42/52 patients), 69.2% (36/52 patients) and 53.8% (28/52 patients), respectively. The respective excellent outcome rates for the group of patients with previous surgeries were: 64% (16/25 patients), 44% (11/25 patients) and 12...

Stereotactic and functional neurosurgery, 2007

Implantation of subdural strip and grid electrodes is a common methodology in the invasive evalua... more Implantation of subdural strip and grid electrodes is a common methodology in the invasive evaluation of patients with medically refractory epilepsy. Although their implantation is safe, the occurrence of implantation-associated complications can occasionally be troublesome. In our current retrospective study, 185 patients undergoing subdural grid/strip implantation for invasive monitoring were examined. Their ages ranged between 16 and 48 years (mean 23.6). AdTech (Racine, Wisc., USA) strip and grid electrodes were implanted under general endotracheal anesthesia in all our cases. Duration of electroencephalographic monitoring ranged from 2 to 25 days (mean 10.8). The follow-up period ranged from 24 to 60 months (mean 44.6 months). The most common complication in our series was the development of postoperative epidural hematoma in 3 patients (1.6%), while 2 patients (1.1%) suffered a subdural hematoma. Two patients (1.1%) developed significant brain edema postoperatively, 2 others (...

Stereotactic and functional neurosurgery, 2009

Stereotactic cingulotomy constitutes a psychosurgical procedure nowadays advocated in the treatme... more Stereotactic cingulotomy constitutes a psychosurgical procedure nowadays advocated in the treatment of medically intractable obsessive-compulsive disorder, chronic pain and drug addiction. From its theoretical conception to the first cingulectomies performed and modern stereotactic-guided cingulotomies, various target localization methods, different surgical techniques, and numerous lesioning devices have been utilized. In the current article, the authors performed a literature review related to cingular lesion placement in an effort to identify misconceptions of the past, recapitulate existing knowledge and recognize targets for further research. The initial animal and human electrophysiologic experimental data regarding the role of the cingulate cortex in various behavioral and cognitive functions were meticulously reviewed. The clinical indications, surgical technique and the clinical results and complications of open cingulectomies were examined. The anatomic target localization...

Stereotactic and functional neurosurgery, 2005

Open-loop stimulation studies have shown varying control of seizures with stimulation of differen... more Open-loop stimulation studies have shown varying control of seizures with stimulation of different anatomical targets. A recent multi-institutional clinical study utilizing an external closed-loop stimulation system had promising results. A novel implantable closed-loop Responsive Neurostimulation System (RNS) (Neuropace, Inc., Mountainview, Calif., USA) consisting of a cranially implanted pulse generator, one or two quadripolar subdural strip or depth leads and a programmer is under testing in a prospective clinical trial. The RNS pulse generator continuously analyzes the patient's electrocortigrams (ECoGs) and automatically triggers electrical stimulation when specific ECoG characteristics programmed by the clinician, as indicative of electrographic seizures or precursor of epileptiform activities, are detected. The pulse generator then stores diagnostic information detailing detections and stimulations, including multichannel stored ECoGs. The RNS programmer communicates tran...

Neurosurgical Review, 2005

The association of third cranial nerve palsy subsequent to an enlarging posterior communicating a... more The association of third cranial nerve palsy subsequent to an enlarging posterior communicating artery (P-Com A) aneurysm has been well described. In our current communication, we review the relevant literature and propose a classification system for the severity of the third cranial nerve palsy, correlating it to the postoperative recovery. Our four grade scale (I–IV) included the degree of the

Stereotactic and Functional Neurosurgery, 2010

Previous studies have shown that closed-loop or responsive neurostimulation can abort induced or ... more Previous studies have shown that closed-loop or responsive neurostimulation can abort induced or spontaneous epileptiform discharges. To assess the effectiveness of a programmable cranially implanted closed-loop neurostimulation system in the control of seizures originating from an area relatively inaccessible by open craniotomy. A patient with drug-resistant partial epilepsy had previously undergone open resection of the left frontal opercular cortex and the underlying insular area. Although subdural-depth electrode ictal recordings had been nonlocalizing, depth electrode insular stimulation had produced the patient's habitual aura. Postoperatively, there was a sustained 50% reduction in seizure frequency. The residual seizures were identical to the preoperative seizures. Repeat depth electrode monitoring revealed that the ictal focus was immediately posterior to the previously resected insular area. A closed-loop cranial internal pulse generator system including left anterior insular and posterior orbitofrontal depth electrodes was implanted. There was an additional 60% reduction of seizures. Preliminary observation indicates that responsive neurostimulation may be an effective alternative to higher-risk resective epilepsy surgery.

Neurosurgical Focus, 2005

Painful osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures (VCFs) are a significant cause of disability... more Painful osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures (VCFs) are a significant cause of disability in the elderly population. Kyphoplasty, a recently developed minimally invasive procedure, has been advocated for the successful management of these fractures in terms of immediate pain relief, and also for restoration of the premorbid level of daily activities. In this retrospective study the authors report on their experience with the early management of VCFs with kyphoplasty. A retrospective analysis was conducted in 13 patients (seven women and six men) whose ages ranged from 48 to 87 years (mean age 71.5 +/- 11 years [mean +/- standard deviation]). The interval between onset of symptoms and surgical intervention ranged from 4 to 9 weeks. Twenty levels (12 thoracic, eight lumbar) were treated in this cohort. Immediate and early postoperative (1-month follow-up visit) visual analog scale (VAS) pain scores, activity levels, and restoration of vertebral body (VB) height were assessed. The mean preoperative VAS score was 8 +/- 1, whereas the immediate and early postoperative scores were 1 +/- 1. These findings reflected a resolution of 90 to 100% of preoperative pain. All patients resumed routine activities within hours of the procedure, although improvement in VB height was not accomplished in this cohort. No major complications were encountered in this clinical series. Kyphoplasty is a safe and effective method for the treatment of osteoporotic VCFs. Failure to restore VB height does not seem to interfere with the excellent pain management and good functional outcome provided by this procedure.

Journal of Neurosurgery, 2008

The association of vitreous and/or subhyaloid hemorrhage with aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage ... more The association of vitreous and/or subhyaloid hemorrhage with aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) has been frequently identified since the original description by Terson in 1900. In this prospective clinical study the authors examined the actual incidence of Terson hemorrhage in patients suffering aneurysmal SAH, they attempted to identify those parameters that could predispose its development, and they evaluated its prognostic significance in the overall patients' outcome. A total of 174 patients suffering aneurysmal SAH were included in this study. The admitting Glasgow Coma Scale scores (GCS), World Federation of Neurological Societies (WFNS) scale scores, Hunt and Hess grades, and Fisher grades were recorded. A careful ophthalmological evaluation was performed in all participants. The exact anatomical locations and the largest diameter of the dome of the ruptured aneurysms were also recorded. Surgical clipping or endovascular coiling was used in 165 patients. Clinical outcome was evaluated at discharge from the hospital by using the Glasgow Outcome Scale and the modified Rankin Scale. Periodic ophthalmological evaluations were performed for 2 years. In this series, the observed incidence of Terson hemorrhage was 12.1%. Statistical analysis of our data demonstrated that patients with low GCS scores and high WFNS scores, Hunt and Hess grades, and Fisher grades had an increased incidence of Terson hemorrhage. The mortality rate for patients with Terson hemorrhage was 28.6%, whereas that for patients without Terson hemorrhage was 2.0%. Moreover, patients with Terson hemorrhage who survived had significantly worse outcomes than those in patients without Terson hemorrhage. Terson hemorrhage constitutes a common SAH-associated complication. Its incidence is increased in patients with low GCS and high WFNS scores, and high Hunt and Hess and Fisher grades. Its presence is associated with increased mortality and morbidity rates.

Stereotactic and Functional Neurosurgery, 1998

We present a series of 21 patients, 12 males and 9 females, aged 41–76 years, with the preoperati... more We present a series of 21 patients, 12 males and 9 females, aged 41–76 years, with the preoperative diagnosis of a brain tumor. Both preoperatively and postoperatively, all of our patients underwent either a brain computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). All the radiographic studies were taped and loaded preoperatively in the Stereotactic Microscopic Navigator (SMN) workstation (Zeiss,

Global spine journal, 2012

Study Design This case report describes an acute Schmorl's node (SN) in an elite monofin athl... more Study Design This case report describes an acute Schmorl's node (SN) in an elite monofin athlete during exercise. The patient presented with severe back pain and leg numbness and was managed successfully with conservative treatment. Objective The aim of our communication was to describe a rare presentation of a common pathological condition during an intense sport. Background Swimming is not generally considered to be a sport activity that leads to spinal injuries. SNs are usually asymptomatic lesions, incidentally found on imaging studies. There is no correlation between swimming and symptomatic SN formation. Case Report A 16-year-old monofin elite athlete suffered from an acute nonradiating back pain during extreme exercise. His back pain was associated with a fracture of the superior L5 end plate and an acute SN at the L5 vertebral body with perilesional bone marrow edema. The pain resolved with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and bed rest. The athlete had an excellent o...

Neurosurgical focus, Jan 15, 2002

The authors studied whether the amount of retraction pressure applied to a compromised nerve root... more The authors studied whether the amount of retraction pressure applied to a compromised nerve root during lumbar discectomy has an impact on intra- or postoperative outcome. The authors conducted a prospective analysis of 20 patients. There were 12 men and 12 women whose mean age (+/- standard deviation [SD]) was 42.25 years +/- 15 years (range 21-65 years). During intraoperative electromyography (EMG) monitoring, measurements were obtained during routine retraction of the affected nerve root by using a specially designed and constructed nerve root retractor connected to a reconfigured personal computer for this specific purpose. Follow-up results were assessed in the immediate postoperative period and at up to 1 year. The maximum measured force applied during random periods of time was 9.85 N/second (mean 6.95 +/- N/second [+/- SD]). The mean retraction time was 39.5 +/- 21 (SD). No intraoperative EMG-detected irritation was noted during or after routine retraction. In four of 20 pa...

Acta Neurochirurgica Supplements, 2007

The concept of seizure abortion after prompt detection by employing stimulation is a very appeali... more The concept of seizure abortion after prompt detection by employing stimulation is a very appealing one. Several investigators in previous experimental and clinical studies have used stimulation of various anatomical targets with promising results. In this chapter, the authors present their experience with a novel, implantable, local closed-loop responsive neuro-stimulation system (RNS) (Neuropace, Inc., Mountain View, CA, USA). This system consists of a cranially implanted pulse generator, one or two quadripolar subdural strip or depth leads and an external programmer. The system components and technical characteristics are presented. The criteria for selecting candidates for implantation as well as the preliminary results of a clinical trial are also presented. Closed-loop stimulation system appears to be a safe treatment option with promising results for the management of patients with well-localized, focal medically-refractory epilepsy, who are not candidates for surgical resection.

Southern Medical Journal, 2006

Intraorbital hydatid disease (IHD) is quite rare and represents < 1% of the Echino... more Intraorbital hydatid disease (IHD) is quite rare and represents < 1% of the Echinococcus cases. In our current communication, we report two children with solitary, primary intraorbital hydatid cysts. Both children presented with nontender, nonpulsatile proptosis. Imaging workup, including CT and MRI scans of the head and the orbits, revealed a retro-bulbar cyst in both patients. Surgical resection was performed by employing a fronto-temporo-orbito-zygomatic (FTOZ) approach. Accidental intraoperative rupture occurred in one case with no further consequences. Albendazole was postoperatively employed for 12 weeks. Outcome was excellent in both cases with complete resolution of their symptoms and complete visual recovery. Pertinent literature was reviewed with this opportunity.

Journal of Spinal Disorders & Techniques, 2006

In this case report of a screw extrusion into the gastrointestinal tract of a patient 16 months a... more In this case report of a screw extrusion into the gastrointestinal tract of a patient 16 months after anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF), the authors describe a rare but potentially lethal complication and review the literature on this topic. A 70-year-old white man with a surgical history of ACDF at C3-4 underwent an ACDF at C5-6 with autologous bone graft and a dynamic plate using locking, expanding screws. Sixteen months after the operation the patient presented with severe dysphagia. Radiographic findings indicating pulling out of the implanted plate and screws prompted a surgical removal of the instrumentation. One of the screws was not found during the operation and was visualized after surgery by abdominal radiography in the right lower abdominal quadrant. A subsequent Gastrografin swallowing test revealed an esophageal tear. The screw was removed endoscopically and the patient received antibiotics and had no oral intake for 4 days. He was discharged without symptoms on a soft mechanical diet; at 24 weeks, follow-up revealed no changes or symptoms. Screw extrusion into the gastrointestinal tract following ACDF is a rare but potentially lethal complication. The use of locking, expanding screws does not extinguish the risk of this complication, particularly in cases of suboptimal initial placement of the anterior instrumentation. Close follow-up is of paramount importance in detecting any pull-out of the implanted plate. Any signs of postoperative dysphagia or throat soreness should prompt immediate evaluation of the patient and, if indicated, surgical removal of the failed instrumentation.

Neurologia i Neurochirurgia Polska, 2014

Recent MRI advances have focused on the development and application of molecular and physiologica... more Recent MRI advances have focused on the development and application of molecular and physiological imaging capabilities. One of these relatively new MRI methods, Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy (MRS) reflects the continuing evolution from purely anatomic to physiological and molecular imaging of the brain. Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy yields images of the distribution and concentration of naturally occurring molecules such as N-acetyl aspartate

Stereotactic and Functional Neurosurgery, 2004

Proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H MRS) constitutes a promising modality to assess intrac... more Proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H MRS) constitutes a promising modality to assess intracranial pathology. We present our experience using this method in grading solid brain astrocytomas. Using a 1.5-Tesla MRI unit, 71 patients with the radiographic diagnosis of astrocytoma were examined. Water-suppressed single-voxel 1H MRS was employed in all of our patients. The concentrations of choline (Cho), N-acetyl-aspartate (NAA), phosphocreatine-creatine (Pcr-Cr), myo-inositol (MI), lactate (Lac), lipids (Lip) as well as the metabolite ratios of Cho/Pcr-Cr, NAA/PCr-Cr and NAA/Cho were calculated. An appropriate surgical biopsy was performed. Standard pathology examination was employed in a double-blinded fashion. An increased concentration of Cho and decreased concentrations of Pcr-Cr and NAA were detected. The concentrations of Lac, Lip and MI varied inconsistently, even among tumors of the same histologic grade. The Cho/Pcr-Cr ratio was calculated. This ratio was found to be 2.15 +/- 0.26 in 27 patients with astrocytomas grade I and II, 2.78 +/- 0.09 in 18 patients with grade III, and 5.40 +/- 0.16 in 26 patients with grade IV. The increased concentration of Cho is due to the increased cellularity and a relatively increased number of membranous structures in highly malignant tumors. In abnormal anaerobic metabolic tumor states there is relatively less phosphorylization of creatine. By using the Cho/Pcr-Cr ratio the concomitant effects of structural and metabolic alteration can thereby be emphasized for diagnostic advantage. The Cho/Pcr-Cr is a very important and statistically significant marker (p = 0.043) determining the degree of intracranial astrocytoma malignancy.

Neurosurgery, 2000

Close Window. Close Window. Thank you for choosing to subscribe to the eTOC for Neurosurgery. Ent... more Close Window. Close Window. Thank you for choosing to subscribe to the eTOC for Neurosurgery. Enter your Email address: Wolters Kluwer Health may email you for journal alerts and information, but is committed to maintaining ...

Southern Medical Journal, 2004

Two cases of epidural abscess as a complication of frontal sinusitis are presented. The diagnoses... more Two cases of epidural abscess as a complication of frontal sinusitis are presented. The diagnoses were suspected on the basis of history and were confirmed by magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography. Both patients were treated successfully by means of surgery and intravenous antibiotics. One patient developed meningitis in the postoperative course and was treated by changing the antibiotic regimen. However, further follow-up in the outpatient clinic by physical examinations and brain computed tomography scans showed no longterm neurologic complications in either case. Intracranial suppuration, including epidural abscesses, can complicate acute and chronic frontal sinusitis. These complications are diagnosed by maintaining a high index of suspicion and using the appropriate neuroimaging studies without delay.

Southern Medical Journal, 2006

Kyphoplasty, a minimally invasive technique, has recently been developed to provide immediate pai... more Kyphoplasty, a minimally invasive technique, has recently been developed to provide immediate pain relief, biomechanical stabilization, prevention of fracture progression, vertebral height restoration, and prevention or reversal of kyphosis to patients with osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures (VCF). We retrospectively reviewed 24 patients treated with kyphoplasty. A total of 37 vertebral levels were augmented. Visual analog scale (VAS) scores were documented in the immediate pre- and postoperative period, as well as 4, 12, and 72 weeks after the procedure. Vertebral body height restoration was assessed on postoperative x-rays. Mean preoperative VAS score was 9.3 and improved to 5.4 in the immediate postoperative period. At 4, 12 and 72 weeks post-operatively, mean VAS scores were 5.1, 5.9, and 6.1 respectively. All patients returned to their daily activities within 24 hours. No significant restoration of vertebral body height was observed. In regards to pain relief and postoperative functional outcome, kyphoplasty is a safe and effective treatment modality for osteoporotic VCFs, even when no significant restoration of vertebral body height is achieved.

Stereotactic and functional neurosurgery, 2006

Gamma knife radiosurgery represents an established treatment option for the management of medical... more Gamma knife radiosurgery represents an established treatment option for the management of medically refractory trigeminal neuralgia (TN). In our current communication we present our experience in radiosurgically treating patients with idiopathic TN. Over a period of 5 years, 77 patients underwent gamma knife radiosurgery. The patients were divided into 2 groups based on their previous surgical treatment. In the group of patients with no previous surgeries, the initial response rate was 92.4% (48/52 patients), while in the group with previous surgeries it was 84% (21/25 patients). The excellent outcome rates (complete pain relief with no pain medications) at the completion of 1, 2 and 3 years after treatment for the group with no previous surgeries were: 80.8% (42/52 patients), 69.2% (36/52 patients) and 53.8% (28/52 patients), respectively. The respective excellent outcome rates for the group of patients with previous surgeries were: 64% (16/25 patients), 44% (11/25 patients) and 12...

Stereotactic and functional neurosurgery, 2007

Implantation of subdural strip and grid electrodes is a common methodology in the invasive evalua... more Implantation of subdural strip and grid electrodes is a common methodology in the invasive evaluation of patients with medically refractory epilepsy. Although their implantation is safe, the occurrence of implantation-associated complications can occasionally be troublesome. In our current retrospective study, 185 patients undergoing subdural grid/strip implantation for invasive monitoring were examined. Their ages ranged between 16 and 48 years (mean 23.6). AdTech (Racine, Wisc., USA) strip and grid electrodes were implanted under general endotracheal anesthesia in all our cases. Duration of electroencephalographic monitoring ranged from 2 to 25 days (mean 10.8). The follow-up period ranged from 24 to 60 months (mean 44.6 months). The most common complication in our series was the development of postoperative epidural hematoma in 3 patients (1.6%), while 2 patients (1.1%) suffered a subdural hematoma. Two patients (1.1%) developed significant brain edema postoperatively, 2 others (...

Stereotactic and functional neurosurgery, 2009

Stereotactic cingulotomy constitutes a psychosurgical procedure nowadays advocated in the treatme... more Stereotactic cingulotomy constitutes a psychosurgical procedure nowadays advocated in the treatment of medically intractable obsessive-compulsive disorder, chronic pain and drug addiction. From its theoretical conception to the first cingulectomies performed and modern stereotactic-guided cingulotomies, various target localization methods, different surgical techniques, and numerous lesioning devices have been utilized. In the current article, the authors performed a literature review related to cingular lesion placement in an effort to identify misconceptions of the past, recapitulate existing knowledge and recognize targets for further research. The initial animal and human electrophysiologic experimental data regarding the role of the cingulate cortex in various behavioral and cognitive functions were meticulously reviewed. The clinical indications, surgical technique and the clinical results and complications of open cingulectomies were examined. The anatomic target localization...

Stereotactic and functional neurosurgery, 2005

Open-loop stimulation studies have shown varying control of seizures with stimulation of differen... more Open-loop stimulation studies have shown varying control of seizures with stimulation of different anatomical targets. A recent multi-institutional clinical study utilizing an external closed-loop stimulation system had promising results. A novel implantable closed-loop Responsive Neurostimulation System (RNS) (Neuropace, Inc., Mountainview, Calif., USA) consisting of a cranially implanted pulse generator, one or two quadripolar subdural strip or depth leads and a programmer is under testing in a prospective clinical trial. The RNS pulse generator continuously analyzes the patient's electrocortigrams (ECoGs) and automatically triggers electrical stimulation when specific ECoG characteristics programmed by the clinician, as indicative of electrographic seizures or precursor of epileptiform activities, are detected. The pulse generator then stores diagnostic information detailing detections and stimulations, including multichannel stored ECoGs. The RNS programmer communicates tran...

Neurosurgical Review, 2005

The association of third cranial nerve palsy subsequent to an enlarging posterior communicating a... more The association of third cranial nerve palsy subsequent to an enlarging posterior communicating artery (P-Com A) aneurysm has been well described. In our current communication, we review the relevant literature and propose a classification system for the severity of the third cranial nerve palsy, correlating it to the postoperative recovery. Our four grade scale (I–IV) included the degree of the

Stereotactic and Functional Neurosurgery, 2010

Previous studies have shown that closed-loop or responsive neurostimulation can abort induced or ... more Previous studies have shown that closed-loop or responsive neurostimulation can abort induced or spontaneous epileptiform discharges. To assess the effectiveness of a programmable cranially implanted closed-loop neurostimulation system in the control of seizures originating from an area relatively inaccessible by open craniotomy. A patient with drug-resistant partial epilepsy had previously undergone open resection of the left frontal opercular cortex and the underlying insular area. Although subdural-depth electrode ictal recordings had been nonlocalizing, depth electrode insular stimulation had produced the patient's habitual aura. Postoperatively, there was a sustained 50% reduction in seizure frequency. The residual seizures were identical to the preoperative seizures. Repeat depth electrode monitoring revealed that the ictal focus was immediately posterior to the previously resected insular area. A closed-loop cranial internal pulse generator system including left anterior insular and posterior orbitofrontal depth electrodes was implanted. There was an additional 60% reduction of seizures. Preliminary observation indicates that responsive neurostimulation may be an effective alternative to higher-risk resective epilepsy surgery.

Neurosurgical Focus, 2005

Painful osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures (VCFs) are a significant cause of disability... more Painful osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures (VCFs) are a significant cause of disability in the elderly population. Kyphoplasty, a recently developed minimally invasive procedure, has been advocated for the successful management of these fractures in terms of immediate pain relief, and also for restoration of the premorbid level of daily activities. In this retrospective study the authors report on their experience with the early management of VCFs with kyphoplasty. A retrospective analysis was conducted in 13 patients (seven women and six men) whose ages ranged from 48 to 87 years (mean age 71.5 +/- 11 years [mean +/- standard deviation]). The interval between onset of symptoms and surgical intervention ranged from 4 to 9 weeks. Twenty levels (12 thoracic, eight lumbar) were treated in this cohort. Immediate and early postoperative (1-month follow-up visit) visual analog scale (VAS) pain scores, activity levels, and restoration of vertebral body (VB) height were assessed. The mean preoperative VAS score was 8 +/- 1, whereas the immediate and early postoperative scores were 1 +/- 1. These findings reflected a resolution of 90 to 100% of preoperative pain. All patients resumed routine activities within hours of the procedure, although improvement in VB height was not accomplished in this cohort. No major complications were encountered in this clinical series. Kyphoplasty is a safe and effective method for the treatment of osteoporotic VCFs. Failure to restore VB height does not seem to interfere with the excellent pain management and good functional outcome provided by this procedure.