Neurological surgery
Article Abstract:
Exciting technological developments are influencing neurosurgery, making diagnosis and treatment of brain disorders more effective. These include the use of ultrasound to assess blood flow within the brain, single-photon emission computed tomography to evaluate blood circulation, positron emission tomography to determine metabolic activity, and three-dimensional computed tomography to obtain three-dimensional views of the brain and skull. Magnetic resonance imaging (a technique that provides very clear images of the brain) is used to detect vascular disease. The efficacy of surgery for epilepsy has increased with the advent of better methods for detecting seizure foci and improved surgical techniques. Knowledge about the localization of language and other functions reduces surgical complications from inappropriate tissue removal. Some aneurysms (locally dilated blood vessels, which can rupture and cause damage or death) can be repaired in awake patients, allowing constant monitoring of brain function. Such procedures call for the skills of both radiologist and neurosurgeon, a merger that benefits the patient. Better techniques and improved knowledge of anatomy allow approaches to areas of the brain previously inaccessible, some of which are described. Brain tumors are now treated surgically with increasing effectiveness. Most patients with such tumors exhibit a progressive neurological deficit (68 percent, in one 1989 study), experience headache (54 percent), and/or seizures (only 26 percent). Ninety-eight percent of brain tumor patients underwent surgery, with removal of some or all affected tissue in 85 percent. Survival rates differed according to the type of tumor, as did the effects of re-operation. New techniques for treating brain tumors are under development. A method of delivering chemotherapy to the brain is being evaluated; if successful, this could result in the application of anticancer agents to specific regions. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)
Publication Name: JAMA, The Journal of the American Medical Association
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0098-7484
Year: 1990
User Contributions:
Comment about this article or add new information about this topic:
Neurological surgery
Article Abstract:
Neurosurgery is becoming more of a high-tech speciality with development of techniques to diagnose and treat problems in small arteries of the brain. Computer technology allows physicians to view the lesion or segment of the brain in three dimensions and to guide surgeons to their target accurately. High-dose methylprednisolone given within eight hours of injury improves the extent of recovery for patients with acute spinal cord injury. Carotid surgery is useful for patients with nondisabling strokes or lack of adequate blood flow to the brain or retina. It is not recommended for those with no symptoms unless the artery is 90% blocked. There has been renewed interest in the surgical treatment of epilepsy, skull base surgery and spinal fusion, as half of neurosurgical procedures involve the spine. Prevention programs such as the Think First campaign, sponsored by the National Head and Spinal Cord Injury Prevention Program, has reached over one million students. President George Bush has designated the decade beginning January 1, 1990 as the Decade of the Brain.
Publication Name: JAMA, The Journal of the American Medical Association
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0098-7484
Year: 1992
User Contributions:
Comment about this article or add new information about this topic:
Neurological surgery
Article Abstract:
Neurological surgery is benefitting from the technological advancements in miniature, flexible endoscopes and miniature video cameras. These have allowed surgeons to biopsy and remove brain tumors and correct other anatomic abnormalities. CT scans, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and digital angiography can give surgeons detailed information about the brain. Usually, the patient must wear a stereotactic frame on the head, but newer techniques do not require the frame. And while CT and MRI scans reveal the brain's anatomical structure, functional MRI, positron emission tomography and magnetoencephalography can reveal the function of different areas of the brain. Endoscopy is also being used effectively in spinal surgery. Virtual reality could allow neurosurgeons to practice surgery in the same way airline pilots train. And robots could provide a helping hand in future surgical operations.
Publication Name: JAMA, The Journal of the American Medical Association
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0098-7484
Year: 1996
User Contributions:
Comment about this article or add new information about this topic:
- Abstracts: Neurologic sequelae of open-heart surgery in children: an 'irritating question'. Magnetic resonance imaging of the brain in infants and children before and after cardiac surgery: a prospective study
- Abstracts: Serologic tests for Lyme disease; Interlaboratory variability. Serologic tests for antibody to Borrelia burgdorferi. Another Pandora's box for Medicine?
- Abstracts: Cocaine and marijuana use by medical students before and during medical school. Medicinal applications of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol and marijuana
- Abstracts: Photodynamic therapy for multiple primary bronchogenic carcinoma. The use of biomarkers in the prediction of survival in patients with pulmonary carcinoma
- Abstracts: Acute HIV infection presenting with painful swallowing and esophageal ulcers. Advances in early diagnosis of perinatal HIV infection