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World Neurosurgery May 2024Neurotrauma is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in Nigeria. We conducted this systematic review to generate nationally generalizable reference data for the... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis
OBJECTIVE
Neurotrauma is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in Nigeria. We conducted this systematic review to generate nationally generalizable reference data for the country.
METHODS
Four research databases and gray literature sources were electronically searched. Risk of bias was assessed using the Risk of Bias in Non-Randomized Studies of Interventions and Cochrane's risk of bias tools. Descriptive analysis, narrative synthesis, and statistical analysis (via paired t-tests and χ independence tests) were performed on relevant article metrics (α = 0.05).
RESULTS
We identified a cohort of 45,763 patients from 254 articles. The overall risk of bias was moderate to high. Most articles employed retrospective cohort study designs (37.4%) and were published during the last 2 decades (81.89%). The cohort's average age was 32.5 years (standard deviation, 20.2) with a gender split of ∼3 males per female. Almost 90% of subjects were diagnosed with traumatic brain injury, with road traffic accidents (68.6%) being the greatest cause. Altered consciousness (48.4%) was the most commonly reported clinical feature. Computed tomography (53.5%) was the most commonly used imaging modality, with skull (25.7%) and vertebral fracture (14.1%) being the most common radiological findings for traumatic brain injury and traumatic spinal injury, respectively. Two-thirds of patients were treated nonoperatively. Outcomes were favorable in 63.7% of traumatic brain injury patients, but in only 20.9% of traumatic spinal injury patients. Pressure sores, infection, and motor deficits were the most commonly reported complications in the latter.
CONCLUSIONS
This systematic review and pooled analysis demonstrate the significant burden of neurotrauma across Nigeria.
Topics: Humans; Nigeria; Brain Injuries, Traumatic; Female; Male; Adult; Accidents, Traffic; Spinal Cord Injuries
PubMed: 38741332
DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2023.11.070 -
Journal of Neuroengineering and... May 2024Exoskeletons are increasingly applied during overground gait and balance rehabilitation following neurological impairment, although optimal parameters for specific... (Review)
Review
BACKGROUND
Exoskeletons are increasingly applied during overground gait and balance rehabilitation following neurological impairment, although optimal parameters for specific indications are yet to be established.
OBJECTIVE
This systematic review aimed to identify dose and dosage of exoskeleton-based therapy protocols for overground locomotor training in spinal cord injury/disease.
METHODS
A systematic review was conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. A literature search was performed using the CINAHL Complete, Embase, Emcare Nursing, Medline ALL, and Web of Science databases. Studies in adults with subacute and/or chronic spinal cord injury/disease were included if they reported (1) dose (e.g., single session duration and total number of sessions) and dosage (e.g., frequency of sessions/week and total duration of intervention) parameters, and (2) at least one gait and/or balance outcome measure.
RESULTS
Of 2,108 studies identified, after removing duplicates and filtering for inclusion, 19 were selected and dose, dosage and efficacy were abstracted. Data revealed a great heterogeneity in dose, dosage, and indications, with overall recommendation of 60-min sessions delivered 3 times a week, for 9 weeks in 27 sessions. Specific protocols were also identified for functional restoration (60-min, 3 times a week, for 8 weeks/24 sessions) and cardiorespiratory rehabilitation (60-min, 3 times a week, for 12 weeks/36 sessions).
CONCLUSION
This review provides evidence-based best practice recommendations for overground exoskeleton training among individuals with spinal cord injury/disease based on individual therapeutic goals - functional restoration or cardiorespiratory rehabilitation. There is a need for structured exoskeleton clinical translation studies based on standardized methods and common therapeutic outcomes.
Topics: Spinal Cord Injuries; Humans; Exoskeleton Device; Postural Balance; Exercise Therapy; Gait; Gait Disorders, Neurologic
PubMed: 38705999
DOI: 10.1186/s12984-024-01365-2 -
Cellular and Molecular Neurobiology May 2024Cell transplantation is a promising treatment option for spinal cord injury (SCI). However, there is no consensus on the choice of carrier scaffolds to host the cells.... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
Cell transplantation is a promising treatment option for spinal cord injury (SCI). However, there is no consensus on the choice of carrier scaffolds to host the cells. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of different material scaffold-mediated cell transplantation in treating SCI in rats. According to PRISMA's principle, Embase, PubMed, Web of Science, and Cochrane databases were searched, and relevant literature was referenced. Only original research on cell transplantation plus natural or synthetic scaffolds in SCI rats was included. Direct and indirect evidence for improving hind limb motor function was pooled through meta-analysis. A subgroup analysis of some factors that may affect the therapeutic effect was conducted to understand the results fully. In total, 25 studies met the inclusion criteria, in which 293 rats received sham surgery, 78 rats received synthetic material scaffolds, and 219 rats received natural materials scaffolds. The network meta-analysis demonstrated that although synthetic scaffolds were slightly inferior to natural scaffolds in terms of restoring motor function in cell transplantation of SCI rats, no statistical differences were observed between the two (MD: -0.35; 95% CI -2.6 to 1.9). Moreover, the subgroup analysis revealed that the type and number of cells may be important factors in therapeutic efficacy (P < 0.01). Natural scaffolds and synthetic scaffolds are equally effective in cell transplantation of SCI rats without significant differences. In the future, the findings need to be validated in multicenter, large-scale, randomized controlled trials in clinical practice. Trial registration: Registration ID CRD42024459674 (PROSPERO).
Topics: Animals; Spinal Cord Injuries; Rats; Tissue Scaffolds; Cell Transplantation; Network Meta-Analysis; Treatment Outcome; Recovery of Function
PubMed: 38703332
DOI: 10.1007/s10571-024-01465-6 -
The Surgeon : Journal of the Royal... Jun 2024Surgeons are at high risk of developing musculoskeletal symptoms due to a range of factors including, maladaptive positioning and surgical ergonomics. Cervical muscle... (Review)
Review
INTRODUCTION
Surgeons are at high risk of developing musculoskeletal symptoms due to a range of factors including, maladaptive positioning and surgical ergonomics. Cervical muscle strain and biomechanical load is most prevalent due to repetitive motions and prolonged static neck positioning. This issue is apparent through reports of prevalence between 10 and 74.4% among surgeons. The aim of this systematic review is to provide an objective assessment of the clinical evidence available and a descriptive analysis of the effects of kinematics and surgical ergonomics on the prevalence of surgeons' cervical musculoskeletal pain.
METHODS
This is PRISMA-compliant systematic review of clinical studies assessing the prevalence of cervical musculoskeletal dysfunction in surgeons by searching PUBMED and Ovid EMBASE databases from inception to 19th October 2023. Study quality was graded according to the National Institutes of Health study quality assessment tools.
RESULTS
A total of 9 studies were included in the final qualitative analysis. The use of loupes, open surgery and excessive neck flexion (>30°) were associated with cervical dysfunction. Comparison of study outcomes was challenging due to heterogeneity within study methods and the paucity of methodological quality.
CONCLUSION
The current literature assessing ergonomic and biomechanical factors predisposing surgeons to cervical musculoskeletal dysfunction is insufficient to provide reliable guidance for clinicians. Although the literature identifies factors contributing to work-related cervical dysfunction, few attempt to evaluate interventions for improved surgical ergonomics. An objective assessment of interventions that prompt postural correction with the aim to improve neck pain in surgeon cohorts is warranted.
Topics: Humans; Ergonomics; Surgeons; Occupational Diseases; Biomechanical Phenomena; Musculoskeletal Diseases; Neck Pain; Risk Factors; Posture
PubMed: 38693029
DOI: 10.1016/j.surge.2024.04.003 -
World Neurosurgery Apr 2024Neurosurgery has 1 of the highest risks for medical malpractice claims. We reviewed the factors associated with neurosurgical malpractice claims and litigation in the... (Review)
Review
BACKGROUND
Neurosurgery has 1 of the highest risks for medical malpractice claims. We reviewed the factors associated with neurosurgical malpractice claims and litigation in the United States and reported the outcomes through a systematic review of the literature.
METHODS
We conducted a systematic review of the literature according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis guidelines using the Medline, Embase, Cochrane, PubMed, and Google Scholar databases. We sought to identify pertinent studies containing information about medical malpractice claims and outcomes involving neurosurgeons in the United States.
RESULTS
We identified 15 retrospective studies spanning from 2002 to 2023 that reviewed over 7890 malpractice claims involving practicing neurosurgeons in the United States. Disparities were evident in neurosurgical litigation, with 474 cases linked to brain-related surgeries and a larger proportion, 1926 cases, tied to spine surgeries. The most commonly filed claims were intraprocedural errors (37.4%), delayed diagnoses (32.1%), and failure to treat (28.8%). Less frequently filed claims included misdiagnosis or choice of incorrect procedure (18.4%), occurrence of death (17.3%), test misinterpretation (14.4%), failure to appropriately refer patients for evaluation/treatment (14.3%), unnecessary surgical procedures (13.3%), and lack of informed consent (8.3%). The defendant was favored in 44.3% of claims, while in 31.3% of lawsuits were dropped, 17.7% of verdicts favored the plaintiff, and 16.6% reached an out of court settlement. Only 3.5% of lawsuits found both parties liable.
CONCLUSION
Neurosurgery is a high-risk specialty with 1 of the highest rates of malpractice claims. Spine claims had a significantly higher rate of filed malpractice claims, while cranial malpractice claims were associated with higher litigation compensation. Predictably, spinal cord injuries play a crucial role in predicting litigation. Importantly, nonsurgical treatments are also a common source of liability in neurosurgical practice.
PubMed: 38685351
DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2024.04.112 -
Journal of Clinical Medicine Apr 2024: Cranio-maxillofacial (CMF) injuries represent a significant challenge in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), exacerbated by inadequate infrastructure, resources,... (Review)
Review
: Cranio-maxillofacial (CMF) injuries represent a significant challenge in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), exacerbated by inadequate infrastructure, resources, and training. This systematic review aims to evaluate the current strategies and solutions proposed in the literature to improve CMF fracture care in LMICs, focusing on education, patient transfer, and off-label solutions. : A comprehensive literature search was conducted using PubMed/Medline from January 2000 to June 2023. Studies were selected based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-analysis Statement (PRISMA). Solutions were categorized into three main areas: education (digital and on-site teaching, fellowships abroad), patient transfer to specialized clinics, and off-label/non-operative solutions. : Twenty-three articles were included in the review, revealing a consensus on the necessity for enhanced education and training for local surgeons as the cornerstone for sustainable improvements in CMF care in LMICs. Digital platforms and on-site teaching were identified as key methods for delivering educational content. Furthermore, patient transfer to specialized national clinics and innovative off-label techniques were discussed as immediate solutions to provide quality care despite resource constraints. : Effective CMF fracture care in LMICs requires a multifaceted approach, prioritizing the education and training of local healthcare professionals, facilitated patient transfer to specialized centers, and the adoption of off-label solutions to leverage available resources. Collaborative efforts between international organizations, local healthcare providers, and educational institutions are essential to implement these solutions effectively and improve patient outcomes in LMICs.
PubMed: 38673709
DOI: 10.3390/jcm13082437 -
Spinal Cord Series and Cases Apr 2024Systematic review.
STUDY DESIGN
Systematic review.
OBJECTIVE
Contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) is an imaging modality that has only recently seen neurosurgical application. CEUS uses inert microbubbles to intraoperatively visualize vasculature and perfusion of the brain and spinal cord in real time. Observation and augmentation of spinal cord perfusion is vital component of the management of traumatic spinal cord injury, yet there are limited imaging modalities to evaluate spinal cord perfusion. CEUS provides an intraoperative imaging tool to evaluate spinal cord perfusion in real time. The objective of this review is to evaluate the current literature on the various applications and benefits of CEUS in traumatic spinal cord injury.
SETTING
South Carolina, USA.
METHODS
This review was written according to the PRISMA 2020 guidelines.
RESULTS
143 articles were found in our literature search, with 46 of them being unique. After excluding articles for relevance to CEUS and spinal cord injury, we were left with 10 papers. Studies in animal models have shown CEUS to be an effective non-invasive imaging modality that can detect perfusion changes of injured spinal cords in real time.
CONCLUSION
This imaging modality can provide object perfusion data of the nidus of injury, surrounding penumbra and healthy neural tissue in a traumatized spinal cord. Investigation in its use in humans is ongoing and remains promising to be an effective diagnostic and prognostic tool for those suffering from spinal cord injury.
Topics: Spinal Cord Injuries; Humans; Ultrasonography; Contrast Media; Animals; Spinal Cord
PubMed: 38664470
DOI: 10.1038/s41394-024-00644-3 -
PloS One 2024To assess whether different cervical spine immobilisation strategies (full immobilisation, movement minimisation or no immobilisation), impact neurological and/or other...
OBJECTIVES
To assess whether different cervical spine immobilisation strategies (full immobilisation, movement minimisation or no immobilisation), impact neurological and/or other outcomes for patients with suspected cervical spinal injury in the pre-hospital and emergency department setting.
DESIGN
Systematic review following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines.
DATA SOURCES
MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, Cochrane Library and two research registers were searched until September 2023.
ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA
All comparative studies (prospective or retrospective) that examined the potential benefits and/or harms of immobilisation practices during pre-hospital and emergency care of patients with a potential cervical spine injury (pre-imaging) following blunt trauma.
DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS
Two authors independently selected and extracted data. Risk of bias was appraised using the Cochrane ROBINS-I tool for non-randomised studies. Data were synthesised without meta-analysis.
RESULTS
Six observational studies met the inclusion criteria. The methodological quality was variable, with most studies having serious or critical risk of bias. The effect of cervical spine immobilisation practices such as full immobilisation or movement minimisation during pre-hospital and emergency care did not show clear evidence of benefit for the prevention of neurological deterioration, spinal injuries and death compared with no immobilisation. However, increased pain, discomfort and anatomical complications were associated with collar application during immobilisation.
CONCLUSIONS
Despite the limited evidence, weak designs and limited generalisability, the available data suggest that pre-hospital cervical spine immobilisation (full immobilisation or movement minimisation) was of uncertain value due to the lack of demonstrable benefit and may lead to potential complications and adverse outcomes. High-quality randomised comparative studies are required to address this important question.
TRIAL REGISTRATION
PROSPERO REGISTRATION Fiona Lecky, Abdullah Pandor, Munira Essat, Anthea Sutton, Carl Marincowitz, Gordon Fuller, Stuart Reid, Jason Smith. A systematic review of cervical spine immobilisation following blunt trauma in pre-hospital and emergency care. PROSPERO 2022 CRD42022349600 Available from: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42022349600.
Topics: Humans; Cervical Vertebrae; Immobilization; Emergency Medical Services; Wounds, Nonpenetrating; Spinal Injuries; Emergency Service, Hospital
PubMed: 38662734
DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0302127 -
Spinal Cord Jun 2024Systematic review and meta-analysis. (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis
STUDY DESIGN
Systematic review and meta-analysis.
OBJECTIVES
The current study aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of Onabotulinum toxin A (OBTX-A) treatment for neurogenic detrusor overactivity (NDO) in spinal cord injury (SCI) patients.
SETTING
Iran.
METHODS
All relevant articles of clinical trials and cohort studies indexed in PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science databases up to September 6, 2022, that addressed OBTX-A treatment for NDO following SCI were included. The quality of eligible studies was evaluated using Cochrane criteria. Also, the weighted mean difference (WMD) was measured with a random-effect model.
RESULTS
Regarding the overall efficacy after OBTX-A treatment in the short term, volume per void (VV) (WMD = 118.8, 95% CI: 90.9-146.7, p < 0.01), incontinence-quality of life (IQoL) (WMD = 24.3, 95% CI: 15.8-32.8, p < 0.01), and maximum cystometric capacity (MCC) (WMD = 144.5, 95% CI: 132.3 to 156.7, p < 0.01) significantly increased, while maximum detrusor pressure during storage (MDP) (WMD = -30.5, 95% CI: -35.9 to -25.1, p < 0.01) showed a significant decrease. Furthermore, compared to the placebo group at the 200-unit dose, there was a significant increase in MCC (WMD = 113.5, 95% CI: 84.7 to 142.3, p < 0.01) and a significant decrease in MDP (WMD = -27.2, 95% CI: -39.2 to -15.1, p < 0.01). Urinary tract infection (UTI), hematuria, and autonomic dysreflexia were the most common side effects, occurring at rates of 29.6%, 14.8%, and 13.4%, respectively.
CONCLUSION
Our findings highlighted the effectiveness and safety of OBTX-A as a promising treatment of NDO following SCI.
Topics: Humans; Botulinum Toxins, Type A; Neuromuscular Agents; Spinal Cord Injuries; Urinary Bladder, Neurogenic; Urinary Bladder, Overactive
PubMed: 38637637
DOI: 10.1038/s41393-024-00992-9 -
Radiographics : a Review Publication of... May 2024Nontraumatic pathologic conditions of the craniovertebral junction encompass a range of conditions affecting the complex anatomy of this region without direct physical... (Review)
Review
Nontraumatic pathologic conditions of the craniovertebral junction encompass a range of conditions affecting the complex anatomy of this region without direct physical injury. These conditions include congenital syndromes that predispose individuals to ligamentous laxity, potentially leading to instability. Additionally, rare but noteworthy cases such as Grisel syndrome, a cause of pediatric torticollis, may arise without a traumatic trigger. Inflammatory diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and crystal deposition, can lead to cervical instability and spinal cord compression. Infections at the upper cervical spine are dominated by tuberculosis, typically transmitted through hematologic or lymphatic routes with characteristic imaging findings. On the other hand, purulent bacterial infections in this area are rare. Furthermore, although tumors involving the structures of the craniovertebral junction are infrequent, they can lead to significant complications, albeit less frequently through cord compression and more commonly via pathologic fractures or subluxation. The craniocervical junction is a complex anatomic region comprising ligaments, bones, joints, and muscles that support the head's weight and enable its wide range of motion. Accurate recognition and understanding of the complex anatomy and the various nontraumatic pathologic conditions at the craniovertebral junction are pivotal for initiating timely and appropriate treatment strategies. RSNA, 2024 Test Your Knowledge questions for this article are available in the supplemental material.
Topics: Child; Humans; Cervical Vertebrae; Joint Dislocations; Joint Instability; Magnetic Resonance Imaging; Spinal Cord Compression
PubMed: 38635454
DOI: 10.1148/rg.230137