Many neurological conditions are caused by damage to neurons and glial cells. For most of these diseases there are at present no effective treatments to minimize the extent of neuronal and glial loss, and no effective way of replacing what has been lost. This picture is rapidly changing. Developments in basic neuroscience have produced various potential therapies that can protect neurons and glia following traumatic, anoxic, infectious and immunological damage. The old doctrine that axons cannot be made to regenerate, and dead neurons cannot be replaced is no longer tenable, and a wide variety of reconstructive techniques for the nervous system are under development. These and other basic science discoveries will progress into clinical practice, and lead to a revolution in neurology and neurosurgery. This book describes the various conditions that lead to damage to the nervous system, and the ways in which they may be ameliorated. It covers the burgeoning science of reconstruction of the nervous system, through neuronal, glial and stem cell transplantation, axon regeneration, remyelination, plasticity and pharmacological interventions.

This book is a combination of ideas and experiences from over 100 dedicated and brilliant neurosurgeons around the world. Their common goal is to provide data for a deeper understanding of the multi-faceted aspects of neurosurgery and, by doing so, to better serve patients across the globe. Scientific curiosity, deep dedication, incredible work ethics, entrepreneurship, and creativity are the common traits among all neurosurgeons, and not the exception. By allowing readers to see the field of neurosurgery from the perspectives of surgeons spanning five continents, this book serves to provide multiple, diverse viewpoints and to build a foundation for future collaborations. The book's 24 chapters are organized into 3 parts. Part I provides the reader with an overview of the role of neurosurgery in worldwide health care, its evolution over the past decades, the current state and future directions of each neurosurgical subspecialty across the five continents. Over the years, the overarching goal for neurosurgeons has been to develop new, more effective and high-end solutions for complex diseases and to provide access to neurosurgical services for all patients. Part II discusses the differences and similarities of neurosurgery education and training across the globe, providing a snapshot of how new tools, technology, and paradigms reduce inequality and increase access to neurosurgical education. Educational accomplishments and challenges still present for the in different regions of the world are reviewed. Part III focuses on economic aspects influencing neurosurgery globally, including how to make efficient decisions in the face of scarcity, yet demand. The authors provide theories, models, and tools helpful to apply when planning to allocate resources, not just financial, but also human and intellectual. A deeper understanding of economics does not necessarily provide the answer to the problem; rather it provides the tools to find an answer, or, ideally, multiple possible solutions. Neurosurgery and Global Health is the first comprehensive guide to the role of neurosurgery in the global health care sphere, providing an in-depth compendium about the understanding of the neurosurgical role within global health, its efforts in the education of tomorrow's workforce, and the economic aspects driving the field.

This book integrates neuroscience research on neuroplasticity with clinical investigation of reorganization of function after brain injury, especially from the perspective of eventually translating the findings to rehabilitation. Historical foundationw in neuroplasticity research are presented to provide a perspective for recent findings. Leading investigators synthesize their work with research from other laboratories to provide a current update on neuroanatomic features which enhance enuroplasticity and provide a substrate for reorginaization of function. The capacity for recovery from brain injury associated with focal lesions as compared to diffuse cerebral insult is discussed. Interventions such as environmental enhancement and drugs to enhance reorganizatioin of function after brain injury have been studied in animalmodels and in human studies. Methodologies to study neurophysiological measures, trancranial magnetic stimulation, and computational modeling. Implications of neuroplasticity research for innovations in rehabilitation of persons with brain injury are critically reviewed.

This book illustrates the characteristics of imaging after treatment in brain gliomas. It describes in detail the modifications to brain tissue, both healthy and pathological, that can manifest after surgery, radiotherapy or chemotherapy treatment. These modifications are discussed in terms of both how they occur in the immediate post-treatment period, and in the long term. The imaging methods used include CT with and without the addition of contrast medium, but above all MRI, which involves the use of routine basic sequences and mainly advanced study techniques such as diffusion, perfusion, spectroscopy and cortical activation. The aim of the text is to equip neuroradiologists with adequate expertise in post-treatment examinations reporting, allowing them to perform an effective differential diagnosis between the persistency or recurrence of illness and the effects of short or long-term treatment. The book is divided into a general section, which addresses the classification of cerebral tumors, the surgical treatment options, radiotherapy and chemotherapy protocols; and a section on clinical cases that employs rich iconography, making it quick and easy to consult. This second edition has been updated to reflect the new WHO classification system from 2016; new surgical, radiotherapy and chemotherapeutic treatment options; and (in the iconography section) the new sequences available from the manufacturers of RM scanners.

This book bridges the gap between data scientists and clinicians by introducing all relevant aspects of machine learning in an accessible way, and will certainly foster new and serendipitous applications of machine learning in the clinical neurosciences. Building from the ground up by communicating the foundational knowledge and intuitions first before progressing to more advanced and specific topics, the book is well-suited even for clinicians without prior machine learning experience. Authored by a wide array of experienced global machine learning groups, the book is aimed at clinicians who are interested in mastering the basics of machine learning and who wish to get started with their own machine learning research. The volume is structured in two major parts: The first uniquely introduces all major concepts in clinical machine learning from the ground up, and includes step-by-step instructions on how to correctly develop and validate clinical prediction models. It also includes methodological and conceptual foundations of other applications of machine learning in clinical neuroscience, such as applications of machine learning to neuroimaging, natural language processing, and time series analysis. The second part provides an overview of some state-of-the-art applications of these methodologies. The Machine Intelligence in Clinical Neuroscience (MICN) Laboratory at the Department of Neurosurgery of the University Hospital Zurich studies clinical applications of machine intelligence to improve patient care in clinical neuroscience. The group focuses on diagnostic, prognostic and predictive analytics that aid in decision-making by increasing objectivity and transparency to patients. Other major interests of our group members are in medical imaging, and intraoperative applications of machine vision.

This book is a comprehensive guide to Targeted Drug Delivery (TDD), also known as Intrathecal Drug Delivery (IDD), and offers an overview to this unique form of treatment. The medication is delivered by intrathecal pumps and is less common than some other techniques for interventional pain management, but is essential in conditions such as refractory pain, cancer pain, multifocal pain, severe spasticity, and in patients who are not candidates for surgical correction of their underlying condition. This book is the first source to describe both the optimal surgical implantation and patient management aspect of this therapy, and thus will be a valuable single reference guide for interventional radiologists, anesthesiologists, physiatrists, oncologists, neurologists, spine surgeons, palliative care physicians, and primary care physicians.

This book provides an in-depth review of the current state of knowledge on the intracranial chronic subdural hematoma, with an emphasis on the etiology, risk factors, pathophysiology, anatomic pathology, epidemiology, clinical presentation, imaging findings, and treatment modalities, both medical and surgical. Sections on the postoperative complications, prognosis, and medicolegal aspects of this illness are also included. Lastly, the book considers future areas of investigation and innovative therapeutic philosophies. This richly illustrated book will help the reader choose the most appropriate way to manage this challenging neurosurgical disease process. It is an ideal resource for neuroscientists at all levels, from graduate students to research scientists, including neurosurgeons, neurologists, neuroradiologists, and pediatricians, and for those seeking both basic and more advanced information regarding the craniospinal subdural hematoma, including acute, subacute and chronic ones.

This book provides a comprehensive analysis of the contemporary management of all aspects of traumatic brain injury (TBI), combining the findings of several recent randomised controlled trials investigating the role of hypothermia, erythropoietin, intracranial pressure monitoring and decompressive craniectomy in the management of TBI. The book is divided into four sections: the first section covers the epidemiology of TBI, the changing global patterns of presentation, and the basic pathophysiology and classification, while the second discusses contemporary management of TBI, from pre-hospital care, emergency assessment, and medical and surgical management to rehabilitation and social reintegration. The third section then examines the evidence gained from recent clinical trials that have investigated the efficacy of management strategies involving intracranial pressure monitoring, multimodal monitoring, hypothermia, erythropoietin, thromboembolic prophylaxis and decompressive craniectomy. Lastly, the fourth section explores the ethical issues, both at the societal level and on an individual basis. Written by a broad range of experts, this book provides a valuable reference resource for neurosurgeons, intensivists, clinicians with ethical experience and pure bioethicists in their daily work.

This book is a detailed resource on the technical aspects of pediatric neurosurgery that relate to vascular malformations of the brain and spinal cord. It introduces concepts relevant to cerebrovascular system development and the classification of vascular malformations. Information on a range of disorders is then provided with an emphasis placed on answering frequently asked questions in relation to a particular condition. Therefore, enabling the reader to systematically improve their understanding of how approach treating patients utilizing techniques such as ultrasound and spinal angiography. The chapters, authored by experts in their respective field, provide a standard of care based on current diagnostic and management guidelines for pediatric neurosurgical diseases. Pediatric Vascular Neurosurgery: Technical Nuances in Contemporary Pediatric Neurosurgery (Part 2) is a comprehensive overview of how to approach diagnosing and treating a range of vascular malformations encountered in pediatric patients. The problem-solving approach of this work makes it a valuable addition to the literature and suitable for use by residents, fellows and consultants within pediatrics and allied specialities, including Neurosurgery, Neurology, Neuro-anesthesia, Neuro-critical care and advanced health care providers amongst others.

Tumors involving peripheral nerves may be extremely challenging lesions to diagnose and treat. In order to optimize their management, physicians should have a thorough knowledge of peripheral nerve anatomy and pathology (both gross and microscopic), as well as familiarity with microsurgical techniques and intraoperative neurophysiological recording. This compendium deals with all aspects of tumors affecting peripheral nerves, from diagnosis to treatment; the topics it addresses range from epidemiology, anatomy, physiology, pathology, and clinical diagnosis to electrophysiology, imaging, genetic/cytomolecular aspects. Surgical approaches, biopsies and resection of various benign, malignant and pseudo-tumoral lesions, plexus tumors (both brachial and lumbosacral), and adjunctive treatment modalities and pain-related issues are described in detail. The book is intended not only for neurosurgeons, hand surgeons, plastic and orthopedic surgeons new to the field, but also for seasoned specialists who wish to update their knowledge with new insights based on robust experimental and clinical material. In addition, it will be a helpful tool for general and oncological surgeons who are sometimes faced with the treatment of mass lesions that may be potential nerve tumors, and for all practitioners who are engaged in the arduous struggle to bring relief to patients affected by these lesions.

Fully illustrated and enhanced with accompanying video clips, this comprehensive text presents the clinical evaluation and management of brachial plexus injuries and reconstruction, both for adult patients and birth injuries. Divided into two main sections, part one covers adult brachial plexus injuries, discussing the relevant anatomy and biology, epidemiology, and associated injuries. The main focus, however, is on diagnosis - the clinical exam as well as neurodiagnostic and radiographic evaluation - and surgical management approaches and techniques, including nerve grafting and transfers, tendon and muscle transfers, and joint fusion. Related topics are presented in chapters on sensory reinnervation, neuropathic pain management, the role of amputation and prosthetics, and pre- and post-surgical therapy protocols. Brachial plexus birth injury is described in part two, also focusing mainly on diagnosis and management but with an emphasis on the fact that babies are not small adults and special considerations are warranted. This section concludes with chapters on the management of late complications and long-term sequelae. A comprehensive surgical text on brachial plexus injuries has not been previously attempted. Filling a large gap in the literature, Operative Brachial Plexus Surgery is the go-to resource for adult and birth related brachial plexus reconstruction for orthopedic surgeons, neurosurgeons, plastics surgeons, and their trainees.

This is the second in a sesries of books dealing with the enormous clinical problem of spinal cord dysfunction. Volume I discussed assessment; this book focuses on intervention. There are three main approaches to the restoration of function after damage to the spinal cord: the prevention of seconday pathological events; the identification of impaired or absent functions in nerve cells and processes that survive the initial injury; and restoration of severed neuronal connections. This book addresses the first two of these approaches. It contains a discussion of the arguments about early decompression of the spinal cord following injury, therapy of acute spinal injury, and the effects of early treatment and local cooling on spinal cord blood flow. The management of specific problems associated with spinal cord dysfunction is addressed; these problems include cardiovascular abnormalities due to autonomic dysfunction, bladder control, pain, and sexual function. Current procedures of rehabilitation (particularly the management of chronic problems and the treatment of complications) are summarized, and ideas on motor control and learning are discussed.

The earliest human known to have the capability of walking erect on two legs is Sahelanphropus, who lived 6 million years ago. The ability to stand erect led to required extensive changes in the human skeleton, including significant changes in the cervical spine. In modern humans, the cervical spine holds the head upright and gives it great mobility. The combination of great mobility in this spinal segment combined with the requirement that it carry significant weight makes the cervical spine susceptible to a wide variety of pathologies. The cervical spine not only supports the head upright, but acts as a channel for the full set of neural elements connecting the brain with all near and distant parts of the body; thus, pathologies involving the spinal column in this segment directly affect the cervical spinal cord and exiting nerve roots. Today, excellence in spine surgery requires a thorough understanding of spinal anatomy, relevant neurology, and biomechanics, as well as skilled use of a variety of surgical techniques. The surgeon must master the ability to effectively select from a wide and constantly changing variety of alternative instrumentations and surgical approaches. In addition, the trend towards reducing the invasiveness of surgical procedures has led to the use of smaller and smaller tools and smaller surgical incisions with more limited views of the relevant anatomy. As a result of the rapid pace of change, the choice of an optimal technique in any given situation is increasingly complex. In this book, we begin with a basic review of anatomy, neurology, neurophysiology, and biomechanics. We also discuss clinical and radiological assessment required for a differential diagnosis, and present a thorough discussion of the importance of sagittal alignment of the spine and the utility of gait analysis. We proceed with a thorough discussion of nontraumatic pathologies causing cervical myelopathy, beginning with the craniocervical junction down through the subaxial spine, in pediatric and adult populations. This discussion includes steps in the differential diagnosis for specific pathologies, surgical techniques and nuances, radiation-based treatment alternatives, and special topics ranging from the use of stem cells to robotics and endoscopic surgery. We have attempted to provide both fundamental and state-of-the-art knowledge and to share the rich experience of some of the leading spine surgeons worldwide, with the aim of enabling surgeons at all levels to advance their own capabilities for performing safe and successful procedures in this area of complex anatomy.

This book gathers the proceedings of the 17th International Conference on Intracranial Pressure and Neuromonitoring, held in Leuven, Belgium in September 2019. It provides an overview of the current understanding, underlying research and future perspectives concerning pathophysiology, biophysics, monitoring and management in traumatic and non-traumatic acute brain injury, hydrocephalus and spinal cord injury, including cerebrovascular autoregulation impairment in neurological as well as non-neurological diseases. The peer-reviewed contributions were prepared by specialists in neurosurgery, neurointensive care and neuroanesthesiology, as well as prominent experts from the fields of physiology, clinical and biomedical engineering, mathematics and informatics. The book continues the time-honored tradition of publishing key presentations from the ICP Conferences in order to facilitate their dissemination within the clinical and research community.

This updated second edition provides a practical and succinct overview of basic neuropathology. Key concepts and basic principles are covered and discussed with particular focus on recent advances, classification, and genetics. Practical points are included to detail how to best use the neuropathology service and interpret the results of pathological tests. Neuropathology Simplified aims to aid the development of multidisciplinary teams and help clinical trainees understand recent advances in neuropathological disorders. The book is also relevant to trainee and resident neurologists, pathologists, and neurosurgeons.

This comprehensive, case-based resource provides the state-of-the-art knowledge that can help readers improve access and optimize delivery of stroke thrombectomy. Improving access to stroke is of particular importance because patients often misinterpret their symptoms or cannot speak for themselves if they have aphasia. More importantly, access needs to be organized because stroke therapies are all extremely time-sensitive. Scalable, choreographed protocols are necessary for emergency medical systems to 'capture' stroke patients and automatically transport and triage to time-sensitive treatments. Many of the chapters in the first section on Fundamentals and Systems provide valuable insight in improving access to stroke care. Replete with illustrative case studies and emphasizing that treatment approaches to stroke should not be comprised of a one-size-fits-all approach, this illuminating title provides the complete thought, detail, insight and organization that will help readers meet the needs of stroke patients with large vessel occlusions. 12 Strokes: A Case-based Guide to Acute Ischemic Stroke Management examines the primary technical principles that underlie the current thrombectomy approaches. Instead of continuing the conceptual dichotomy of stent vs. aspiration, many of the chapters look at underlying principles and then discuss ways in which the currently available devices and approaches can best exploit them. The variety, creativity and detail in many of these chapters will help the reader develop a deeper understanding that might assist their ability to successfully take care of their next patient that 'doesn't follow the textbook.' In addition, the anatomic and pathophysiologic classification of the core Twelve Chapters will help readers organize their thinking and approach. This knowledge, particularly because it is organized based on common, challenging syndromes, will arm the reader to quickly recognize patterns and deftly adapt their management approaches to the needs of the patient. An invaluable contribution to the clinical literature, 12 Strokes: A Case-based Guide to Acute Ischemic Stroke Management will be of great interest to not only neurosurgeons and neurologists but other specialists, primary care providers, and trainees as well.

This book provides a comprehensive overview of the management of brain and skull base tumors. It features detailed insight into the intrinsic molecular biology, anatomical foundation, radiological planning, surgical execution, and the novel therapeutics that guide today's treatment regimens. The first section features concepts related to the epidemiology and pathological basis of disease processes, including relevant cellular and molecular biology. In the second section, integral anatomical foundations and principles are covered including microsurgical anatomy of the cerebrum, white matter tracts, ventricles, brainstem, skull base, advancements in radiological imaging, and cognitive examinations. Surgical approaches and how to execute these procedures are then subsequently discussed in the third part of the work. Principles of Neuro-Oncology: Brain & Skull Base is a practically applicable guide to the latest treatment techniques available to treat these patients. Therefore, it is an indispensable resource for all physicians who utilize these methodologies in their day-to-day practice.

THE SUNDAY TIMES BESTSELLER *As heard on Chris Evans' Virgin Radio* 'You're amazing I could talk to you (Rahul) all day' Chris Evans 'This is a gripping new book' The Times World-leading neuroscientist and neurosurgeon Dr Rahul Jandial draws on his years of work with patients suffering from the most extreme cases of brain damage, disorders and illnesses to reveal what they can tell us about the science of the mind. From a languages teacher who has to choose whether to lose her ability to speak Spanish or English after brain surgery, to a former TV exec, now homeless, who discovers that his life-altering despondency is the result of a tumour, to a fainting teen who learns that deep breathing can mean the difference between life or death, these stories uncover the secret workings of the brain. Blending cutting-edge research and beautiful storytelling, Life Lessons from a Brain Surgeon is a vital resource on the best ways to boost your memory, control stress and emotions, minimize pain, unleash your creativity, raise smart kids and reduce the risk of Alzheimer's. This is a deeply practical and readable book, which will take you on an expedition through the anatomy of the most fascinating - and mysterious - of organs. Rahul's new book Life on a Knife's Edge is out now.

This book describes and illustrates an approach to surgery for spinal cord tumors that is based on a refined concept of anatomic compartmentalization. The aim of this approach is to enable maximum preservation of spinal cord function through confinement of the surgical work to the involved compartment or compartments. Importantly, this involvement differs according to tumor type, and the classification favored by the author takes this fully into account. After introductory chapters on epidemiology and pathology, the anatomy of the spinal cord relevant to surgery for spinal cord tumors is discussed in detail and the proposed classification is clearly explained. The surgical approach to each of the identified anatomic compartments is then described, with attention to the roles of intraoperative mapping techniques, diffusion tensor imaging, and electrophysiologic studies in ensuring that spinal cord functions are spared. Examples of the author's experience when applying the proposed approach are presented. The book is meant for neurosurgeons at all levels of experience.

The aim of this book is to educate and train practitioners in the safe and professional use of diagnostic ultrasound imaging in the visualization and interpretation of various cerebral conditions not only in neurointensive care, but also in the operating room and, in general, cardiothoracic and neurocritical care settings. It is chiefly intended for anaesthetists and intensivists with a basic knowledge of ultrasound physics, but also for neurosurgeons and neurologists. All chapters were coordinated by the Editors, with experiences in hands-on courses on Echography and Doppler of the Brain, and prepared by international experts. The book covers from basic principles to estimation of intracranial pressure and cerebral perfusion. The topics cover emergency department and prehospital brain US as part of POCUS and US multiorgan evaluation to general intensive care, neurointensive care and anesthesia, including special populations as pregnant and children and setting as LMIC. Clinical scenarios complete the book. An innovative and unique guide that equips readers to perform bedside and non-invasive assessments for a range of cerebrovascular diseases.

This comprehensive book focuses on neurosurgical aspects of the pineal gland. By covering virtually all aspects of the pineal gland, it fills an important gap in the neurosurgical literature. Further, it approaches this vital component of the human brain from various angles: embryology, anatomy, physiology, pathology, radiology and surgical techniques.More than 70 single-best-answer multiple-choice questions (MCQs) are distributed throughout the chapters. Offering an essential review for residents and surgeons across neurosurgical disciplines and containing most of the critical information needed to prepare for both the primary and certification exam, the book will also be of interest to neurologists, neuroscientists and medical students.

This book, written by renowned experts from across the world, provides readers with a detailed and up-to-date understanding of posterior circulation stroke and its management. Anatomy, pathophysiology, clinical syndromes, and imaging findings are clearly and thoroughly described with the aid of illustrative cases and schematic drawings. The management-oriented chapters explain all forms of treatment, including the use of antiplatelet agents and anticoagulants, thrombolysis, mechanical thrombectomy, stenting, and surgical therapy, i.e., bypass and decompression. Throughout, full account is taken of recent significant advances in knowledge and clinical practice. Stroke affecting the posterior circulation continues to pose particular challenges for clinicians. This book will help readers to avoid misdiagnosis, which still occurs far too frequently, and to manage individual patients optimally. It will be an excellent learning resource for residents in neurology, neurosurgery, radiology, interventional radiology, and vascular surgery, as well as an ideal reference for more experienced practitioners in these specialties.

Emily Owen was a multi talented teenager with the world at her feet. Highly intelligent, athletic and a gifted musician, she was destined to excel in whichever field she chose to pursue. At the age of 16, Emily was diagnosed with Neurofibromatosis Type 2 (NF2) and less than a month later, she was in hospital and fighting for her life. Over the coming years, NF2 would steal her education, her smile, her hearing, her ability to walk. With her life plans in ruins, Emily struggled to find meaning and identity. Good things in her life weren't good any more. Because they were no longer there. With gentle humour and heart-breaking honesty, Emily shares her story. Slowly and painfully, she discovers value in new places, seeing the rainbows in the silence.

This book fills the gap between the increasing demand for epilepsy surgical experience and limited training facilities in this area. It comprehensively describes surgical techniques, including tricks and pitfalls, based on the author's 30 years of experience, providing optimal and effective training for young neurosurgeons by avoiding learning by trial and error. Moreover, it also includes useful information for epileptologists and other professionals involved in the epilepsy surgical program to allow them to gain a better understanding of possibilities and limitations of epilepsy surgery.