Search

Background: Radiation therapy (RT) is a standard cancer treatment modality, and an increasing number of patients with cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs) are being referred for RT. The goals of this study were as follows: (i) to determine the incidence of CIED malfunction following RT; (ii) to characterize the various types of malfunctions that occur; and (iii) to identify risk factors associated with CIED malfunction following RT. Methods: A retrospective study of patients with CIEDs who received RT between 2007 and 2018 at 4 Canadian centres (Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Kingston General Hospital, Hamilton Health Sciences Centre, and University of Ottawa Heart Institute) was conducted. Patients underwent CIED interrogation after completion of RT, to assess for late damage to the CIEDs. Data on demographics, devices, and RT were compared for the primary outcome of device malfunction. Results: Of 1041 patients with CIEDs who received RT, 811 patients with complete data were included. Device malfunctions occurred in 32 of 811 patients (4%). The most common device malfunctions were reduced ventricular/atrial sensing (in 13 of 32 [41%]), an increase in lead threshold (in 9 of 32 [22%]), lead noise (in 5 of 32 [16%]), and electrical reset (in 2 of 32 [6%]). Higher beam energy (≥ 10 MV) was associated with malfunction (P < 0.0001). Radiation dose was not significantly different between the malfunction and non-malfunction groups (58.3 cGy vs 65 cGy, respectively, P = 0.71). Conclusions: Although RT-induced CIED malfunctions are rare (occurring in 4% of patients with a CIED who undergo RT), collaborative efforts between radiation oncologists and cardiac rhythm device clinics to optimize CIED monitoring are needed, to detect and manage CIED malfunctions. Malfunctions are more common in patients receiving higher–beam energy (≥10MV)RT. Résumé: Contexte: La radiothérapie (RT) est une modalité standard de traitement du cancer, et un nombre croissant de patients porteurs de dispositifs cardiaques électroniques implantables (DCEI) doivent recevoir un traitement de RT. Les objectifs de cette étude étaient les suivants : (i) déterminer l’incidence d’une défaillance du DCEI après une RT; (ii) caractériser les différents types de défaillances qui se produisent; (iii) déterminer les facteurs de risque associés à la défaillance du DCEI après une RT. Méthodologie: Une étude rétrospective des patients avec un DCEI ayant reçu une RT entre 2007 et 2018 dans quatre centres canadiens (Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Kingston General Hospital, Hamilton Health Sciences Centre et Institut de cardiologie de l’Université d’Ottawa) a été menée. Le DCEI des patients a été interrogé après la fin de la RT, pour en évaluer les dommages tardifs. Les données sur les caractéristiques démographiques, les dispositifs et la RT ont été comparées pour le paramètre d’évaluation principal, soit la défaillance du dispositif. Résultats: Sur les 1 041 patients avec un DCEI ayant reçu une RT, 811 patients avec des données complètes ont été inclus. Des défaillances du dispositif sont survenues chez 32 des 811 patients (4 %). Les défaillances les plus fréquentes du dispositif étaient une détection ventriculaire/atriale réduite (chez 13 des 32 patients [41 %]), une augmentation du seuil de la sonde (chez 9 des 32 patients [22 %]), un bruit provenant de la sonde (chez 5 des 32 patients [16 %]) et une réinitialisation électrique (chez 2 des 32 patients [6 %]). Une énergie de faisceau plus élevée (≥ 10 MV) était associée à une défaillance (p < 0,0001). La dose de rayonnement ne présentait pas de différence significative entre le groupe où une défaillance a été constatée et l’autre groupe (58,3 cGy vs 65 cGy, respectivement, p = 0,71). Conclusions: Bien que les défaillances du DCEI causées par la RT soient rares (survenant chez 4 % des patients avec un DCEI qui subissent une RT), une collaboration est nécessaire entre les radio-oncologues et les cliniques de dispositifs de gestion du rythme cardiaque, afin d’optimiser la surveillance du DCEI et de détecter et de gérer ces défaillances. Les défaillances sont plus fréquentes chez les patients recevant une énergie de faisceau plus élevée au moment de la RT (≥10MV).

There is significant interest in the use of cannabinoids for the treatment of many epilepsies including absence epilepsy (AE). Genetic Absence Epilepsy Rats from Strasbourg (GAERS) model many aspects of AE including the presence of spike-and-wave discharges (SWDs) on electroencephalogram (EEG) and behavioral comorbidities, such as elevated anxiety. However, the effects of cannabis plant-based phytocannabinoids have not been tested in GAERS. Therefore, we investigated how SWDs in GAERS are altered by the two most common phytocannabinoids, Δ9 -tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), and exposure to smoke from two different chemovars of cannabis. Animals were implanted with bipolar electrodes in the somatosensory cortex and EEGs were recorded for 2 hr. Injected THC (1-10 mg/kg, i.p.) dose-dependently increased SWDs to over 200% of baseline. In contrast, CBD (30-100 mg/kg, i.p.) produced a ~50% reduction in SWDs. Exposure to smoke from a commercially available chemovar of high-THC cannabis (Mohawk, Aphria Inc.) increased SWDs whereas a low-THC/high-CBD chemovar of cannabis (Treasure Island, Aphria Inc.) did not significantly affect SWDs in GAERS. Pre-treatment with a CB1R antagonist (SR141716A) did not prevent the high-THC cannabis smoke from increasing SWDs, suggesting that the THC-mediated increase may not be CB1R-dependent. Plasma concentrations of THC and CBD were similar to previously reported values following injection and smoke exposure. Compared to injected CBD, it appears Treasure Island did not increase plasma levels sufficiently to observe an anti-epileptic effect. Together these experiments provide initial evidence that acute phytocannabinoid administration exerts the biphasic modulation of SWDs and may differentially impact patients with AE.

OBJECTIVEMicrovascular decompression (MVD) is commonly used in the treatment of trigeminal neuralgia (TN) with positive clinical outcomes. Fully endoscopic MVD (E-MVD) has been proposed as an effective minimally invasive alternative, but a comparative review of the two approaches has not been conducted. The authors performed a meta-analysis of studies, comparing patient outcome rates and complications for the open versus the endoscopic technique.METHODSThe PubMed/MEDLINE and Ovid databases were searched for studies published from database inception to 2017. The search terms used included, but were not limited to, “open microvascular decompression,” “microvascular decompression for trigeminal neuralgia,” and “endoscopic decompression for trigeminal neuralgia.” Criteria for inclusion of studies in the meta-analysis were established as follows: adult patients, clinical studies with ≥ 10 patients (excluding case studies to obtain a higher volume of outcome rates), utilization of open MVD or E-MVD to treat TN, craniotomy and retrosigmoid incision, English-language studies, and articles that listed pain relief outcomes (complete, very good, partial, or absent), recurrence rate (number of patients), and complications (paresis, hearing loss, CSF leakage, cerebellar damage, infection, death). Relevant references from the chosen articles were also included.RESULTSFrom a larger pool of 1039 studies, 23 articles were selected for review: 13 on traditional MVD and 10 on E-MVD. The total number of patients was 6749, of which 5783 patients (and 5802 procedures) had undergone MVD and 993 patients (and procedures) had undergone E-MVD. Analyzed data included postoperative pain relief outcome (complete or good pain relief vs partial or no pain relief), and rates of recurrence and complications including facial paralysis, weakness, or paresis; hearing loss; auditory and facial nerve damage; cerebrospinal fluid leakage; infection; cerebellar damage; and death.Good pain relief was achieved in 81% of MVD patients and 88% of E-MVD patients, with a mean recurrence rate of 14% and 9%, respectively. Average rates of reported complications were statistically lower in E-MVD than in MVD approaches, including facial paresis or weakness, hearing loss, cerebellar damage, infection, and death, whereas cerebrospinal fluid leakage was similar. The overall incidence of complications was 19% for MVD and 8% for E-MVD.CONCLUSIONSThe reviewed literature revealed similar clinical outcomes with respect to pain relief for MVD and E-MVD. The recurrence rate was lower in E-MVD studies, though not significantly so, and the incidence of complications, notably facial paresis and hearing loss, were statistically higher for MVD than for E-MVD. Based on these results, the use of endoscopy to perform MVD for TN appears to offer at least as good a surgical outcome as the more commonly used open MVD, with the possible added advantages of having a shorter operative time, smaller craniotomy, and lower recurrence rates. The authors advise caution in interpreting these data given the asymmetry in the sample size between the two groups and the relative novelty of the E-MVD approach.

Background Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) and their complications are one of the most common causes of death worldwide. Implantable cardiac assistive devices (CADs) play a significant role in preventing dreadful outcomes, and the complication rate of these implanting procedures is minimal. These cardiac devices require some adaptation and could affect the patients’ quality of life psychosocially and financially. This study is aimed to identify the impact of implantable cardiac assistive devices on patients’ quality of life in the National Guard Hospital, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Methods This is an observational cross-sectional questionnaire-based study. It was conducted on patients who underwent cardiac assistive device implantation in National Guard Hospital. The patients were interviewed face-to-face and were requested to fill the Implanted Device Adjustment Scale (IDAS). Descriptive statistics were carried out. Chi-square test for independence was conducted to examine the associations between qualitative variables with the level of significance was taken as p-value

Chronic mesenteric ischemia is a serious vascular disease that progresses with acute mesenteric ischemia, along with high mortality. Elective intervention has been shown to prevent this progression and improve symptoms. Controversy remains about whether antegrade or retrograde mesenteric bypass has better outcomes and whether restoration of flow to a single vessel versus multiple mesenteric vessels should be performed. This study reports on our experience using an antegrade prosthetic bypass graft to treat chronic occlusions of the celiac trunk, superior mesenteric artery, and inferior mesenteric artery at their origins, all of which result in visceral ischemia.

Wisam Jamal,1 Mohammad M Zagzoog,2 Salma H Sait,2 Ahmed O Alamoudi,2 Shaza Abo’ouf,3 Ayman A Alghamdi,2 Ryan O Bamashmous,2 Ashraf A Maghrabi2 1Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Jeddah, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia; 2Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia; 3Beverly Medical Care Clinics for Obesity Management, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia Introduction: One anastomosis gastric bypass (OAGB) is an emerging bariatric procedure, which has been reported to be safe and effective. This study aims to evaluate the short-term outcome of OAGB and its midterm effects on weight loss and remission of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).Materials and methods: A retrospective review of patients who had undergone OAGB between January 2013 and January 2017 in King Abdulaziz University Hospital, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, is presented here. Patients’ perioperative characteristics, biochemical profile (fasting blood glucose, HbA1c and iron profile) and details on subsequent weight loss in terms of body mass index (BMI) and excess weight loss percentage (EWL%) along with early and late postoperative complications were evaluated.Results: Out of the 47 patients who underwent OAGB, 42 were included in this study and completed the 2-year follow-up. Average operative time was 107±21.3 minutes and average length of hospital stay was 2.5±0.53days. Mean preoperative BMI was 47.6±9.1kg/m2, and at 1 and 2years of follow–up, it was 30.5±7.4 and 27.1±5.1, respectively. No mortality, anastomotic leak or bleeding were reported. Most common midterm complication was iron deficiency anemia (n=7/42). Remission of T2DM at 6months was 80%. Patients with preoperative T2DM for less than 10years showed better remission (P

An -bit comparator is a celebrated combinational circuit that compares two -bit inputs and and produces three orthonormal outputs: G (indicating that is strictly greater than ), E (indicating that and are equal or equivalent), and L (indicating that is strictly less than ). The symbols ‘G’, ‘E’, and ‘L’ are deliberately chosen to convey the notions of ‘Greater than,’ ‘Equal to,’ and ‘Less than,’ respectively. This paper analyzes an -bit comparator in the general case of arbitrary and visualizes the analysis for on a regular and modular version of the 8-variable Karnaugh-map. The cases 3, 2 and 1 appear as special cases on 6-variable, 4-variable, and 2-variable submaps of the original map. The analysis is a tutorial exposition of many important concepts in switching theory including those of implicants, prime implicants, essential prime implicants, irredundant disjunctive forms, minimal sums, the complete sum and disjoint sums of products (or probability-ready expressions).

Background: Robotics is currently being adopted across the spectrum of neurosurgery from deep brain stimulation to spine surgery instrumentation. Mastoidectomy is a cognitively demanding procedure that involves careful removal of bone around the critical structures of the temporal bone. Herein, we report a pilot study that serves as a proof of concept for real-time, multiparameter recording during mastoidectomy. Methods: This pilot study involved the iterative development of a platform for the real time recording of video, 3D position, velocity, acceleration, and force data during the performance of mastoidectomy using cadaveric specimens. Results: Across all 8 replicates, the average distance traveled by the drill tip in the x, y, and z axes was 39.88 mm (±11.98 mm), 38.52 mm (±8.24 mm), 31.40 mm (±7.89 mm), respectively. The overall average ranges for velocity and acceleration of the drill tip in the x axis were 412.81 mm/s (±91.12 mm/s) and 6383.05 mm/s2 (±941.05 mm/s2). The range of forces recorded was 8.52 N (±2.90 N), 40.94 N (±9.81 N), and 35.42 N (±11.06 N) in the x-, y-, and z-axis, respectively. Conclusions: This study represents a proof-of-concept that the mechanical parameters associated with surgeon-performed mastoidectomy can be recorded in real-time. This represents a crucial step in understanding the human drilling process which incorporates visual and haptic sensory input with experiential and explicit knowledge using fuzzy logic feedback. Ultimately, data collected using this methodology may provide the groundwork for the development of an algorithm for robotic mastoidectomy.

Background Tubular approach surgery now includes complex spinal and cranial procedures. Aided by modified instrumentation and frameless stereotaxy, minimal access surgery is being offered for a growing array of neurosurgical conditions. Methods This article explores the flexibility and adaptability of the tubular retractor system for multiple indications by highlighting the 12-year experience of the primary surgeon using a tubular retractor system reported for the entire neuroaxis including intracranial, foramen magnum, and the craniocaudal extent of the spine for intra- and extradural pathologies. For this article we have not analyzed our experience with degenerative spinal disease. Patient characteristics, pathology, resection results, length of hospital stay, and complications are discussed. Results From August 2005 through March 2017, 538 patients underwent neurosurgical procedures with mini-tubular access. Of these, the 127 patients who underwent mini-tubular access operations for nontraditional indications are discussed here. There were 65 women and 61 men with an average age of 53.5 years. The cases by anatomical location are as follows: 27 cranial cases, 11 foramen magnum decompressions, and 89 for spinal indications. The cranial pathologies included primary and metastatic tumors. The spinal pathologies included intra- and extradural spinal tumors, spina bifida occulta, syringomyelia, and other cystic lesions in the spine. In the vast majority of the patients where gross total resection was the goal, it was achieved. The mean length of stay was 2.94 days. Conclusions This report demonstrates that mini-tubular access surgery can be adapted to pathologies in the entire neuroaxis with outcomes that are comparable with open techniques. Limited tissue dissection, smaller incisions, and limited bone resection make the mini-tubular access approach a desirable option when feasible. Greater experience with all of these techniques is needed before the definitive status of these procedures in the neurosurgical armamentarium can be demonstrated.

Surgical brain injury caused by brain retraction is a well-known consequence of intracranial surgery. Modern retractor designs, particularly since the 1980s, have significantly improved ease of use, improved visibility for surgeons, and minimized retraction-induced injuries, though not yet been entirely eliminated. Today, brain retractors come in a broad range of styles, each with its own pros and cons regarding operational utility and patient safety. Which type is chosen for use depends on the surgical approach, lesion size and depth, cost, and surgeon preference. Traditionally, self-retaining brain retractors with moveable arms and 1 or more attachable blades made from malleable stainless steel or silicone rubber have been the tool of choice; however, recently tubular retraction systems that only require fixation to the head frame and cause less focal pressure damage than older retractors have gained in popularity for some cases. This review aims to address the history of brain retraction and discuss each of the commonly used brain retractor types, as well as some newer and less common varieties especially in terms of the extent of tissue damage typically caused as well as the types of injuries reported by the users.

Cannabinoids are compounds that are structurally and/or functionally related to the primary psychoactive constituent of Cannabis sativa, [INCREMENT]-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Cannabinoids can be divided into three broad categories: endogenous cannabinoids, plant-derived cannabinoids, and synthetic cannabinoids (SCs). Recently, there has been an unprecedented surge of interest into the pharmacological and medicinal properties of cannabinoids for the treatment of epilepsies. This surge has been stimulated by an ongoing shift in societal opinions about cannabinoid-based medicines and evidence that cannabidiol, a nonintoxicating plant cannabinoid, has demonstrable anticonvulsant activity in children with treatment-refractory epilepsy. The major receptors of the endogenous cannabinoid system (ECS)-the type 1 and 2 cannabinoid receptors (CB1R, CB2R)-have critical roles in the modulation of neurotransmitter release and inflammation, respectively; so, it is not surprising therefore that the ECS is being considered as a target for the treatment of epilepsy. SCs were developed as potential new drug candidates and tool compounds for studying the ECS. Beyond the plant cannabinoids, an extensive research effort is underway to determine whether SCs that directly target CB1R, CB2R, or the enzymes that breakdown endogenous cannabinoids have anticonvulsant effects in preclinical rodent models of epilepsy and seizure. This research demonstrates that many SCs do reduce seizure severity in rodent models and may have both positive and negative pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic interactions with clinically used antiepilepsy drugs. Here, we provide a comprehensive review of the preclinical evidence for and against SC modulation of seizure and discuss the important questions that need to be addressed in future studies.

Background Supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) is a major cause of emergency room visits where vagal maneuver is used as first-line therapy. The valsalva maneuver (VM) is proven to be safe and, to some extent, effective in terminating SVT episodes. We aimed to compare the standard VM (SVM) to the modified valsalva maneuver (MVM). We hypothesized that MVM is more effective in terminating SVT episodes and reducing the time spent in the emergency department. Methods In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we searched Medline/PubMed, Ovid, Web of Science, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled trials. We included only randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that compared the modified valsalva to the standard valsalva maneuver in treating SVT. Our main outcome was the termination of SVT within 1 min. Results Four articles met the eligibility criteria of our review. Sinus rhythm was achieved 2.5 times more in the MVM group compared to the SVM group (risk ratio (RR) = 2.54, CI 1.98–3.24, P Conclusion Our review found MVM to be more effective than the SVM in terminating SVT. This should encourage broader adoption of the MVM as a first-line vagal maneuver in subjects presenting with SVT in the emergency room.

Over the past 30 years, the application of robotics in the field of neurotology has grown. Robots are able to perform increasingly complex tasks with ever improving accuracy, allowing them to be used in a broad array of applications. A mastoidectomy, in which a drill is used to remove a portion of the mastoid part of the temporal bone at the base of the skull, is one such application. To determine the current state of neurotologic robotics in the specific context of mastoidectomy, a review of the literature was carried out. This qualitative review explores what has been done in this field to date, as well as what has yet to be done. Although the research suggests that robotics can be and has been successfully used to assist with mastoidectomy, it also suggests the incompleteness of robotic development in the field. At present, only 2 robotic systems have been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for neurosurgical use and the literature lacks evidence of meaningful clinical testing of new systems to change that. The cost of robotics also remains prohibitive. However, strides have been made, with at least 1 robot for mastoidectomy having reached the point of cadaveric trials. In addition, the research suggests some of the characteristics that should be considered when designing robots for mastoidectomy, such as burr size and the type of forces that should be applied. Overall, the outlook for robots in neurotology, particularly mastoidectomy, is bright but some hurdles still remain to be overcome.

PURPOSE: To assess the perceptions about ophthalmology as a career among undergraduate medical students and to investigate the determinants of career choice in ophthalmology. METHODS: A questionnaire was administered to all medical students (from 4th year to interns) in King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. A total of 519 students were included in the study. Students who aspire for ophthalmology as a career, i.e., those who mentioned it in their top three choices (Group A), were compared to those who did not (Group B) regarding demographic and academic factors, factors generally influencing career choice and perception about and experience in ophthalmology. RESULTS: Among 519 included students, ophthalmology was the first career choice of 5.6% and in the top three choices of 13.5% of students. Students from Group A had female preponderance and comparable academic skills, by reference to Group B. Group A reported to have a better experience in ophthalmology, including conference attendance, research activity, and community services related to ophthalmology, as well as greater advantage from ophthalmology rotation. Determinants of career choice in ophthalmology included giving importance for workload during their residency (odds ratio [OR] = 3.38; P = 0.021), having concern about challenging instrumental features (OR = 0.29, P = 0.012), believing that ophthalmology should be included in primary care (OR = 13.60, P = 0.002), and having participated in community service activity in ophthalmology (OR = 10.10, P = 0.005). CONCLUSION: Students who aspire for a career in ophthalmology showed to have an early involvement in related academic activities and less concern about instrumental and intellectual challenges, as compared to their counterparts. The formal ophthalmology rotation is the key step to recruit future ophthalmologists by correcting misconceptions and enhancing interest about the specialty.

Crown root cracking is uncommon, accounting for less than 7% of irreversible damage. All the hard tissues of the teeth (crust, dentin, and cementum), as well as the pulp and periodontal ligament, are commonly involved in these complicated fractures. The care of such instances offers major biological hurdles, and success is dependent on considering a variety of regenerative, endodontic, and temporal variables. Numerous clinical investigations demonstrate that adhesive coronal attachment might be an essential therapy for fractured teeth with crown roots. Because it maintains the original tooth, this technique may save the gums and decrease the time and expense of therapy. Before considering adhesive attachments for dental fractures, several factors should be considered-the site and size of the fracture, the fracture pattern, and the position of traumatized teeth. The aim of the article was to review the role of adhesive attachments in a traumatic dental injury.

Background and importance Myxoid liposarcoma is not an uncommon form of sarcoma. However, it usually affects the lower extremity long bones. Scapular involvement is extremely rare, as is a metastasis to the parasellar region. We present a case of liposarcoma of the skull base originating in the scapular region and metastasizing to the sellar and parasellar regions and provide a review of the pertinent literature. Clinical presentation A 43-year-old female patient diagnosed with left scapular myxoid liposarcoma was treated with surgical resection. She had clear resection margins and was treated pre- and postoperatively with radiotherapy to the region. She remained asymptomatic for 2 years following surgery, after which she abruptly developed diplopia with right lateral gaze. There were no symptoms of raised intracranial pressure or impaired vision. Her examination was normal apart from complete right sixth nerve palsy. Imaging studies of the brain showed a large mass in the clivus eroding into the floor of the sella, encircling the right internal carotid artery in the cavernous sinus. The mass also displaced the sellar contents superiorly. An endonasal, endoscopic skull base approach was undertaken, and a subtotal resection was performed in an effort to avoid multiple cranial nerve pareses. Conclusion Our literature search revealed that this case report is the first to document liposarcoma metastasis to the skull base originating from the scapular region. Subtotal surgical resection resulted in minimal improvement of the patient's sixth nerve palsy. Postoperative radiation was undertaken. A multidisciplinary approach on an individual patient basis is recommended.

Background Poor Quality of Life (QoL) among medical students is associated with an unhealthy lifestyle, psychological distress, and academic failure, which could affect their care for patients in the future. This study aimed to evaluate the reliability and validity of the Arabic WHOQOL-BREF tool among Saudi medical students and to assess the effect of gender, educational level, and academic performance on their QoL. Methods This was a cross-sectional study among medical students of King Abdulaziz University in February 2016, using the Arabic version of the WHOQOL-BREF instrument. Results Six-hundred-thirty medical students were included, where females constituted (51.1%). Cronbach’s α coefficient for the overall domains of WHOQOL-BREF was 0.86. Students’ self-reported QoL mean score was 3.99 ± 0.95, and their mean score for the overall satisfaction with health was 3.66 ± 1.06. The environmental domain had the highest mean score (67.81 ± 17.39). High achievers showed lower psychological health, while poor academic performance was associated with better psychological health and social relationship QoL scores (P P Conclusions The WHOQOL-BREF is valid and reliable for assessing QoL among Saudi medical students. Although gender and academic year had no impact on the students’ QoL, better-performing students reported lower psychological health and social relationships scores.

Aim: Obesity carries with itself an increased risk of psychological distress, depression and anxiety. Several studies have proven that the best modality of treatment for morbid obesity is bariatric surgery. However, the outcome of bariatric surgery on psychological health varies between individuals. Comprehensive perioperative mental health evaluation for patients seeking bariatric surgery is important, as psychiatric comorbidities could result in poor outcomes, and based on our knowledge, studies on psychiatric outcomes post bariatric surgery are limited in Saudi Arabia. This study is aimed at assessing the impact of bariatric surgery on developing depression and anxiety symptoms.Methods: Data for this cross-sectional study were collected from patients via an electronic self-administered questionnaire of both genders who underwent bariatric surgery during the period between July 2013 and July 2017 at King Abdulaziz University Hospital (KAUH), Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.Results: The total number of the participants was 214, wherein 66 (30.8%) were males and 150 (69.2%) were females. Participants who underwent bariatric surgery ranged between 17 and 64 years of age with a median age of 36.69 years. With regards to preoperative assessment, we found that 95.8% of our sample did not visit a psychiatry clinic. The postoperative percentage of depression and anxiety among patients was 67 (31.3%) and 40 (18.7%), respectively. Using multivariate regression analysis, patients’ income was found to be significantly associated with anxiety, those who had higher income had less odds of being anxious compared to the group with low income (

Background An intraoperative technique for foramen magnum decompression of Chiari malformation is presented. The technique uses minimal exposure tubular retractors attached to a flexible arm to keep the retractor in a fixed position, while allowing flexible angulation under fluoroscopic guidance. Methods Operations were performed between 2009 and 2018 on 22 patients with cerebellar tonsillar descent below the foramen magnum and a diagnosis of type I Chiari malformation. A linear durotomy was necessary, but only the outer layer of the dura was opened for some patients, which is less invasive than the traditional procedure where a durotomy is performed for both the inner and outer layers, and then a duraplasty is performed. Results The approach allowed access to a wide working area, minimized soft tissue exposure, and optimized extent of decompression. The postoperative imaging demonstrated satisfactory bony removal, and magnetic resonance imaging of the area with cerebrospinal (CSF) flow study showed good CSF flow across the foramen magnum. There was a low incidence of postoperative complications, and the average length of hospital stay was 1 day. For 19 of 22 cases, the symptoms completely resolved or markedly improved, and each of the patients who attended the last follow-up demonstrated syrinx resolution. Conclusions Based on our experience with this technique, when used to assist in foramen magnum decompression of Chiari malformation I, the minimally invasive tubular retractor is a useful tool, providing the surgeon with enhanced visualization of the operative field, while reducing potential damage to tissue and optimizing surgical outcomes.

Breast cancer (BC) accounts for 24 % of all women cancer cases diagnosed in Saudi Arabia each year. Awareness is extremely important in combating this disease. This study was undertaken to assess male high school students' response to BC. This cross-sectional survey was performed on male high school students across schools in Jeddah. A questionnaire gathered data on respondent demographics, beliefs about BC, BC risk factors, early screening methods, and role of men in BC. Statistical analysis was done using SPSS 20. A total of 824 students participated, with an average age of 17.0 years. There was more than 50 % agreement that early detection of BC enhances the chances of recovery, that BC is treatable, and that clinical breast examination and breastfeeding provide protection from BC. Around half the survey population thought that BC was fatal and contagious. Fewer than 50 % thought that BC was inherited and related to smoking, consumption of contraceptive pills, repeated exposure to radiation, obesity, and wearing a bra and that breast tumors were all malignant and spread to different parts of the body. Others knew that mammograms should be performed periodically. A high percentage persuaded their relatives to have mammograms and provided them with psychological support. Knowledge of BC among male high school students in Saudi Arabia is still limited, and, therefore, programs and activities need to be established to increase awareness among high school students.

OBJECT Although intracranial arachnoid cysts are a common incidental finding on pediatric brain imaging, only a subset of patients require surgery for them. For the minority who undergo surgery, the comparative effectiveness of various surgical approaches is debated. The authors explored predictors of surgery and compared operative techniques for pediatric patients with an intracranial arachnoid cyst seen at a tertiary care center. METHODS The authors reviewed records of pediatric patients with an intracranial arachnoid cyst. For each patient, data on baseline characteristics, the method of intervention, and surgical outcomes for the initial surgery were extracted, and cyst size at diagnosis was calculated (anteroposterior × craniocaudal × mediolateral). Baseline variables were analyzed as predictors of surgery by using logistic regression modeling, excluding patients whose surgery was not related to cyst size (i.e., those with obstructive hydrocephalus secondary to the cyst compressing a narrow CSF flow pathway or cyst rupture/hemorrhage). Data collected regarding surgical outcomes were analyzed descriptively. RESULTS Among 83 pediatric patients with an intracranial arachnoid cyst seen over a 25-year period (1989–2013), 27 (33%) underwent surgery; all had at least 1 cyst-attributed symptom/finding. In the multivariate model, age at presentation and cyst size at diagnosis were independent predictors of surgery. Cyst size had greater predictive value; specifically, the area under the curve for the receiver-operating-characteristic curve was 0.89 (95% CI 0.82–0.97), with an ideal cutoff point of ≥ 68 cm3. This cutoff point had 100% sensitivity (95% CI 79%–100%), 75% specificity (95% CI 61%–85%), a 53% positive predictive value (95% CI 36%–70%), and a 100% negative predictive value (95% CI 91%–100%); the positive likelihood ratio was 4.0 (95% CI 2.5–6.3), and the negative likelihood ratio was 0 (95% CI 0–0.3). Although the multivariate model excluded 7 patients who underwent surgery (based on prespecified criteria), excluding these 7 cases did not change the overall findings, as shown in a sensitivity analysis that included all the cases. Descriptive results regarding surgical outcomes did not indicate any salient differences among the surgical techniques (endoscopic fenestration, cystoperitoneal shunting, or craniotomy-based procedures) in terms of symptom resolution within 6 months, need for reoperation to date, cyst-size change from before the operation, morbidity, or mortality. CONCLUSIONS The results of these exploratory analyses suggest that pediatric patients with an intracranial arachnoid cyst are more likely to undergo surgery if the cyst is large, compresses a narrow CSF flow pathway to cause hydrocephalus, or has ruptured/hemorrhaged. There were no salient differences among the 3 surgical techniques for several clinically important outcomes. A prospective multicenter study is required to enable more robust analyses, which could ultimately provide a decision-making framework for surgical indications and clarify any differences in the comparative effectiveness of surgical approaches to treating pediatric intracranial arachnoid cysts.

OBJECTIVEAlthough endoscopic third ventriculostomy (ETV) for the treatment of hydrocephalus was introduced in 1923, the method was relegated to the sidelines in favor of extracranial techniques. Since the 1990s to the beginning of the current century, however, ETV has undergone a remarkable resurgence to become the first-line treatment for obstructive hydrocephalus, and for some groups, the procedure has been applied for communicating hydrocephalus as well. In the present study, the authors identified the top 50 cited ETV works. These articles represent works of significance that document current practices and provide guidance for future inquiry.METHODSThe top 50 cited articles pertaining to ETV were identified using bibliometric data obtained with the Harzing’s Publish or Perish software search engine. These high-impact works were evaluated for publication properties including year, country of authorship, category, and journal.RESULTSThe top 50 works were cited an average of 141.02 times with a mean of 9.45 citations per year. Articles published in 2005 were the most numerous in the top 50 group. These top articles were most frequently published in the Journal of Neurosurgery: Pediatrics. Most of the articles were clinical studies reporting on patients in the pediatric age group. The country of most authorship was the US, although many other countries were among the top 50 works.CONCLUSIONSThe present report discusses the bibliometric analysis of the top 50 ETV articles. This list may be useful to those interested in the progress and current status of this procedure.

Background: Microvascular decompression (MVD) is commonly used in the treatment of trigeminal neuralgia with positive clinical outcomes. Fully endoscopic microvascular decompression (E-MVD) has been proposed as a minimally invasive, effective alternative, but a comparative review of the two approaches in the literature has not been conducted. Methods: We performed a meta-analysis comparing patient outcome rates and complications for both techniques. From a pool of 1,039 studies, 22 articles were selected for review: 12 open MVD and 10 E-MVD. The total number of patients was 6,734. Results: Good pain relief was achieved in 81% of MVD and 88% of E-MVD patients, with a mean recurrence rate of 14% and 9% respectively. Average rates of complications in MVD versus E-MVD included facial paresis or weakness, 9%, 3%; -hearing loss, 4%, 1%; cerebrospinal leak, both 3%; cerebellar damage and infection, 2%, Conclusions: The reviewed literature revealed similar clinical outcomes with respect to pain relief for both approaches. Recurrence rate and incidence of complications, notably facial paresis and hearing loss were higher for MVD. We concluded that E-MVD appears to offer at least as good a surgical outcome as MVD, with possibly a shorter operative time, smaller craniectomy and lower recurrence rates.

Background: A surgical technique for foramen magnum decompression of Chiari malformation I in 11 patients is described. Methods: We used minimally invasive tubular retractors (METRx Quadrant) attached to a flexible arm to keep the retractor in a fixed position, while allowing flexible angulation under fluoroscopic guidance. Despite the small surgical opening, this approach allowed access to a wide working area, minimized soft tissue exposure, and optimized extent of decompression. For some patients, only the outer layer of dura was opened, but in cases where clinically indicated, a duraplasty was performed. Results: Postoperative CT head demonstrated satisfactory bony removal, and MRI with CSF flow study showed restoration, or significant improvement to CSF flow around the foramen magnum. There was a low incidence of post-operative complications, and the average length of hospital stay was around 1 day (1.2). For 10 out of 11 patients; their symptoms completely resolved on last follow-up, and for those who had syringomyelia, they demonstrated a radiological evidence of syrinx reduction or resolution. Conclusions: Based on our experience with this technique in foramen magnum decompression of Chiari malformation I, minimally invasive tubular retractor is a useful tool, providing the surgeon with enhanced visualization of the operative field, while reducing potential damage to tissue, and optimizing surgical outcomes.

Thoracic aortic thrombus is a rare condition that can be a significant source of distal embolic events. This study details experience on the use of an endovascular technique for the management of thoracic aortic thrombus with a stent graft in 5 cases. Four of the cases were diagnosed with aortic arch thrombus, and 1 was diagnosed with distal descending aortic thrombus. All patients were females with age ranging from 44 to 71 years. Arterial embolism was the main clinical finding in most cases, which involved the upper extremities (n = 1) and cerebral embolism (n = 3), while 1 patient was asymptomatic. All 5 surgeries were considered technically successful with 0 perioperative all-cause mortality. Patients were discharged in a stable condition and were prescribed anticoagulant and antiplatelet medications. During follow-up visits, there were no instances of stent-graft failure or collapse, leak, or distal migration. Furthermore, there was complete resolution of the intraluminal thrombus, and all patients were asymptomatic.

Introduction Social media continues to grow in size, and popularity, The prevalence of social networking continues to develop and will likely play an increasing role in all aspects of society and business, including in healthcare services. This rapid growth has directly influenced healthcare professionals in the clinical setting. Aim To assess the perceptions and usage of SM (SM) by OSs (OS) in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, and its impact on their profession, and to evaluate their level of awareness of the potential risks on their practice. Methods Quantitative: A cross-sectional survey was distributed to practicing OSs in 15 healthcare centers in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia (μ=323) using convenience sampling. Data was analyzed using SPSS. Qualitative: Eight OSs were recruited by purposive and snowball sampling and interviewed using a semi-structured approach. Data was analyzed using thematic content analysis. Results The Quantitative survey revealed that 165 OSs participated (RR=51%). OSs who use SM partly or entirely for professional purposes represent 53.7% (n=87). The remaining OSs were excluded. Virtually 90% were 40 years old or younger. Residents were less likely to reply to medical questions on SM (p=0.035). It was found that 74.7% of OSs use SM daily. The most commonly used platform was Twitter (75.9%), with Instagram and Snapchat being significantly more used by younger OSs (p= 0.013 and 0.003, respectively). The results of the Qualitative interviews revealed four themes: Guidelines, Ethics and Professionalism; Usage and Perceptions; Doctor-Patient Relationship; Quality of Online Content. Conclusion OSs' perceptions and usage were generally cautious. The major concerns were patient confidentiality, along with ethical and legal consequences. The need to contribute to quality online content was evident. Lack of formal guidelines was a continuous theme. The development of national guidelines on SM use in the orthopaedic profession is recommended.

Purpose – The main purpose of this study was to explore the differences in dietary habits and lifestyle between girls in government and private schools in Saudi Arabia. Design/methodology/approach – A cross-sectional multistage stratified survey was carried out on schoolgirls aged 12-19 years. The total sample was 512 girls (291 and 221 girls from government and private schools, respectively). A pretested questionnaire was used to collect the data. Findings – The findings revealed that girls in private schools were significantly more likely to consume vegetables, fruits, red meat, and chicken than those in government schools. Furthermore, private schoolgirls were less prone to watch television and use the internet daily than girls in government schools. Originality/value – Intervention for promoting healthy lifestyles in schoolchildren should not exclude private schools.

Background: Multiple modalities have been used in the treatment of syringomyelia, including direct drainage, shunting into peritoneal, pleural and subarachnoid spaces. The authors report their experience of surgical treatment of syringomyelia in a minimally invasive fashion. Methods: We conducted a single-center retrospective chart review on our syringomyelia cases treated with minimally invasively using Metrx Quadrant retractor system since January 2011. Lateral fluoroscopy was used to guide the placement of the retractor onto the lamina of the corresponding level. This was followed by laminectomy and a small durotomy. Once the syrinx cavity was identified and the proximal end of the tubing was inserted into the syrinx cavity, the tubing was tunneled into the pleural incision subcutaneously. Insertion of the pleural end of the shunt was performed under the microscope, with removal of a small amount of the rib at its upper edge. Results: 10 procedures were performed in 7 patients by the senior author. Etiologies of syringomyelia included Chiari malformation, trauma, diastematomyelia and kyphoscoliosis. All patients improved neurologically. No patients had immediate postoperative complications. One patient underwent two revisions of syringopleural shunts due to multilobulated nature of syringomyelia. Conclusions: Our case series presents a novel, minimally invasive technique for shunting of syringomyelia with results comparable to open procedures.

Background: Carotid endarterectomy (CEA) is a common treatment option for patients presenting with carotid stenosis; however, the optimal method for arterial closure remains unclear. Therefore, we examined our single center series to compare primary closure versus patch angioplasty for carotid endarterectomy. Methods: We reviewed all patients who underwent CEA from 2008 to 2016. Closure method was entirely based on the surgeon style (i.e., all patients treated by vascular surgeons underwent patch angioplasty and all individuals managed by neurosurgeons undergone primary closure). Data were reported as frequencies and outcomes as odds ratios (ORs) with corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Results: A total of 713 patients were included (349 in the primary closure group and 364 in the patch group). Underlying baseline characteristics were similar between both groups. The risk of transient ischemic attack (OR, 7.08; 95%CI, 0.41-2.84; P=0.872), stroke (OR, 1.14; 95%CI, 0.58-2.22; P=0.697), myocardial infarction (OR, 1.10; 95% CI, 0.39-3.07; P=0.851), cranial nerve palsy (OR, 1.79; 95%CI, 0.65-4.91; P=0.248), and post-operative neck hematoma (OR, 1.04; 95%CI, 0.48-2.24; P=0.923) didn’t differ significantly between the two closure options. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that primary closure and expansile angioplasty have similar safety and efficacy profiles as treatment closure options among patients undergoing CEA.

Introduction: Bariatric surgery has been shown to be the most effective way to treat obesity. The outcome of weight-loss surgeries primarily focuses on reducing weight, and improving comorbidities and quality of life of patients. Postoperative nutritional deficiencies are well known complications of sleeve gastrectomy. Deficiencies of protein, iron, and vitamins B12 and D are often reported and may occur despite supplementation. Aim: The aim of this study was to assess the effect of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy on metabolic and nutritional changes among obese patients at King Abdulaziz University Hospital (KAUH), Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Methods and Subjects: This is a retrospective review of patients who underwent sleeve gastrectomy surgery between January 2013 and January 2016 at KAUH, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Perioperative characteristics, biochemical profile [glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), calcium, parathyroid (PTH), albumin, B12, lipid, and iron profile], and details on subsequent weight loss in terms of body mass index (BMI) and weight loss (kg) of the patients were obtained. Results: Sixty-six patients were included in the study. Forty-two (63.4%) were female with a mean age of 35.1 ± 10.3 years. Our results demonstrated a significant statistical reduction in weight and BMI with improvement in HbA1c, high-density lipoprotein, triglycerides, and low-density lipoprotein, and decrease in cholesterol level. On the contrary, other metabolic elements such as ferritin and vitamin B12 showed a significant decrease, whereas calcium, PTH hormone, and albumin showed no change. Conclusion: This study showed that sleeve gastrectomy had significant improvements of some biochemical markers in addition to reduction in weight and BMI.

Background: Idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) is a unique disorder that is characterized by an intractable high intracranial pressure. Several interventions have been in clinical practice upon failure of medical management. Yet, none of the available modalities have been evaluated systematically for an CSF diverion procedure. Methods: We conducted a systematic review in order to compare the therapeutic efficacy of the most two common interventions, namely VPS vs. LPS. The complications rate and incidence of shunt revision were assessed. The electronic database from EMBASE, Medline, Cochrane databases, and references of review articles have been used. Results: A total of five retrospective comparative studies had been included out of 724 articles based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. A 2570 VPS were compared to 1832 LPS with 85% of heterogeneity. Although there was a tendency that suggests better outcome in VPS over LPS but it was not statistically significant [OR=0.91, 95% CI: 0.26-3.24]. Similar tendency was observed as well with shunt obstruction. Conclusions: The overall outcomes for stabilizing visual deterioration and improvement of headaches were similar among VPS and LPS. A large prospective multicenteric randomized controlled trial is needed in order to compare effectiveness of VPS and LPS, and also to establish a treatment guideline for IIH.

The objective of this study is to explore the knowledge, attitudes and intake of energy drinks among adolescents in Saudi Arabia. A multi-stage stratified sampling procedure was carried out to select 1061 school children aged 12–19 years, from Jeddah city, Saudi Arabia. A short self-reported questionnaire was administrated in order to collect the data. Of adolescents in the study, 45% drank energy drinks (71.3% males and 35.9% females; P

The main objective of this study was to discover the association between the intake of certain foods and the occurrence of obesity among adolescent girls in Saudi Arabia. A cross-sectional multistage sampling method was conducted among girls aged 12–19 years in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. The total sample was 512. Obesity was calculated based on the International Obesity Task Force standards. Findings revealed that obese girls were less likely to eat fruit, vegetables, meat, chicken and dairy products than non-obese girls, but the differences were not statistically significant. However, the risk of being obese was greater for those who consumed chocolates and sweets (odds ratio=1.57) and fast foods (odds ratio=1.35) more than three times a week. Thus, programs to promote a healthy lifestyle for schoolchildren should include appropriate intervention on changing dietary habits.

Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a neuropathic pain condition that may develop following trauma to an extremity. Clients treated for CRPS at St Joseph's Health Care London – Hand and Upper Limb Centre, London, Ontario, were asked to evaluate their level of satisfaction with the treatment they had received by comparing their pain, functional status and emotional status before and after receiving therapy. The results indicated a high level of satisfaction among clients, attributable to the unique nature of the therapy program in use at this facility, where the occupational therapist works in close collaboration with the surgeon and pain specialists, and the therapy regimen is designed for each client individually according to his or her needs. The unique contribution of the present study to the body of clinical literature on CRPS is that it introduces a focus on client functionality and on client satisfaction with therapy received.