Ventriculo-peritoneal shunting devices for hydrocephalus
Abstract Background Hydrocephalus is a common neurological disorder, caused by a progressive accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) within the intracranial space that can lead to increased intracranial pressure, enlargement of the ventricles (ventriculomegaly) and, consequently, to brain damage. Ventriculo‐peritoneal shunt systems are the mainstay therapy for this condition, however there are different types of shunt […]
Postoperative epidural analgesia versus systemic analgesia for thoraco-lumbar spine surgery in children
Abstract Background Spine surgery may be associated with severe acute postoperative pain. Compared with systemic analgesia alone, epidural analgesia may offer better pain control. However, epidural analgesia has sometimes been associated with rare but serious complications. Therefore, it is critical to quantify the real benefits of epidural analgesia over other modes of pain treatment. Objectives […]
Magnetic resonance perfusion for differentiating low-grade from high-grade gliomas at first presentation
Abstract Background Gliomas are the most common primary brain tumour. They are graded using the WHO classification system, with Grade II-IV astrocytomas, oligodendrogliomas and oligoastrocytomas. Low-grade gliomas (LGGs) are WHO Grade II infiltrative brain tumours that typically appear solid and non-enhancing on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans. People with LGG often have little or no […]
Intraoperative imaging technology to maximise extent of resection for glioma
Abstract Background Extent of resection is considered to be a prognostic factor in neuro-oncology. Intraoperative imaging technologies are designed to help achieve this goal. It is not clear whether any of these sometimes very expensive tools (or their combination) should be recommended as standard care for people with brain tumours. We set out to determine […]
Cerebral near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) for perioperative monitoring of brain oxygenation in children and adults
Abstract Background Various techniques have been employed for the early detection of perioperative cerebral ischaemia and hypoxia. Cerebral near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) is increasingly used in this clinical scenario to monitor brain oxygenation. However, it is unknown whether perioperative cerebral NIRS monitoring and the subsequent treatment strategies are of benefit to patients. Objectives To assess the […]
Biopsy versus resection for the management of low-grade gliomas
Abstract Background This is an updated version of the original Cochrane review published in 2013, Issue 4. Low‐grade gliomas (LGG) constitute a class of slow‐growing primary brain neoplasms. Patients with clinically and radiographically suspected LGG have two initial surgical options, biopsy or resection. Biopsy can provide a histological diagnosis with minimal risk but does not […]
External drains versus no drains after burr-hole evacuation for the treatment of chronic subdural haematoma in adults
Abstract Background Chronic subdural haematoma (CSDH) is one of the most common types of intracranial haematoma, and often occurs in older people. Burr-hole craniostomy, which is an evacuation through one or two burr holes drilled over the site of the haematoma, has been widely accepted as the most effective way to manage CSDH. Recurrences are […]
Interventions for the treatment of metastatic extradural spinal cord compression in adults
Abstract Background Metastatic extradural spinal cord compression (MESCC) is treated with radiotherapy, corticosteroids, and surgery, but there is uncertainty regarding their comparative effects. This is an updated version of the original Cochrane review published in theCochrane Database of Systematic Reviews (Issue 4, 2008). Objectives To determine the efficacy and safety of radiotherapy, surgery and corticosteroids […]
Interventions for idiopathic intracranial hypertension
Abstract Background Idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) has an estimated incidence of one to three people per 100,000 people per year, and occurs most commonly in obese, young women. IIH is associated with severe morbidity, notably due to a significant threat to sight and severe headache. Several different management options have been proposed. Conservative measures centre […]
Endoscopic third ventriculostomy (ETV) for idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus (iNPH)
Abstract Background Idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus (iNPH) is a type of communicating hydrocephalus also known as non-obstructive hydrocephalus. This type of hydrocephalus is caused by impaired cerebrospinal fluid reabsorption without any obstruction in the ventricular system and is associated with normal cerebrospinal fluid pressure. It is characterised clinically by gait disturbance, cognitive dysfunction, and urinary […]