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Pediatric cranial fixation: a survey of pediatric neurosurgeons
Rob D Dickerman1, Walter J McConathy, Nicole A Pearl
1Department of Neurosurgery, North Shore University-Long Island Jewish Health System, New Hyde Park, New York, USA. drrdd@yahoo.com
Insights
Pediatric neurosurgeons currently lack a defined standard of care for cranial fixation techniques. This survey explores current practices among pediatric neurosurgeons to inform future recommendations and establish a standard of care.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Pediatric Surgery
- Surgical Techniques
Background:
- Cranial fixation techniques in pediatric neurosurgery lack a standardized approach.
- Current methods are largely dependent on individual surgeon preference.
- Recent approval of new cranial fixation devices necessitates an understanding of current practices.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the current cranial fixation techniques employed by pediatric neurosurgeons.
- To identify variations in techniques across different age groups.
- To lay the groundwork for establishing a standard of care in pediatric cranial fixation.
Main Methods:
- A survey was distributed to pediatric neurosurgeons listed in the American Society of Pediatric Neurosurgeons and the International Society of Pediatric Neurosurgeons.
- The survey queried surgeons about their cranial fixation techniques for various pediatric age groups.
- Data was collected to understand current surgeon-dependent practices.
Main Results:
- Findings reveal a wide range of cranial fixation techniques currently in use.
- Technique preferences vary significantly among pediatric neurosurgeons.
- The study highlights the absence of a universally adopted standard of care.
Conclusions:
- Current cranial fixation practices in pediatric neurosurgery are diverse and surgeon-dependent.
- Survey results provide valuable insights into existing techniques.
- Establishing a standard of care for pediatric cranial fixation is a critical next step.
Abstract:
To date, there are no broad-based studies defining the standard of care for pediatric neurosurgeons in the area of cranial fixation. Thus, the techniques for cranial fixation remain largely surgeon dependent. Over the past few years, there have been several new cranial fixation devices approved for use in the United States. To gain insights into techniques currently in use by pediatric neurosurgeons, we polled all pediatric neurosurgeons listed in either the American Society of Pediatric Neurosurgeons or the International Society of Pediatric Neurosurgeons regarding their techniques for cranial fixation in a variety of age groups. These survey findings may provide a basis for establishing recommendations and lead to a standard of care for cranial fixation techniques among pediatric neurosurgeons.