Objectives: The cervicothoracic junction (CTJ) is a region of the spine submitted to signi cant mechanical stress. The peculiar anatomical and biomechanical characteristics make posterior surgical stabilization of this area particularly challenging. We present and discuss our surgical series highlighting the speci c surgical challenges provided by this region of the spine. Methods: We have analyzed and reported retrospective data from patients who underwent a posterior cervicothoracic instrumentation between 2011 and 2019 at the Neurosurgical Department of the Geneva University Hospitals. We have discussed C7 and Th1 instrumentation techniques, rods design, extension of constructs and spinal navigation. Results: 36 patients were enrolled. We have preferentially used lateral mass (LM) screws in the subaxial spine, pedicle screws (PS) in C7, Th1 and upper thoracic spine. We have found no superiority of 3D navigation techniques over 2D uoroscopy guidance in PS placement accuracy, probably due to the relatively small case series. Surgical site infection was the most frequent complication, signi cantly associated with tumor as diagnosis. Conclusions: When technically feasible, PS represent the technique of choice for C7 and Th1 instrumentation although other safe techniques are available. Different rods constructs are described although signi cant differences in biomechanical stability still need to be clari ed. Spinal navigation should be used whenever available even though 2D uoroscopy is still a safe option. Posterior instrumentation of the CTJ is a challenging procedure but with correct surgical planning and technique it is safe and effective.

Background: Full endoscopic resection of solid brain tumors represents a challenge for neurosurgeons. This can be achieved with modern technology and advanced surgical tools. Case Description: A 23-years-old male was referred to our unit with raised intracranial pressure. Head computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed obstructive hydrocephalus and a third ventricle lesion. Endoscopic third ventriculostomy and biopsy were performed, a left frontal external ventricular drain was left in place. A second-look surgery for endoscopic removal was planned. Decision to proceed with an endoscopic removal was supported by the following characteristics found during the first surgery: tumor exophytic, soft texture, scarce vascularity, and low-grade appearance. A rescue strategy for microscopic resection via transcallosal approach was decided. A straight trajectory to the tumor was planned with navigation. A further anterior left frontal burr-hole was performed, and the ventricular system was entered via the left frontal horn. Resection was carried out alternating laser for hemostasis and cutting, endoscopic ultrasonic aspirator, and endoscopic forceps for piecemeal resection. Laser hemostasis and cutting (1 Watt power at tip, continuous wave mode) were useful at the ventricular wall-tumor interface. Relevant landmarks guided the approach and the resection (foramen of Monro, mammillary bodies, aqueduct, pineal and suprapineal recess, and posterior commissure). The surgery was carried uneventfully. Histopathology confirmed a lowgrade ependymoma. Post-operative MRI showed residual tumor within the lower aqueduct. At 3 years follow-up, residual tumor is stable. Conclusion: In selected cases, endoscopic resection for third ventricular tumors is feasible and safe, and represents a valid alternative to microsurgical approaches.

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Background: Focused Ultrasound (FUS) is gaining a therapeutic role in neuro-oncology considering its novelty and non-invasiveness. Multiple pre-clinical studies show the efficacy of FUS mediated ablation and Blood-Brain Barrier (BBB) opening in high-grade glioma (HGG), but there is still poor evidence in humans, mainly aimed towards assessing FUS safety. Methods: With this systematic review our aim is, firstly, to summarize how FUS is proposed for human HGG treatment. Secondly, we focus on future perspectives and new therapeutic options. Using PRISMA 2020 guidelines, we reviewed case series and trials with description of patient characteristics, pre- and post-operative treatments and FUS outcomes. We considered nine case series (five about tumor ablation and four about BBB opening) with FUS-treated HGG patients between 1991 and 2021. Results: Sixty-eight patients were considered in total, mostly males (67.6%), with a mean age of 50.5 ± 15.3 years old. Major complication rates were found in the tumor ablation group (26.1%). FUS has been rarely applied for direct tumoral ablation in human HGG patients with controversial results, but at the best of current studies, FUS-mediated BBB opening is showing good results with very low complication rates, paving the way for a new reliable technique to improve local chemotherapy delivery and antitumoral immune response. Conclusions: FUS can become a complementary technique to surgical resection and standard radiochemotherapy in recurrent HGG. Ongoing trials could provide in the near future more data on FUS-mediated BBB opening impact on progression-free survival, overall survival and potential drug-delivery capacities.