Anatomy of a Headache

Dr. Robbins Free Medical
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Long-Acting Opioids for
Refractory Chronic
Migraine

Study results for a group
of difficult-to-treat
migraineurs provide a
basis for determining
efficacy and guidelines
for the use of long-term
opioids in this
population.

 

Heather’s Chronic
Migraine: an Interactive
Case History

This column will take you,
step by step, through
the diagnosis of a complex
headache patient with
the pseudonym of "Heather."

 

ROBBINS HEADACHE CLINIC

60 Revere Drive, Suite 330, Northbrook, IL 60062
Phone: 847-480-9399

Title:
Clinical Review: The Surgical Treatment of Idiopathic Pseudotumor Cerebri (Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension)
Author:
Brazis PW. (Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL)
Date:
Posted: November 2009
Source:
Cephalalgia  2008;28:1361-1373

To review the literature on the surgical treatment of idiopathic pseudotumor cerebri (PTC) [idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH)]. When medical therapy fails or when visual dysfunction deteriorates, surgical therapies for PTC should be considered. The main procedures performed include lumboperitoneal shunt (LPS), ventriculoperitoneal shunt (VPS) and optic nerve sheath fenestration (ONSF). Recently, venous sinus stenting procedures have been performed on selected patients with PTC, especially those with venous sinus occlusive disease. The literature is summarized and appraised in the form of a narrative review. It is evident that ONSF, LPS, VPS and, in selected cases, venous sinus stenting may improve vision and prevent deterioration of vision in patients with PTC. All of the procedures have their advantages and disadvantages and may fail with time no matter what procedure is used. Various authorities have vehemently advocated one or the other of these procedures. Until a prospective, randomized study comparing ONSF with LPS or VPS for PTC is performed, and until the role of venous sinus obstruction as the etiology of PTC is better defined, the question of which surgical procedure is best for the treatment of PTC remains unanswered.

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