Technical note: evaluating mandibular ramus flexure as a morphological indicator of sex

Abstract INTRODUCTION The classic partially blinded percutaneous technique using external landmarks to cannulate the foramen ovale for the treatment of trigeminal neuralgia can place important anatomical structures, such as the distal cervical internal carotid artery, at risk. We have developed a new technique in which we use anteroposterior fluoroscopy to reliably locate the foramen ovale and thus make it safer and easier to cannulate. METHODS Locating foramen ovale was initially tested using anteroposterior fluoroscopy on cadaveric skulls in the neurosurgical simulation lab. Fluoroscopic landmarks were identified and utilized to assist in successfully locating the foramen ovale during percutaneous balloon rhizotomy procedures performed in multiple patients with trigeminal neuralgia. This technique was successfully used in multiple patients at our institution without any immediate complications except for one cheek hematoma. In this report, we describe our technique in detail. RESULTS The AP fluoroscopy is directed laterally in the coronal plane until a line drawn inferiorly from the lateral orbital rim bisects the inner concavity of the mandibular angle. Fluoroscopy is then directed inferiorly until the top of the petrous ridge bisects the mandibular ramus. The foramen ovale will come into view within the window between the mandibular ramus and hard palate. Two case illustrations are provided CONCLUSION Balloon rhizotomy is a commonly used treatment option for trigeminal neuralgia. Direct visualization of the foramen ovale can reliably be achieved on AP fluoroscopy using specific anatomic landmarks. This technique can be utilized to increase the accuracy and safety of the procedure.

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New AAC Access Strategy for Gesture Tracking: A Technical Note

Perspectives on Augmentative and Alternative Communication ◽

10.1044/aac21.1.11 ◽

2012 ◽

Vol 21 (1) ◽

pp. 11-16 ◽

Cited By ~ 1

Author(s):

Susan Fager ◽

Tom Jakobs ◽

David Beukelman ◽

Tricia Ternus ◽

Haylee Schley

Keyword(s):

Augmentative And Alternative Communication ◽

Technical Note ◽

Head Tracking ◽

Alternative Communication ◽

Access Methods ◽

Cord Injury ◽

Physical Limitations ◽

Gesture Tracking ◽

Communication Needs ◽

Tracking Device

Abstract This article summarizes the design and evaluation of a new augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) interface strategy for people with complex communication needs and severe physical limitations. This strategy combines typing, gesture recognition, and word prediction to input text into AAC software using touchscreen or head movement tracking access methods. Eight individuals with movement limitations due to spinal cord injury, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, polio, and Guillain Barre syndrome participated in the evaluation of the prototype technology using a head-tracking device. Fourteen typical individuals participated in the evaluation of the prototype using a touchscreen.

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