The brain is the most complex organ in our body. Indeed, it is perhaps the most complex structure we have ever encountered in nature. Both structurally and functionally, there are many peculiarities that differentiate the brain from all other organs. The brain is our connection to the world around us and by governing nervous system and higher function, any disturbance induces severe neurological and psychiatric disorders that can have a devastating effect on quality of life. Our understanding of the physiology and biochemistry of the brain has improved dramatically in the last two decades. In particular, the critical role of cations, including magnesium, has become evident, even if incompletely understood at a mechanistic level. The exact role and regulation of magnesium, in particular, remains elusive, largely because intracellular levels are so difficult to routinely quantify. Nonetheless, the importance of magnesium to normal central nervous system activity is self-evident given the complicated homeostatic mechanisms that maintain the concentration of this cation within strict limits essential for normal physiology and metabolism. There is also considerable accumulating evidence to suggest alterations to some brain functions in both normal and pathological conditions may be linked to alterations in local magnesium concentration. This book, containing chapters written by some of the foremost experts in the field of magnesium research, brings together the latest in experimental and clinical magnesium research as it relates to the central nervous system. It offers a complete and updated view of magnesiums involvement in central nervous system function and in so doing, brings together two main pillars of contemporary neuroscience research, namely providing an explanation for the molecular mechanisms involved in brain function, and emphasizing the connections between the molecular changes and behavior. It is the untiring efforts of those magnesium researchers who have dedicated their lives to unraveling the mysteries of magnesiums role in biological systems that has inspired the collation of this volume of work.

Toole's Cerebrovascular Disorders was the first modern book devoted to care of the stroke, originally published more than 40 years ago. This is a completely revised and updated sixth edition of the highly respected standard for stroke diagnosis and treatment. Dr James Toole has stayed on as a consultant for the text, and Drs E. Steve Roach, Kerstin Bettermann, and Jose Biller have reworked Dr Toole's book to include chapters on genetics, pregnancy-related stroke, and acute treatments. The practical focus of the book has not changed, retaining its emphasis on bedside diagnosis and treatment. Easily accessible both for stroke specialists and residents, the sixth edition has been modernized to keep pace with the rapid expansion of knowledge in stroke care and includes evidence-based recommendations, the latest technology and imaging, and risk factors. The text is supplemented with more than 200 images, many in color.

The small neck of the aneurysm afforded an easy surgical attack. An ordinary flat silver clip was placed over the sac and tightly compressed obliterated it completely. The clip was flush with the wall of the carotid artery. The sac, lateral to the silver clip, was then picked up with the forceps and thrombosed by the electocautery. Walter Dandy reporting his successful operation of a posterior communicating aneurysm on March 23, 1937. Walter Dandy's patient left the hospital in good health 2 weeks later, and from his report one may gain the impression that the operation was an easy task. Despite continuous developments during the following decades, it was not until the introduction of the operating microscope and microsurgical techniques that surgical treatment was generally accepted. During the microsurgical era surgical results have continued to improve due to diagnostical, neuroanaesthesi ological, and microsurgical refinements, and improved neurointensive care. Endovascular obliteration has become an important treatment alternative but this has not been included in this particular volume. The purpose of the present supplement of the ACTA NEUROCHIRURGICA is to review some of the elements in the neurosurgical management of patients with aneurysmal subarachnoid haemorrhage that are important for a successful outcome. Professor Helge Nornes has been a major force in the development of new techniques and research strategies in this area for a number of years and has recently retired from the National Hospital in Oslo.

An essential companion for busy professionals seeking to navigate stroke-related clinical situations successfully and make quick informed treatment decisions.

Fully revised throughout, the new edition of this concise textbook is aimed at doctors preparing to specialize in stroke care.

New and groundbreaking therapeutic options for the critical care of patients with cerebrovascular disease have improved patient management, minimized morbidity, reduced in-patient care, improved quality of life, and had a positive economic impact on health service provision. This volume integrates these approaches and suggests the best therapy option for all cerebrovascular conditions. The early chapters of the book focus on monitoring techniques and interventions. Subsequent sections address the critical care of a wide range of cerebrovascular diseases: ischemic stroke, intracranial hemorrhage, subarachnoid hemorrhage, arteriovenous malformations, cerebral venous thrombosis and traumatic injury. The editors and authors are internationally recognized experts in their field, and the text is supplemented by tables and illustrations to demonstrate important clinical findings. This book will meet the needs of stroke physicians, neurologists, neurosurgeons, neurointensivists and interventional neuroradiologists seeking to maximize positive outcomes for their patients.

The small neck of the aneurysm afforded an easy surgical attack. An ordinary flat silver clip was placed over the sac and tightly compressed obliterated it completely. The clip was flush with the wall of the carotid artery. The sac, lateral to the silver clip, was then picked up with the forceps and thrombosed by the electocautery. Walter Dandy reporting his successful operation of a posterior communicating aneurysm on March 23, 1937. Walter Dandy's patient left the hospital in good health 2 weeks later, and from his report one may gain the impression that the operation was an easy task. Despite continuous developments during the following decades, it was not until the introduction of the operating microscope and microsurgical techniques that surgical treatment was generally accepted. During the microsurgical era surgical results have continued to improve due to diagnostical, neuroanaesthesi ological, and microsurgical refinements, and improved neurointensive care. Endovascular obliteration has become an important treatment alternative but this has not been included in this particular volume. The purpose of the present supplement of the ACTA NEUROCHIRURGICA is to review some of the elements in the neurosurgical management of patients with aneurysmal subarachnoid haemorrhage that are important for a successful outcome. Professor Helge Nornes has been a major force in the development of new techniques and research strategies in this area for a number of years and has recently retired from the National Hospital in Oslo.

A practical textbook, based on a problem-oriented workflow, that will improve patients' likelihood of full recovery from stroke and prevent future strokes from occurring Stroke is the leading cause of adult disability and is in the top five causes of death globally. Warlow's Stroke: Practical Management, 4th Edition takes a problem-oriented approach and addresses the questions posed by a stroke patient in the order they are likely to present in clinical practice, for instance, 'Is it a stroke?', 'What sort of stroke?', 'What caused it?', and 'What can be done about it?'. Beginning with chapters phrased as questions, the book walks the reader through a standard clinical workflow, exploring the practical skills and assessment required at each stage of patient management. Early chapters cover: locating the vascular lesion, identifying the involved arterial territory, the role imaging should play, and the application thereof. Subsequent chapters look at what causes a transient or persistent ischemic event, an intracerebral hemorrhage and a subarachnoid hemorrhage. Unusual causes of ischemic stroke and transient ischemic attack are also covered. The book then presents a practical approach to the management of stroke and transient ischemic attack; offers specific treatments for acute ischemic stroke and aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage; provides ways for professionals to prevent first or recurrent stroke; and more. Final chapters of the book discuss rehabilitation after stroke, how patients and carers can be supported in the short term and long term, prevention of recurrent stroke, and the organization of stroke services. Warlow's Stroke: Practical Management, 4th Edition Follows clinical workflow for stroke analysis Features evidence-based approach throughout Offers practical application aimed at improving patient outcomes Written and edited by internationally renowned experts in the field An essential resource for all practitioners involved in the care of patients who suffer from cerebrovascular disease, but particularly suitable for neurologists, residents, geriatricians, stroke physicians, radiologists and primary care physicians.

Neurosurgical interventions have the potential to change a person's concept of self, as well as affect their neurological and cognitive function to an unacceptable level for both patient and family. In an increasingly complex and evolving field, the ethical implications of treatments and their eventual outcomes must be carefully balanced. Ethics in Neurosurgical Practice is a comprehensive and practical guide for managing the treatment of patients with debilitating neurosurgical conditions. Chapters address specific conditions, such as traumatic brain injuries, ischemic stroke and spinal surgery, and the ethical challenges that each of these pose. Detailed case studies present potential scenarios that readers might encounter, and their outcomes. Future developments of this fast-paced field are expanded upon, including televised live surgery and the ethical aspects of innovation in neurosurgery. A broad variety of contributors in different fields, including neurosurgeons, intensivists and bioethicists, ensures comprehensive coverage from a range of views and experiences.