Surgical skill and imaging technology in the field of neurosurgery have developed remarkably during the past decade. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), with high contrast resolution and multiplanar capabilities, allows for accurate preoperative localization and postoperative assessment of syringomyelia. Recent advances in dynamic MRI techniques have made it possible to evaluate normal and abnormal cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) flow at the foramen magnum, within the syrinx, and in the spinal subarachnoid space, without invasion of the closed CSF system. These developments have yielded substantial information concerning various aspects of syringomyelia. However, many issues related to the pathophysiology and treatment of syringomyelia remain controversial. This book contains the scientific contributions presented at the international sym posium "Syringomyelia 2000:' held in Kobe, Japan, June 16-17,2000. The purpose of the symposium was to bring together experts in the fields of neurosurgery, neurol ogy, and neuropathology, in order to enhance the level and scope of their knowledge by making them more aware of work done in complementary fields. The contribu tions also report on clinical and basic studies pertinent to the topic of the sympo sium. This volume thus represents a comprehensive description of the state of the art regarding this disease in the hope that it may help to define comprehensively what is already known and to find new ways toward a better understanding of the patho physiology, diagnosis, and treatment of syringomyelia.

Definition of Cord Cavitations; History of Syringomyelia; Review of Pathophysiological Hypotheses; Pathophysiology of Syringomyelia; Syringomyelia Associated with Diseases at the Craniocervical Junction: Chiari Malformations, Rhombencephalic Malformations, Foramen Magnum Arachnoiditis, Intracranial Tumors; Syringomyelia Associated with Diseases of the Spinal Canal: Spinal Arachnoid Scarring (i.e. Posttraumatic and Postinflammatory Syringomyelia); Tumors of the Spinal Canal; Spinal Dysraphism; Diseases of the Spine.

This book is a tutorial written by researchers and developers behind the FEniCS Project and explores an advanced, expressive approach to the development of mathematical software. The presentation spans mathematical background, software design and the use of FEniCS in applications. Theoretical aspects are complemented with computer code which is available as free/open source software. The book begins with a special introductory tutorial for beginners. Following are chapters in Part I addressing fundamental aspects of the approach to automating the creation of finite element solvers. Chapters in Part II address the design and implementation of the FEnicS software. Chapters in Part III present the application of FEniCS to a wide range of applications, including fluid flow, solid mechanics, electromagnetics and geophysics.

Once an uncommon clinical finding, the Chiari malformations are now frequently seen with the advent of more sophisticated imaging modalities. With more than one hundred years of experience with these entities, medicine currently has a much better understanding of the embryology and pathophysiology of the disorder. Long-term outcome studies are becoming more prevalent and patients are commonly operated on with generally favorable results. Comprehensive in design, the The Chiari Malformations focuses on the two most common forms of hindbrain herniation, the Chiari I and II malformations. Since the original description and classification of hindbrain hernias more than one hundred and twenty years ago, the Chiari malformations have revealed much of their pathophysiology and have become easily diagnosed radiologically. Indeed with the availability of MRI, more and more patients are being labeled with the diagnosis but without symptoms or appropriate symptoms. Timely and an invaluable addition to the literature, The Chiari Malformations thoroughly details the progress that has been made with our understanding of these conditions, their radiologic definition, details of operative intervention and prediction of outcome.

This superbly illustrated textbook, endorsed by the European Society of Neuroradiology, explains in detail the clinical importance of neuroradiology in complementing history taking and physical examination during the workup of patients suspected of having neurological, neurosurgical, or psychiatric disorders. The role of imaging of the brain and spinal cord is described across the full range of relevant conditions, including, for example, cerebrovascular diseases, trauma, CSF disorders, developmental malformations, autoimmune diseases, epilepsy, tumors and tumor-like conditions, neurodegenerative diseases, metabolic conditions, and bipolar and depressive disorders. The structured approach to imaging and image analysis will ensure that the book is an invaluable resource for neuroradiologists in training and clinicians alike. Starting from the clinical indication, suggestions for imaging protocols are provided and checklists of common findings and aspects key to interpretation are presented. The book is published within the SpringerReference program, which combines thorough coverage with access to living editions constantly updated via a dynamic peer-review process.

Since the publication of Neurobiology of Cerebrospinal Fluid 1 in 1980, that text has become the definitive reference concerning cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) for both basic scientists and clinicians involved in the investigation of degenerative, convulsive, cerebrovascular, traumatic, immunological, demyelinating, inflammatory, neoplastic, neuroendocrine, and psychiatric disorders. That initial volume began a tradition of detailed topic reviews written by international authorities with first-hand expertise in their respective fields of CSF research. Neurobiology of Cerebrospinal Fluid 2 represents a hefty collection of extensively refer enced and illustrated chapters covering topics not discussed in Vol. 1. More specifically, these chapters contain ample charts of original data, summary charts, and anatomical diagrams. Detailed illustrations of experimental and clinical techniques have been in cluded to facilitate their practical application. Each chapter in this multidisciplinary text has been critically reviewed by two experts in the respective field, and the appropriate revisions have been made. Recently published references and text modifications have been added at the proof stage in an effort to provide the most up-to-date review chapters possible.

Syringomelia is a relatively rare clinical entity in which fluid-filled cavities develop within the spinal cord. Although modern imaging technologies usually permit an accurate diagnosis at an early stage, syringomyelia remains an enigmatic condition. This reference monograph provides an up-to-date account of the present state of understanding of syringomyelia and related disorders. The editors aim to document the best clinical practice in diagnosis and treatment and to provide clear guidance on how to reduce the incidence of severe outcomes. New challenges are addressed, including the appropriate management of the increasing number of apparently idiopathic syrinx cavities that are detected. In addition, controversies in current practice and directions for future research are fully discussed. Syringomelia will be an invaluable source of information for experts in the field, specialists in various related disciplines and other interested health care professionals.

A comprehensive guide to anesthesia specifically for spine surgery, explaining procedures from the point of view of both anesthesiologists and surgeons.

This unique, contemporary book is the successor edition of a ground-breaking, authoritative title devoted to the pathology and treatment of chiari malformations. Since an abundance of research and development has occurred after the publication of the Chiari Malformations this updated title meets the market need for a reference that reflects such advances in the field. Chiari Malformations, 2nd Edition is divided into nine sections. Opening sections feature chapters on general aspects, diagnostic features and clinical presentation. These are followed by sections on differential diagnosis, treatment and prognosis. Finally, the book closes with an extensive discussion on research, related pathologies and patient resources. Expertly written chapters are supplemented with numerous high-quality illustrations and images to aid in visual learning. An impressive, nuanced successor, Chiari Malformations, 2nd Edition, is an invaluable resource for neuroscientists and clinicians at all levels, as well as graduate students to specific research scientists studying this region.

This easy-to-use handbook is designed to assist in the evaluation and management of spinal cord injuries and the diverse related disorders and conditions. Spinal cord injuries can cause abnormalities in all body systems due to dysfunction of the somatic motor and sensory systems and damage to the autonomic nerve system. The latter gives rise to respiratory and cardiac problems, temperature regulation disorders, endocrine system disorders, and many associated metabolic disorders. Other potential consequences of spinal cord injuries include pressure injuries and various disabilities and obstacles, ranging from physical limitations to social embarrassment. This handbook offers extensive guidance on medical management in different scenarios from the acute phase to long-term care, with a particular focus on information of importance for the solution of clinical problems commonly encountered in daily practice. It will be ideal for practitioners in rehabilitation medicine, neurosurgery, orthopedics, neurology, and other relevant specialties that deal with patients with spinal cord injuries.