Deep brain stimulation (DBS) surgery is a delicate procedure. Doctors use it to treat conditions like Parkinson's disease. But there's a risk of bleeding in the brain, which can cause serious problems. A recent study looked back at past surgeries to see how often this happens and what doctors can do
Imagine trying to find a tiny speck of dust in a crowded room. That's similar to what doctors face when looking for small tumors in brain scans. Usually, they use a double dose of a special dye to make tumors stand out more clearly. But, this dye has some drawbacks. It can be harmful to patients and
Brain surgery is a high-stakes game, but did you know that the air in the operating room might not be as safe as it seems? During these procedures, doctors use a tool called electrocautery. This handy gadget cuts and seals tissue, but it also creates smoke. Not just any smoke, but a mix of tiny, har
When children experience brain swelling, it's a serious situation. Doctors must determine the cause and type of swelling. One type, called Cytotoxic Edema (CE), was once thought to be a clear sign of abuse. However, recent findings reveal that CE can occur in kids with severe brain injuries, regardl
The brain's decision-making process is a complex dance involving many different areas. It's like a big, fancy party where everyone's invited. The guests include both the cortex, which is the outer layer of the brain, and the subcortical regions, which are deeper inside. These areas work together, bu
Did you know that the smell of oregano can change how much salt mice eat? Scientists wanted to see if the scent of oregano and a special part of it called carvacrol could affect how much salt mice prefer. They did this by giving mice a choice between plain water and salty water. When oregano or carv
Awake surgery is a technique where a patient is conscious during brain surgery. This method is often used to remove brain tumors. It's especially useful for tumors like gliomas, as it allows doctors to remove as much of the tumor as possible while keeping the patient safe. However, its effectiveness
The American Clinical Neurophysiology Society has laid out some serious guidelines for a procedure called electrical stimulation mapping (ESM). This isn't your average brain surgery. It's a method used to map out the brain's functions and trigger seizures in a controlled way. The society has come up
Yoga and meditation have long been praised for their positive effects on mental well-being. But did you know they might also boost your gut health? A recent study explored this idea by looking at how a week-long Arhatic Yoga meditation retreat affected the gut and oral microbiome. The gut microbiome
Selenium, a trace element, is crucial for brain health. It's part of selenoproteins, which are proteins that contain selenium. These selenoproteins are essential for keeping the brain functioning properly. They do this by helping to maintain the balance of metals in the brain. When this balance is d
