Spine
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Case Reports
Cyclic sciatica. A manifestation of compression of the sciatic nerve by endometriosis. A case report.
A case of cyclic sciatica secondary to ovarian cyst endometriosis is presented. ⋯ Magnetic resonance imaging may permit a specific diagnosis of this unusual cause of sciatica by showing a hemorrhagic mass in the region of the sciatic nerve. Early recognition is necessary to prevent permanent damage to the sciatic nerve.
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Rigid post-traumatic kyphosis after fracture of the thoracolumbar and lumbar spine represents a failure of initial management of the injury. Kyphosis moves the center of gravity anterior. The kyphosis and instability may result in pain, deformity, and increased neurologic deficits. Management for symptomatic post-traumatic kyphosis always has presented a challenge to orthopedic surgeons. ⋯ This method provides single-stage posterior decompression, correction, and stabilization on as definitive management for post traumatic kyphosis of the thoracolumbar and lumbar spine.
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A prospective study was done to assess the diagnostic value of radionuclide imaging (bone scan) in the evaluation of sacroiliac joint syndrome ⋯ The results demonstrated very low sensitivity and high specificity of nuclear imaging in the evaluation of sacroiliac joint syndrome. The authors do not recommend bone scan in the diagnostic algorithm for sacroiliac joint syndrome.
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A cadaveric study was performed to analyze the changes of foraminal dimensions of the lumbar spine and also to estimate the amount of foraminal distraction, achieved with pedicle screw instrumentation, that will create the greatest improvement in foraminal dimensions. ⋯ Posterior distraction using pedicle screws increased foraminal dimensions. The ideal amount of distraction on the rod, or the minimal amount of distraction necessary for improving foraminal dimensions, may be 6 mm using pedicle screw instrumentation.
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A report of a patient with cervical intramedullary cysticercosis is presented. ⋯ A preoperative diagnostic suspicion of cysticercosis is important in patients with intramedullary cystic lesions because specific drug treatment is available. Treatment with anthelmintics, particularly albendazole, should be considered in patients with intramedullary cysticercosis before surgery. Corticosteroids may be added to the therapeutic regimen because this may reduce the perilesional edema and prevent neurologic deterioration during the course of anthelmintic treatment.