Spine
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Neurogenic mixed evoked potentials were recorded after thoracoscopic spinal cord stimulation in patients undergoing video-assisted spine surgery. ⋯ Neurogenic mixed evoked potentials evoked by anterior stimulation through thoracoscopy are of interest for spinal cord monitoring when posterior electrical stimulation is impossible, and they provide reliable information regarding spinal motor pathways.
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A cross-sectional study of baseline correlates of clinical pain and functional status in consecutive patients being treated for chronic low back pain. ⋯ These pilot data suggest that an individual's experimental pain threshold (a measure of tenderness) is associated with baseline functional status and pain in cases of chronic low back pain and may represent an important domain warranting further investigation.
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Comparative Study Clinical Trial
Management of chronic disabling low back pain with 360 degrees fusion. Results from pain provocation test and concurrent posterior lumbar interbody fusion, posterolateral fusion, and pedicle screw instrumentation in patients with chronic disabling low back pain.
A follow-up study conducted by an independent observer was performed on the authors' first 29 consecutive patients treated with concurrent posterior lumbar interbody fusion, posterolateral fusion, and pedicle screw instrumentation, for whom at least 2 years had transpired since the operation. ⋯ The authors consider posterior lumbar interbody fusion with concurrent posterolateral fusion and pedicle screw instrumentation a possible method for managing chronic disabling low back pain.
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Comparative Study
Management of incidental durotomy without mandatory bed rest. A retrospective review of 20 cases.
A retrospective review of 20 patients with incidental durotomy treated without mandatory bed rest. ⋯ This study has shown that the majority of patients with incidental durotomy can be treated effectively with dural stitches and fibrin glue. Patients can be permitted to ambulate immediately after surgery but should be cautioned to lay flat if they develop symptoms. This will reduce the costs related to the hospital stay and missed work.