Spine
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A cross-sectional age- and sex-matched study comparing the prevalence and size of dural ectasia in two groups of patients with Marfan syndrome. Group I comprised patients with moderate to severe back pain and Group II comprised patients without back pain. ⋯ The presence and size of dural ectasia are associated with back pain in the Marfan syndrome. However, a high prevalence of dural ectasia (41%) exists even in patients with Marfan syndrome without back pain. The mere presence of dural ectasia therefore does not necessarily mean the patient will be symptomatic even though the two are associated.
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Prospective study on individuals with asymptomatic lumbar disc abnormalities detected in magnetic resonance imaging. ⋯ Physical job characteristics and psychological aspects of work were more powerful than magnetic resonance imaging-identified disc abnormalities in predicting the need for low back pain-related medical consultation and the resultant work incapacity. However,the conclusions are still preliminary, and replication of the findings in larger and more representative study samples is needed.
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An experimental model to assess radiation exposure during lumbar pedicle screw insertion. ⋯ The source-superior position is the preferred position for pedicle screw screening if a working space is required. Patient exposure is minimized, and surgeon dose is well within current recommendations.
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In an experimental study using human cadaver specimens the biomechanical data of anterior atlantoaxial plating according to Harms were evaluated. ⋯ Experimentally, isolated anterior atlantoaxial plating was less stable than the combined reconstruction procedures. Transoral plate fixation according to Harms in combination with posterior wire fixation according to Brooks provided a failure load and stiffness equal to transarticular screw fixation according to Magerl.
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An experimental study to clarify the effects of nucleus pulposus on blood flow in the dorsal root ganglion and hindpaws. ⋯ Application of nucleus pulposus to nerve root decreased blood flow in the dorsal root ganglion and corresponding hindpaw. These basic pathophysiologic changes are associated with compression injuries caused by herniated discs and are accepted neuropathologic mechanisms of injury associated with painful neuropathies. These acute observations in the dorsal root ganglion and the hindpaw may be important initial factors in the pathogenesis of radicular leg pain (sciatica) due to disc herniation.