Spine
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The inter- and intraobserver reliabilities of an assessment scale for cervical compression myelopathy were examined statistically. This scoring system consists of seven categories: motor function of fingers, shoulder and elbow, and lower extremity; sensory function of upper extremity, trunk and lower extremity; and function of the bladder. It evaluates the severity of myelopathy by allocating points based on degree of dysfunction in each category. ⋯ The inter- and intraobserver reliabilities of the Japanese Orthopedic Association scoring system for cervical myelopathy were high, suggesting that this system is useful for assessment of cervical myelopathy in comparative studies of treatment.
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A retrospective study was performed with the use of magnetic resonance imaging to evaluate the type and degree of soft tissue disruption associated with flexion-distraction injuries of the subaxial spine. ⋯ Unilateral and bilateral facet dislocations of the subaxial spine are associated with damage to numerous soft tissue structures that provide stability to the lower cervical spine. Damage to the posterior longitudinal ligament did not occur consistently in unilateral facet dislocations. Bilateral facet dislocations were associated significantly with disruption to the posterior and anterior longitudinal ligaments and left facet capsule, as compared with unilateral facet dislocations. Magnetic resonance imaging allows visualization of these disruptions.
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A 3-year prospective cohort study among 1334 workers was conducted. ⋯ High quantitative job demands and low coworker support are independent risk factors for neck pain. There are indications that another risk factor for neck pain is low decision authority.
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Case report. ⋯ Post-traumatic syringomyelia has not been reported at so early a stage after injury. This disorder is an important clinical entity that must be recognized to prevent potentially fatal or devastating complications. As evidenced by the reported patient and the literature, if this disorder is discovered and treated early, permanent deficit can be avoided. The prevention of post-traumatic syringomyelia requires anatomic realignment and stabilization of the spine without stenosis, even in the case of complete injuries, to maintain the proper dynamics of cerebrospinal fluid flow.
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The case of patient with scoliosis based on a rare hamartomatous, Proteus syndrome, is reported. ⋯ Scoliosis with Proteus syndrome seems to be based on hemihypertrophy, with no influence of mechanical stress.