Spine
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A prospective cohort study was conducted on workers claiming earnings-related compensation for low back pain. Information obtained at the time of the initial claim was linked to compensation status (still claiming or not claiming) 3 months later. ⋯ Simple self-report measures of individual, psychosocial, and workplace factors administered when earnings-related compensation for back pain is claimed initially can identify individuals with increased odds for development of chronic occupational disability.
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This study was designed to assess both lumbar sagittal balance and clinical outcomes of decompression and posterolateral fusion for degenerative lumbar spondylolisthesis. As an index for the radiologic evaluation of sagittal alignment, the L1 axis S1 distance was used (i.e., the horizontal distance from the plumbline of the center in the L1 to the back corner of the S1). ⋯ Both preoperative L1 axis S1 distance and lordosis at follow-up assessment affected surgical outcome. Reduction of slippage may improve clinical outcomes of posterolateral fusion for degenerative lumbar spondylolisthesis with an L1 axis S1 distance more than 35 mm.
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In vivo strain techniques were used in an animal radiculopathy model. ⋯ For the first time, in vivo biomechanical analysis of tissue deformations was used to investigate the role of mechanics in radicular pain. Overall mechanical allodynia was greater for more severe nerve root injuries (greater strains) in an animal model, suggesting that mechanical deformation plays an important role in the pain mechanism. Continued work is underway to understand the complex interplay between mechanics and the physiology of radicular pain.
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Animal model study of three healthy commercial pigs was conducted. ⋯ This near infrared spectroscopy technique monitors changes in oxygenation of the spinal cord, and therefore appears capable of intraoperative warning about impending vascular compromise of the spinal cord.
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A human cadaveric investigation was conducted to determine the effect that a side-opening injection cannula in monopedicular percutaneous vertebroplasty had on the vertebrae filling pattern. ⋯ A side-opening cannula can improve the cement-filling pattern in monopedicular vertebroplasty, as compared with a standard front-opening cannula. The risk of extravasation is diminished if the cement flow is directed medially.