Spine
-
Study of two cohorts with a differing severity of disease before and after treatment. ⋯ The German version of the cervical NASS patient questionnaire (NASS) is a valid instrument for patients with cervical spine health problems. As this instrument is also sensitive to change, it is recommended for use. Moreover, the present study gives evidence for the validity of the original cervical NASS questionnaire in English.
-
Retrospective review of 110 patients undergoing spinal dural repair and regeneration using an onlay, suture-free, 3-dimensional-collagen matrix graft (DuraGen) over an 8-year period (1995-2003). ⋯ Collagen matrix was successful in cerebrospinal fluid containment in > 95% of patients requiring dural repair following anterior and posterior spinal surgery. Subfascial drains were safe. Routine lumbar drains are not required but are recommended for repair of established pseudomeningocele formations.
-
A radiographic review of 87 patients with either unilateral or bilateral facet dislocations or fracture/dislocations treated with anterior cervical discectomy, fusion, and plating. ⋯ Loss of postoperative alignment occurred in 13% of facet fracture subluxations treated with anterior cervical discectomy, fusion, and plating. Concern regarding mechanical failure of flexion/distraction injuries should be high when they are associated with fractures of either the facets or of the endplate. Endplate fracture was associated with both mechanical failure and pseudarthrosis.
-
Three-dimensional intervertebral motions of the subaxial cervical spine during head rotation were investigated in healthy volunteers using three-dimensional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). ⋯ We investigated intervertebral motions of the subaxial cervical spine during head rotation using a three-dimensional imaging system, and obtained the first accurate depictions of in vivo coupled motion. These findings will be helpful as the basis for understanding abnormal conditions.
-
Randomized Controlled Trial Multicenter Study Comparative Study Clinical Trial
Does it matter which exercise? A randomized control trial of exercise for low back pain.
Multicentered randomized controlled trial. ⋯ Consistent with prior evidence, a standardized mechanical assessment identified a large subgroup of LBP patients with a DP. Regardless of subjects' direction of preference, the response to contrasting exercise prescriptions was significantly different: exercises matching subjects' DP significantly and rapidly decreased pain and medication use and improved in all other outcomes. If repeatable, such subgroup validation has important implications for LBP management.