Spine
-
Wedging of apical spinal segments was measured during creation and correction of an experimental scoliosis in a goat model. ⋯ This study demonstrates the ability to create wedge deformities at the apex of an experimental scoliosis in a large animal model and to control the progression of these deformities using anterior thoracic staples.
-
Multicenter Study Comparative Study
Can condition-specific health surveys be specific to spine disease? An analysis of the effect of comorbidities on baseline condition-specific and general health survey scores.
This is an observational cross-sectional study of 26,290 patients seen and evaluated in the 25 centers of the National Spine Network. ⋯ Traditional medical comorbidities correlate with both SF-36 (e.g., PCS) general health survey scores as well as disease-specific ODI scores. However, psychosocial comorbidities such as poor self-rated health (SF-1), an active compensation case, and low education level have a higher association than traditional medical comorbidities on these health status measures. The results show that the type of survey (disease-specific e.g., ODI, vs. generic e.g., SF-36) used may be less important than the need to assess and control for psychosocial and medical comorbidities when any patient-reported health survey is used in the spine population.
-
Evidence-based literature review. ⋯ There are currently no standards regarding the role and timing of decompression in acute SCI. We recommend urgent decompression of bilateral locked facets in a patient with incomplete tetraplegia or in a patient with SCI with neurologic deterioration. Urgent decompression in acute cervical SCI remains a reasonable practice option and can be performed safely. There is emerging evidence that surgery within 24 hours may reduce length of intensive care unit stay and reduce post-injury medical complications.
-
Population-based telephone survey in Missouri. ⋯ Race differences in diagnosis and surgery may help to explain why African Americans, relative to whites, receive lower workers' compensation medical expenditures, disability ratings, and settlement awards.
-
Case report of multifocal necrotizing fasciitis with lumbar involvement. ⋯ Necrotizing infections rarely involve the spine. Heightened awareness of this potential focus of infection may facilitate its detection. As with other sites, aggressive surgical debridement of this potentially fatal condition is imperative.