Spine
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We evaluated the influence of rabbit notochordal cells on the expression of inflammatory mediators by human annulus fibrosus (AF) cells cocultured with macrophage-like cells. ⋯ In an in vitro coculture system, rabbit notochordal cells reduced the levels of main inflammatory mediators and gene expression in the human AF during inflammation. Therefore, rabbit notochordal cells may constitute an important protective tool against symptomatic disc development.
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Comparative Study
The prevalence of pre- and postoperative symptoms in patients with cervical spondylotic myelopathy treated by cervical laminoplasty.
A retrospective single-center study. ⋯ The preoperative prevalence of motor function impairment in the upper and lower extremities and that of sensory function impairment in the upper extremity is higher than that of other function impairments, and impairments in lower extremity motor function and upper extremity sensory function often persist after surgery. These findings provide baseline data that may allow clinicians to accurately assess preoperative impairment and postoperative outcomes in patients with CSM.
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Mechanical and biochemical analyses of cadaveric and surgically removed discs. ⋯ Annulus fissures provide a low-pressure microenvironment that allows focal proteoglycan loss, leaving a matrix that is conducive to nerve and blood vessel ingrowth.
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Histological observational study of patients with spinal meningioma. ⋯ This histological investigation of resected dura mater attached to spinal meningioma showed a high rate of full-thickness tumor invasion into the dura mater.
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Anatomical study with magnetic resonance imaging data. ⋯ The lower lumbar spine is confirmed to frequently be very close to the major retroperitoneal vessels. Turning the patient prone and placing the patient on bolsters does not change this relationship. This is part of the reason why vascular injuries may occur during routine lumbar spine surgery. Spine surgeons should be able to recognize and initiate treatment of such injuries.