Spine
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Retrospective case series. ⋯ Preoperative PROMIS PF and PI scores predicted improvement in postoperative PROMIS scores in lumbar spine surgery patients as worse preoperative scores correlated to improved PROMIS scores postoperatively. The calculated threshold t scores showed the ability to predict improvement in postoperative PROMIS scores. Preoperative PROMIS data may be useful in surgical decision-making and improved patient education regarding postoperative outcomes.Level of Evidence: 4.
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Retrospective single-institution study. ⋯ Medicare and Medicaid patients are more likely to be recommended for spine surgery when initially seeking spine care from a neurosurgeon. These findings may stem from a number of factors, including differential severity of the patient's condition at presentation, disparities in access to care, and differences in shared decision making between surgeons and patients.Level of Evidence: 3.
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A retrospective cohort analysis. ⋯ Intraoperative changes of MEPs and SEPs potentially provide a valid method for quantitatively evaluating the safety of different intraoperative manipulations and their prognostic impacts on spinal cord. Both laminectomies are safe and effective methods to treat TOLF, and en bloc laminectomy may cause relatively better spinal cord functional recovery.Level of Evidence: 3.
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Sequencing and experimental analysis of the expression profile of circular RNAs (circRNAs) in hypertrophic ligamentum flavum (LFH). ⋯ This study identified circRNA expression profiles characteristic of hypertrophied LF in LSS patients, and demonstrated that hsa_circ_0052318 may play an important role in the pathogenesis of LF hypertrophy.Level of Evidence: N/A.
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Retrospective chart review. ⋯ Minimizing blood loss using a combination of surgical and anesthesia techniques can effectively eliminate the need for blood transfusion. The elimination of costly adjuncts increases the value of a complex orthopedic procedure.Level of Evidence: 5.