Spine
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The structure-function relationship of anulus fibrosus of nondegenerate lumbar intervertebral discs was investigated. ⋯ The regional differences in tensile properties may result predominantly from structural rather than compositional variations and may contribute to the clinical frequency of anulus failure in the posterolateral region.
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Randomized Controlled Trial Clinical Trial
Intensive physical and psychosocial training program for patients with chronic low back pain. A controlled clinical trial.
The authors conducted a controlled clinical trial with 1-year follow-up to define the effectiveness of an intensive physical and psychosocial training program on patients with low back pain. ⋯ The intervention program could improve physical disability, but to improve occupational handicap, activities of the whole society (social legislation, labor market policy) are needed.
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The shape and size of the pedicles of the human spine differs within different races. The authors studied the diameters and angles of the spine pedicle from the T1 to L5 levels in Koreans. The following measurements were made 1) transverse diameter, 2) superoinferior diameter, 3) anteroposterior pedicle angle, 4) horizontal pedicle angle, and 5) pedicle axis angle. ⋯ The results suggest that using 6-mm screws can violate the cortex of the pedicles in a significant number of levels of the upper lumbar spine. Using a screw longer than 40 mm is dangerous in the lower thoracic spine of a Korean. A statistical difference exists between the transverse diameter of the pedicles of Westerners and Koreans.
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This study describes recent United States trends and regional variations in the management of low back pain. ⋯ Rapidly increasing surgical rates and wide geographic variations suggest the need for a more consistent approach to back problems.
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Comparative Study
Comparison of same-day sequential anterior and posterior spinal fusion with delayed two-stage anterior and posterior spinal fusion.
This was a retrospective review. Short-term outcomes were compared based on two different surgical techniques. ⋯ In selected patients with pediatric spinal deformity, experienced spinal surgeons can reduce blood loss, hospital stay, and costs by performing anterior and posterior spinal fusions sequentially under one anesthetic.