Spine
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This study is a prospective cross-sectional analytic study. ⋯ The zygapophysial joint is an important source of pain but the existence of a "facet syndrome" must be questioned.
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Thirty-five consecutive patients who underwent surgeries for decompression, and one-level fusions with Cotrel-Dubousset pedicle screws for spinal canal stenosis were included in this study. The relationship between bone mineral density of the lumbar spine and the rate of successful fusion and screw problems was studied. ⋯ The use of decompression and pedicle screws for spinal canal stenosis due to degenerative lumbar disorders can be done safely with one-level fusion in patients with decreased bone mineral density if patients with grade III osteoporosis are excluded. Bone mineral density is more reliable than radiographic grading to evaluate the degree of osteoporosis and should be included in the preoperative evaluation of patients with osteoporosis.
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Data from annual national surveys of hospitalizations were used to review trends. ⋯ Between 1979 and 1990, rates of hospitalizations with cervical and lumbar spine surgery increased markedly among both sexes and for different categories of spine surgery.
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Five asymptomatic subjects underwent provocative injections of the lateral atlanto-axial and atlanto-occipital joints. ⋯ This study confirms the nociceptive ability of these cervical synovial joints. This study may assist the clinician in the differential diagnosis of head and neck pain.
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Comparative Study
Successful treatment of low back pain and neck pain after a motor vehicle accident despite litigation.
This prospective study evaluated 39 consecutive patients with low back pain (LBP) or neck pain that resulted from a motor vehicle accident who had litigation pending. ⋯ Patients with low back pain or neck pain resulting from a motor vehicle accident showed a statistically significant improvement with treatment despite ongoing litigation.