European spine journal : official publication of the European Spine Society, the European Spinal Deformity Society, and the European Section of the Cervical Spine Research Society
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The spinal penetration index (SPI) quantifies the portion of the rib cage occupied by vertebrae. When measured by computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging, SPI can only be determined in the reclining position, which modifies spinal and thoracic morphology. CT results in high radiation exposure. The authors studied rib cage and spinal morphology using low-dose biplanar stereoradiography and their impact on respiratory function in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). ⋯ With little radiation exposure, EOS biplanar stereoradiography permits routine imaging is a functional standing position. Hypokyphotic patients had significantly decreased FEV1 and FVC. SPIm was significantly higher in patients with obstructive syndrome.
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Purpose of the study was to analyze in a retrospective way the clinical and radiographic outcome of three different surgical techniques in patients who underwent anterior cervical fusion. ⋯ As shown by the obtained clinical and radiographic results, the anterior interbody fusion with stand-alone peek cage containing β-tricalcium phosphate could be considered an effective and reliable procedure.
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Surgical management of upper cervical spine (UCS) unstable injuries may be challenging as the number of cases requiring this surgery collected in every single center is small. This retrospective study was conducted to analyze the radiographic and clinical results in 12 patients undergoing a posterior occipito-cervical fusion by a polyaxial screws-rod-plate system. ⋯ Although the indication to occipito-cervical fusion decreased since the new C1-C2 posterior fixation techniques were described, it remains a valid and reliable option in UCS post-traumatic instability to be applied even in emergency especially in the elderly.
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This study aimed to evaluate the effects of surgery on locomotor ability in patients with cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM) and compare the results between elderly and younger patients. ⋯ Decompression surgery can improve locomotor ability and decrease nursing care requirements among elderly patients with CSM. However, other neurological diseases can co-exist in elderly patients, making it difficult to diagnose the origin of locomotor disability. Therefore, detailed peri-operative work-up and timely decompression should be given priority to avoid progression towards fixed locomotor disability.
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To evaluate the outcome of pure percutaneous fixation of unstable single level fractures at the thoraco-lumbar junction (A1 to B2 Magerl/AO Spine). ⋯ When feasible we recommend a pure percutaneous short segment pedicle screw fixation adding a lordorizing screw.