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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Although inflammatory processes play an essential role in painful intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration, the underlying regulatory mechanisms are not well understood. This study was designed to investigate the expression, regulation and importance of specific toll-like receptors (TLRs)--which have been shown to play an essential role e.g. in osteoarthritis--during degenerative disc disease. ⋯ We provide evidence that several TLRs are expressed in human IVD cells, with TLR2 possibly playing the most crucial role. As TLRs mediate catabolic and inflammatory processes, increased levels of TLRs may lead to aggravated disc degeneration, chronic inflammation and pain development. Especially with the identification of more endogenous TLR ligands, targeting these receptors may hold therapeutic promise.
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An initial research indicated that realistic haptic simulators with an adapted training concept are needed to enhance the training for spinal surgery. ⋯ In the context of the present work a precise definition for the simulator and training concept was developed. The additional implementation of sensors allows the objective evaluation of the surgical training by the trainer. Compared to other training simulators and concepts, the high degree of objectivity strengthens the acceptance of the feedback. The measured data of the nerve root tension and the compression of the dura can be used for intraoperative control and a detailed postoperative evaluation.
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To study the oncological and functional outcomes of patients undergoing en bloc tumor excisions and neuroanastomosis for sacral tumors. ⋯ Successful neuroanastomosis of sacral nerve roots does not occur in all patients, but lower limb, bladder and bowel functions can improve with time after the surgery.
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The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between the apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) and lumbar intervertebral disc degeneration using diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (DWI). ⋯ Apparent diffusion coefficient values obtained using DWI can assess lumbar intervertebral disc degeneration, and the ADC values were negatively correlated with the degree of disc degeneration.