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
-
Wound infection after spine surgery is a debilitating complication. Local placement of vancomycin powder into the surgical wounds prior to closing of the fascia has been introduced as a method to reduce deep infection rates. ⋯ In conclusion, the use of vancomycin reduces the rate of deep wound infections and irrigation and debridement procedures after spine surgery in a referral center among surgeons with a high surgical volume.
-
The aim of this study is to evaluate results of a standalone percutaneous posterior plating of the vertically unstable sacral fractures, to analyze the influencing factors, to discuss encountered complications, and to express the related recommendations. ⋯ Percutaneous 3.5-mm reconstruction plate is a good alternative to percutaneous iliosacral screws in vertically unstable sacral fractures; especially in the presence of contraindication to the latter. It is simple procedure with minimal incisions; short operative time; less radiological exposure; good mechanical stability; and less iatrogenic injuries.
-
Spondylodiscitis is a spinal infection affecting primarily the intervertebral disk and the adjacent vertebral bodies. Currently many aspects of the treatment of pyogenic spondylodiscitis are still a matter of debate. ⋯ There is a strong level of recommendation for 6 weeks of antibiotic treatment in pyogenic spondylodiscitis although this has only been shown by one recent RCT. If surgical treatment is indicated, it has been suggested by two prospective studies with strong level of recommendation that an isolated anterior approach could result in a better clinical outcome.
-
Evidence supporting the use of therapeutic intra-articular facet joint injections for patients with suspected facet joint pain is sparse. A systematic review including a narrative synthesis was carried out to determine if intra-articular facet joint injections with active drug are more effective in reducing back pain and back pain-related disability than a sham procedure or a placebo/inactive injection. Secondly, to determine if intra-articular facet joint injections with active drug or placebo/inactive injection are more effective in reducing back pain and back pain-related disability than conservative treatment. ⋯ The studies found here were clinically diverse and precluded any meta-analysis. A number of methodological issues were identified. The positive results, whilst interpreted with caution, do suggest that there is a need for further high-quality work in this area.
-
To investigate the prevalence of low back pain (LBP) and its absence rate among female university student athletes in different types of sports. ⋯ While most of the existing literatures regarding female athletes' LBP have focused on particular sports with specific low back demands (such as skiing and rowing), many other sports have not been studied very well in this regard. Investigating LBP prevalence and related factors in other types of sports, such as combat sports, badminton and shooting, can help us better understand the prevalence of low back pain and provide us with necessary insight to take effective steps towards its prevention in athletes.