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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Clinical observation suggests that hip abductor weakness is common in patients with low back pain (LBP). The purpose of this study is to describe and compare the prevalence of hip abductor weakness in a clinical population with chronic non-specific LBP and a matched sample without LBP. ⋯ Gluteus medius weakness and gluteal muscle tenderness are common symptoms in people with chronic non-specific LBP. Future investigations should validate these findings with quantitative measures as well as investigate the effect of gluteus medius strengthening in people with LBP.
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Surgical site infections represent a major complication of spinal surgery. The application of lyophilised vancomycin into the wound is reported to significantly decrease infection rates. As concentrations applied locally can exceed the minimal bacterial inhibitory concentration for more than a 1000-fold, toxic side effects on local tissue may be possible. ⋯ As bone remodelling requires the immigration, proliferation and differentiation of osteoblasts at the fusion site, high dosages of intrawound vancomycin might interfere with regenerative processes and increase the risk of non-union. To allow an appropriate balance of infection risk and the risk of non-union, the minimal local concentration required should be determined by controlled in vivo studies.
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To present a systematic review on ICF used in the Nordic countries from 2001 to 2013, describing and quantifying the development in utilization of ICF, and describe the extent to which the different components of the ICF have been used. ⋯ There was an increase in ICF-relevant papers from 2001 to 2013, especially in the categories 'clinical and/or rehabilitation contexts' and 'non clinical contexts'. The most represented focus areas were neurology, musculoskeletal and work-related areas. All five or at least four ICF components were mentioned in the results or discussions in most papers; activity was most frequently mentioned.
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To investigate the causes of late-onset, progressive neurological deficits in patients with severe angular kyphosis caused by spondylitis secondary to tuberculosis (TB spondylitis). ⋯ In their evaluation of paraplegic patients, spine surgeons should consider the many potential causes of late-onset neurological deficits in TB spondylitis to avoid performing unnecessary surgery. A simpler procedure may yield equivalent results.