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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Complications of cement-augmented interventions (e.g., kyphoplasty) in the spine include local cement leakage and pulmonary cement embolisms (PCE). This study was conducted to determine their extent in a unique post-mortem cohort. ⋯ The presented data reveal a high frequency of PCE making it a notable finding-especially since not only single but also branch-like embolisms were detected. Thus, it is of great importance that none of the causes of death were related to the impact of PCE. Nevertheless, it is crucial to consider the underlying diseases for increased PCE risk and to apply latest surgical techniques and preventive measures. These slides can be retrieved under Electronic Supplementary material.
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In the evolution of the minimally invasive treatment of vertebral compression fractures, vertebral body stenting (VBS) was developed to reduce intraoperative and secondary loss of vertebral height. Particularly in combination with the usage of biodegradable cement, the influence of VBS on the rate of intraoperative complications and long-term outcome is unclear. The purpose of this study was to investigate the differences between balloon kyphoplasty (BKP) and VBS regarding their long-term clinical and radiological outcome in combination with calcium phosphate (CaP) application instead of polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA). ⋯ Both techniques facilitated good clinical results in combination with absorbable cement augmentation. In particular, the VBS enabled us to benefit from the advantages of the resorbable isothermic CaP cement with an improved radiological outcome in the long term compared to BKP. However, there was a mentionable loss of reduction in the follow-up in both groups compared to previously published data with PMMA cement. These slides can be retrieved under Electronic Supplementary Material.
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This study aimed to investigate the potential mechanism and value of lupeol in inhibiting high-glucose-induced apoptosis in rabbit nucleus pulposus cells (NPCs). ⋯ Lupeol inhibited high-glucose-induced apoptosis in NPCs by enhancing the anti-oxidative stress in the mitochondria. This study suggested lupeol as a potential therapeutic drug for treating intervertebral disc degeneration under hyperglycaemic conditions. These slides can be retrieved under Electronic Supplementary Material.
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Methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA) carriage may confer a significant risk of surgical site infection (SSI) and is common amongst the UK population. Screening for MSSA is not routinely offered to patients in the UK. Primary aim was to review the impact of introducing a MSSA screening programme, in addition to established Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) screening, on the incidence of SSIs following lumbar spine surgery. ⋯ MSSA colonisation is common, although wound infection following lumbar spinal surgery remains a rare event. A screening programme for MSSA can significantly reduce incidence of SSIs in this patient group. These findings may be applicable to wider elective orthopaedic practice. These slides can be retrieved under Electronic Supplementary Material.
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Post-operative infections are relatively common after posterior spine surgery, and there are several observations reflecting different infection complications related to various metals implanted. Here, we selected an array of different bacterial species that are often found in infections associated with orthopaedic implants and tested for inhibition by hydrogen peroxide-treated titanium (Ti-peroxy). ⋯ Our findings suggest that the Ti-peroxy is a promising perioperative antimicrobial strategy that may be highly effective for prevention of post-operative infections. We therefore suggest application of hydrogen peroxide to implants prior to implantation. These slides can be retrieved under Electronic supplementary material.