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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Prospective evaluation of atlanto-occipital dissociations (AODs) at a level 1 trauma centre within 5 years. ⋯ AOD is a rarely seen injury, even in a level 1 trauma centre, and is associated with high morbidity and mortality. However, it is possible for adults to survive this severe occipito-cervical injury after surgical repair while maintaining the ability to walk. All the results and recommendations are still based on a low level of evidence, due to the low incidence of this injury.
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The morphology of the alar ligaments has been inconsistently described, particularly with regard to the existence of an atlantal portion. Despite these inconsistencies, these descriptions have been used to develop physical tests for the integrity of these ligaments in patients with cervical spine problems. The purpose of this study was to describe the detailed macrostructure of the alar ligaments. ⋯ The absence of findings with respect to the atlantal portion of the alar ligament suggests that it may be considered an anatomical variant, not an essential component for stability of the craniocervical complex. These findings may inform the use and interpretation of clinical tests for alar ligament integrity.
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Comparative Study
A comparative investigation of flexion relaxation phenomenon in healthy and chronic neck pain subjects.
The cervical flexion relaxation phenomenon (FRP) is a neck extensor myoelectric "silence" that occurs during complete cervical and lumbar flexion. In contrast to low back pain, the changes that occur during FRP in chronic neck pain (CNP) patients are still not clear. The aim of this study was to assess the characteristics of this phenomenon in the cervical region in CNP patients and controls. ⋯ The results of the present study indicate that FRP in CNP patients was seen less than the healthy subjects, and moreover the FRP period was reduced in CNP patients. Our results also suggest that the changes in FRP of CNP patients may be due to the increased CES activity in these patients.
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Great care should be taken to minimise damage to the pharynx and upper oesophagus during an anterior approach to the cervical spine. If noticed at the time of surgery primary repair should be carried out; if noticed in the postoperative period, thorough cleaning and placement of a pharyngocutaneous drain will result in spontaneous healing of the majority of fistula. For persistent fistula secondary repair is required using well-vascularised tissue.