Neurosurg Focus
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Osteoid osteomas and osteoblastomas are rare primary bone tumors that usually do not arise in the spine. In this report the authors analyze 16 cases of osteoid osteoma or osteoblastoma of the spine that were surgically treated over a 27-year period. ⋯ With the help of modern imaging modalities that aid in diagnosis and surgical planning, a complete removal and cure may be achieved for most of these rare tumors.
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Tumors involving the cervicothoracic junction can have a high propensity for causing instability, with kyphosis and spinal cord compression resulting. Treatment with decompression only can lead to further instability and worsening neurological status. In this article, the authors review their surgical experience in the treatment of 19 patients with tumors involving the cervicothoracic junction. The various approaches and instrumentation techniques involved in decompression and stabilization of the cervicothoracic junction are also reviewed. ⋯ Familiarity with complex instrumentation techniques and various surgical approaches to the cervicothoracic junction will be required for effective treatment of tumors causing instability of this region.
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Iatrogenic loss of lordosis is now frequently recognized as a complication following placement of thoracolumbar instrumentation, especially with distraction instrumentation. Flat-back syndrome is characterized by forward inclination of the trunk, inability to stand upright, and back pain. ⋯ Surgical treatment described in the literature includes opening (Smith-Petersen) osteotomy, polysegmental osteotomy, and closing wedge osteotomy. The authors will review the literature, cause, clinical presentation, prevention, and surgical management of flat-back syndrome.
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Surgical treatment for symptomatic cervical and lumbar spondylosis has become prevalent in recent years. With this increased intervention, increasing numbers of patients experience persistent symptoms and require revision spinal surgery. Although many aspects of the workup and operation are similar for both primary and revision surgery, there are special considerations that must be examined when determining if a patient is a candidate for revision surgery. ⋯ Intraoperatively, scar tissue may complicate the procedure, and care must be taken to avoid incidental durotomy. The prognosis for a revision surgery can be predicted best by the patient's outcome after the primary surgery. As with any surgical procedure, patient selection is imperative for successful outcome.