The spine journal : official journal of the North American Spine Society
-
Fazal A, Yoo A, Bendo JA. Does the presence of the nerve root sedimentation sign on MRI correlate with the operative level in patients undergoing posterior lumbar decompression for lumbar stenosis? Spine J 2013;13:837-42 (in this issue).
-
Posttibial nerve somatosensory evoked potential (PTN-SSEP) often fails to detect individual nerve root dysfunction, whereas dermatomal somatosensory evoked potential (DSSEP) can be difficult to obtain in anesthetized patients. ⋯ SPN-SSEP was a more sensitive measure for intraoperative L4-5 nerve root dysfunction in comparison with PTN-SSEP and SN-SSEP.
-
There is limited literature comparing different functional outcome measures used for cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM). ⋯ Preference-based quality-of-life instruments, such as the EQ-5D, are important measures for studying spinal disorders. Among the various commonly used outcome instruments for CSM, the Oswestry NDI is the most predictive of preference-based QOL.
-
In patients with structural lumbar curves, several studies have shown the advantages of stopping fusion at L3 and saving L4. However, fusing the L4 may still be deemed necessary in a significant number of patients with structural lumbar curves (ie, Lenke types 3 and 6) when fusion levels are selected by using traditional flexibility X-ray (TXR) methods such as supine side bends and traction. ⋯ TrUGA may be an alternative method for selection of fusion levels and may help to save L4 when compared with traditional radiograph methods in surgical treatment of Lenke types 3 and 6 curves.
-
Spinal cord injuries (SCIs) related to cervical spine (C-spine) fractures can cause significant morbidity and mortality. Aggressive treatment often required to manage instability associated with C-spine fractures is complicated and hazardous in the elderly population. ⋯ In this elderly population, neurological recovery was poor and the in-hospital mortality rate was high. The strongest risk factors for mortality were injury level and severity of SCI. Although each case of SCI related to C-spine fractures is different, physicians may be able to use these findings to help better determine the prognosis and guide subsequent treatment.