Spine
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Randomized Controlled Trial Clinical Trial
Can exercise therapy improve the outcome of microdiscectomy?
A prospective randomized controlled trial of exercise therapy in patients who underwent microdiscectomy for prolapsed lumbar intervertebral disc. Results of a pilot study are presented. ⋯ A 4-week postoperative exercise program can improve pain, disability, and spinal function inpatients who undergo microdiscectomy. [Key words: electromyogram median frequency, exercise therapy, intervertebral disc prolapse, microdiscectomy, randomized controlled trial, spinal function.
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Meta Analysis
Cauda equina syndrome secondary to lumbar disc herniation: a meta-analysis of surgical outcomes.
A meta-analysis of surgical outcomes of cauda equina syndrome secondary to lumbar disc herniation. ⋯ There was a significant advantage to treating patients within 48 hours versus more than 48 hours after the onset of cauda equina syndrome. A significant improvement in sensory and motor deficits as well as urinary and rectal function occurred in patients who underwent decompression within 48 hours versus after 48 hours.
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An experimental model to assess radiation exposure during lumbar pedicle screw insertion. ⋯ The source-superior position is the preferred position for pedicle screw screening if a working space is required. Patient exposure is minimized, and surgeon dose is well within current recommendations.
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Randomized Controlled Trial Comparative Study Clinical Trial
Treatment of acute low back pain with the COX-2-selective anti-inflammatory drug nimesulide: results of a randomized, double-blind comparative trial versus ibuprofen.
A prospective, randomized double-blind comparative trial. ⋯ The results confirmed that the COX-2-selective inhibitor nimesulide is an effective and well-tolerated agent for use in general practices to treat acute low back pain. The incidence of gastrointestinal side effects seems to be lower with nimesulide than with ibuprofen.
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Comparative Study Clinical Trial
Prospective study of surgical treatment of degenerative spondylolisthesis: comparison between decompression alone and decompression with graf system stabilization.
A prospective study of patients with degenerative spondylolisthesis who underwent decompression of the spine, with and without stabilization using the Graf system. ⋯ Although lumbar Graf stabilization had no effect in preventing the recurrence of leg symptoms, there was a significant effect on reduction of low back pain at the 1- and 3-year follow-ups.