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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A cross-sectional age- and sex-matched study comparing the prevalence and size of dural ectasia in two groups of patients with Marfan syndrome. Group I comprised patients with moderate to severe back pain and Group II comprised patients without back pain. ⋯ The presence and size of dural ectasia are associated with back pain in the Marfan syndrome. However, a high prevalence of dural ectasia (41%) exists even in patients with Marfan syndrome without back pain. The mere presence of dural ectasia therefore does not necessarily mean the patient will be symptomatic even though the two are associated.
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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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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.