Spine
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Comparative Study
Pedicle screw placement in the thoracic spine: a comparison of image-guided and manual techniques in cadavers.
A cadaveric study comparing image guidance technology to fluoroscopic guidance as a means of pedicle screw placement in the thoracic spine, using a unique starting point for screw placement. ⋯ Our study showed no significant differences in the overall exit rates between the two techniques. Image guidance may increase confidence of surgeons with limited experience in thoracic pedicle screw placement. Successful placement of screws within the pedicle varies with the anatomic diameter of the pedicle itself. Concerns regarding accuracy of screw placement should be greatest in the middle thoracic vertebrae (T4-T7), where pedicle diameters are smallest and proximity of the great vessels is nearest.
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A retrospective case control analysis of 48 cases of postoperative infection following spinal procedures. ⋯ Aggressive treatment of patients undergoing complex or prolonged spinal procedures is essential to prevent and treat infections. Understanding a patient's preoperative risk factors may help the physician to optimize a patient's preoperative condition. Additionally, awareness of critical intraoperative parameters will help to optimize surgical treatment. It may be appropriate to increase the duration of prophylactic antibiotics or implement other measures to decrease the incidence of infection for high risk patients.
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Descriptive. ⋯ This is an unusual presentation of an expanding intra-abdominal mass originating from the lumbar spine during pregnancy. It most likely represents rapid growth of a previous unrecognized recurrence of a GCT. Close observation and follow-up CT scanning are imperative to identify and treat GCTs of the spine before rapid growth occurs.
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Comparative Study
Facet tropism and interfacet shape in the thoracolumbar vertebrae: characterization and biomechanical interpretation.
Thoracolumbar facet and interfacet linear dimensions were measured and analyzed. ⋯ Facet tropism is a normal characteristic in humans, yet it varies along the thoracolumbar spine.
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Comparative Study
Centralization: its prognostic value in patients with referred symptoms and sciatica.
Prospective, comparative cohort study. ⋯ Patients with sciatica and suspected disc herniation who have a centralization response to a mechanical evaluation will have significantly better outcomes. Patients who do not have centralization will be 6 times more likely to undergo surgery.