Spine
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An anatomic study of sacral inclination, pelvic incidence, pelvic lordosis, and disc degeneration in cadaveric lumbar spines. ⋯ The findings of this study show a relationship between the sacropelvic geometry and the degree of L5-S1 disc degeneration as well as L4-L5 facet degeneration in spondylolytic specimens. This relationship may prove useful in predicting the course of disc degeneration in patients with spondylolysis.
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This is a retrospective review of 49 cases of giant cell tumor (GCT) of the mobile spine treated surgically. ⋯ En bloc resection should be considered for Enneking stage III GCTs of the mobile spine. The choice of en bloc resection must be balanced with the inherent risks of the procedure. Intralesional resection of Enneking stage II tumors provides adequate local control. Patients should be followed for at least 5 years because local relapse can occur late.
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A genetic association study of the tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-2 (TIMP-2) gene with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) in a Chinese population. ⋯ The single-nucleotide polymorphism SNP-418G/C (rs8179090) in the promoter region of the TIMP-2 gene was not associated with the occurrence of AIS. However, it may predict curve severity of thoracic AIS. Hence, the TIMP-2 gene is a disease-modifier gene of thoracic AIS.
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Retrospective study of a prospectively assembled cohort. ⋯ Survival from subsequent spine operation was similar to adolescent idiopathic scoliosis series studied in the same manner. Life survival decline began at 4 years postoperative and was significantly associated with the occurrence of one or more perioperative complications. Even after successful spine deformity surgery, this population's health status is often precarious.
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Epidemiological study using national administrative data. ⋯ Frequency, utilization, and hospital charges of spinal fusion have increased at a higher rate than other notable inpatient procedures, as seen in this study from 1998 to 2008. In addition, patient demographics and hospital characteristics changed significantly; in particular, whereas the average age for spinal fusion increased, the in-hospital mortality rate decreased.