Spine
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Retrospective study. ⋯ It seems that upper cervical levels are more likely to degenerate and to have more advanced degrees of degeneration than the lower cervical levels. As expected, age correlates with worsening degeneration. The proposed computed tomographic grading system for cervical facet arthrosis seemed to be reliable.
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Retrospective review of prospective database. ⋯ Extension of long fusions to the sacrum resulted in significant and sustained improvements in Oswestry Disability Index and Scoliosis Research Society scores and alignment during 5 years PO compared with baseline. Major surgical complications occurred in 30% and reoperations were performed in 20%, but outcome scores after treatment were similar to those without complications or reoperations.
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Comparative Study
Comparison of in-hospital morbidity and mortality rates between anterior and nonanterior approach procedures for thoracic disc herniation.
Analysis of population-based national hospital discharge data collected for the Nationwide Inpatient Sample. ⋯ Anterior approach procedures for thoracic disc herniation were associated with increased in-hospital morbidity and mortality rates, as well as increased health care burden, compared with nonanterior approach procedures. If thoracic disc herniation can be adequately excised by either approach, a nonanterior approach procedure may be a better option.
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Case Reports
Rationale in the management of 4-level lumbar spondylolyses with or without instability and/or spondylolisthesis.
Case report. ⋯ Success of management of multiple lyses depends on the choice of appropriate treatment for each level separately. Pars block is a good invasive investigation to detect the symptomatic levels in a complex situation.