Spine
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Comparative Study Clinical Trial
Temporary external transpedicular fixation of the lumbosacral spine: a prospective, longitudinal study in 330 patients.
In this study, 330 patients with incapacitating low back pain underwent temporary external transpedicular fixation (TETF) of the lumbosacral spine in a prospective trial. ⋯ In this heterogeneous group of chronic patients with low back pain, TETF of the spine (including a placebo trial) does not appear to be of value in selecting suitable candidates for spinal fusion.
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Population-based, prospective cohort. ⋯ Most new and recurrent LBP episodes are mild. Less than one third of cases resolve annually, and more than 20% recur within 6 months. LBP episodes are more recurrent and persistent in older adults.
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Comparative Study
Long-term results of disc excision for recurrent lumbar disc herniation with or without posterolateral fusion.
A retrospective study assessing the long-term outcomes of repeat surgery for recurrent lumbar disc herniation. ⋯ Repeat surgery for recurrent sciatica is effective in cases of true recurrent disc herniation. Disc excision alone is recommended for managing recurrent disc herniation.
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Comparative Study
The TRP2 allele of COL9A2 is an age-dependent risk factor for the development and severity of intervertebral disc degeneration.
Low back pain (LBP) and sciatica are usually caused by degenerative disc disease (DDD). Although they are common, the etiology of these conditions is poorly understood. A large population case-control study in the Southern Chinese was performed to study genetic risk factors to DDD. ⋯ This largest-ever population study using MRI to define DDD demonstrates for the first time that the Trp2 allele is a significant risk factor for the development and severity of degeneration. The association is age- dependent as it is more prevalent in some age groups than in others. The contrasting Trp allele frequencies between the Finns and the Chinese are the first indication that the genetic risk factors for DDD varies between ethnic groups.
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Comparative Study
The learning curve associated with thoracoscopic spinal instrumentation.
Consecutive case prospective radiographic and medical record review. ⋯ The learning curve associated with thoracoscopic spinal instrumentation appears to be acceptable. Significant differences were noted in operating time and percent curve correction after 28 cases. The complication rates remained stable throughout the surgeon's experience.