Spine
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A prospective evaluation of the effects of backpack carriage on the pulmonary function of schoolgirls without spinal deformity versus those with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). ⋯ Pulmonary function may be more sensitive to backpack load than previously considered, especially when study participants with AIS are being considered, and the recommended loading limit of 10% body weight may not be applicable to schoolgirls with AIS.
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This study examined the extraosseous and intraosseous anomalies of vertebral arteries in patients who underwent surgery of the craniovertebral junction. ⋯ In patients having osseous anomalies at the craniovertebral junction, the frequency of vertebral artery anomalies at the extraosseous and intraosseous regions is increased. With preoperative three-dimensional computed tomography angiography, we can precisely identify the anomalous vertebral artery and reduce the risk of intraoperative injury to the vertebral artery, in advance.
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Comparative Study
A comparison of pedicle and lateral mass screw construct stiffnesses at the cervicothoracic junction: a biomechanical study.
Biomechanical comparison of five different posterior cervicothoracic junction (C7-T1) fixation constructs in a cadaveric model. ⋯ C7 pedicle screw fixation provides the construct with the highest normalized stiffness for stabilizing the cervicothoracic junction. If C7 pedicle fixation is not possible, then performing two-level lateral mass fixation at C6 and C7 will achieve a construct with similar normalized stiffness except in axial compression. The addition of triple wiring to the spinous processes does not significantly increase lateral mass construct normalized stiffness.
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Retrospective observational study. ⋯ Osteoporotic vertebral fractures with no sign of vertebral collapse on initial radiographs do indeed exist. They are analogous to occult stress fractures well known in other skeletal sites. They must not be misdiagnosed as malignant lesions.
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Case report with review of the literature. ⋯ This is the first report of vertebral artery dissection occurring secondary to traction in cervical spine surgery. Surgeons must be aware that traction, even when performed appropriately, is not without risks. Anomalous vertebral arteries, osteophytes, and numerous other anatomic variants can lead to vertebral injury with traction.