Spine
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Retrospective study of seven cases of ossification of ligamentum flavum from two urban hospitals in a Chinese population. ⋯ Ossification of ligamentum flavum is an uncommon cause of myelopathy in the Chinese population. It can present acutely after minor trauma. Posterior decompression, especially with en bloc dissection of laminae, gives satisfactory results.
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A new way to study pain in experimental animals without handling of the animals and based on registration of spontaneous behavior using video recordings. ⋯ The study demonstrates that it is possible to detect changes in spontaneous behavior after experimental disc herniation. However, such changes may only be seen if disc incision and slight mechanical deformation are combined. This is in agreement with previous clinical and experimental observations. The present model allows for convenient assessment of pain in a way that focuses on spontaneous behavior rather than changes in pain thresholds and that reduces the interference of the researcher and environment on the outcome of the assessment.
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The Spine Patient Outcomes Research Trial (SPORT) was designed to assess the relative efficacy and cost-effectiveness of surgical and nonsurgical approaches to the treatment of common conditions associated with low back and leg pain. ⋯ The results of this study will provide high-quality scientific evidence to aid clinical decision-making and improve treatment outcomes for these common, costly, and, in some instances, debilitating conditions.
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A depression screener was used to determine positive responses amongst patients with two disorders commonly treated with surgery. ⋯ A positive depression screener response is strongly associated with poorer functional status and health-related quality of life, as measured by the Short-Form 36-Item Health Survey, among patients with lumbar disc herniation or spinal stenosis, and higher symptom intensity.