Spine
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The diagnostic information achieved by a combination of ultrasonographic imaging of discs and local bony vibration of lumbar vertebrae was compared to that obtained by discographic imaging and pain provocation. ⋯ The combination of the two noninvasive methods provides a useful screening test for the evaluation of low back pain. The combination test can accurately depict painful disc degeneration with internal disc rupture and the use of discography can be limited to the cases suggesting total anular rupture in ultrasound examination.
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This study evaluated the preconditions for exact axial rotation measurement and the possibility for other parameters to measure axial rotation and mechanical torsion. ⋯ The sagittal axial rotation measurement method of Aaro and Dahlborn is superior to other techniques of measurement. It can be improved considerably if computed tomography scans fulfill certain quality criteria.
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Axial traction to correct spinal deformity is a very old concept. The oldest reference available is in ancient Hindu mythological epics (written between 3500 BC and 1800 BC) where it is mentioned how Lord Krishna corrected the hunchback of one of his devotees. Later, Hippocrates (460 BC to 377 BC) described certain devices. ⋯ Controlled axial traction has been the keystone of several modern procedures such as Cotrel traction, Halo traction, and Harrington Outrigger instrumentation, etc. It appears that the primitive ways of application of axial traction by crude methods did not totally vanish but have been modified. In Indian tribal areas, bone setters still practice it in modified form.
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This case report illustrates a patient presenting with sciatica and diagnosed with epithelioid sarcoma involving the spine. ⋯ Spinal epithelioid sarcoma can be mistaken for a benign inflammatory process. After a histologic diagnosis, aggressive wide resection is necessary. Multiple recurrences are documented with this tumor in other sites. Prognosis in trunk involvement is less favorable than involvement of the extremities. The role of adjuvant radio- and chemotherapy is unclear for spinal involvement.
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The present study evaluated the anterior sacral foramen using plain radiographs and projected the positions of S1-S3 anterior sacral foramen and corresponding nerve root groove on the posterior aspect of the sacrum. ⋯ The outlet projection is the most useful view in plain radiographs for the evaluation of sacral foramens and pedicles. Quantitative data of the anterior sacral foramen's anatomic position on the dorsal aspect of the sacrum may be helpful in the sacral pedicle screw placement.