Spine
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Comparative Study
Use of sensory-evoked potentials recorded from the human occiput for intraoperative physiologic monitoring of the spinal cord.
This is a report of a prospective case series. ⋯ Evoked responses can be reliably recorded from over the occiput and show characteristics independent of the classical somatosensory-evoked potential. These responses are very similar to the cerebellar-evoked potential recently characterized in animals and may provide a method for assessing the physiologic integrity of the ventral tracts of the spinal cord in humans.
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Quantitative magnetic resonance imaging (relaxation time and proton density measurements) has gained increasing interest as a noninvasive way to study changes in water content and biochemical composition of lumbar intervertebral discs and vertebral bodies. This article reviews the current methodological problems and the feasibility of quantitative magnetic resonance imaging in the lumbar spine for investigations on water content and biological composition. This technique does not allow direct quantification of water content. Although biochemical variations may sensitively influence relaxation times and proton density under in vitro conditions, it is not feasible to obtain sufficiently reliable and specific information to monitor biochemical alterations associated with lumbar disc pathology in vivo.
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Mechanical testing of the spine can be carried out in either a load-controlled or a displacement-controlled manner. Each method requires certain assumptions and offers different advantages. ⋯ Thomas Edwards believes that displacement-controlled testing most accurately reflects the in vivo environment, while Drs. Vijay Goel, David Wilder, and Malcolm Pope support the use of the load-controlled method as most logical and easily standardized.
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This study analyzed anatomic parameters between the midpoint of cervical vertebral lateral masses as seen on the superficial, posterior aspect of the mass and cervical nerve roots. Posterior cervical dissection was performed, with the midpoint of the lateral masses kept intact and the nerve roots exposed. ⋯ This study demonstrates that the posterior midpoint of the lateral mass is a safe point for initiating screw insertion.
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The purpose of this presentation is to acknowledge the pioneering work of a key historical figure who contributed to the available knowledge in anatomy and biomechanics, developed political and social infrastructure to promote the maturation and standardization of chiropractic education, and influenced a paradigmatic shift away from a monocausal belief in the origin of disease. Literature search and archives retrieval were used. ⋯ Evidence shows that Janse took bold initiatives to influence the chiropractic profession and give it the opportunity to develop as a legitimate healthcare discipline. Janse was a visionary clinical scientist and educator whose 38-year tenure as president of a chiropractic college enabled him to influence the course and development of his profession.