Spine
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The geometric changes of acute thoracolumbar burst fractures under extension and traction loadings were analyzed using functional radiographs. The injuries were produced in an in vitro high-speed impact model. The changes in nine geometric parameters (three angular and six linear) were analyzed from neutral posture to extension and traction positions. ⋯ In the traction position, all nine geometric parameters changed significantly from the neutral posture, whereas only the vertebral diameter remained significantly different from its intact value. These findings demonstrated the treatment advantages of applying traction force to acute burst fractures in contrast to extension moments. Further, changes in the angular parameters due to motion from neutral to extension posture demonstrated that the acute flexibility of the three-vertebrae segment was contributed almost equally by the upper disc (35%), lower disc (27%), and fractured vertebra (38%).
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Since its formation 20 years ago, the International Society for Study of the Lumbar Spine has stimulated basic and clinical research. Because few disorders of the lumbar spine are lethal, our usual goal is to improve the quality of life of our patients by relieving pain and improving function. ⋯ If quality is our goal, we need to be precise in our definition, understand how we measure it, and most importantly, be explicit in how we will improve it. Also, we must understand that our work is being conducted in a shrinking world, where all industrialized nations are profoundly concerned about the costs of health care.
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Ossified spinal meningiomas alone are uncommon lesions and spinal meningiomas en plaque are even more. A rare case is presented of ossified meningioma en plaque in the midthoracic spine, which was totally removed. Characteristics of this tumor with reference to relatively pathognomonic neuroimagings are discussed. Microsurgical outcome of this type of tumor is expected to be good.
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Review Case Reports
Posterior fracture-dislocation of the thoracic spine without neurologic deficit. A case report and short literature review.
The authors present a case of posterior fracture-dislocation of the thoracic spine without neurologic deficit. A 63-year-old man injured by traffic accident. ⋯ At the present time, approximately 1 year after the injuries, the patient does not have any neurologic complaint. Conservative treatment should be adopted as the first choice in patients at older ages and in those with underlying diseases or serious complications.