European spine journal : official publication of the European Spine Society, the European Spinal Deformity Society, and the European Section of the Cervical Spine Research Society
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To determine if the planned sagittal profile for thoracic kyphosis (TK) restoration was achieved after adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) surgery using a novel hybrid construct with apical double bands and precontoured patient-specific rods (PSR) made according to the detailed surgical plan for the desired sagittal plane. ⋯ With sagittal plane planning, desired TK, improved reciprocal changes in LL, and minimal changes in rod shape can be achieved in patients with AIS.
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To describe the incidence of complications associated with cervical spine surgery and post-operative physical therapy (PT), and to identify if the timing of initiation of post-operative PT impacts the incidence rates. ⋯ The most common post-operative complications included new onset cervicalgia, revision and wound infection. Complications rates were not impacted by the timing of initiation of PT whether at 2, 8, or 12 weeks post-operatively.
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Measurement of neck rotation is currently reliant on radiologic imaging. Given the radiation exposure for CT imaging and the additional inconvenience for the patients, an alternative assessment is needed. Goniometers are comfortably to use and easy to access, also for private consulting. The aim of this study was the assessment of whether a handheld goniometer can be used for accurately measuring the rotation of C1-C2. ⋯ The goniometer is exact to impartially determine the percentage contribution of C1-2 rotation to total neck rotation.
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Anterior lumbar spine arthrodesis has been increasingly prescribed. In order to obtain better exposure of the intervertebral discs, it is necessary to identify vascular structures depending on the level to be approached. Systematic ligation of the iliolumbar vein has been suggested for access to the L4-L5 level, which may be technically challenging. The goal of the present study was to determine a safe limit for separating the iliolumbar vein safely without the need for its ligation. ⋯ Systematic ligature is not necessary for accessing the anterior route to the L4-L5 level, leading to a reduction in the time of surgery and avoiding serious vascular injuries that can occur.