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 compare, in a case-control study, clinical characteristics of patients with low back pain (LBP) with and without Modic 1 signal changes on MRI. ⋯ Characteristics of patients with LBP and Modic 1 changes on MRI consist of an inflammatory pain pattern and pain with lumbar extension. Level of evidence 3b.
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The influence of individual factors on patient-reported outcomes is important in the interpretation of disability and treatment effectiveness. The purpose of this study was to assess how physical impairments, psychosocial factors, and life style habits were associated with neck disability based on the Neck Disability Index (NDI), in patients with cervical radiculopathy scheduled for surgery. ⋯ Assessments of physical impairments and psychosocial factors in patients with cervical radiculopathy could improve the description of neck disability and the interpretation of treatment outcomes in longitudinal studies.
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Anterior cervical disectomy and fusion (ACDF) is a highly effective and safe method for spinal cord and cervical root decompression. However, vocal cord paralysis (VCP) remains an important cause of postoperative morbidity. The true incidence and recovery course of postoperative VCP is still uncertain. This study is a report on VCP after ACDF to evaluate the incidence, recovery course, and possible risk factors. ⋯ In our study, only 0.47% documented prolonged postoperative VCP, while most patients recovered within 9 months. However, if symptoms last longer, there could be almost permanent VCP (0.16%). In our study, choking and dysphagia subsided mostly within 6 months, but hoarseness remained. The exposure of the C67 level obviously was a risk factor for postoperative VCP.
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Imaging study of thoracic spine. ⋯ Thoracic spine showed ROM in sagittal plane, despite being considered a stable region. These findings offer useful information in the diagnosis and selection of surgical intervention in thoracic spinal disease.
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The aim of the study was to compare myoelectric manifestation in neck muscle endurance and fatigue characteristics during sub-maximal isometric endurance test in patients with cervical radiculopathy and asymptomatic subjects. An additional aim was to explore associations between primary neck muscle endurance, myoelectric fatigability, and self-rated levels of fatigue, pain and subjective health measurements in patients with cervical radiculopathy. ⋯ NME testing in the primary neck muscles seems to be an important factor to take into consideration in rehabilitation.