The use of a second biopsy from the gastric body for the detection of Helicobacter pylori using rapid urease test.

Introduction: The use of an additional biopsy from the gastric body may help improve the detection of Helicobacter pylori during endoscopy. This study aimed to determine whether such an additional biopsy is necessary in routine rapid urease test (RUT), and whether acid suppression and antibiotic therapy affect RUT results.

Methods: Patients recruited had two gastric mucosal biopsies taken - one from the gastric antrum and the other from the gastric body.

Is hybrid surgery of the cervical spine a good balance between fusion and arthroplasty? Pilot results from a single surgeon series.

Purpose: Few studies have investigated the role of hybrid surgery (HS) that incorporates anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) and artificial disc replacement (ADR) techniques. To our knowledge, this is the first study that provides a direct comparison of all three groups in terms of intra-operative parameters and outcomes with a minimum follow-up of 2 years.

Methods: Seven consecutive patients who underwent HS were matched with another seven patients who underwent ACDF and ADR based on levels of surgery.