Sequential Anterior Longitudinal Ligament Release With Expandable Spacers for Lordosis Correction in Anterior-to-Psoas Lumbar Interbody Fusion: A Radiographic and Biomechanical Study.

Background: Anterior column realignment is an attractive minimally invasive treatment for sagittal imbalance. Expandable spacers offer controlled tensioning of the anterior longitudinal ligament (ALL) during release, which could optimize correction and anterior column stability. This study investigated the biomechanical and radiographic effects of single-level anterior-to-psoas lumbar interbody fusion (ATP-LIF) with expandable spacers and sequential ALL release.

Biomechanical comparison of a novel C1 posterior U-construct with four other techniques in a C1-C2 fixation model.

Background: Compare the biomechanical stability of a novel "U" posterior cervical fixation construct to four other posterior cervical atlantoaxial fixation constructs.

Methods: Eight fresh frozen human cadaver spines were tested after a simulated odontoid fracture, and following stabilization with each construct.

Results: All constructs significantly decreased flexion-extension and axial rotation compared to the destabilized spine.

Accuracy of radiographic determination of the posterior femoral wall integrity in anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction.

Objective: To evaluate the accuracy of radiographs in determining integrity of the posterior femoral cortex following ACL reconstruction.

Methods: Fifty adult volunteers undergoing primary arthroscopic transtibial ACL reconstructions were prospectively enrolled into this study. Plain radiographs and fine-cut CT of the operative knee were obtained post-operatively.

Outcomes Following Multilevel Cervical Disc Arthroplasty in the Young Active Population.

Background: Cervical radiculopathy is a common disorder that portends significant morbidity. The presence of radiculopathy can have a debilitating effect on patients as well as a significant economic impact. Active duty military patients with increased physical occupational demands can be significantly impacted by cervical disease.

Use of an Irrigation Pump System in Arthroscopic Procedures.

Since its inception, arthroscopic surgery has become widely adopted among orthopedic surgeons. It is therefore important to have an understanding of the basic principles of arthroscopy. Compared with open techniques, arthroscopic procedures are associated with smaller incisions, less structural damage, improved intra-articular visualization, less pain in the immediate postoperative period, and faster recovery for patients.

Coronal Spinal Balance in Adult Spine Deformity Patients With Long Spinal Fusions: A Minimum 2- to 5-Year Follow-up Study.

Study Design: This study was a retrospective one.

Objective: The objective of the study was to analyze the causes, prevalence of, and risk factors for coronal decompensation in long adult lumbar spinal instrumentation and fusion (from thoracic or upper lumbar spine) to L5 or S1.

Summary Of Background Data: Coronal and sagittal decompensation after long fusions for spinal deformities can affect outcomes negatively.

Patient-based and surgical characteristics associated with the acute development of deep venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism after spine surgery.

Study Design: Retrospective analysis of a prospectively collected data set.

Objective: Identify the incidence of, and risk factors for, deep venous thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE) after spine surgery.

Summary Of Background Data: Determination of ideal candidates for chemoprophylaxis after spine surgery is limited by the state of the literature, including incomplete understanding regarding the incidence of DVT and PE, as well as an inability to quantify specific risk factors among patients.

Analysis of the mechanical properties of locking plates with and without screw hole inserts.

The purpose of this study was to determine if the use of screw hole inserts in empty locking screw holes improves the strength and failure characteristics of locking plates. Twenty 5-hole 1/3 tubular locking plates (Synthes, Paoli, Pennsylvania) were mounted on an oak dowel with a 1-cm gap simulating a fracture with comminution and bone loss. Ten of the 1/3 tubular plates had a screw hole insert placed in the center hole (centered over the simulated fracture), while 10 of the 1/3 tubular plates remained empty in the center hole.