Cervical facet force analysis after disc replacement versus fusion.

Background: Cervical total disc replacement was developed to preserve motion and reduce adjacent-level degeneration relative to fusion, yet concerns remain that total disc replacement will lead to altered facet joint loading and long-term facet joint arthrosis. This study is intended to evaluate changes in facet contact force, pressure and surface area at the treated and superior adjacent levels before and after discectomy, disc replacement, and fusion.

Methods: Ten fresh-frozen human cadaveric cervical spines were potted from C2 to C7 with pressure sensors placed into the facet joints of C3-C4 and C4-C5 via slits in the facet capsules.

Prospective analysis of Hemodialysis Reliable Outflow (HeRO) vascular access graft vs. cuffed catheter access in hemodialysis.

The Hemodialysis Reliable Outflow (HeRO) graft was compared to the cuffed catheter in end-stage renal disease patients. All consented patients were evaluated for HeRO graft placement. Eligible patients that did not receive a graft were enrolled in the control group.

A new 3-dimensional method for measuring precision in surgical navigation and methods to optimize navigation accuracy.

Purpose: Description of a novel method for evaluation of pedicle screws in 3 dimensions utilizing O-arm(®) and StealthStation(®) navigation; identifying sources of error, and pearls for more precise screw placement.

Methods: O-arm and StealthStation navigation were utilized to place pedicle screws. Initial and final O-arm scans were performed, and the projected pedicle probe track, projected pedicle screw track, and final screw position were saved for evaluation.

Balamuthia mandrillaris meningoencephalitis associated with solid organ transplantation--review of cases.

We report the first identified transmission of Balamuthia mandrillaris through solid organ transplantation. Kidneys were transplanted from a donor with presumptive diagnosis of autoimmune encephalitis. Shortly after, the recipients developed neurologic symptoms.