Inter- and intraobserver reliability assessment of computed tomographic 3D measurement of pedicles in scoliosis and size matching with pedicle screws.

Background: In patients with scoliosis, the morphology of the pedicles differs from those in normal spines. Preoperative three-dimensional information of these complex anatomic situations means a great advantage for the surgeon in order to assess which pedicles can be instrumented safely avoiding screw misplacement and for the decisions in choosing the appropriate screw size. The objective of this study was to measure pedicle dimensions in scoliotic spines on three-dimensional computed tomographic (CT) scans and to determine the intra- and interobserver reliability of the method.

Restoration and preservation of disc height and segmental lordosis with circumferential lumbar fusion: a retrospective analysis of cage versus bone graft.

Study Design: Retrospective radiographic analysis.

Objective: To determine whether restoration and preservation of (a) disc height and (b) segmental lordosis differ between patients treated with circumferential lumbar fusion using a bone graft or a cage for anterior support.

Summary Of Background Data: Restoration of disc height and lordosis is considered to be of crucial importance in circumferential fusion (CF).

Preoperative proprioceptive training in patients with total knee arthroplasty.

Proprioceptive deficiencies due to osteoarthritis and arthroplasty have been repeatedly reported. Proprioceptive training, which leads to an economisation of movements and supports energy-saving movement patterns, has become popular in athletes, but not in rehabilitation yet. The aim of this randomised phase IIb study was to evaluate whether preoperative proprioceptive training would influence postoperative balance and function in activities of daily life in patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty.

Footprint mismatch in lumbar total disc arthroplasty.

Lumbar disc arthroplasty has become a popular modality for the treatment of degenerative disc disease. The dimensions of the implants are based on early published geometrical measurements of vertebrae; the majority of these were cadaver studies. The fit of the prosthesis in the intervertebral space is of utmost importance.

Inter- and intraobserver reliability assessment of the Cobb angle: manual versus digital measurement tools.

The objective of this study is to determine the intraobserver and interobserver reliability of end vertebra definition and Cobb angle measurement using printed and digital radiographs of 48 patients with scoliosis. The Cobb angle and the end vertebra were assessed by six observers in 48 patients with scoliosis using printed and digital radiographs. Definition of end vertebra and measurement of the Cobb angle was repeated three times with a 3 week interval.