Publications by authors named "O Kenechi Nwawka"

Purpose: Historically, infraclavicular brachial plexus injuries (IBPIs) were considered neuropraxic injuries that would improve with nonsurgical intervention. However, more recent studies suggest that these injuries may benefit from surgical intervention. The aims of this retrospective study were to (1) describe injury patterns and associated injuries of isolated, traumatic IBPIs, (2) evaluate the concordance of preoperative ultrasound and magnetic resonance neurography with surgical findings of patients who underwent surgical intervention for IBPIs, and (3) describe outcomes of surgical intervention for these injuries.

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Zero echo time (ZTE) imaging is a relatively new magnetic resonance (MR) pulse sequence that provides bone-soft tissue contrast similar to that of computed tomography (CT). We sought to (1) determine the accuracy of ZTE MRI for the diagnosis of common ankle fractures and (2) investigate whether ZTE imaging sequences are equivalent to the gold standard of CT for the characterization of fracture fragments. We conducted a prospective case series of 54 patients with acute ankle trauma, in whom ZTE MRI was performed, followed by surgical reduction.

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Background: The relationship between self-reported symptoms and the severity of patellar tendon abnormality (PTA) as seen on magnetic resonance imaging and ultrasound is unclear, but biomechanical testing may resolve this.

Purpose: To (1) compare land-jump limb biomechanics between pre- and postseason timepoints, (2) assess whether seasonal changes in biomechanics are associated with seasonal changes in PTA and symptom severity, and (3) explore models that identify seasonal changes in PTA and symptoms with seasonal changes in biomechanics in collegiate basketball players.

Study Design: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 2.

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Article Synopsis
  • Foot and ankle disorders are frequent during pregnancy due to changes in weight, hormones, and fluid balance, leading to issues like varicose veins, DVT, and tendon injuries.* -
  • Ultrasound is highlighted as a safe and non-invasive diagnostic tool, particularly effective for assessing venous conditions and differentiating causes of edema; it provides real-time imaging without radiation.* -
  • The technology also aids in diagnosing musculoskeletal problems and detecting foreign bodies, making it a cost-effective and accessible option for improving patient outcomes in pregnant women.*
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Article Synopsis
  • The study aimed to clarify the management of ulnar neuropathy, particularly for patients with mild-to-moderate cubital tunnel syndrome (CuTS), as there are currently no consensus guidelines for treatment.
  • It reviewed 73 patients evaluated between March 2016 and July 2022, examining factors like demographics, symptoms, and diagnostic findings to determine predictors for surgical intervention.
  • Results indicated that patients with certain electrodiagnostic findings had significantly higher chances of undergoing surgery, suggesting these tests can help identify those who might benefit from surgical treatment.
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