Randomized trial demonstrates that extended-release epidural morphine may provide safe pain control for lumbar surgery patients.

Background: Safe and effective postoperative pain control remains an issue in complex spine surgery. Spinal narcotics have been used for decades but have not become commonplace because of safety or re-dosing concerns. An extended release epidural morphine (EREM) preparation has been used successfully in obstetric, abdominal, thoracic, and extremity surgery done with epidural anesthesia.

Lumbar sagittal contour after posterior interbody fusion: threaded devices alone versus vertical cages plus posterior instrumentation.

Study Design: An observational radiographic study examining lumbar sagittal contour of patients undergoing posterior interbody arthrodesis.

Objectives: To compare operative alterations of lumbar sagittal contour after posterior interbody fusion using threaded interbody devices alone versus vertical cages combined with posterior compression instrumentation.

Summary Of Background Data: Technique-related alterations of lumbar sagittal contour during interbody arthrodesis have received little attention in the spinal literature.

Measurement of thoracic and lumbar fracture kyphosis: evaluation of intraobserver, interobserver, and technique variability.

Study Design: Statistical analysis of various measurement techniques for thoracolumbar burst fracture kyphosis on lateral radiograph.

Objective: To determine the most reliable measurement technique.

Summary Of Background Data: The treatment of thoracic and lumbar burst fractures involves many factors, including the degree of resultant kyphosis.

Segmental stability and compressive strength of posterior lumbar interbody fusion implants.

Study Design: Human cadaveric study on initial segmental stability and compressive strength of posterior lumbar interbody fusion implants.

Objectives: To compare the initial segmental stability and compressive strength of a posterior lumbar interbody fusion construct using a new cortical bone spacer machined from allograft to that of titanium threaded and nonthreaded posterior lumbar interbody fusion cages, tested as stand-alone and with supplemental pedicle screw fixation.

Summary Of Background Data: Cages were introduced to overcome the limitations of conventional allografts.