Facet-sparing decompression with a minimally invasive flexible microblade shaver: a prospective operative analysis.

Study Design: This is a detailed description of a facet-sparing decompression technique and a prospective observational study of 59 subjects.

Objective: To describe a facet-sparing decompression technique, quantify operative parameters, adverse events, and anatomic changes following decompression with a flexible microblade shaving system.

Summary Of Background Data: Decompression in patients with lumbar spinal stenosis is a common surgical procedure.

Small intestinal submucosa for anular defect closure: long-term response in an in vivo sheep model.

Study Design: After undergoing anulotomy, lumbar intervertebral discs from sheep were treated with small intestinal submucosa (SIS) and assessed functionally at 24 weeks after surgery.

Objective: To determine the efficacy of an SIS-based patch and plug scaffold to facilitate anular defect closure and anular functional recovery after anulotomy and partial discectomy.

Summary Of Background Data: The incidence of reherniation following discectomy remains high and mechanical means of anular closure have met with limited success.

Intramedullary nailing in a tibial shaft fracture with distal articular extension.

Newer-generation intramedullary nails that allow placement of distal locking screws near the end of the nail have helped extend the indications for nailing in different types of tibial fractures.