Introduction Adult spinal deformities may be caused by progressive degenerative disease, iatrogenic changes, or progression of adolescent curves. It is most commonly seen in patients older than 65 years, which is also the fastest growing population in the United States.…
Introduction Adult spinal deformity is a prevalent pathology with increasing incidence in the aging population. The correction of this pathology requires multilevel fusion, which unfortunately results in frequent revision. Proximal junctional kyphosis (PJK) and proximal junctional failure (PJF) are common…
Introduction Fractures of the subaxial spine are typically caused by high-velocity injuries such as motor vehicle collisions, falls, and high-impact sports. The subaxial spine consists of the cervical vertebra numbered three to seven and is more mobile than the upper…
Introduction The pars interarticularis represents a small piece of bone that connects the facet to the pedicle. Given its small size and location, the pars is prone to fracture from multiple sources. Pars fractures can lead to back pain and…
Introduction The estimated global incidence of spinal cord injury (SCI) is difficult to specify as there is wide variation between regions and discrepancies in reporting. It has been reported, however, that there are around 68 cases of SCI per million…
Introduction Cervical spinal cord injury is a devastating complication most commonly caused by motor vehicle collisions and falls from heights. Upper cervical spinal cord injuries may result in neurogenic shock, respiratory failure, and loss of motor in the upper and…
Introduction Penetrating injuries to the spine are often caused by gunshot wounds (GSWs). Most of the literature supporting the management guidelines of GSWs to the spine stem from military and combat medicine. The overall incidence of civilian GSWs has increased…
Introduction Central cord syndrome was first described by Schneider et al. in 1954 as a syndrome of disproportionate motor weakness of the upper limbs compared with the lower limbs, bladder dysfunction (urinary retention), and variable sensory changes. It is the…
Introduction The thoracolumbar junction is a region of biomechanical transition from the relatively stiff thoracic spine to the more flexible lumbar spine, which makes it susceptible to injury from high-velocity trauma. Fractures of the thoracolumbar junction are associated with an…
Introduction Kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive technique for the treatment of pathological compression fractures and osteoporotic compression fractures of the spine. This procedure represents a valuable treatment option for patients and their families, especially in terms of pain relief and…