Search results for "spinal cord"
showing 10 items of 302 documents
Effects of electrical stimulation pattern on quadriceps isometric force and fatigue in individuals with spinal cord injury
2015
Introduction Variable frequency trains (VFT) or train combinations have been suggested as useful strategies to offset the rapid fatigue induced by constant frequency trains (CFT) during electrical stimulation. However, most studies have been of short duration with limited functional application in those with spinal cord injury (SCI). We therefore tested force and fatigue in response to VFT, CFT, and combined patterns in strength training-like conditions (6-s contractions). Methods Ten SCI individuals underwent either CFT or VFT patterns until target torque was no longer produced and then switched immediately to the other pattern. Results Target torque was reached more times when VFT was use…
Neurodegenerative changes are prevented by Erythropoietin in the pmn model of motoneuron degeneration
2014
Motoneuron diseases are fatal neurodegenerative disorders characterized by a progressive loss of motoneurons, muscle weakness and premature death. The progressive motor neuronopathy (pmn) mutant mouse has been considered a good model for the autosomal recessive childhood form of spinal muscular atrophy (SMA). Here, we investigated the therapeutic potential of Erythropoietin (Epo) on this mutant mouse. Symptomatic or pre-symptomatic treatment with Epo significantly prolongs lifespan by 84.6% or 87.2% respectively. Epo preserves muscle strength and significantly attenuates behavioural motor deficits of mutant pmn mice. Histological and metabolic changes in the spinal cord evaluated by immunoh…
Surgical nuances on the treatment of giant dumbbell cervical spine schwannomas: description of a challenging case and review of the literature
2016
We report a case of a giant intra and extradural cervical schwannoma in a patient affected by a severe myelo-radiculopathy. Clinical features, diagnosis and the issues concerning the surgical management of this benign tumor are discussed. We also review similar cases previously reported in the literature. A 50-year old caucasian woman was complaining of a 1 year of neck pain and worsening motor impairment in all four limbs causing the inability to walk. Neuroradiological assessment revealed a suspected schwannoma involving the nerve roots from C3 to C5, compressing and deviating the spinal cord. The vertebral artery was also encased within the lesion, but still patent. A posterior cervical …
The laparoscopic implantation of neuroprothesis (LION) procedure to control intractable abdomino-pelvic neuralgia
2011
Objective. To present different aspects and advantages of the laparoscopic implantation of a peripheral nerve stimulator adjacent to the pelvic nerves, aimed at treating intractable pelvic neuralgia by means of neuromodulation - the laparoscopic implantation of neuroprothesis (LION) procedure. Materials and Methods. We report here a series of three patients with different types and etiologies of chronic pelvic neuralgia who underwent laparoscopy for implantation of a peripheral nerve stimulator for neuromodulation, the first for neuromodulation of the ilioinguinal and pudendal nerves, the second for neuromodulation of the sciatic nerve, and the third for neuromodulation of the sacral nerve …
Overview of Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery
2020
Minimally invasive spine surgery (MISS) has continued to evolve over the past few decades, with significant advancements in technology and technical skills. From endonasal cervical approaches to extreme lateral lumbar interbody fusions, MISS has showcased its usefulness across all practice areas of the spine, with unique points of access to avoid pertinent neurovascular structures. Adult spine deformity has also recognized the importance of minimally invasive techniques in its ability to limit complications and to provide adequate sagittal alignment correction and improvements in patients' functional status. Although MISS has continued to make significant progress clinically, consideration …
Spinal Instability and the Issue of Bracing and Bed Rest.
2019
Nearly 20% of cancer patients develop symptomatic spine metastases. Metastatic spine tumors are most commonly extradural tumors that grow quickly and often cause persistent pain, weakness, paresthesias, urinary/bowel dysfunction, and/or paralysis. Surgical intervention aims to achieve more effective pain management, preserve/restore neurological function, provide local tumor control, and stabilize the spinal column. The desired result of treatment is ultimately to improve a patient's quality of life. Neurosurgeons employ multiple decision frameworks and grading scales to assess the need and effectiveness of a variety of surgical interventions ranging from minimally to maximally invasive. Li…
Improved Regeneration of Autologous Nerve Transplants by Means of VEGF-Gene Therapy
2009
The impact of the Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) on the angiogenic cascade is proven. Recently its neuroprotective effect after peripheral nerve injuries on α-motoneurons in the spinal cord was shown. Experiments on α-motoneurons demonstrated a decreased sensitivity to ischemia under VEGF-therapy. Aim of the study was to elucidate the effect of a localized VEGF-gene-therapy using an adenoviral vector construct in the model of a peripheral nerve defect in the rat treated with an autologous nerve transplant.
Best practices, challenges and innovations in pediatrics in 2019
2020
AbstractThis paper runs through key progresses in epidemiology, pathomechanisms and therapy of various diseases in children that were issued in the Italian Journal of Pediatrics at the end of last year. Novel research and documents that explore areas such as allergy, critical care, endocrinology, gastroenterology, infectious diseases, neonatology, neurology, nutrition, and respiratory tract illnesses in children have been reported. These observations will help to control childhood illnesses.
Dorsal Root Ganglion Stimulation for Chronic Postoperative Pain Following Thoracic Surgery: A Pilot Study.
2021
Objectives Post-thoracotomy pain syndrome (PTPS) is defined as persistent pain following a thoracotomy and has an incidence of 21-61%. Dorsal root ganglion stimulation (DRG-S) is a form of neuromodulation that modulates pain signal transmission to the spinal cord. The aims of this study were to investigate the efficacy of DRG-S for the management of PTPS and to assess the role of thoracic paravertebral blocks (t-PVB) as a tool for prediction of success of DRG-S. Materials and methods In this prospective study, we included all patients undergoing thoracic surgery, with PTPS not responding to pharmacotherapy and treated with DRG-S from September 2018 to February 2019. t-PVB followed by a perc…
Unexpected Persistent Dentocentral Synchondrosis of C2.
2017
Background The persistence of synchondrosis in adulthood can confound diagnostic decisions made during patient management. Case Description A 59-year-old woman who presented neck pain, acute headache, and acute cervical myelopathy symptoms after suffering whiplash grade 3 in a car rear-end impact underwent a conventional radiologic study that revealed no fracture and no anatomic spine variations. The magnetic resonance imaging study revealed no spinal cord intensity signal changes, but it showed a persistent (remnant) dentocentral synchondrosis that was undetected in a previous conventional radiographic evaluation. Conclusions The localization and level of the remnant of the dentocentral sy…