Factors Associated With the Complexity of Facial Trauma.

INTRODUCTION: Facial fractures have their incidence, etiology, clinical presentation, and features influenced by variables such as economic, cultural, and demographic factors. A large number of these fractures require simple or more complex approaches, and it becomes important to understand their clinical and epidemiological profile and factors associated with the fracture event and surgical indication. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this research is to analyze the clinical and epidemiological profile of surgical fractures and their associations with causal factors such as alcohol consumption, day of the incident, and nonuse of helmet for motorcycle accidents. METHOD: A retrospective study was conducted with collection of data from medical records of patients operated for facial fractures at the Hospital Regional of Cariri, state of Ceara, the Northeast of Brazil. Records from 2012 to 2014 were acquired highlighting sex, age, occupation, etiology, anatomical sites of fractures, and surgeries of varying complexities for single or multiple fractures. The day of the event, report or signs of alcohol consumption, and the use of helmets in motorcycle accidents were named associated factors. RESULTS: As a result the authors had a total of 624 cases of surgical facial fractures. Out of these, 546 (87.5%) were male and the majority of them presented between 20 and 30 years of age (40.5%). It was also observed that as an etiological factor motorcycle accidents led to more cases of surgical facial fractures, with 357 cases (62.1%), followed by physical aggression with 72 cases (12.5%). CONCLUSIONS: It can be concluded that there is a high prevalence of surgical facial fractures in male patients between 20 and 30 years of age, caused by motorcycle accidents, and that there was a strong association between the consumption of alcohol, failure to wear a helmet, and the presence of surgical facial multiple fractures.

Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis without limb weakness: a differential diagnosis of core myopathy?

BACKGROUND: Core myopathies are a clinically and genetically heterogeneous group of congenital myopathies with the common defined histopathological feature of focally reduced oxidative activity on muscle biopsy. It has a low incidence, however, recent articles show broad clinical spectrum, suggesting that the real incidence should be considerably larger than previously described. Due to the important association between scoliosis and paravertebral muscle imbalance, numerous authors study, by biopsy of the spinal rotator muscles, potential changes that may elucidate the etiology of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. CASE PRESENTATION: Two patients have been followed at Spine Group of Department of Orthopedics at Federal University of São Paulo, with an initial diagnosis of idiopathic scoliosis. Both patients had clinical and radiological findings compatible with it. The patients authorized, through the Term of Consent, intraoperative biopsy of muscle multifidus from the apex of the thoracic curve on concave and convex sides. After muscle biopsy was performed a histopathological analysis. As regard to the histopathological features: in both patients were identified, the presence of core structures in extensive areas with reduced oxidative activity running along the muscle fiber. CONCLUSIONS: All patients with 'idiopathic' scoliosis deserve a careful neurological evaluation, even if they have minimal muscle symptoms in the extremities. The frequent occurrence of scoliosis in patients with CORE Myopathies, supports the thesis that the change in the paravertebral muscle fiber must be the underlying pathogenic factor in scoliosis and may help us understand the onset and progression of curves in patients previously diagnosed with idiopathic scoliosis.

OSTEOSYNTHESIS OF A SCAPHOID NECK FRACTURE WITH A CANNULATED COMPRESSION SCREW: EVALUATION OF 52 PATIENTS.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effectiveness of the dorsal fixation technique with a cannulated compression screw (CCS) for transverse scaphoid neck fractures. METHODS: A case series study was carried out with patients treated with a CSS between April 2014 and May 2021. The main outcome was the healing of the fracture, verified by radiographic evaluation that used images of the wrist in anteroposterior, lateral, radial deviation, ulnar deviation and oblique views, obtained in the postoperative period. RESULTS: Fifty-two patients aged between 15 and 65 years were analyzed, of which 43 (83%) were male. Of the 52 patients, 19 (36.53%) had a right-hand injury and 33 (63.46%) had a left-hand injury. Results were excellent in 47 patients (90.38%); good in 4 patients (7.69%), with reduced mobility compared to contralateral and poor in 1 patient (1.92%), with failure of consolidation and breakage of the synthesis material. In 51 cases (99%) there was bone consolidation at the end of six months. CONCLUSION: Osteosynthesis with a cannulated compression screw is a safe, effective and promising method for the treatment of scaphoid neck fractures. Level of Evidence IV, Case Series.

OBJETIVO: Avaliar a eficácia da técnica de fixação dorsal com parafuso canulado de compressão (CCS) para fraturas transversas do colo do escafoide. Métodos: Foi realizado um estudo de série de casos com pacientes tratados com CSS entre abril de 2014 e maio de 2021. O desfecho principal foi a consolidação da fratura, verificada por meio da avaliação radiográfica das imagens do punho em anteroposterior, perfil, desvio radial, desvio ulnar e oblíquo obtidas no pós-operatório. RESULTADOS: Foram analisados 52 pacientes com idade entre 15 e 65 anos, sendo 43 (83%) do sexo masculino. Dos 52 pacientes, 19 (36,53%) tinham lesão na mão direita e 33(63,46%) na mão esquerda. Os resultados foram excelentes em 47 dos pacientes (90,38%); bons em quatro (7,69%), com mobilidade reduzida comparada ao membro contralateral; e ruim em um (1,92%), com falha da consolidação e quebra do material de síntese. Em 51 casos (99%) houve consolidação óssea ao final de seis meses. Conclusão: A osteossíntese com parafuso canulado de compressão é um método seguro, eficaz e promissor para o tratamento das fraturas no colo do escafoide. Nível de Evidência IV, Série de Casos.

Trend of traffic accident mortality rate among motorcyclists in the state of São Paulo, Brazil, from 2015 to 2020.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the trend in motorcyclist mortality rate from traffic accidents in the state of São Paulo, Brazil, from 2015 to 2020. METHODS: This is an ecological time series study with secondary data from the Traffic Accident Management Information System of the State of São Paulo (INFOSIGA), referring to motorcyclists' deaths due to road traffic injuries in the state of São Paulo, Brazil, from 2015 to 2020. The Annual Percent Change was calculated according to the Prais-Winsten regression model, using the Stata 14.0 software. RESULTS: A total of 11,343 deaths of motorcyclists due to road traffic injuries were reported. The highest proportion of deaths occurred among men (88.1%), aged between 18 and 24 years (27.9%), in the two most populous and urbanized regions of the state. The distribution of mortality showed minimal variation in the analyzed period, from 4.22 to 4.42 deaths/100 thousand inhabitants. Among the analyzed sociodemographic variables, the mortality trend of motorcyclists was mostly stationary. CONCLUSION: The analysis of the mortality of motorcyclists due to road traffic injuries in the state of São Paulo showed a stationary trend.

Minimally invasive swine spine surgery training: technical aspects, benefits, and anatomical limitations.

OBJECTIVE: To describe the technical specificities and feasibility of simulation of minimally invasive spine surgery in live pigs, as well as similarities and differences in comparison to surgery in humans. METHODS: A total of 22 Large White class swine models, weighing between 60 and 80kg, were submitted to surgical simulations, performed during theoretical-practical courses for training surgical techniques (microsurgical and endoscopic lumbar decompression; percutaneous pedicular instrumentation; lateral access to the thoracic spine, and anterior and retroperitoneal to the lumbar spine, and management of complications) by 86 spine surgeons. For each surgical technique, porcine anatomy (similarities and differences in relation to human anatomy), access route, and dimensions of the instruments and implants used were evaluated. Thus, the authors describe the feasibility of each operative simulation, as well as suggestions to optimize training. Study results are descriptive, with figures and drawings. RESULTS: Neural decompression surgeries (microsurgeries and endoscopic) and pedicular instrumentation presented higher similarities to surgery on humans. On the other hand, intradiscal procedures had limitations due to the narrow disc space in swines. We were able to simulate situations of surgical trauma in surgical complication scenarios, such as cerebrospinal fluid fistulas and excessive bleeding, with comparable realism to surgery on humans. CONCLUSION: A porcine model for simulation of minimally invasive spinal surgical techniques had similarities with surgery on humans, and is therefore feasible for surgeon training.

Application of 5% Lidocaine Adhesive Patch in Painful Surgical Scars: Clinical Trial.

Objective The present paper aims to evaluate the use of a 5% lidocaine patch to treat neuropathic pain after orthopedic procedures in comparison with therapeutic massage over surgical incisions. Methods This is a prospective, randomized clinical trial with 37 patients who underwent orthopedic surgery from January 2015 to February 2017. The study included subjects aged 13 to 70 years old who underwent foot and ankle orthopedic surgery and presented neuropathic pain or hypersensitivity at the surgical incision site for at least 90 days after the procedure. All patients were assessed for pain (using the visual analog scale [VAS]) and quality of life (with the SF-36 questionnaire) at the beginning of the treatment and after 30, 60, and 90 days. Results Although the treatment improved pain in both groups, subjects using the lidocaine patch presented greater pain reduction over time. There were no statistically significant differences in the SF-36 questionnaire, with no significant evidence regarding functional capacity, physical aspects, vitality, emotional aspects, social aspects, general health condition, and mental health. The great advantage of the patch was the degree of personal satisfaction of the patients, with statistical relevance, probably due to the easy application and psychological effect of a drug therapy. Conclusion Lidocaine patches and massages are effective treatment methods for reducing scar tissue pain, with similar outcomes. The patches improved the degree of patient satisfaction. Level of Evidence 1. Prospective randomized clinical trial.

Osteomuscular symptoms on motorcycles in the city of Rio Branco, Acre, Brazil, West Amazon.

ABSTRACT: Musculoskeletal disorders gradually affect workers in different parts of the world, compromising their occupational health and quality of life. Professionals exposed to these symptoms include the motorcycle taxi driver, whose pain is due to the overuse of the musculoskeletal system and little time to recover it.To identify the prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms in motorcycle taxi drivers in the city of Rio Branco, Acre, Brazil, West Amazon.Cross-sectional study, involving 296 motorcycle taxi drivers in the city of Rio Branco-Acre, Brazil, male, from December 2016 to February 2017. The Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire was used to collect information related to symptoms (pain, discomfort, or numbness) in the last 7 days of work. For the exclusion criteria were, being female; not reside outside the city of Rio Branco, Acre; having less than 3 months of work activity; not be carrying out their work activities at the time of application of the protocol; be limited by clinical or physical issues at the time of application of the protocol. The data obtained in the questionnaire were entered into the Epidata program (Epidata Association, Odense, Denmark) and then transferred to the STATA 10 statistical program (Stata Corp., College Station), for categorization and statistical analysis.The study population is over 36 years old; most reported having a partner and a higher education level. The average daily working hours of the participants were 12 hours, with the majority working over 12 hours daily. Most of the epidemiological variables factors were associated with musculoskeletal pain when the prevalence and prevalence ratio analyzes were performed. Higher prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms in the lumbar region is with 17.9%. In the lower limbs, the most affected joint was the ankle (5.7%), followed by the hip (5.07%) and knee (5.07%), respectively. Insomnia was present in 55.35% and self-reported headache in 49.4% of participants.The musculoskeletal disorders generated by the daily service of motorcycle taxi drivers are directly affecting the quality of life of these professionals.

Transforaminal Endoscopic Lumbar Discectomy: Clinical Outcomes and Complications.

Objective To evaluate the clinical and functional results of transforaminal endoscopic lumbar discectomy. Materials and Methods From August 2015 to January 2017, 101 patients with lumbar disc hernia refractory to clinical treatment underwent endoscopic discectomy. Through clinical evaluation by the Visual Analogue Scale and functional evaluation by the Oswestry Disability Index questionnaire, the patients were analyzed in the preoperative period, the immediate postoperative period, at 1 month, 3 months, 6 months and 1 year after surgery. Results The mean age of the participants was 48.1 years. The most affected disc levels were L4-L5 and L5-S1. A total of 29 patients were treated at 2 disc levels. After 1 month of postoperative follow-up, the mean scores on the questionnaires (VAS and ODI) decreased significantly ( p < 0.001). Conclusion Transforaminal endoscopic Lumbar discectomy has been shown to be a safe, effective and minimally-invasive alternative for the treatment of lumbar disc herniation. The procedure has advantages, such as short hospital stay, surgery performed under local anesthesia and sedation, early return to daily activities, and low rate of complications.

Interobserver Agreement of the Static Methods of Evaluating the Types of Footprint in Runners.

Objective To evaluate the accuracy of interobserver diagnostic methods of the type of footprint among running athletes using three evaluation methods: physical examination, podoscopy, and baropodometry compared with radiographic measurement of Meary angles and calcaneal pitch. Methods This is a cross-sectional study of athletes who practice running. The inclusion criteria were: individuals with minimum age of 18 years and maximum age of 65, male or female, healthy and without comorbidities that interfere with running performance; regular practitioners who run at least twice a week; body mass index between 18.5 and 29.99 Kg/m 2 ; acceptance of the written informed consent form (WICF). The non-inclusion criteria included: presence of previous or active injuries that compromise sports activity; previous foot surgeries; obesity. Forty patients were selected, 29 (72.5%) male and 11 (27.5%) female, whose mean age was 39 years (minimum 19 years and maximum 61 years). The body mass index (BMI) of the 40 patients ranged from 21.00 to 29.99 kg/m 2 (mean 25.48 kg/m 2 with standard deviation of 2.39 kg/m 2 and a median of 25.50 kg/m 2 ). We excluded those with values above 29.99. Running frequency ranged from 2 to 5 times per week (average 3.13 times per week, with standard deviation of 0.79 times per week and median of 3 times per week). Physical examination, podoscopy, and baropodometry were performed, and their evaluation was made by 4 examiners. Additionally, the results were compared with the radiographic classification of the footprint type obtained by measuring the Meary angles and the calcaneal pitch. Results The interobserver agreement of these parameters was verified by the weighted Kappa agreement index, in which we obtained a significant agreement between the participants considering physical examination, podoscopy, and baropodometry, and according to the Kappa index. The agreement was marginal when comparing the results of the three methods with the radiographic angular classification. Conclusion We obtained excellent agreement among observers when considering physical examination, podoscopy, and baropodometry for the diagnosis of the footprint type among runners. However, when comparing the results obtained with the radiographic measurements, the agreement for the diagnosis of footprint type was low.

POSTEROLATERAL ARTHRODESIS AND INTERBODY ARTHRODESIS FOR LUMBAR CANAL STENOSIS.

OBJECTIVES: To compare the clinical outcomes and quality of life of patients surgically treated for lumbar spinal stenosis with decompression and posterolateral fusion, and decompression with interbody fusion. METHODS: The study included 88 patients with lumbar canal stenosis who underwent surgery treatment (decompression and interbody fusion in 36 patients and decompression and posterolateral fusion [PL] in 52 patients). The clinical outcomes were assessed using the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), Roland-Morris (RM) functional disability scale, and visual analog scale (VAS) for pain. These questionnaires were administered preoperatively and 1 month, 6 months, 1 year, and 2 years postoperatively. RESULTS: Eighty-eight patients had surgery 2 years prior. The ODI and RM scale scores showed significant differences in the posterolateral group. In the interbody group, the ODI score showed a significant change only from before to 1 and 2 years after surgery. The VAS score significantly changed only from before to after surgery in the posterolateral group, but in the interbody group, the change was also observed at 1 month and 1 year after surgery. CONCLUSIONS: The two techniques are effective surgical treatment options for lumbar canal stenosis as long as they are well indicated. Level of evidence III, Comparative prospective case-control study.

OBJETIVOS: Comparar os desfechos clínicos e a qualidade de vida dos pacientes tratados cirurgicamente de estenose de coluna lombar por descompressão e fusão posterolateral e por descompressão e fusão intersomática. MÉTODOS: O estudo incluiu 88 pacientes com estenose de canal lombar submetidos a tratamento cirúrgico (descompressão e fusão intersomática em 36 pacientes e descompressão e fusão posterolateral [PL] em 52 pacientes). Os desfechos clínicos foram avaliados pelo Índice de Incapacidade de Oswestry (ODI), Questionário de Incapacidade Roland-Morris (RM) e pela escala visual analógica (VAS) para dor. Esses questionários foram administrados no pré-operatório e 1 mês, Ù¦ meses, 1 ano e 2 anos depois da cirurgia. RESULTADOS: Oitenta e oito pacientes foram operados dois anos antes. Os escores do ODI e do questionário RM mostraram diferenças significantes no grupo posterolateral. No grupo intersomático, o escore do ODI mostrou alteração significante somente antes da cirurgia e 1 e 2 anos depois dela. O escore da VAS mudou significativamente só de antes da cirurgia para depois dela no grupo posterolateral, porém, no grupo intersomático, a alteração foi verificada também 1 mês e 1 ano depois da cirurgia. CONCLUSÕES: As duas técnicas são opções eficazes de tratamento cirúrgico da estenose de canal lombar, desde que sua indicação seja correta. Nível de evidência III, Estudo prospectivo comparativo de caso-controle.

Inflammatory biomarkers in sera of patients with intervertebral disc degeneration.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate intervertebral disc levels of inflammatory factor (interleukin 6) and proteinase activity (cathepsin B) in patients with a degenerative disease and serum levels of interleukin 6, serum cathepsin B activity and hyaluronic acid biomarkers. METHODS: We conducted immunohistochemistry studies of intervertebral discs to analyze interleukin 6 and cathepsin B levels of patients with degenerative disease and spine fracture (Control Group) and to measure hyaluronic acid, interleukin 6 and cathepsin B activity from sera of intervertebral disc degeneration patients, fracture patients, and healthy individuals. RESULTS: Interleukin 6 and cathepsin B seem to be related with physiopathology of intervertebral disc degeneration, since the levels of both were higher in discs of patients with intervertebral disc degeneration. Interleukin 6 and cathepsin B do not represent good biomarkers of degenerative intervertebral disc disease, since the level of such compounds is increased in the plasma of patients with fractures. CONCLUSION: Hyaluronic acid can be a biomarker for intervertebral disc degeneration, because hyaluronic acid levels were higher only in sera of patients with intervertebral disc degeneration.

Bridging versus Nonbridging Dynamic External Fixation of Unstable Distal Radius Fractures in the Elderly with Polytrauma: A Randomized Study.

Background Despite the high prevalence of unstable distal radius fractures (DRFs), there is no consensus regarding the optimal method and treatment timing, especially for elderly patients with multiple associated injuries. Purpose This study aimed to compare the grip strength achieved with two different methods for definitive dynamic external fixation of DRFs in elderly patients with polytrauma operated on within the first 24 hours. Methods In this prospective randomized trial, 35 patients were assigned to undergo definitive external dynamic fixation of DRFs using the nonbridging (group A) or bridging (group B) method. The grip strength, range of motion (ROM), Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (QuickDASH) outcome measure, visual analog scale (VAS) score for pain, and radiographic characteristics were evaluated at 6 and 12 months. Results At 12 months, no significant between-group difference was observed with respect to grip strength. All patients showed results in the third or fourth quartiles. The mean ROMs were 96.94 and 96.38% and the mean QuickDASH scores were 3.53 and 3.85 in groups A and B, respectively. The VAS scores were 1.60 and 1.85 in groups A and B, respectively. The overall complication rates were 13.3 and 15% in groups A and B, respectively. Initial fracture reduction was maintained in 86.67 and 95% of the patients in groups A and B, respectively. Conclusions Both bridging and nonbridging external definitive dynamic fixation proved safe and reliable for the treatment of unstable DRFs in elderly patients with polytrauma. The grip strength results in both groups predicted the restoration of ability in elderly patients to perform activities of daily living independently.

Medicines for managing lower pain in patients with failed back surgery syndrome treated with neuromodulation / Medicamentos para manejo da dor em pacientes com síndrome da falha da cirurgia na coluna tratados com neuromodulação / Medicamentos para el manejo del dolor en pacientes con síndrome de cirugía fallida de columna tratados con neuromodulación

ABSTRACT Objective: To compare the use of drugs to control low back pain in the pre- and postoperative periods among patients with Failed Back Surgery Syndrome (FBSS) undergoing neuromodulation. Methods: Retrospective observational study analyzing the medical records of patients with FBSS who underwent neuromodulation, followed up in an outpatient clinic from 2018 to 2020. The characteristics of the patients were evaluated: the use of medications, quality of life through the results of the Short Form 36 Health Survey Questionnaire (SF-36), and functional capacity using the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) in the pre-surgical and post-surgical periods (06 months, 01 year). The criterion for establishing statistical significance was p≤0.05. Results: 56 patients were evaluated. There was a reduction in the use of pain control drugs after the institution of neuromodulation, including in the opioid class (d=0.81). An improvement was also observed in the ODI scores (p<0.001) and all the SF-36 domains (p<0.02) in the postoperative periods investigated. Conclusion: The data suggest that neuromodulation positively impacted back pain by reducing medication use and improving functional capacity and quality of life. Level of Evidence IV; Retrospective, Observational Study.

Resumo: Objetivo: Comparar o uso de medicamentos para o controle da dor lombar nos períodos pré e pós-operatórios entre pacientes com Síndrome da Falha da Cirurgia na Coluna (FBSS) submetidos à neuromodulação. Métodos: Estudo observacional retrospectivo de análise de prontuários dos pacientes com FBSS submetidos à neuromodulação, acompanhados ambulatorialmente no período de 2018 a 2020. Foram avaliadas as características dos pacientes; o uso de medicamentos; a qualidade de vida através dos resultados do Questionário Short Form 36 Health Survey Questionnaire (SF- 36) e a capacidade funcional utilizando o Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) nos períodos pré-cirúrgico e pós-cirúrgicos (06 meses, 01 ano). O critério para estabelecer significância estatística foi valores de p≤0,05. Resultados: Foram avaliados 56 pacientes. Verificou-se redução do uso de medicamentos para o controle da dor após a instituição da neuromodulação, inclusive na classe dos opioides (d=0,81). Observou-se ainda melhora nos escores do ODI (p<0,001) e de todos os domínios do SF-36 (p<0,02) nos períodos pós-operatórios investigados. Conclusão: Os dados sugerem que a neuromodulação teve impacto positivo na dor de coluna em termos de redução no uso de medicamentos, melhora da capacidade funcional e da qualidade de vida. Nível de Evidência IV; Estudo Retrospectivo, Observacional.

Resumen: Objetivo: Comparar el uso de fármacos para el control de la lumbalgia en el pre y posoperatorio en pacientes con Síndrome de Cirugía Fallida de Columna (FBSS) sometidos a neuromodulación. Métodos: Estudio observacional retrospectivo analizando las historias clínicas de pacientes con FBSS que se sometieron a neuromodulación, seguidos en consulta externa de 2018 a 2020. Se evaluaron las características de los pacientes; el uso de medicamentos; calidad de vida a través de los resultados del Cuestionario Short Form 36 Health Survey Questionnaire (SF-36) y la capacidad funcional mediante el Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) en los períodos prequirúrgico y posquirúrgico (06 meses, 01 año). El criterio para establecer la significación estadística fue p≤0,05. Resultados: se evaluaron 56 pacientes. Hubo una reducción en el uso de medicamentos para el control del dolor después de la institución de la neuromodulación, incluso en la clase de opioides (d = 0,81). También se observó una mejora en las puntuaciones del ODI (p<0,001) y en todos los dominios del SF-36 (p<0,02) en los períodos postoperatorios investigados. Conclusión: Los datos sugieren que la neuromodulación tuvo un impacto positivo en el dolor de espalda en términos de reducción del uso de medicamentos, mejorando la capacidad funcional y la calidad de vida. Nivel de Evidencia IV; Estudio Retrospectivo, Observacional.

Prognostic factors in low back pain individuals undergoing steroid and anaesthetic intra-articular facet joint infiltration: a protocol for a prospective, longitudinal, cohort study.

INTRODUCTION: Lumbar pain of facet origin is a common problem worldwide. For those patients not responding to traditional treatment, one approach may be intra-articular infiltration of corticoid and anaesthetic. However, despite the increasing demand for this procedure, no consensus exists regarding its therapeutic value. The selection of eligible participants may be a determining factor since only those with an inflammatory process will benefit from the use of corticosteroids. This study aims to identify differences in disability, pain and quality of life scores in individuals with and without facet joint inflammation who were diagnosed using MRI. METHOD AND ANALYSIS: This prospective cohort will include individuals older than 18 years with a clinical diagnosis of facet syndrome who underwent intra-articular infiltration. Changes in scores of pain, disability and quality of life questionnaires at 1, 3, 6 and 12 months of follow-up compared with baseline will be analysed. An MRI examination performed before infiltration will help to distinguish between exposed (with inflammation) and non-exposed (non-inflammation) groups with facet syndrome. The primary outcome will be the disability questionnaire (Roland Morris), and the secondary outcomes will be the score questionnaires for pain (Visual Analogue Scale), quality of life (EuroQol Quality of Life Questionnaire) and disability (Oswestry). ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION: The Internal Review Board approved this study, which started only after the approval number (5291417.0.0000.0071) was received. All recruited participants will receive a verbal explanation about the purpose of the study, and their decision to participate will be free and voluntary. All participants enrolled in the study will provide a signed informed consent form including confidentiality terms. The results obtained in this study will be presented at national and international conferences and published in peer-reviewed scientific journals to disseminate the knowledge. TRIALS REGISTRATION NUMBER: NCT03304730; Pre-results.

Influence of lifestyle characteristics and VDR polymorphisms as risk factors for intervertebral disc degeneration: a case-control study.

BACKGROUND: Intervertebral disc degeneration (DD) is an important cause of low back pain and its precise aetiology is not fully understood, being attributed to cumulative environmental, biomechanical and genetic effects. The vitamin D plays a key role in regulation of calcium homeostasis and bone mineralization, exerting its biological activities by binding to a high-affinity receptor (VDR). Polymorphisms in VDR gene were previously associated with DD process, however with conflicting results. Here, we aimed to investigate the influence of lifestyle characteristics and VDR TaqI, BsmI, ApaI and FokI polymorphisms as risk factors for DD process. METHODS: Retrospective case-control study involving 231 participants: 119 with confirmed DD and 112 healthy controls. Genotyping of VDR polymorphisms was performed by PCR-RFLP and real-time PCR using TaqMan methodology. All patients answered a questionnaire regarding lifestyle characteristics, such as educational level, pain localization, smoking habits, engagement of physical activity, postural and load weight at work and familial history of disc degeneration. The variables were compared between groups and adjusted by age and gender. RESULTS: The case group was composed by 52% female and 48% male and the mean age was 40.0 years old, while in the control group 79% was female and 21% male and the mean age was 32.0 years old. Although gender distribution and mean age were different between groups, in the control group all participants were less than 45 years old and there was a prevalence of women in both groups. The factors that could be possibly associated to DD in the Brazilian population studied included smoking habits (26% in cases and 9% in controls, p = 0.003), lack of engagement in physical activity (observed in 77% of cases and 62% of controls, p = 0.018), and loading weight during work routine (58% in cases and 24% in controls, p ≤ 0.001). However, after adjusting by age and gender, only smoking habits remained associated to disc degeneration (p = 0.027). Considering the educational level, 35.2% of cases and 15.6% of controls had only the Elementary School, and 5.5% of DD group and 28.6% of control group had completed College (p = 0.025). In addition, educational level was directly associated to load weight at work (p = 0.012). Regarding VDR polymorphisms, no significant difference in genotype and allele frequencies between groups was observed. The haplotype analysis revealed that the combined wild-type alleles of TaqI, ApaI and FokI polymorphisms-TGT-was observed in a higher frequency in control group (p = 0.039). CONCLUSION: The findings suggested that smoking habits was a risk factor for disc degeneration in the population studied. Single analysis revealed no significant effects of VDR polymorphisms in disc degeneration process, while the combination of wild-type alleles of TaqI, ApaI and FokI polymorphisms, TGT haplotype, decreased the risk of the disease.

Quality of life analysis on patients after arthroplasty or lumbar arthrodesis / Análise da qualidade de vida em pacientes pós artroplastia ou artrodese lombar / Análisis de la calidad de vida en pacientes tras una artroplastia o artrodesis lumbar

ABSTRACT Objective: To perform a retrospective analysis of patients with degenerative disc disease of the lumbar spine undergoing arthrodesis or lumbar arthroplasty in terms of functional capacity and quality of life. Methods: Retrospective observational study analyzing the medical records of patients undergoing arthrodesis or lumbar arthroplasty, followed-up at an outpatient clinic from 2018 to 2020. Patient characteristics were evaluated; the quality of life through the results of the Short Form 36 Health Survey Questionnaire (SF-36) and the functional capacity using the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) in the pre-surgical and post-surgical periods (6 months, 1 and 2 years). The criterion to establish statistical significance was p≤0.05. Results: Sixty-one patients were evaluated. After the surgical interventions, the individuals migrated from the classification of invalid (61.4%-64.6%) to minimal/moderate disability (17.7%-25.6%). There was a decline in ODI scores over time of follow-up (p≤0.001) as well as in SF-36 values (p≤0.001) for all surgical techniques. In this regard, evaluating the difference in means revealed the better performance of lumbar arthroplasty (p≤0.001). Conclusion: The data suggest that lumbar arthroplasty offers greater benefits to patients regarding functional capacity and quality of life. Level of Evidence III; Retrospective, descriptive, observational study.

Resumo: Objetivo: Realizar uma análise retrospectiva de pacientes com doença degenerativa discal da coluna lombar submetidos à artrodese ou artroplastia lombar em termos de capacidade funcional e qualidade de vida. Métodos: Estudo observacional retrospectivo de análise de prontuários dos pacientes submetidos à artrodese ou artroplastia lombar, acompanhados ambulatorialmente no período de 2018 a 2020. Foram avaliadas as características dos pacientes; a qualidade de vida através dos resultados do Questionário Short Form 36 Health Survey Questionnaire (SF-36) e a capacidade funcional utilizando o Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) nos períodos pré-cirúrgico e pós-cirúrgico (06 meses, 01 ano e 02 anos). O critério para estabelecer significância estatística foi valores de p≤0,05. Resultados: Foram avaliados 61 pacientes. Após as intervenções cirúrgicas, os indivíduos migraram da classificação inválido (61,4%-64,6%) para incapacidade mínima/moderada (17,7%-25,6%). Houve declínio nos escores do ODI ao longo do tempo de acompanhamento (p≤0,001) assim como nos valores do SF-36 (p≤0,001) para todas as técnicas cirúrgicas. Nesse quesito, a avaliação da diferença de médias revelou melhor desempenho da artroplastia lombar (p≤0,001). Conclusão: Os dados sugerem que a artroplastia lombar oferece maior benefício para os pacientes em termos de capacidade funcional e de qualidade de vida. Nível de Evidência III; Estudo retrospectivo, descritivo, observacional.

Resumen: Objetivo: Realizar un análisis retrospectivo de pacientes con enfermedad degenerativa del disco de la columna lumbar sometidos a artrodesis o artroplastia lumbar en términos de capacidad funcional y calidad de vida. Métodos: Estudio observacional retrospectivo analizando las historias clínicas de pacientes sometidos a artrodesis o artroplastia lumbar, seguidos en consulta externa desde 2018 hasta 2020. Se evaluaron las características de los pacientes; la calidad de vida a través de los resultados del Cuestionario de Encuesta de Salud Short Form 36 (SF-36) y la capacidad funcional utilizando el Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) en los periodos prequirúrgico y posquirúrgico (06 meses, 01 año y 02 años). El criterio para establecer la significación estadística fue p≤0,05. Resultados: Se evaluaron 61 pacientes. Después de las intervenciones quirúrgicas, los individuos migraron de la clasificación de inválidos (61,4%-64,6%) a invalidez mínima/moderada (17,7%-25,6%). Hubo una disminución en las puntuaciones del ODI a lo largo del tiempo de seguimiento (p≤0,001) así como en los valores del SF-36 (p≤0,001) para todas las técnicas quirúrgicas. En ese sentido, la evaluación de la diferencia de medias reveló un mejor desempeño de la artroplastia lumbar (p≤0,001). Conclusión: Los datos sugieren que la artroplastia lumbar ofrece mayor beneficio a los pacientes en términos de capacidad funcional y calidad de vida. Nivel de Evidencia III; Estudio retrospectivo, descriptivo, observacional.

Osteosynthesis of a scaphoid neck fracture with a cannulated compression screw: evaluation of 52 patients / Osteossíntese de fratura no colo do escafoide com parafuso canulado de compressão: avaliação de 52 pacientes

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of the dorsal fixation technique with a cannulated compression screw (CCS) for transverse scaphoid neck fractures. Methods: A case series study was carried out with patients treated with a CSS between April 2014 and May 2021. The main outcome was the healing of the fracture, verified by radiographic evaluation that used images of the wrist in anteroposterior, lateral, radial deviation, ulnar deviation and oblique views, obtained in the postoperative period. Results: Fifty-two patients aged between 15 and 65 years were analyzed, of which 43 (83%) were male. Of the 52 patients, 19 (36.53%) had a right-hand injury and 33 (63.46%) had a left-hand injury. Results were excellent in 47 patients (90.38%); good in 4 patients (7.69%), with reduced mobility compared to contralateral and poor in 1 patient (1.92%), with failure of consolidation and breakage of the synthesis material. In 51 cases (99%) there was bone consolidation at the end of six months. Conclusion: Osteosynthesis with a cannulated compression screw is a safe, effective and promising method for the treatment of scaphoid neck fractures. Level of Evidence IV, Case Series.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar a eficácia da técnica de fixação dorsal com parafuso canulado de compressão (CCS) para fraturas transversas do colo do escafoide. Métodos: Foi realizado um estudo de série de casos com pacientes tratados com CSS entre abril de 2014 e maio de 2021. O desfecho principal foi a consolidação da fratura, verificada por meio da avaliação radiográfica das imagens do punho em anteroposterior, perfil, desvio radial, desvio ulnar e oblíquo obtidas no pós-operatório. Resultados: Foram analisados 52 pacientes com idade entre 15 e 65 anos, sendo 43 (83%) do sexo masculino. Dos 52 pacientes, 19 (36,53%) tinham lesão na mão direita e 33(63,46%) na mão esquerda. Os resultados foram excelentes em 47 dos pacientes (90,38%); bons em quatro (7,69%), com mobilidade reduzida comparada ao membro contralateral; e ruim em um (1,92%), com falha da consolidação e quebra do material de síntese. Em 51 casos (99%) houve consolidação óssea ao final de seis meses. Conclusão: A osteossíntese com parafuso canulado de compressão é um método seguro, eficaz e promissor para o tratamento das fraturas no colo do escafoide. Nível de Evidência IV, Série de Casos.

Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: surgical treatment and quality of life.

OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this study was to determine the influence of perioperative factors and their impact on clinical and functional outcomes in Brazilian patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). METHODS: We performed a prospective study with 49 consecutive AIS patients who underwent spine fusion and had a minimum 2 year follow-up. Clinical and radiographic data were correlated to SRS-30 scores in order to predict postoperative results. RESULTS: There was a negative association between patient age at the time of surgery and back pain. We also observed higher scores in the "satisfaction" domain in patients who underwent surgery after 15 years of age (p < 0.05). The average SRS-30 "mental health" score was significantly higher in males than in females (p= 0.035). Patients treated with braces had worse results than those who did not use them (p= 0.005). CONCLUSIONS: Posterior spine fusion led to improvement of all domains of the SRS-30 questionnaire. Clinical results were influenced by age, sex and the use of braces prior to surgery. There was no correlation between curve correction and presence of perioperative complications. Level of Evidence IV, Case Series.

OBJETIVO: A finalidade deste estudo foi determinar a influência dos fatores perioperatórios e seu impacto sobre os desfechos clínicos e funcionais em pacientes brasileiros com escoliose idiopática do adolescente (EIA). MÉTODOS: Foi realizado um estudo prospectivo com 49 pacientes consecutivos com EIA submetidos à fusão da coluna vertebral, com seguimento de no mínimo dois anos. Os dados clínicos e radiográficos foram correlacionados com o escore SRS-30 para predizer os resultados pós-operatórios. RESULTADOS: Houve uma associação negativa entre a idade do paciente no momento da cirurgia e dor nas costas. Observamos também escore mais alto no domínio "satisfação" nos pacientes operados depois dos 15 anos de idade (p < 0,05). O escore médio de "saúde mental" do SRS-30 foi significativamente superior em homens com relação às mulheres (p= 0,035). Os pacientes tratados com órteses tiveram resultados piores comparados com aqueles que não usaram (p= 0,005). CONCLUSÃO: Artrodese posterior levou à melhora de todos os domínios do questionário SRS-30. Os resultados clínicos foram influenciados por idade, sexo e uso de órtese antes da cirurgia. Não houve correlação entre a correção da curva e a presença de complicações perioperatórias. Nível de Evidência IV, Série de Casos.

ANALYSIS OF THE PATTERN AND MECHANISM OF ELBOW INJURIES RELATED TO ARMBAR-TYPE ARMLOCKS IN JIU-JITSU FIGHTERS.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to analyze elbow injuries and their probable mechanism in Jiu-Jitsu fighters resulting from the armbar-type armlock. METHODS: We evaluated 5 high-performance Jiu-Jitsu fighters from the Gracie Elite gym who were injured during a tournament. All were healthy males with a mean age of 28.8 years. The right arm was involved in three patients (60%). The athletes were followed for approximately 4.6 months, and pain was present in all cases. Clinical examination of the elbow was performed immediately after the injury and when magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was performed. The radiography showed no changes. Clinical examination detected specific tender points on the medial and anterior topography of the elbows, but no ligamentous instability of the elbow was seen during dynamic testing. RESULTS: The main MRI findings were injury to the common flexor tendon and the ulnar collateral ligament, bone contusion of the distal humerus and olecranon, and joint effusion. CONCLUSION: The main pattern of injury indicated by the MRI in the athletes was injury to the medial elbow complex. The primary mechanism that determined the injury was most likely elbow hyperextension applied with the forearm in neutral position of forearm. Level of Evidence IV, Case Series.

OBJETIVO: Demonstrar os resultados da análise das lesões do cotovelo e seu provável mecanismo em cinco atletas lutadores de jiu-jítsu decorrentes da chave de braço do tipo armlock. MÉTODOS: Foram avaliados cinco lutadores de jiu-jítsu da academia Gracie Elite, de alto rendimento esportivo, que sofreram lesão durante a realização de um campeonato dessa modalidade. Todos eram do sexo masculino, com média de idade 28,8 anos, hígidos que sofreram lesão durante a participação nesse torneio. O braço direito foi acometido em três pacientes (60%). O seguimento dos atletas foi, em média, de 4,6 meses, sendo que a queixa de dor estava presente em todos os casos. O exame clínico da região do cotovelo foi realizado imediatamente após a ocorrência da lesão e no momento da realização do exame de ressonância magnética (RM). O exame radiográfico não demonstrou alterações. Durante o exame clínico, foram detectados pontos dolorosos específicos na topografia medial e anterior dos cotovelos examinados, na qual não se observaram instabilidades ligamentares do cotovelo durante os testes dinâmicos. RESULTADOS: Os principais achados da RM foram: lesão do tendão comum dos músculos flexores e do ligamento colateral ulnar, contusão óssea na porção distal do úmero e do olécrano e derrame articular. CONCLUSÃO: O principal padrão de lesão reconhecido pela RM nos atletas estudados foi a lesão do complexo medial do cotovelo. Sugerimos que o mecanismo primário que determinou as lesões foi a hiperextensão do cotovelo aplicada com a posição neutra do antebraço. Nível de Evidência IV, Série de Casos.

Vascular endothelial growth factor gene variations as a risk predictor in disc degeneration.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the frequency of polymorphisms in the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) gene, as well as to identify a potential risk haplotype among the polymorphic regions in this gene in patients with disc degeneration and in the Control Group. METHODS: This study analyzed a total of 217 individuals distributed into the Disc Degeneration and Control Groups. Peripheral blood was collected from all patients to detect VEGF gene polymorphisms identified by qPCR (rs699947, rs1570360, rs2010963, rs833061 and rs3025039). All patients presenting disc degeneration had the confirmation by nuclear magnetic resonance test and were rated according to disc degeneration level. RESULTS: All polymorphisms were in Hardy- Weinberg equilibrium (p>0.05) in the studied population. The genotypic frequency for Disc Degeneration and Control Group were rs699947 p = 0.475, rs1570360 p = 0.862, rs2010963 p = 0.823, rs833061 p=0.596 and rs3025039 p=0.230. In haplotype analysis, the compositions CAGGC (p=0.094) and CCGGC (p=0.054) stood out. CONCLUSION: The correlation between VEGF gene polymorphism as a risk predictor for disc degeneration was negative in the studied population. However, the VEGF gene has a large polymorphic region, and it is activated by various catabolic and metabolic factors in the disc degeneration process, which has not been fully elucidated.