Cement Embolism After Kyphoplasty.

Kyphoplasty is used for the treatment of vertebral compression fractures. The procedure involves inflating a balloon at the compression site; then, polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) cement is added into the space created by the balloon, where it polymerizes, achieving stabilization, with possible expansion of the vertebral angle. The process is guided by X-rays. Complications are rare, especially when compared to vertebroplasty, and one rare complication is pulmonary cement embolism (PCE). Although many cases are likely undetected due to a lack of symptoms, symptomatic cases require treatment, as they can sometimes prove fatal. We present a case of a patient who underwent kyphoplasty and later presented with a PCE. The PCE was diagnosed using X-rays and computed tomography (CT).

Spondyloarthropathies That Mimic Ankylosing Spondylitis: A Narrative Review.

Ankylosing spondylitis is the most common type of seronegative inflammatory spondyloarthropathy often presenting with low back or neck pain, stiffness, kyphosis and fractures that are initially missed on presentation; however, there are other spondyloarthropathies that may present similarly making it a challenge to establish the correct diagnosis. Here, we will highlight the similarities and unique features of the epidemiology, pathophysiology, presentation, radiographic findings, and management of seronegative inflammatory and metabolic spondyloarthropathies as they affect the axial skeleton and mimic ankylosing spondylitis. Seronegative inflammatory spondyloarthropathies such as psoriatic arthritis, reactive arthritis, noninflammatory spondyloarthropathies such as diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis, and ochronotic arthritis resulting from alkaptonuria can affect the axial skeleton and present with symptoms similar those of ankylosing spondylitis. These similarities can create a challenge for providers as they attempt to identify a patient's condition. However, there are characteristic radiographic findings and laboratory tests that may help in the differential diagnosis. Axial presentations of seronegative inflammatory, non-inflammatory, and metabolic spondyloarthropathies occur more often than previously thought. Identification of their associated symptoms and radiographic findings are imperative to effectively diagnose and properly manage patients with these diseases.

Isolated distal semitendinosus tendon tear in a collegiate athlete.

Complete distal semitendinosus tendon tears are rare hamstring injuries. They often present with a "pop" followed by delayed pain and swelling. We describe the case of a collegiate athlete with an isolated distal semitendinosus tendon tear diagnosed by MRI and ultrasound after being treated for a stress fracture of the anterior tibial shaft with an intramedullary nail. The tear progressed from partial to complete after 2 weeks of rehabilitation and return to practice. The patient was ultimately successfully treated with semitendinosus tenodesis.