Evaluation of the results of posterior lumbar interbody fusion with carbon fiber cages

We performed a study to provide an evaluation of the posterior lumbar interbody fusion [PLIF] in which carbon fiber cages were used. We evaluated the fusion outcome and the clinical results. In this study, 30 consecutive patients were evaluated. They were operated between April 2003 and January 2005. Clinical outcome was assessed using the Prolo scale. Fusion results were interpreted by the criteria defined by Brantigan and Steffee. The median follow-up period was 18 months. The fusion rate was 89%. Overall, 67% of the patients were satisfied with their outcome and would undergo the same operation again. Based on the results of the Prolo scale, however, in only 39% of the patients, excellent or good results were achieved. 46% of the work-eligible patients resumed their working activity. Clinical outcome and return-to-work status were significantly associated with socioeconomic factors such as preoperative employment [p = 0.03], compensation issues [p = 0.001], and length of preoperative sick leave [p = 0.01]. Radiographically demonstrated fusion was not statistically related to clinical outcome [p = 0.2]. The results show that the procedure is safe and effective. Carbon cage gives better fusion on radiology, but no difference in the clinical outcome. Carbon cage use precludes complications associated with iliac bone harvesting

Effect of aspiration with antibiotic adminstration on the outcome of brain abscess in pediatric age group

In the period from 1997-2000, 20 children were treated for brain abscess at Suez-Canal University Hospital. Age ranged from 6 months-12 years [with the mean of 9 years]. Fifteen cases were males [75%] and five [25%] were females. Of these, 17 [85%] had an ENT infection; 1 [5%] had cyanotic heart disease and the other two were idiopathic. The standardized treatment protocol included aspiration of the abscess and administration of antibiotics and anti-edematous drugs. CT scan with contrast as a diagnostic tool was available for all patients. In 3 [15%] out of these 20 cases, the abscess was excised. Postoperative neurological sequelae were slight, epilepsy frequency was 10% [2 cases] and focal deficit was 5% [one case]. Repeated CT scans demonstrated the progressive disappearance of the capsule within the few weeks [with the mean of 6 weeks]. This study showed an improvement in the results when brain abscesses in children are aspirated rather than excision

Evaluation of the surgical results for lumbar disc in the pediatric and adolescent population.

During the period of July 1997 to July 2000, twenty patients aged 11-18 years were treated surgically for lumbar intervertebral disc herniation at department of neurosurgery Suez-Canal University to determine the difference between pediatric and adult disc aetiology, symptomatology, surgical findings and its results. This study investigated the incidence, history, clinical findings and radiological assessment of these patients with the results of surgical treatment. The main differential aspects of lumber disc disease between pediatrics and adults were emphasized. The surgical results were excellent [95%] after a follow up period of one year with no complications or instability or deformity. It was concluded that lumber discectomy in the pediatric populations was safe in all cases, very successful with excellent prognostic outcome, complete cure and marked improvements. It should be done as soon as the patient diagnosed because no patient got any improvement whatever the length of conservative therapy period