Basilar invagination associated with chiari malformation type I: A literature review

Basilar invagination (BI) and Chiari malformation type I (CM-I) are very important anomalies that introduce instability and compression in the occipitocervical transition region and have complex clinical characteristics. These anomalies vary according to the affected structures. The present study revises current knowledge regarding the anatomy, anatomo-physiology, clinical manifestations, and radiological findings of these entities and the associated surgical treatment approaches. A bibliographic survey was performed through a search in the Medline, PubMed, SciELO, Science and LILACS databases. When associated, these craniovertebral malformations result in neurological deficits due to neural parenchyma compression; however, the presence of microtraumas due to repetitive lesions caused by the bulb and cervical marrow instability has been highlighted as a determinant dysfunction. Surgical treatment is controversial and has many technical variations. Surgery is also challenging due to the complex anatomical characteristics and biomechanics of this region. Nevertheless, advances have been achieved in our understanding of related mechanisms, and compression and atlantoaxial instability are considered key elements when selecting the surgical approach.

Effect of generalized ligamentous hyperlaxity related of quality of life in the foot: a case controlled study

SUMMARY Generalized ligamentous hyperlaxity (GLH) has been shown to predispose an individual to a number of orthopaedic conditions. Little is known about how GLH affects people' foot health-related quality of life. This study analyses a sample of people with GLH and people without GLH with normalised reference values of the scores collected with regard to using the Foot Health Status Questionnaire (FSHQ). A total of 100 respondents with mean age of 22.69 ± 3.78 years old, who attended a health centre were classified as GLH (n = 50) or non-GLH (n = 50). The GLH was determined of the patients with and without GLH using assessment with Beighton tool and the scores on the FHSQ were compared. The control group recorded higher scores in the First Section for foot pain, foot function and general foot health, and lower scores in footwear. In the Second Section, they obtained higher scores in social capacity and lower scores in physical activity, vigour and general health. Differences between the two groups were evaluated through a t-test for independent samples, showing statistical significance (P<0.001). This study has detected measurable differences of association between GLH (Beighton score ≥4) with impaired quality of life related to foot health.

RESUMO A hiperlaxia ligamentosa generalizada (HLG) demonstrou predispor um indivíduo a várias condições ortopédicas. Pouco se sabe sobre como a HLG afeta a qualidade de vida relacionada à saúde do pé das pessoas. Este estudo analisa uma amostra de pessoas com HLG e pessoas sem HLG com valores de referência normalizados das pontuações coletadas no que diz respeito ao Foot Health Status Questionnaire (FSHQ). Um total de 100 informantes com média de idade de 22,69 ± 3,78 anos que eram atendidos em um centro de saúde foi classificado como HLG (n = 50) ou não HLG (n = 50). A HLG foi determinada com os pacientes com e sem HLG usando a ferramenta Beighton e os escores na FHSQ foram comparados. O grupo de controle registrou pontuações mais altas na primeira seção para a dor no pé, função do pé e saúde geral do pé, e menores pontuações no calçado. Na segunda seção obtiveram maiores escores em capacidade social e menores escores em atividade física, vigor e saúde geral. As diferenças entre os dois grupos foram avaliadas por meio de um teste t para amostras independentes, mostrando significância estatística (P<0,001). Este estudo detectou diferenças mensuráveis de associação entre HLG (pontuação de Beighton≥4) com deterioração da qualidade de vida relacionada à saúde dos pés.

Principios biomecánicos en inestabilidad crónica posterolateral de rodilla / Biomechanical principles of chronic posterolateral knee instability

La inestabilidad crónica posterolateral de rodilla continúa siendo un tema desafiante desde la evaluación clínica hasta la resolución definitiva. La comprensión de la anatomía, biomecánica articular y las adaptaciones evolutivas de la rodilla para su complejo funcionamiento, son esenciales para el razonamiento diagnóstico y terapéutico de esas lesiones.

Chronic posterolateral knee instability continues to be a challenging issue from clinical evaluation to final resolution. The understanding of anatomy, joint biomechanics and evolutionary adaptations of the knee for its complex functioning are essential for the diagnostic and therapeutic reasoning of these injuries.

Idiopathic Musculoskeletal Pain in Indian children-Prevalence and Impact on Daily Routine / Prevalência e impacto nas atividades diárias da dor musculoesquelética idiopática em crianças da Índia

ABSTRACT Objectives: To study the prevalence of idiopathic musculoskeletal pain (IMSP) in school going children and its impact on daily life. Methods: One thousand eighteen apparently healthy school children aged 5–16 years were assessed and analysed for IMSP and its associated problems. Standard tests for significance were applied. Results: One hundred and sixty-five (16.2%) children mostly males (55.2%) reported IMSP. Lower limbs (52.1%) were the most common location of pain. More than 1 year of pain history was present in 15%. Thirty-seven percent children complained of discomfort during walking, 30.9%, had pain during physical exercise, 29.2% had difficulty attending lessons and 4.2% had interference in pursuing hobbies. The children were also further sub grouped into preadolescents and adolescents. There was significant difference in pain duration and duration of each pain episode in the two groups (p = 0.01). A significant number of children (21.2%) with IMSP reported school absenteeism (p < 0.001). A significant number of adolescents had history positive for contact sports (p = 0.001). Sleep disturbances were also reported to be higher in children with IMSP (29% vs. 5.7%, p = 0.001). Other associated problems in children with IMSP found were day time tiredness (51.1%), headache (47.3%) and abdominal pain (24.8%). Conclusions: Prevalence of IMSP in school children aged 5–16 yrs was found to be 16.2% and a significant percentage of these children experience interference with daily activities including school absenteeism.

RESUMO Objetivos: Estudar a prevalência de dor musculoesquelética idiopática (DMEI) em crianças em idade escolar e seu impacto nas atividades diárias. Métodos: Foram avaliadas e analisadas 1.018 crianças em idade escolar aparentemente saudáveis entre cinco e 16 anos quanto à presença de DMEI e seus problemas associados. Foram aplicados os testes de significância padrão. Resultados: Relataram DMEI 165 (16,2%) crianças, em sua maior parte do sexo masculino (55,2%). Os membros inferiores (52,1%) foram a localização mais comum da dor. A história de dor presente havia mais de um ano foi encontrada em 15% das crianças; 37% delas queixaram-se de desconforto durante a caminhada, 30,9%, tinham dor durante o exercício físico, 29,2% tinham dificuldade de frequentar as aulas e 4,2% sofriam interferência na participação em passatempos. As crianças foram ainda subagrupadas em pré-adolescentes e adolescentes. Houve diferença estatisticamente significativa na duração da dor e na duração de cada episódio de dor nos dois grupos (p = 0,01). Uma quantidade significativa de crianças com DMEI (21,2%) relatou absentismo escolar (p < 0,001). Uma quantidade significativa de adolescentes tinha história positiva de prática de esportes de contato (p = 0,001). Os distúrbios do sono também foram relatados como maiores em crianças com DMEI (29% vs. 5,7%, p = 0,001). Outros problemas associados encontrados em crianças com DMEI foram o cansaço durante o dia (51,1%), a cefaleia (47,3%) e a dor abdominal (24,8%). Conclusões: A prevalência de DMEI encontrada em crianças entre cinco e 16 anos foi de 16,2%. Uma percentagem significativa dessas crianças relata interferência nas atividades diárias, incluindo absentismo escolar.

Influência da hipermobilidade articular generalizada sobre a articulação temporomandibular e a oclusão dentária: estudo transversal / Influence of generalized joint hypermobility on temporomandibular joint and dental occlusion: a cross-sectional study

RESUMO Objetivo Avaliar a oclusão dentária e a articulação temporomandibular de mulheres com e sem hipermobilidade articular generalizada. Método A hipermobilidade foi avaliada pelo Escore de Beighton, e as voluntárias foram distribuídas, conforme o escore obtido, em dois grupos: com e sem hipermobilidade. A articulação temporomandibular foi avaliada por meio do instrumento Critérios de Diagnóstico para Pesquisa de Desordens Temporomandibulares, e a avaliação oclusal compreendeu a classificação de Angle, presença de sobremordida, sobressaliência e mordida cruzada, padrão de desoclusão e interferências oclusais. Resultados 43 mulheres participaram voluntariamente da pesquisa, 17 no grupo com hipermobilidade e 26 no grupo sem hipermobilidade. A frequência de ruídos articulares e de desvio na abertura da boca foi maior no grupo com hipermobilidade (52,9% versus 38,5% e 76,5% versus 50%, respectivamente), sem diferença significante. Quanto à oclusão, nenhuma voluntária apresentou uma oclusão ideal e não se verificou diferença significativa na Classe de Angle entre os grupos. As alterações na oclusão obtiveram percentual maior no grupo com hipermobilidade (29,4% de sobremordida, 47,1% de sobressaliência e 17,6% de mordida cruzada), sendo que a mordida cruzada apresentou diferença estatística entre os grupos. Conclusão A hipermobilidade não influenciou a oclusão e as amplitudes de movimentos mandibulares nas mulheres avaliadas. Contudo, o maior percentual de ruídos articulares e de desvio não corrigido apresentado pelo grupo com hipermobilidade, mesmo sem diferença entre os grupos, pode constituir um indício de relação entre hipermobilidade e disfunção temporomandibular.

ABSTRACT Purpose To evaluate the dental occlusion and temporomandibular joint in women with and without generalized joint hypermobility. Methods Generalized joint hypermobility was assessed by the Beighton score. Individuals were divided into two groups: with and without hypermobility. The Research Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders was used to evaluate the temporomandibular joint. Dental occlusion was assessed according to Angle classification, overjet and overbite measures, presence of open bite or crossbite, pattern of disocclusion, and occlusal interference. Results Forty-three women participated voluntarily in the study: 17 in the group with hypermobility and 26 in the group without hypermobility. The frequencies of joint noise and deviation during mouth opening were greater in the hypermobility group (52.9% vs. 38.5% and 76.5% vs. 50%, respectively), but without statistical significance. None of the volunteers presented ideal occlusion and no significant difference was found in Angle Class between the groups. The hypermobility group presented a higher percentage of changes in occlusion (29.4% of overbite, 47.1% of overjet, and 17.6% of crossbite), with crossbite showing statistical difference between the groups. Conclusion Hypermobility does not influence occlusion and range of mandibular motion in the women assessed. Nevertheless, the higher percentage of articular noise and uncorrected deviation during mouth opening shown by the group with hypermobility, even without statistical difference, may constitute evidence of correlation between hypermobility and temporomandibular disorder.

Evaluation of static and dynamic balance in athletes with anterior cruciate ligament injury – A controlled study

OBJECTIVES: Anterior cruciate ligament injury leads to adaptive responses to maintain postural control. However, there is no consensus regarding whether leg dominance also affects postural control in athletes with anterior cruciate ligament injury. The purpose of this study was to evaluate dynamic and static postural control among athletes with and without anterior cruciate ligament injury to the dominant leg. METHODS: Twenty-eight athletes, twenty-one males and seven females aged 15-45 years, were allocated to one of two groups: the anterior cruciate ligament injury group (26±3 years) or the control group without anterior cruciate ligament injury (25±6.5 years). All subjects performed one legged stance tests under eyes open and eyes closed conditions and squat and kick movement tests using a postural control protocol (AccuSwayPlus force platform, Massachusetts). The center of pressure displacement and speed were measured by the force platform. In addition, the distance traveled on the single-leg hop test was assessed as an objective measure of function. RESULTS: Significantly greater mediolateral sway was found under the eyes closed condition (p=0.04) and during squat movement (p=0.01) in the anterior cruciate ligament injury group than in the control group. Analysis of the single-leg hop test results showed no difference between the groups (p=0.73). CONCLUSION: Athletes with anterior cruciate ligament injury had greater mediolateral displacement of the center of pressure toward the dominant leg under the eyes closed condition and during squat movement compared to control athletes.

Interobserver agreement for the spine instability neoplastic score varies according to the experience of the evaluator

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the interobserver agreement for the Neoplastic Spine Instability Score (SINS) among spine surgeons with or without experience in vertebral metastasis treatment and physicians in other specialties. METHODS: Case descriptions were produced based on the medical records of 40 patients with vertebral metastases. The descriptions were then published online. Physicians were invited to evaluate the descriptions by answering questions according to the Neoplastic Spine Instability Score (SINS). The agreement among physicians was calculated using the kappa coefficient. RESULTS: Seventeen physicians agreed to participate: three highly experienced spine surgeons, seven less-experienced spine surgeons, three surgeons of other specialties, and four general practitioners (n = 17). The agreement for the final SINS score among all participants was fair, and it varied according to the SINS component. The agreement was substantial for the spine location only. The agreement was higher among experienced surgeons. The agreement was nearly perfect for spinal location among the spine surgeons who were highly experienced in vertebral metastases. CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrates that the experience of the evaluator has an impact on SINS scale classification. The interobserver agreement was only fair among physicians who were not spine surgeons and among spine surgeons who were not experienced in the treatment of vertebral metastases, which may limit the use of the SINS scale for the screening of unstable lesions by less-experienced evaluators.

Comparison of two methods of femoral tunnel preparation in single-bundle anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: a prospective randomized study / Comparação entre dois métodos de preparação de túnel femoral na reconstrução do ligamento cruzado anterior em feixe único: estudo prospectivo randomizado

PURPOSE: To prospectively compare therapeutic effect of femoral tunnel preparation through the tibial tunnel and the anteromedial (AM) portal in single-bundle anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. METHODS: Between June 2008 and October 2010, 76 patients underwent single-bundle ACL reconstruction by autogenous grafting of semitendinosus and gracilis tendon. All cases were randomly divided into two groups according to the method of femoral tunnel preparation: transtibial (TT) group (n=38) and anteromedial (AM) group (n=38). Lysholm knee score and the KT-1000 anterior laxity at 30° of pre-and post-operation were assessed for two groups. RESULTS: Sixty-five patients (TT group, 34; AM group, 31) were followed up for more than 12 months, with a follow-up rate of 86%. The Lysholm knee score and the KT-1000 anterior laxity 12 months after operation were significantly better than before reconstruction. The Lysholm knee score and the KT-1000 anterior laxity were not significantly different between the TT and AM groups after operation. CONCLUSION: Femoral tunnel preparation through tibial tunnel or the anteromedial portal in single-bundle anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction shows same therapeutic effects.

OBJETIVO: Comparar prospectivamente o efeito terapêutico da preparação do túnel femoral através do túnel tibial (TT) ou da porta ântero-medial(AM) na reconstrução do ligamento cruzado anterior(LCA) em feixe único. MÉTODOS: Entre junho de 2008 e outubro de 2010, 76 pacientes foram submetidos à reconstrução do LCA em feixe único pelo enxerto autógeno de tendão semitendíneo egrácil.Todos os casos foram divididos aleatoriamente em dois grupos de acordo como método de preparação do túnel femoral: grupo transtibial (TT) (n=38) e grupo ântero-medial (AM) (n=38). Foi usado o escore Lysholm para joelho. O relaxamento anterior do joelho a 30° sob força tênsil de 133,32N foi determinado com o medidor KT-1000 no pré e no pós-operatório nos dois grupos. RESULTADOS: Sessenta e cinco pacientes (grupo TT, 34; grupo AM,31)foram acompanhados por mais de 12 meses, com uma taxa de follow-up de 86%.A pontuação do Lysholm para joelho e do relaxamento anterior medido pelo KT-1000 aos 12 meses de pós-operatório foi significativamente melhor do que antes da reconstrução.As pontuações de Lysholme do relaxamento KT-1000 não foram significativamente diferentes comparando os grupos TT e AM após a operação. CONCLUSÃO: A preparação do túnel femoral através do túnel tibial ou da porta ântero-medial na reconstrução do ligamento cruzado anterior em feixe único mostrou os mesmos efeitos terapêuticos.

Temporomandibular disorder and generalized joint hypermobility: application of diagnostic criteria / Disfunção têmporo-mandibular e hipermobilidade articular generalizada: aplicação de critérios diagnósticos

Generalized joint hypermobility (GJH) has been considered a predisposing factor for the development of temporomandibular disorder (TMD). AIM: To evaluate clinical and psychosocial aspects in individuals diagnosed with TMD with or without GJH. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Clinical and experimental study, which enrolled 34 women, from 18 to 35 years of age with TMD diagnosed by RDC/TMD. The GJH was assessed by the Beighton score and volunteers were broken down into 2 groups: with GJH (n = 22) and without GJH (n = 12). RESULTS: We found a high percentage of GJH (64. 71 percent). All participants had myofascial pain; 79. 41 percent had arthralgia and 41 percent had disk displacement. There was a correlation between higher GJH scores and higher passive mouth opening amplitude (p=0. 0034), with pain (p=0. 0029) and without pain (p=0. 0081). Greater mandibular range of motion was observed in the group with GJH, except for protrusion. Painful mouth opening was statistically higher in the GJH group (p=0. 0279). CONCLUSIONS: Individuals with TMD associated or not to GJH do not differ significantly regarding clinical and psychosocial aspects, except in the mandibular opening range of motion, which if kept at physiological levels can lead to a late diagnosis of TMD in these individuals.

A hipermobilidade articular generalizada (HAG) é uma condição sistêmica considerada como fator contribuinte para o desenvolvimento de sinais e sintomas da disfunção têmporo-mandibular (DTM). OBJETIVO: Avaliar aspectos clínicos e psicossociais de indivíduos com DTM associada ou não à HAG. Material e Método: Consistiu de um estudo clínico e experimental do qual participaram 34 mulheres, com idades entre 18 e 35 anos, diagnosticadas com DTM pelos Critérios diagnósticos para pesquisa em DTM (RDC/TMD). A HAG foi avaliada pelo Escore de Beighton e os voluntários divididos em 2 grupos: com HAG (n=22) e sem HAG (n=12). RESULTADOS: Verificou-se elevado percentual de HAG (64,71 por cento). Todos os participantes apresentaram dor miofascial, 79. 41 por cento artralgia e 41 por cento desordens discais. Houve correlação entre maiores escores de HAG e maior amplitude de abertura bucal passiva (p=0,0034), com (p=0,0029) e sem dor (p=0,0081). Observaram-se maiores amplitudes de movimento mandibular no grupo com HAG, exceto para a protrusão. A abertura com dor foi significativamente maior no grupo hipermóvel (p=0,0279). CONCLUSÕES: Indivíduos com DTM associada ou não à HAG não diferem significativamente quanto aos aspectos clínicos e psicossociais avaliados, exceto quanto à amplitude de abertura mandibular, cuja manutenção em níveis fisiológicos pode levar ao diagnóstico tardio de DTM nestes indivíduos.

Tratamiento quirúrgico de la inestabilidad de hombro: evaluación de resultados / Results in the surgical treatment of the unstable shoulder

Objective: Evaluate the functional outcome in surgically treated patients with the diagnosis of shoulder instability, analyzing subgroups of patients. Methods: We retrospectively evaluated 93 shoulders operated with a minimum of 2 years follow up. There were 80 men and 10 woman with an average age of 26 years. We evaluated shoulder range of motion, sports activity, episodes of dislocations and type of surgery. Patients answered the quick DASH and ASES tests. For the statistical analysis we used simple linear regression, Wilcoxon Test and T Test for independent samples. Results: 98 percent reported a stable shoulder, 97 percent mild or non limitations in sports activity and nobody referred problems in activities of daily living. 13 percent had another episode of dislocation after the initial surgery. The subjective functional outcome was better in patients that practiced non contact sports and in the group of under 40 years (p < 0.05). At the clinical evaluation, the group of under 40 years had a better abduction than older and patients with only one surgery had a better anterior flexion than patients with multiple surgeries (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Surgical treatment is a good alternative in unstable shoulders, because no limitation in daily activities were reported. The rate of redislocation is similar to the reported in the literature, and we think that it is related to the type of sport activity.

Objetivo: Evaluar a mediano plazo el resultado funcional de pacientes operados por luxación de hombro, analizando subgrupos de pacientes. Métodos: Estudio retrospectivo. Analizamos 93 hombros operados con un seguimiento mínimo de dos años. Ochenta hombres y 10 mujeres, edad promedio 26 años. Evaluamos tipo de actividad deportiva, número de luxaciones, tipo de cirugía (abierta vs artroscópica). Se examinó el rango de movilidad comparando al lado sano y se realizó pauta de quick DASH y ASES. Para el análisis estadístico se utilizó regresión lineal simple, Test de Wilcoxon y T Test para muestras independientes. Resultados: 98 por ciento describen su hombro estable, 97 por ciento sin limitación o limitación leve para real izar actividad deportiva. El 100 por ciento realiza actividades de la vida diana sin limitación. Hubo 13 por ciento de recidiva. Se registró mejor resultado funcional en pacientes que practicaban deporte de no contacto y en menores de 40 años vs mayores (p<0.05). Al examen, en menores de 40 años, se encontró un mejor rango en la abducción y en los pacientes con una sola cirugía, la flexión anterior fue mayor (p <0.05). Conclusión: El tratamiento quirúrgico es una alternativa óptima para los pacientes con inestabilidad glenohumeral. Permite una recuperación de las actividades de la vida diaria con mínimas complicaciones. Sin embargo, hay un porcentaje de recidiva esperable que podría estar en relación al tipo de actividad deportiva.

Manejo quirúrgico en osteocondritis disecante de rodilla / Surgical management of knee osteochondritis dissecans

Introduction: Many techniques exist for the surgical treatment of knee Osteochondritis Dissecans (OCD). Objectives: Describe anatomic features and functional results of surgical treatment with different techniques in knee OCD. Methods: Consecutive series, fifteen patients treated surgically for knee OCD, between January 2001 - May 2008. We analyzed stability in MRI and arthroscopy, average surface area of the lesions, surgical techniques and postoperative complications. We followed our series at 29,8 months average with Lysholm and subjective IKDC scores. Results: Average age 18,6 years, 84,6 percent were male; 73,3 percent unstable on MRI; 66,6 percent of lesions located at the medial femoral condyle. Eleven cases treated with osteochondral autografts, 2 with osteochondral synthesis and 2 with microfractures and mechanic chondroplasty. No postoperative complications documented at follow up. Average postop Lysholm 93,3 points, average IKDC 88 points. Conclusion: Surgical treatment of unstable OCD offers good and excellent functional results at mid and long-term follow up.

Existen diversas técnicas para el tratamiento quirúrgico de la Osteocondritis Disecante (OCD) de la rodilla. Objetivos: Describir características anatómicas de la lesión y los resultados funcionales del tratamiento quirúrgico con diferentes técnicas en OCD de rodilla. Método: Serie consecutiva, 15 pacientes (Enero 2001-Mayo 2008). Se analiza estabilidad en Resonancia Magnética (RM), localización y estabilidad de lesión en artroscopia, área de superficie promedio de la lesión, técnica quirúrgica y complicaciones postoperatorias. Seguimiento promedio 29,8 meses con puntajes Lysholm e IKDC subjetivo. Edad promedio 18,6 años, 84,6 por ciento hombres. Resultados: 73,3 por ciento inestables en RM y 100 por ciento inestables en artroscopia; 66,6 por ciento en cóndilo femoral medial; 6 tipo C1, 4 tipo C2, 3 tipo C5 y 2 lesiones en patela. Once casos resueltos con autoinjertos osteocondrales, 2 con osteosíntesis y 2 con microfracturas. Área promedio de lesión 13,1 mm². No documentamos complicaciones. Promedios post operatorios: Lysholm 93,3; IKDC 88 puntos. Conclusión: La resolución quirúrgica de OCD inestables ofrece buenos y excelentes resultados funcionales en seguimiento a mediano y largo plazo en la mayoría de los pacientes.

Mucopolissacaridose tipo VI (síndrome de Maroteaux-Lamy): avaliação da mobilidade articular e das forças de garra e de pinça / Mucopolysaccharidosis type VI (Maroteaux-Lamy syndrome): assessment of joint mobility and grip and pinch strength

OBJETIVO: Descrever o perfil de mobilidade articular e das forças de garra e de pinça de indivíduos com MPS VI, além de sua correlação com a excreção urinária de glicosaminoglicanos, atividade da ARSB e distância percorrida no teste de caminhada de 6 minutos. MÉTODOS: Estudo observacional de 28 pacientes com MPS VI, não submetidos a tratamento específico. Todos os pacientes foram avaliados em relação à amplitude da mobilidade articular, forças de garra e de pinça, excreção urinária de glicosaminoglicanos, atividade da ARSB e teste de caminhada de 6 minutos. RESULTADOS: Demonstrou-se maior comprometimento de flexão de ombro, sem correlação com a idade, e da extensão de joelho e flexão de cotovelo, estas últimas correlacionadas negativamente com a idade. A força de garra mostrou-se comprometida em todos os pacientes, e a força de pinça apresentou correlação positiva com idade. CONCLUSÕES: A restrição da flexão de ombro, sem correlação com a idade, sugere que este achado esteja presente precocemente na MPS VI e se constitua em sinal clínico importante para suspeita diagnóstica desta doença. A amplitude da extensão de joelho e da flexão de cotovelo, por sua vez, por apresentarem correlação negativa com a idade, são possíveis marcadores da evolução da doença. Estudos adicionais são necessários para confirmação dessas hipóteses.

OBJECTIVE: To describe the profile of joint mobility and grip and pinch strength of MPS VI patients and to correlate this with urinary excretion of glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), ARSB activity, and the distance covered in a 6-minute walking test (6MWT). METHODS: This was an observational study of 28 patients with MPS VI, who had not undergone specific treatment. All patients were assessed for amplitude of joint mobility (shoulder, elbow, and knee), grip and pinch strength and urinary GAG excretion and also performed the 6MWT. RESULTS: Shoulder flexion exhibited the greatest limitation, with no correlation with age, followed by knee extension and elbow flexion, both of which were correlated inversely with age. Hand grip strength was compromised in all patients, and pinch strength exhibited a positive correlation with age. CONCLUSIONS: The fact that restricted shoulder flexion was not correlated with age suggests that this finding is present early on in MPS VI and that it constitutes an important clinical sign that should arouse diagnostic suspicion of this disease. The amplitude of knee extension and elbow flexion, in turn, are possible markers of disease progression since they have a negative correlation with age. Further studies are needed to confirm these hypotheses.

Niccoló Paganini virtuosismo y patología: (1782-1840) / Niccolo Paganini: virtuosism and pathology: (1782-1840)

En este trabajo se presentan rasgos biográficos de uno de los arquetipos del virtuosismo del violín, Niccoló Paganini (1782-1840), quien nació en la ciudad de Génova y falleció en la ciudad de Niza. Ha sido considerado como el "Padre de la moderna técnica del violín". Se hace una breve síntesis de la valiosa contribución de la escuela italiana del violín en la época pre-Paganini, integrada por destacados compositores y ejecutantes. Se destaca la influencia italiana en el desarrollo del arte de la ejecución del violín. En la biografía de Paganini se describen sus grandes habilidades que lo llevaran a ser considerado como el violinista asombroso, original único e irrepetible en la historia de la música. Las cualidades excepcionales de este músico se atribuyen a un factor genético, asociado a su capacidad intrínseca y a su entrenamiento. Se hace una descripción de las características somáticas peculiares que poseía Paganini basada en las descripciones médicas y de algunos músicos contemporáneos. Se ha planteado por diversos autores la hipótesis de que el músico sufría de un trastorno hereditario del tejido conectivo y se han propuesto dos posibilidades: la de un síndrome de Marfan o la de un síndrome de Ehlers-Landos. Se presenta un resumen de los criterios clínicos y bioquímicos que caracterizan a estas afecciones. Lo que parece bien fundamentado es que padecía de un "síndrome de hipermovilidad articular" cuya verdadera naturaleza es conjetural aun cuando cabe inclinarse por la hipótesis de un subtipo III, hipermóvil de Ehlers-Danlos. Este padecimiento lo afectó a lo largo de su existencia, pero contribuyó a que fuese el violinista irrepetible que es como es recordado en la historia de la música

Isokinetic torque peak and hamstrings/quadriceps ratios in endurance athletes with anterior cruciate ligament laxity

PURPOSE: To evaluate torque and the hamstring/quadriceps ratio of the knee of athletes with and without anterior cruciate ligament laxity. METHODS: Twenty-eight male athletes, 19 without anterior cruciate ligament laxity and 9 with anterior cruciate ligament laxity, were evaluated with an isokinetic machine model Cybex 770. The peak torque of quadriceps and hamstrings was compared, and the hamstring/quadriceps ratio on the constant angular speed of 60° per second were also compared. RESULTS: In athletes with anterior cruciate ligament laxity, the peak torque values (right and left knees) of flexors (120 ± 15 and 116 ± 15 Nm) and of extensors (218 ± 36 Nm and 207 ± 26 Nm) were not different than those of athletes without laxity (109 ± 21 Nm and 111 ± 22 Nm; 191 ± 5 Nm and 188 ± 35 Nm). The hamstring/quadriceps ratio of athletes with laxity (right: 57 ± 6 percent and left: 56 ± 8 percent) did not differ from those without anterior cruciate ligament laxity (right: 58 ± 9 percent and left: 58 ± 7 percent). CONCLUSIONS: The anterior cruciate ligament laxity of long distances running athletes did not significantly alter the peak torque of flexors and of extensors or the hamstring/quadriceps ratio.

OBJETIVO: Avaliar o torque e a relação de forças entre ísquios-tibiais/quadríceps dos joelhos de atletas corredores de longas distâncias com e sem frouxidão do ligamento cruzado anterior. METODOLOGIA: Vinte e oito atletas do gênero masculino, 19 sem frouxidão do ligamento cruzado anterior e 9 com frouxidão do ligamento cruzado anterior foram avaliados com aparelho isocinético modelo Cybex 770. Comparou-se o pico de torque dos quadríceps e dos ísquios-tibiais e a relação ísquios-tibiais/quadríceps na velocidade angular constante de 60° por segundo. Os dados obtidos foram comparados por meio dos testes t de Student e para dados pareados (membros direito e esquerdo) e o nível de significância estabelecido foi p < 0,05. RESULTADOS: Nos atletas com frouxidão do ligamento cruzado anterior os valores de pico de torque (joelhos direito e esquerdo) dos flexores (120 ± 15 Nm e 116 ± 15 Nm) e dos extensores (218 ± 36 Nm e 207 ± 26 Nm) não diferiram significantemente dos atletas sem frouxidão (109 ± 21 Nm e 111 ± 22 Nm; 191 ± 5 Nm e 188 ± 35 Nm). A relação ísquios-tibiais/quadríceps dos atletas com frouxidão (57 ± 6 por cento e 56 ± 8 por cento) também não diferiu daqueles sem frouxidão do ligamento cruzado anterior (58 ± 9 por cento e 58 ± 7 por cento). CONCLUSÕES: A frouxidão do ligamento cruzado anterior não alterou significantemente o pico de torque dos flexores e extensores e a relação ísquios-tibiais/quadríceps dos joelhos de atletas corredores de longas distâncias.

Ground reaction force in basketball cutting maneuvers with and without ankle bracing and taping

CONTEXT AND OBJECTIVE: In basketball, the most common injuries are ankle sprains. For this reason, players frequently use external ankle devices or taping as prophylactic and rehabilitation measures. The purpose of this study was to evaluate ground reaction force (GRF) responses in basketball players while performing typical cutting maneuvers with and without ankle bracing and ankle taping. DESIGN AND SETTING: Comparative study with experimental design of single-group repeated measurements, at Medical Rehabilitation Division, Hospital das Clínicas, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo. METHODS: Vertical (Fy) and medial-lateral (Fz) GRF measurements were made under three conditions (taping, Aircast-type orthosis and basketball shoes alone), with analysis of peak forces at foot contact (Fymax1, Fzmax1, Fymax2 and Fzmax2), growth gradient (peak/time) (GG Fymax1, GG Fzmax1, GG Fymax2 and GG Fzmax2) and impulse after foot contact. RESULTS: Bracing significantly reduced Fymax2 and GG Fymax2. GG Fzmax1 was significantly higher for the sport shoe condition than for the taping condition. Taping increased Fy in relation to the sport shoe at foot contact, but over a longer time interval, without increasing excessive ankle loading. Fz reached a peak in less time, which might generate greater inversion/eversion loading on a player's foot. The Aircast exerted better shock-absorbing effect than did the other two conditions, since it generated less vertical force over longer time intervals and smaller medial-lateral forces in relation to taping. CONCLUSIONS: Ankle bracing and ankle taping action mechanisms are still unclear and therefore should be carefully prescribed. More studies are needed to clarify taping and bracing effects on sporting activities.

CONTEXTO E OBJETIVO: A lesão mais comum no basquetebol é a entorse de tornozelo. Assim, os atletas freqüentemente utilizam suportes externos como medidas profiláticas. O objetivo deste estudo é avaliar as respostas da força de reação do solo (FRS) durante a execução do movimento de cutting do basquetebol com e sem acessórios de tornozelo. TIPO DE ESTUDO E LOCAL: Estudo comparativo. Delineamento experimental de grupo único com medidas repetidas; Divisão de Medicina de Reabilitação, Hospital das Clínicas, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, Brasil. MÉTODOS: Foram colhidas as forças vertical (Fy) e médio-lateral (Fz) em três condições (bandagem, Aircast e calçado esportivo) e analisados os picos de força e de propulsão no contato com o solo (Fymax1, Fzmax1, Fymax2 e Fzmax2), o gradiente de crescimento (pico/tempo) (GC Fymax1, GC Fzmax1, GC Fymax2 e GC Fzmax2) e o impulso após o contato. RESULTADOS: Os acessórios reduziram significativamente Fymax2 e GC Fymax2. GC FZmax1 foi maior na situação com tênis quando comparado com bandagem. No momento do impacto, a bandagem aumentou a Fy em relação ao calçado, mas em um intervalo de tempo maior, não aumentando a carga articular. Fz atingiu um pico em menor tempo, podendo gerar maior carga eversora/inversora. O Aircast exerceu um melhor efeito de absorção de impacto, pois gera menor Fy em um maior intervalo de tempo. CONCLUSÕES: Apesar do uso freqüente deste tipo de recurso pelos atletas, seu mecanismo de ação ainda é confuso. Mais estudos são necessários para esclarecer seus efeitos nas atividades esportivas a longo prazo.

Relação entre a hipermobilidade mandibular e a hipermobilidade sistêmica / Relationship between mandibular hypermobility and systemic hypermobility

As disfunções temporomandibulares (DTM) apresentam etiologia multifatorial, e a hipermobilidade da ATM pode ser um fator desencadeante de alterações. Sendo assim, este estudo objetivou verificar a relação entre a hipermobilidade articular sistêmica e a hipermobilidade temporomandibular. Para isto, foram avaliados 126 voluntários, de ambos os sexos. Todos passaram por avaliação do padrão ligamentar e mensuração da abertura bucal. Após análise dos dados colhidos, observou-se correlação significativa entre a frouxidão ligamentar sistêmica e a abertura bucal (r=0,5046), verificando-se um aumento significativo da amplitude da abertura bucal concomitante a um aumento da frouxidão ligamentar sistêmica.

Dynamic stabilization devices in the treatment of low back pain.

Soft stabilization has an important role in the treatment of the degenerative lumbar spine. Fusion of one or two motion segments may not make a big difference in the total range of motion of the lumbar spine, but preserving flexibility of a motion segment may prevent adjacent segment disease and may permit disc replacement, even when facet joints need to be excised. A favourable environment is created in the motion segment by unloading the disc and permitting near normal motion, the disc may be able to repair itself or may supplement reparative potential of gene therapy.

The biomechanical study of atlantoaxial fixation.

Recent studies of various C(1-2) constructs have confirmed superior stability with transarticular screw fixation. In the meantime, our study on the C2 morphology in Thai people found about 4 per cent of the pedicles were too small for the 3.5 mm. C(1-2) transarticular screw. In order to select a smaller screw to use in this operation, we performed a biomechanical testing of 2 sizes of screw (2.7 mm, 3.5 mm) for transarticular screw fixation and Gallie's wiring, comparison in terms of stiffness in flexion, extension, torsion, anterior and posterior shear loads. There were no statistical differences of the stiffness between 2.7 mm and 3.5 mm transarticular screw fixation in all directions, whereas there were significantly greater stiffness of transarticular screw over Gallie's wiring in various directions (P<0.05).

Success of intervertebral implants in posterior lumbar interbody fusion

The aim of this study was to evaluate the result of using the three types of posterior lumbar interbody fusion [PLIF]; the tricortical iliac bone graft, the carbon cage and the carbon ramp in managing cases of lumbar instability to evaluate the success of intervertebral implants in PLIF. A prospective study was done on 72 patients with average age of 38 years [46 males and 26 females] with lumbar instability due to different pathologies [infections, tumors and acute fractures were not included]. Cases were studied in three equal groups, each of 24. In group A, PLIF was done using autologous tricortical iliac bone graft, carbon cages were used in group B and carbon ramps in group C. For all, one level PLIF was done and was supplemented with rigid posterior stabilizing device to provide a solid biomechanical construct. Cases were followed up for an average period of 24 months. The results were compared clinically and radiologically with reference to fusion rate, time, intervertebral disc height, neural foraminal dimensions and degenerative changes in adjacent discs and facets

Tratamiento quirúrgico de la inestabilidad glenohumeral multidireccional / Surgical treatment for multidirectional instability of the shoulder

Ensayo clínico realizado entre 1987 y 1992; la muestra estuvo conformada por 22 pacientes que reunieron los criterios de inclusión (inestabilidad glenohumeral multidireccional), las variables de estudios fueron: signos de hiperelasticidad, de inestabilidad glenohumeral, y de alamiento escapular. En todos se realizó tratamiento quirúrgico, y posteriormente llevaron a cabo tratamiento de rehabilitación. Se estudiaron 22 pacientes, 14 de sexo masculino y 8 de sexo femenino; rango de edad de 16 a 35 años; todos mostraron signos de alamiento escapular y en 20 se identificaron signos de alamiento escapular y en 20 se identificaron signos positivos de hiperelasticidad e inestabilidad anterior e inferior. Se mostró negativización de los signos clínicos a las 12 semanas del postoperatorio y hubo reintegración a las actividades deportivas al 5º mes de la cirugía. La técnica quirúrgica utilizada es un procedimiento sencillo, que no limita la movilidad articular y permite una rápida reintegración a las actividades ocupacionales y deportivas. No se registraron complicaciones