Cervical Neck Research Articles

Malignant Rhabdoid Tumor masquerading as Neuroblastoma: A rare Case-report

Abstract Introduction/Objective Malignant rhabdoid tumors (MRT) predominantly impact infants and young children, typically occurring around the age of 15 months. While they can emerge from soft tissues throughout the body, but commonly initiate in the kidneys. Neuroblastoma-like characteristics are seldom observed within the varied phenotypes of malignant rhabdoid tumors. Here, we present an exceptionally rare and distinctive subtype of malignant rhabdoid tumor exhibiting features akin to neuroblastoma localized within the unusal parapharyngeal space. Methods/Case Report A 2-month-old female presented to the ED with an enlarging right cervical neck mass. The mother reported a one-week history of upper respiratory tract symptoms and noticed an enlarging mass of her right neck. CT reported a “parapharyngeal abscess with airway compression”. The patient was started on Augmentin with no significant improvement. Repeat CT with contrast demonstrated an enlarging rim-enhancing 3 cm mass involving the right parapharyngeal space, trachea, and right carotid arteries. Laryngoscopy and incisional biopsy of right neck lymph nodes demonstrated a high-grade malignancy with prominent nucleoli, high N/C ratio and scant cytoplasm. The tumor tested positive for CD 99, synaptophysin, and neurofilament, leading to the initial diagnosis of neuroblastoma. However, molecular analysis uncovered the loss of INI-1 on 22q11.2, prompting a reevaluation and a final diagnosis of MRT with neuroblastoma-like characteristics was made. Results (if a Case Study enter NA) NA Conclusion A range of tumors displaying distinct “rhabdoid” cytological features are collectively termed as malignant rhabdoid tumors (MRTs). Conventional immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining for CD99, synaptophysin, neurofilament, and myogenin might suggest neuroblastoma, Ewing sarcoma, or rhabdomyosarcoma. However, the absence of INI-1 expression provides a definitive diagnosis. INI-1 loss, a purported tumor suppressor gene located on chromosome 22q11.2, solidifies the tumor’s classification as malignant rhabdoid tumor (MRT). Additionally, a positive neurofilament stain in MRT is crucial for diagnostic and therapeutic assessments. This differentiation is vital, given the dismal prognosis of MRT with a 5-year survival rate of less than 10%.

6771 New onset Graves’ Disease in a Patient with Hashimoto's Thyroiditis and Positive Thyroid Peroxidase Autoantibodies. Case Report

Abstract Disclosure: M.M. Eid: None. J.L. Zapater: None. Introduction: Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis (HT) and Graves’ Disease (GD) are the most common thyroid autoimmune disorders. Transition of GD to HT is common, but transition of HT to GD is rare. Case: A 55 year old, female with depression, HTN and fibromyalgia. She was referred for evaluation of chronic fatigue and reduction in functional capacity. Five years earlier, she had also been evaluated for fatigue. Labs at that time: TSH 3.80 µIU/ml (0.35-3.74 µIU/ml), free T4 0.8 ng/dl (0.76-1.46 ng/dl), thyroid peroxidase antibody (anti-TPO) 605.6 U/ml (0-60 U/ml), and anti-thyroglobulin antibody (anti-TG) 37.2 U/ml (0-60 U/ml). Subclinical hypothyroidism was diagnosed, but no levothyroxine was initiated. Her TSH was found to be normal in 2019 and 2021. At the current clinical encounter, other than fatigue she denies weight/voice change, tremor, palpitation, anxiety, recent flu like illness or radiation exposure, neck swelling/pain, heat intolerance, or difficulty swallowing. Her daily medications are amlodipine 10mg and duloxetine 20mg. She had menopause 2 years ago. She has no known allergy. She has a brother with rheumatoid arthritis. She denies smoking or alcohol consumption. On exam, vital signs are normal, and BMI is 28.1. There is diffuse, firm thyromegaly without a palpable nodule. There is no cervical lymphadenopathy, tremor, neck tenderness, exophthalmos, or lid lag. Creatinine, liver enzymes are normal but hemoglobin is 9gm/dl. Anti-tissue transglutaminase and anti-gliadin antibodies were negative. Her thyroid labs were: TSH <0.008 uIU/ml, free T4 1.06ng/dl, free T3 4.07 pg/ml (2.3-4.2 pg/ml), total T3 1.74 ng/ml (0.60-1.81 ng/ml), anti-TPO antibody 12,414 U/ml, anti-TG antibody 22 U/ml, thyrotropin receptor antibody (TRAB) 15.24 IU/L (0-1.75 IU/L), and thyroid stimulating immunoglobulin (TSI) 331% (<130%). Thyroid uptake scan showed 49% iodine-131 uptake in symmetric and homogenous uptake, and no hot or cold nodules. GD was diagnosed, methimazole 5mg daily was initiated. Conclusion: Our case had subclinical HT with positive anti-TPO antibodies 5 years preceding the onset of GD. Causes of autoimmune conversion are not well understood. Viral infection or radiation exposure in genetic susceptible patients have been assumed as triggers (1). The blocking and stimulating action of TRAB on TSH receptors is considered as a possible mechanism of switching between hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism. Clinical and biochemical evaluation for possible conversion to GD in patients with HT is recommended (2).

Could indirect decompression occur for cord compression by the ligamentum flavum with anterior cervical discectomy and fusion?

Cord compression by the ligamentum flavum (CCLF) has been reported to adversely affect the clinical outcomes of anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF). While indirect decompression does occur for foraminal stenosis with ACDF, whether ACDF could improve CCLF with the distraction of disc space remains unclear. This study aimed to identify 1) whether indirect decompression occurs for CCLF with ACDF, and 2) risk factors that hinder the improvement of CCLF. This retrospective cohort study included 119 patients who underwent ACDF for the treatment of cervical myelopathy and CCLF was detected on preoperative MRI. Patients who demonstrated improvement in CCLF grade after ACDF were included in the improved group, while those who did not show improvement were classified as the unimproved group. Patient characteristics, cervical sagittal parameters, neck and arm pain visual analog scale score, and Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) score were assessed. A comparison between the improved and unimproved groups was performed. Regression analyses were performed to identify factors associated with CCLF grade improvement. Overall, 58.0% (69/119) of patients showed improvement in CCLF grade after ACDF. CCLF grade did not improve in the remaining 42.0% (50/119) of patients, and 3.4% (4/119) of patients experienced aggravation of CCLF after ACDF. Preoperative spondylolisthesis (OR 0.252, 95% CI 0.090-0.711; p = 0.009) and greater segmental lordosis 3 months postoperatively (OR 0.835, 95% CI 0.731-0.953; p = 0.008) were the factors that hindered the improvement of CCLF after ACDF. Furthermore, patients with higher pre- or postoperative CCLF grades showed significantly less improvement in JOA score 2 years postoperatively. Indirect decompression for CCLF with ACDF is not reliable because 42.0% of patients did not demonstrate improvement in CCLF grade after the operation. Preoperative spondylolisthesis and postoperative increased segmental lordosis were risk factors for failure of CCLF improvement. Both pre- and postoperative higher CCLF grades were associated with poor neurological recovery 2 years postoperatively.

The relationship between cervical lordosis and neck pain: a systematic review and meta-analysis

: The interpretation of the correlation between cervical lordotic angle (CLA) and neck pain (NP) among clinicians remains contentious, reflecting the nuanced nature of this association within clinical discourse. This relationship assumes paramount importance in clinical practice, as it serves as the cornerstone for devising effective therapeutic strategies aimed at the management and prevention of NP. The objective of this study was to determine the difference in CLA between individuals with and without NP. The inclusion criteria entailed observational studies rigorously evaluating CLA through radiological imaging in both NP patients and healthy controls (HC), while pediatric, geriatric populations, and non-degenerative spinal conditions were excluded. We conducted a thorough electronic search across several databases including Medline, Cochrane Library, Embase, CINAHL, and PEDro. The search strategy employed terms pertinent to cervical alignment and NP, using Boolean logic. Specifically, search terms such as "neck pain*", "cervical pain*", and "lordo*" were used to ensure comprehensive coverage of relevant literature. We estimated the standardized Mean Differences (SMD) and their corresponding 95% Confidence Intervals (CI). Additionally, chi-square and I2 statistics were used to evaluate within-group heterogeneity through a random effects model. A total of 6 studies, involving 436 patients with NP and 491 HC, were identified. Overall, individuals with NP demonstrated a tendency towards smaller CLA compared to the HC group.

Relationships between stenosis severity, functional limitation, pain, and quality of life in patients with cervical spondylotic radiculopathy.

This study aimed to examine the relationships between severity of stenosis, pain, functional limitation, disability, and quality of life in patients with cervical spondylotic radiculopathy. Patients (45 female, 19 male) with radiculopathy due to spondylotic changes in the cervical spine were included in this study. Stenosis severity (thecal sac cross-sectional area (CSA)), numbness, neck and arm pain severity, functional limitation (Cervical Radiculopathy Impact Scale), disability, and quality of life (EQ-5D-3L General Quality of Life Scale) were evaluated. The study was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov as NCT06001359. According to CSA values, 28 (43.75%) patients had severe stenosis and 36 (56.25%) had moderate stenosis, and the average CSA was 81.65 ± 10.08 mm2. Positive correlations were found between both neck and arm pain and neck disability (r = 0.597, r = 0.359), and negative correlations were found for the General Quality of Life Scale index score and EQ-5D-3L visual analog scale (r = -0.787, r = -0.518). There were significant positive correlations between Cervical Radiculopathy Impact Scale subscales and severity of stenosis, neck and arm pain, numbness, and disability (p < 0.05 for all). A significant negative correlation was observed between Cervical Radiculopathy Impact Scale subscales and quality of life (p < 0.01). Stenosis severity was correlated with pain, neck disability, and quality of life (p < 0.01 for all). There are direct relationships between cervical spondylotic radiculopathy and neck and arm pain, numbness, disability, and quality of life. Additionally, an increase in the severity of cervical stenosis is associated with an increase in pain and disability.

Sex differences in cervical disc height and neck muscle activation during manipulation of external load from helmets.

Neck pain associated with helmet-wear is an occupational health problem often observed in helicopter pilots and aircrew. Whether aircrew helmet wearing is associated with physiological and biomechanical differences between sexes is currently unknown. This study investigated neuromuscular activation patterns during different helmet-wearing conditions. The helmet load was manipulated through a novel Helmet Balancing System (HBS) in healthy, non-pilot male and female participants (n=10 each, age 19-45years) in two phases. Phase A assessed the acute effects of helmet-wear on neck muscles activation during head movements. Phase B examined changes in muscle activity and cervical disc height after wearing a helmet for 45 min. In Phase A, muscle activity was similar between sexes in many movements, but it was higher in female participants when wearing a helmet than in males. The HBS reduced muscle activity in both sexes. In Phase B, female participants exhibited a greater level of muscular fatigue, and male participants' cervical disc height was significantly decreased [5.7 (1.4) vs. 4.4 (1.5)mm, P<0.001] after continuous wearing. Both sexes showed no significant change in muscle fatigue and disc height [male: 5.0 (1.3) vs. 5.2 (1.4)mm, P=0.604] after applying HBS. These findings demonstrate sex-specific physiological and biomechanical responses to wearing a helmet. They may indicate different postural and motor control strategies, associated with different neck pain aetiologies in male and female aircrew, the knowledge of which is important to reduce or prevent musculoskeletal injuries associated with helmet wearing.

Knowledge of HPV vaccination and associated HNC and treatment decision-making among minority populations

ObjectiveUnderstand vaccination knowledge and barriers to vaccination among minority adults. Study designCross-sectional survey. SettingOtolaryngology clinics at a safety net hospital and a tertiary academic center and a head and neck cancer screening event. MethodsSurvey was administered to consenting patients. Descriptive statistics and significance testing were used to characterize the data, with non-minority respondents as controls. Multivariate logistic regression was used to understand factors associated with vaccination. ResultsHPV vaccination among our 241 respondents (n = 41, 17.67 %) and their qualifying children (n = 52, 33.55 %) was low. Non-vaccinated minorities were significantly more likely to express interest in HPV vaccination (28.66 % vs 8.66 %, p = 0.016). Minority patients were significantly less knowledgeable about HPV causing cervical (88.64 % vs 72.45 %, p = 0.024) and head and neck (68.18 % vs 44.90 %, p = 0.005) cancer and were also less aware of HPV infection (95.45 % vs 81.12 %, p = 0.020) among non-women. Lack of knowledge about the HPV vaccine was the most cited reason why minority patients did not or were uninterested in vaccination for themselves or their children. In a multivariable logistic regression of factors associated with HPV vaccination, only increased age demonstrated a significant association with vaccination likelihood (OR = 0.91, 95 % CI = [0.88–0.95], p < 0.001). ConclusionReported HPV vaccination rates were low for both white and minority patients but did not significantly vary on univariate or multivariate analysis. However, minority respondents were significantly less knowledgeable about HPV and its manifestations; they most often cited inadequate knowledge as why did not receive or were uninterested in HPV vaccination. As such, HPV vaccination educational interventions may raise vaccination rates among minority populations.

Hounsfield units of vertebrae as a predictor of cervical deep paraspinal muscles atrophy and neck pain in degenerative cervical myelopathy.

This study investigated the correlation between Hounsfield units (HU) of the cervical vertebrae and atrophy of the cervical deep paraspinal muscles, namely the multifidus and semispinalis cervicis (SCer), in patients diagnosed with degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM). The authors retrospectively analyzed data from 136 patients aged 50-79 years (81 males and 55 females) who underwent surgical intervention for DCM. HU measurements of the cancellous bone in the C4 vertebra were acquired through standardized techniques. The authors evaluated fatty infiltration (FI); analyzed functional and vertebral cross-sectional area (CSA) of the multifidus and SCer at the C4-5, C5-6, and C6-7 levels; and analyzed the presence of Modic changes (MCs) and the incidence of axial neck pain. Patients were categorized into group A (n = 56) with mean ± SD HU of 293.3 ± 15.6 and group B (n = 80) with mean ± SD HU of 389.5 ± 10.6. Both groups demonstrated significant improvements in postoperative clinical outcomes (p < 0.05); however, no statistically significant difference was observed (p > 0.05). Significant disparities in HU measurements and visual analog scale (VAS) scores for neck pain were observed between the groups (p < 0.05). The highest VAS score correlated with MCs-1 type (i.e., low signal on T1-weighted images and high signal on T2-weighted images). The functional CSA to vertebral CSA ratios of the multifidus and SCer in group A were markedly reduced compared to those of group B (p < 0.05). No significant difference was noted in functional CSA asymmetry between the groups for both muscles (p > 0.05). Lower HU measurements directly correlated with increased FI in the multifidus (p = 0.002) and SCer (p = 0.035). Furthermore, a strong positive association was found between the functional CSA to vertebral CSA ratio of the multifidus and HU values (p = 0.003), whereas HU measurements and VAS scores exhibited a negative correlation (p = 0.020). Among those patients older than 50 years with DCM, those with decreased HU values demonstrated elevated FI levels in the multifidus and SCer muscles. Moreover, these patients presented with pronounced muscle atrophy, which correlated with axial neck pain. A significant relationship was also identified between MCs and diminished HU values.

The Efficacy of Second-Generation Cervical Spine Arthroplasty: A 5-Year Perspective

Objective: The aim of this study was to determine the surgical outcomes of second-generation cervical arthroplasty in patients with symptomatic cervical disc degeneration at approximately 5 years of follow-up.Methods: A retrospective study was conducted of consecutive patients who underwent elective cervical spine arthroplasty at our institution with the use of a second-generation cervical prosthesis. The inclusion criteria were: (1) patients aged 25 to 50 years, (2) patients undergoing primary cervical surgery, (3) a minimum follow-up of 5 years. Demographic, clinical, surgical, and radiological data were collected and analyzed for patients who met the inclusion and exclusion criteria.Results: Thirty-seven patients were identified. The mean final follow-up was 75.1 months (range, 62.5–92.2 months). Statistically significant improvement was observed at the end of follow-up in the cervical disability index, neck pain, and radicular pain (p&lt;0.001). In total, 89.1% of patients reported being satisfied or very satisfied. During follow-up, 4 patients required reintervention, including 2 for adjacent segment syndrome, 1 for possible implant failure, and 1 for a prevertebral collection. The mean mobility of the operated segment at 5 years was 8.1 (standard deviation, 5.91). Additionally, radiologically, 1 patient exhibited heterotopic ossification, and 5 patients had asymptomatic adjacent segment syndrome.Conclusion: Promising outcomes are associated with second-generation cervical arthroplasty in the management of symptomatic cervical disc degeneration. The improvement in clinical scores, preservation of segmental mobility, and low incidence of complications such as heterotopic ossification and reintervention underscore the potential benefits of second-generation cervical arthroplasty.

Reduced Cervical Muscle Fat Infiltrate Is Associated with Self-Reported Recovery from Chronic Idiopathic Neck Pain Over Six Months: A Magnetic Resonance Imaging Longitudinal Cohort Study.

Background: It is unclear why neck pain persists or resolves, making assessment and management decisions challenging. Muscle composition, particularly muscle fat infiltrate (MFI), is related to neck pain, but it is unknown whether MFI changes with recovery following targeted interventions. Methods: We compared muscle composition quantified from fat-water magnetic resonance images from the C3 to T1 vertebrae in individuals with and without chronic idiopathic neck pain at two times 6 months apart. Those with neck pain received six weeks of intervention (physiotherapy or chiropractic) after their baseline MRI; at 6 months, they were classified as recovered (≥3 on the 11-point Global Rating of Change scale) or not recovered. Results: At 6 months, both asymptomatic and recovered individuals had decreased MFI compared to baseline (asymptomatic estimated marginal mean difference -1.6% 95%; CI -1.9, -1.4; recovered -1.6; -1.8, -1.4; p < 0.001) whereas those classified as not recovered had increased MFI compared to baseline (0.4; 0.1, 0.7; p = 0.014), independent of age, sex and body mass index. Conclusions: It appears MFI decreases with recovery from neck pain but increases when neck pain persists. The relationship between cervical MFI and neck pain suggests MFI may inform diagnosis, theragnosis and prognosis in individuals with neck pain. Future development of a clinical test for MFI may assist in identifying patients who will benefit from targeted muscle intervention, improving outcomes.

Adult Thornwalt Cyst: A Rare Case Report.

Nasopharyngeal cysts are rare benign entity, smaller in size and usually asymptomatic. They are mostly diagnosed incidentally on MRI. Larger cysts commonly presents with spasmodic and obstructive symptoms. Thornwaldt cysts are congenital cysts originating from the mid- line of the nasopharynx just above the upper border of the superior constrictor muscle. They represent primitive communication between notochord remnants and the pharyngeal endoderm. We report this case because of its unique presentation in a 35year old male. Patient presented with nasal blockage, nasal discharge, snoring, ear pain and aural fullness, intermittent neck pain and neck stiffness. Preoperative evaluation included diagnostic nasal endoscopy (DNE) and Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI-scan). A large cystic mass of size 2.8cm × 3cm was diagnosed on DNE and MRI. Transnasal Marsupialisation and excision of the cyst was planned using powered instruments. Post operatively, patient noticed marked improvement in the obstructive symptoms. Regular follow up was done 6 monthly for 2years. No recurrence was noted on DNE. Although a rare pathology in adulthood, it should be kept as a differential diagnosis for cervical pain and neck stiffness.

Efficiency of Fine-Needle Aspiration (FNA) in Relation to Tru-Cut Biopsy of Lateral Neck Swellings.

Background Lateral neck masses have always been difficult to diagnose without proposing a differential diagnosis. Fine-needle aspiration (FNA) was proposed to be a cost-effective method and less invasive than a tru-cut biopsy and may provide a provisional diagnosis in relation to cytopathology. FNA has also been shown to improve the diagnosis of neck masses such as cervical lymphadenopathy, neck cysts, and parotid masses, whether malignant or benign. This study aims to evaluate the accuracy of FNA cytopathology versus a tru-cut biopsy histopathological examination. Materials and methods This study was conducted retrospectively in King Hussein Medical Hospital, Royal Medical Services, Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, from January 2019 to January 2024. Ethical approval was taken to conduct this study with reference number 06/2024. All patients included in this study have given verbal and written consent to perform FNA and surgical tru-cut biopsy. The inclusion of patients was based on any person above the age of 16 who underwent an FNA followed by a surgical biopsy to correlate with the primary diagnosis. Exclusion criteria involved any patient who missed one of the above criteria. Statistical analysis was performed using IBM SPSS v29 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY, US) with significant results considered with a p-value <0.05. Results A total of 107 patients were included in this study. A correlation between FNA results and final histopathological biopsy was done with an accuracy of 90.6%, specificity of 94.3, predictive positive value of 73.6%, andnegative predictive value of 94.3%. There was a statistical significance between FNA and tru-cut biopsy with a p-value of <0.001. Conclusion FNA is a great tool to consider when diagnosing lateral neck swellings. Since it was statistically significant, FNA should be considered for any lateral neck swelling before any surgical tru-cut biopsy for a definitive diagnosis.

Bioinformatics Analysis Reveals E6 and E7 of HPV 16 Regulate Metabolic Reprogramming in Cervical Cancer, Head and Neck Cancer, and Colorectal Cancer through the PHD2-VHL-CUL2-ELOC-HIF-1α Axis.

Human papillomavirus 16 (HPV 16) infection is associated with several types of cancer, such as head and neck, cervical, anal, and penile cancer. Its oncogenic potential is due to the ability of the E6 and E7 oncoproteins to promote alterations associated with cell transformation. HPV 16 E6 and E7 oncoproteins increase metabolic reprogramming, one of the hallmarks of cancer, by increasing the stability of hypoxia-induced factor 1 α (HIF-1α) and consequently increasing the expression levels of their target genes. In this report, by bioinformatic analysis, we show the possible effect of HPV 16 oncoproteins E6 and E7 on metabolic reprogramming in cancer through the E6-E7-PHD2-VHL-CUL2-ELOC-HIF-1α axis. We proposed that E6 and E7 interact with VHL, CUL2, and ELOC in forming the E3 ubiquitin ligase complex that ubiquitinates HIF-1α for degradation via the proteasome. Based on the information found in the databases, it is proposed that E6 interacts with VHL by blocking its interaction with HIF-1α. On the other hand, E7 interacts with CUL2 and ELOC, preventing their binding to VHL and RBX1, respectively. Consequently, HIF-1α is stabilized and binds with HIF-1β to form the active HIF1 complex that binds to hypoxia response elements (HREs), allowing the expression of genes related to energy metabolism. In addition, we suggest an effect of E6 and E7 at the level of PHD2, VHL, CUL2, and ELOC gene expression. Here, we propose some miRNAs targeting PHD2, VHL, CUL2, and ELOC mRNAs. The effect of E6 and E7 may be the non-hydroxylation and non-ubiquitination of HIF-1α, which may regulate metabolic processes involved in metabolic reprogramming in cancer upon stabilization, non-degradation, and translocation to the nucleus.

Management Considerations for Cervical Corpectomy: Updated Indications and Future Directions.

Together, lower back and neck pain are among the leading causes of acquired disability worldwide and have experienced a marked increase over the past 25 years. Paralleled with the increasing aging population and the rise in chronic disease, this trend is only predicted to contribute to the growing global burden. In the context of cervical neck pain, this symptom is most often a manifestation of cervical degenerative disc disease (DDD). Traditionally, multilevel neck pain related to DDD that is recalcitrant to both physical and medical therapy can be treated with a procedure known as cervical corpectomy. Presently, there are many flavors of cervical corpectomy; however, the overarching goal is the removal of the pain-generating disc via the employment of the modern anterior approach. In this review, we will briefly detail the pathophysiological mechanism behind DDD, overview the development of the anterior approach, and discuss the current state of treatment options for said pathology. Furthermore, this review will also add to the current body of literature surrounding updated indications, surgical techniques, and patient outcomes related to cervical corpectomy. Finally, our discussion ends with highlighting the future direction of cervical corpectomy through the introduction of the "skip corpectomy" and distractable mesh cages.

Effective Exercises Revolutionize Neck Health by Combating Forward Head Posture

This study investigated the effectiveness of deep cervical flexor exercise and neck callet exercise in improving neck functionality among university students with forward head posture. Through a quasi-experimental design, both exercises were implemented three times per week for four weeks, with neck functionality assessed using the Neck Disability Index. Results revealed significant improvements in both groups post-intervention, with mean pre-test scores decreasing from 38.166 to 31.500 for deep cervical flexor exercise and from 37.333 to 31.166 for neck callet exercise. A significant difference was observed between the two groups. These findings highlight the efficacy of targeted exercises in enhancing neck functionality and addressing the negative impacts of forward head posture associated with prolonged gadget use. Highlight: Improved neck function after targeted exercises in university students. Both exercises effective for addressing forward head posture. Quasi-experimental design supports efficacy of targeted exercises. Keyword: Neck functionality, Forward head posture, Exercise intervention, University students, Quasi-experimental design

Analysis of surgical approaches and mandibular treatment strategies for different types of tumors involving parapharyngeal space

In view of the surgical complexity of parapharyngeal space tumors involved, this paper summarized the disease data of patients with parapharyngeal space tumors involved in the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, the First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University from January 2015 to January 2021. It also summarized the surgical approach and mandibular management, so as to explore surgical strategies for different characteristics of parapharyngeal space tumors involved. A total of 49 patients, including 28 males and 21 females, median age 52 years (range 24-72 years). They were treated with four surgical approaches for tumor resection, 25 cervical approach, 5 cheek and neck approach, 3 transoral approach, and 16 cervical-maxillary approach. Among the patients treated with cervical-maxillary approach, 3 patients were treated with mandible square resection, and 6 patients were treated with temporary mandible dissection. Seven cases were treated with tumor resection and partial mandibular resection. There are various surgical approaches and mandibular management methods involving tumors in the parapharyngeal space, and clinical decisions should be made based on tumor diameter, location, boundary, blood supply and pathological types.

Diagnostic imaging features of traumatic subgaleal hematoma in a dog: a case report

Subgaleal hematomas are accumulation of blood between periosteum and galea aponeurosis. A 2-year-old male Chihuahua was presented with a severe head swelling after trauma. Radiography and computed tomography (CT) showed a massive swelling encircling the entire calvarial vault, extending toward the cervical neck and crossing the suture line. It was heterogeneously, mild hyperdense fluid to soft tissue attenuating with contrast enhancement on CT images. On day 4, physical and imaging examination showed resolution of the calvarial swelling. Subgaleal hematoma should be considered as a differential diagnosis when there is a massive soft tissue swelling over the skull on physical and imaging examinations.

The Effect of Exercise-Induced Central Fatigue on Cervical Spine Joint Position Error, Strength, and Endurance.

Fatigue is common in sports, impairing performance and increasing injury risk, yet little is known regarding fatigue and concussion. Impaired neck neuromuscular function may contribute to concussion at baseline, where central fatigue may further impair neck function resulting in increased concussion risk. These effects may be magnified in athletes with a history of concussion. To determine the effect of exercise induced central fatigue on neck joint position error, strength, and endurance in healthy subjects and those with a history of concussion. The investigators hypothesized that EICF would have a negative effect on all variables. Healthy subjects were examined using a single factor, within-subjects repeated measures design. Concussion history subjects were examined using a single-subject design. Nineteen healthy subjects and five subjects with a history of concussion were recruited for the study. Cervical joint position error, muscle strength, and neck flexor endurance were tested before and after exercise induced fatigue. There was a significant increase in constant (p = 0.0027) and absolute joint position error (JPE) (p < 0.001); decrease in neck flexor endurance (p < 0.001); and decrease neck strength into cervical flexion (p = 0.01) in healthy subjects following fatigue. Among concussion history subjects, five demonstrated a significant increase in absolute and constant JPE (p < 0.05); four demonstrated a significant decrease in neck flexor endurance (p < 0.05); one in neck flexion muscle strength (p < 0.05); and three in neck extension and rotation muscle strength (p < 0.05) following fatigue. Cervical neuromuscular function deteriorated following fatigue in healthy subjects. Resulting impairments may affect force alterations in cervical control, potentially increasing concussion risk. Concussion history subjects descriptively demonstrated similar results, however further research should examine formal comparisons involving subjects with and without concussion history. 3b.

Biomechanical analysis of cervical spine (C2-C7) at different flexed postures.

Musculoskeletal diseases are often related with postural changes in the neck region that can be caused by prolonged cervical flexion. This is one of the contributing factors. When determining the prevalence, causes, and related risks of neck discomfort, having a solid understanding of the biomechanics of the cervical spine (C1-C7) is absolutely necessary. The objective of this study is to make predictions regarding the intervertebral disc (IVD) stress values across C2-C7 IVD, the ligament stress, and the variation at 0°, 15°, 30°, 45°, and 60° of cervical neck angle using finite element analysis (FEA). In order to evaluate the mechanical properties of the cervical spine (particularly, C2-C7), this investigation makes use of computed tomography (CT) scans to develop a three-dimensional FEA model of the cervical spine. A preload of 50 N compression force was applied at the apex of the C2 vertebra, and all degrees of freedom below the C7 level were constrained. The primary objective of this investigation is to assess the distribution of von Mises stress within the IVDs and ligaments spanning C2-C7 at various flexion angles: 0°, 15°, 30°, 45°, and 60°, utilizing FEA. The outcomes derived from this analysis were subsequently compared to previously published experimental and FEA data to validate the model's ability to replicate the physiological motion of the cervical spine across different flexion angles.

From case to context: A case-driven comprehensive review on Kirschner wire migration to the cervical spine and neck

Introduction Osteosynthesis using Kirschner wires constitutes a fundamental technique within the realms of traumatology and orthopaedics. Despite its widespread application and popularity, it is susceptible to migration of the wires. Case Report A 36-year-old patient presented with neck pain; subsequent radiographic imaging identified two Kirschner wires that had migrated to the cervical spine following failed removal after K-wiring of a fractured left clavicle 16 years previously. Surgical removal was undertaken complicated by a parapharyngeal abscess that needed surgical drainage and neurological symptoms in terms of left shoulder weakness and left arm/hand paraesthesia. All neurological symptoms resolved after many months of rehabilitation excepting some residual paraesthesia on the ulnar border of the left hand. Discussion A thorough literature review reveals 30 other cases of K-wire migration to the cervical spine. Vague symptoms are the norm with &lt;25% presenting focal neurological symptoms, with only 6 penetrating the spinal cord, two of which were left with severe deficits. The other 28 patients had no long-term significant deficits. Conclusion The migration of K-wires into the spinal canal, is a rare but recognised complication. Functional outcomes are contingent on spinal cord injuries arising from the implantation. In the absence of spinal cord injury, a high probability of complete functional restoration and symptom resolution exists.