Significant Improvement In Pain Scores Research Articles

#1036 Studying the quality of life in patients with CKD during the short physical rehabilitation program

Abstract Background and Aims The purpose of the study was to study the quality of life in patients with stages 2-3 CKD during a short physical rehabilitation program. Method The study included 130 patients with stage 2-3 CKD at the age of 45 - 65 years (average age - 58.7 ± 0.73 years). Patients included in the study were divided into 2 groups – main group and control group, depending on adherence to non-drug treatment: 1st - CG group (control) – patients receiving standard therapy (n = 30); 2nd - MG group (main) - patients who, in addition to medication treatment, received a course of physical training for 12 weeks 2-3 times a week (n = 100). Laboratory data were analyzed in patients urea, creatinine, electrolytes, albumin, total protein, blood hemoglobin. Results During the study of patients with CKD at pre-dialysis stages, patients in the main group rated their quality of life more positively. The total quality of life indicator in the main group during 12 weeks of regular physical training increased by 15.5% (p < 0.05). In the control group, after 12 weeks of physical training quality of life parameters remained at the same level, but there was a tendency to decrease. Patients in the study group reported significant improvements in physical quality of life measures compared with control group measures, including role limitations (physical) (mean change = −8.9 in the control group compared with mean change + 19.0 in study group P < 0.001), physical functioning (mean change = −0.7 in the control group compared with a mean change of +11.1 in the study group; P ˂ 0.005), Patients in the study group also reported a significant improvement in pain scores. Conclusion Thus, when studying the quality of life, a group of patients who received physical training with standard therapy noted an improvement in both physical and mental functioning.

Outcomes of Surgical Management of Turf Toe: 12-Year Results.

Background "Turf toe" is a classical capsuloligamentous injury to the plantar surface of the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint of the great toe. The name is synonymous with injuries sustained on artificial turf or hard grounds. The classical injury pattern is a hyperdorsiflexion injury with an axial load. The outcomes of these injuries are unpredictable and there are no clear guidelines for the management of these injuries. These injuries are debilitating and can lead to long-term problems and inability to return to pre-injury activity level if missed. We present a long-term surgical follow-up of severe grade 3 turf toe injuries. Methods In the period from 2011 to 2022, we treated 20 patients with turf toe/MTP joint instability. There were 10 football injuries (50%), six running injuries (30%), two gymnastic injuries (10%), one motorcycle injury (0.5%), and one was a ballet dancer (0.5%). All the grade 1 and 2 injuries were treated conservatively with rest, ice application, and splinting of the toe. Grade 3 injuries were treated surgically and strict rehabilitation protocol was followed. Results The mean age at surgery was 32.7 years and the average patient follow-up was 7.5 months after surgery. The Manchester-Oxford Foot Questionnaire (MOXFQ) score showed a statistically significant improvement from a mean of 73.0 (median = 75) preoperatively to 28.1 (median = 28.6) postoperatively (median improvement = 46.4, P = 0.022). Similarly, there was a significant improvement in pain score, which showed an improvement from a mean of 72.9 (median = 70.0) preoperatively to a mean of 22.9 (median = 25.0) postoperatively (median improvement = 51.3, P = 0.022). Conclusion Turf toe is a serious injury that may prevent a high percentage of patients from resuming their previous physical activities. The correct identification, classification, and grading of the first MTP joint instability helps in decision-making and achieving good surgical outcomes.

Perineural Injection of Mecobalamin Versus Dextrose 5% Against Clinical Changes and Electrophysiological Features of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Patients at Dr. Mohammad Hoesin General Hospital, Palembang, Indonesia

Background: Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a common compression neuropathy with symptoms of pain, tingling, and numbness in the hands. Perineural injections of steroids and mecobalamin have been shown to be effective in relieving CTS symptoms. This study aims to compare the effectiveness of the perineural injection of mecobalamin and 5% dextrose on clinical changes and electrophysiological features in CTS sufferers.
 Methods: This research is a pilot study open-label randomized controlled trial conducted at Dr. Mohammad Hoesin General Hospital Palembang. A total of 24 CTS patients were randomly divided into two groups: the mecobalamin group (n=12) and the 5% dextrose group (n=12). Patients in both groups received a single perineural injection.
 Results: In the mecobalamin group, there were significant improvements in pain scores (NPRS), Boston carpal tunnel questionnaire (BCTQ) - symptom severity scale (SSS) and functional status scale (FSS), as well as median nerve motor and sensory conduction after 2 weeks. In the 5% dextrose group, there were significant improvements in pain scores and BCTQ-SSS but not in BCTQ-FSS and nerve conduction. Comparison between groups showed significant differences in BCTQ-SSS and sensory conduction amplitude.
 Conclusion: Perineural injection of mecobalamin and 5% dextrose is effective in improving clinical symptoms of CTS. Mecobalamin showed better effects on BCTQ-SSS and sensory conduction amplitude than 5% dextrose.

Superficial Peritoneal Endometriosis Vaporization Using a CO2 Laser: A Long-Term Single-Center Experience.

Background: The validation of laser usage during laparoscopic procedures, notably by Camran Nezhat in the late 1980s, has been significant. Lasers offer precision and depth control in tissue vaporization without bleeding. Surgical intervention remains central in managing endometriosis-associated pain and infertility, especially for patients unresponsive to hormonal therapy. Methods: This retrospective cohort study included 200 patients with superficial peritoneal endometriosis (SPE) who underwent laparoscopic laser vaporization. Surgery was performed using a CO2 laser, and histological confirmation of endometriosis was obtained for all cases. Pain scores and SF-36 questionnaire domains were assessed preoperatively and postoperatively. Fertility outcomes were evaluated among patients desiring pregnancy. Results: Significant improvements in pain score and SF-36 questionnaire domains were observed postoperatively (p-value < 0.01), indicating enhanced quality of life. Among infertile patients with an active desire for pregnancy, surgical treatment showed an overall pregnancy rate after surgery of 93.7% (p-value < 0.01), including 75.7% natural pregnancies and 24.3% IVF. Laser vaporization enabled precise lesion removal with minimal tissue damage, short operative time, and minimal blood loss. Conclusions: Laparoscopic laser vaporization is an effective treatment for SPE, offering pain relief, improved quality of life, and favorable fertility outcomes. Further research is needed to validate these results in terms of pain control and fertility.

Ultrasound-guided injection of corticosteroid versus placebo in management of plantar fasciitis

: Plantar Fasciitis (PF) is a prevalent musculoskeletal condition causing heel pain, with approximately 1 million annual U.S. physician visits. It is more common in women, aged 45-64, and obese individuals. Diagnosis relies on clinical history and examination, and various treatments target pain relief, though consensus on the most effective modality is lacking. Corticosteroid injections are commonly used but pose risks. This six-month prospective randomized controlled trial with 50 individuals assessed the efficacy of corticosteroid versus placebo injections for resistant PF. Ultrasound-guided injections were administered, and outcomes were measured at 3 weeks and 3 months.: Results indicated significant improvement in pain scores, Ankle and Hindfoot scores, and plantar fascia thickness with corticosteroid injections compared to placebo. No serious adverse events were observed. Corticosteroids aim to reduce inflammation, and studies link decreased plantar fascia thickness to pain relief. Ultrasound guidance enhances precision in delivery. While some protocol limitations exist, this trial contributes valuable insights into the pharmacological effects of corticosteroids in PF treatment, aiding in evidence-based recommendations.

Virtual Versus in-Person Physiotherapy Consultations Following Shoulder Pain

The purpose of this evaluation was to analyse and compare the outcomes of virtual physiotherapy consultations versus in-person physiotherapy consultations following shoulder pain. The outcomes of 104 patients (49 virtual vs. 55 in-person) were reviewed. Shoulder function and pain scores were captured. Comparative analysis was performed using a two-tailed Student’s t-test. Total number of physiotherapy sessions and patient satisfaction scores were also recorded. Both modes of consultations showed significant improvements in shoulder function and pain scores when analyse separately, and when compared virtual physiotherapy consultations led to significant improvements in shoulder function and in-person physiotherapy consultations led to significant improvements in pain scores. Future research should focus on randomised controlled trials to directly compare virtual physiotherapy consultations and in-person physiotherapy consultations to confirm the findings of this evaluation.

Mesenchymal stem cells and thermal annular procedures for discogenic pain: a systematic review with pooled analysis.

Aim: Compare the effectiveness of mesenchymal stem cell injection therapies (MSC) and thermal annular procedures for the treatment of discogenic lower back pain. Materials & methods: A systematic review was performed following PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Pooled analysis was performed using patients' pain scores at baseline and at 12months post-intervention. Results: Effect sizes based on change in pain score from baseline to 12month follow-up revealed clinically significant improvement in pain score across all interventions. Conclusion: Minimally invasive interventions provide meaningful relief in discogenic back pain, with results suggesting promise for MSC injection therapies as a treatment model.

Safety outcomes and improvement in pain scores after radiologist-performed fluoroscopy-guided interlaminar cervical epidural steroid injection.

Image-guided spine injections are an important tool in the management of patients with a variety of spinal pathologies. Our practice offers radiologist-performed fluoroscopy-guided interlaminar cervical epidural steroid injection (ESI) routinely performed in the outpatient setting. The purpose of this study was to evaluate clinical outcomes and improvement in pain scores after radiologist-performed cervical ESI. An institutional database was used to retrospectively identify cervical injections performed between October 2016 and October 2022. All injections were performed at the C7-T1 level utilizing 1.0mL of 10mg/mL dexamethasone without epidural anesthetic. The Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) was used to assess pain improvement. Cervical MRI was reviewed to assess pre-injection cervical disease severity. Patient charts were reviewed for any post-injection complications. A total of 251 cervical injections in 186 patients met our inclusion criteria with mean clinical follow up of 28.5months (range 0.2 - 73.0months). No patients experienced any major complications after injection. Post-injection pain scores were available for 218 of 251 injections (86.9%) with mean follow-up of 11.8days (range 6 - 57days). There was a significant improvement in pain scores from a mean pre-injection NRS score of 5.2/10 to 3.0/10 (p < .0001). 117 patients (53.7%) reported ≥ 50% improvement after injection. Patients who had prior injection were more likely to report ≥ 50% pain improvement after subsequent injection (p = .012). Radiologist-performed fluoroscopy-guided interlaminar cervical ESI at the C7-T1 level is a safe and effective tool in the management of patients with cervical pathology.

Comparative Evaluation of Intraarticular Facet Joint Injection Versus Medial Branch Block in Patients With Low Back Pain: A Randomised Controlled Study.

Lumbar facet joint pain may refer to the back, buttocks, and proximal parts of the lower extremities. Intraarticular facet joint injections, facet joint nerve blocks, or facet joint neurolytic procedures are popular for the management of facet joint pain. In this prospective, randomised study, 60 patients with a medical evaluation and pain pattern consistent with lumbar facet joint pain were randomly allocated to two groups. Group Ⅰ (n=30) patients were administered fluoroscope-guided lumbar facet joint injection, and group Ⅱ (n=30) patients were administered fluoroscope-guided lumbar facet joint nerve block. The primary objective is to compare the efficacy of both in managing facet joint pain in terms of pain and disability improvement. Secondary objectives were to compare the requirement for repeat injections and parameters related to the block, such as ease of administering the block, and to note the side effects pertaining to either of the blocks. There was a statistically significant improvement in pain score after injection in both groups (p>0.05). The mean pain score in both groups remained less than two at all time intervals throughout the study period (p>0.05) Excellent patient satisfaction was reported by the majority of the patients at different time intervals in both groups. Both lumbar facet joint injection and lumbar facet joint nerve block are safe and effective techniques for managing lower back pain patients. Both techniques provide adequate pain relief and disability improvement.

Comparing the efficacy of blind vs. ultrasound-guided injections in Lateral Epicondylitis: A prospective analysis

Lateral epicondylitis is a relatively common non-traumatic elbow disorder. It is a painful musculoskeletal condition that usually follows forceful repetitive pronation and supination. The aim of this study was to evaluate the advantages of ultrasound-guided injection in patients of Lateral Epicondylitis in comparison to non-image-guided blind injections. This comparative observational study was conducted on sixty patients who had clinical diagnosis of Lateral Epicondylitis. They were divided into two groups of thirty each (randomization done on odd even manner), one group underwent US-guided injections and the other group underwent the blind procedure by a specialist. Pain relief using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) {score of 0–10} was recorded before the procedure, immediately after the procedure, one-week post-procedure, and six weeks post-procedure. Demographic characteristics, chief complaints, duration of symptoms, previous treatment taken, and complications post-procedure were gathered and compared between the two groups. All patients in both groups finished the period of study. Significant improvement in pain score and tenderness was found in both groups immediately after the injection, one-week post-procedure, and after six weeks post-procedure when compared to the baseline value (p value < 0.05). The US-guided group showed a better reduction in VAS scores immediately after the procedure and one-week post-procedure as compared to patients who were given blind injections, however no statistical difference was found at six weeks follow up. This study shows that US-guided injection relatively improves elbow pain and functional activities early and more effectively than blind/non-image-guided injections, although such results fade as time passes by.

Percutaneous Endoscopic Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion (PETLIF): Current Techniques, Clinical Outcomes, and Narrative Review.

Full endoscopic techniques are becoming more popular for degenerative lumbar pathologies. Percutaneous endoscopic lumbar interbody fusion (PETLIF) is a minimally invasive surgical technique for spondylolisthesis and lumbar spinal canal stenosis with instability. Nagahama first introduced PETLIF in 2019. This study investigated the clinical outcomes and complications of 24 patients who underwent PETLIF in our facility and compared them with previous studies. Literature searches were conducted on PubMed and Web of Science. The PETLIF surgical technique involves three steps to acquire disc height under general anesthesia. The procedure includes bone harvesting, spondylolisthesis reduction, endoscopic foraminoplasty, disc height expansion using an oval dilator, and intervertebral disc curettage. A cage filled with autologous bone is inserted into the disc space and secured with posterior fixation. Patients underwent PETLIF with an average operation time of 130.8 min and a blood loss of 24.0 mL. Postoperative hospital stays were 9.5 days. Improvement in VAS, disc height, spinal canal area, and % slip was observed, while lumbar lordosis remained unchanged. Complications included end plate injury, subsidence, and exiting nerve root injury. The differences between PETLIF and the extracted literature were found in patients' age, direct decompression, epidural or local anesthesia, approach, order of PPS, and cage insertion. In conclusion, PETLIF surgery is a practical, minimally invasive surgical technique for patients with lumbar degenerative diseases suffering from back and leg pain, demonstrating significant improvements in pain scores. However, it is essential to carefully consider the potential complications and continue to refine the surgical technique further to enhance the safety and efficacy of this procedure.

Chronic sacroiliac joint dysfunction and CT-guided percutaneous fixation: a 6-year experience.

Reporting the clinical outcomes, patient satisfaction, and complications following an imaging-guided percutaneous screw fixation in the treatment of sacroiliac joint dysfunction and evaluating the safety and effectiveness of this method. We performed a retrospective study on a prospectively gathered cohort of patients with physiotherapy-resistant pain due to sacroiliac joint incompetence that underwent percutaneous screw fixation, between 2016 and 2022 in our center. A minimum of two screws were used in all patients to obtain fixation of the sacroiliac joint, using percutaneous screw insertion under CT guidance, coupled with a C-arm fluoroscopy unit. The mean visual analog scale significantly improved at 6months of follow-up (p < 0.05). One hundred percent of the patients reported significant improvement in pain scores at the final follow-up. None of our patients experienced intraoperative or postoperative complications. The use of percutaneous sacroiliac screws provides a safe and effective technique for the treatment of sacroiliac joint dysfunction in patients with chronic resistant pain.

Clinical and Radiological Outcomes of Scaphocapitate Fusion in Kienböck Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

To report the functional and radiological outcomes of scaphocapitate (SC) arthrodesis in the treatment of Kienböck disease. This meta-analysis was conducted with adherence to PRISMA guidelines. Google Scholar, PubMed, Cochrane and Virtual Health Library were searched from inception until November 2022. All original studies that investigated the outcomes of scaphocapitate fusion in Kienböck disease were included. Exclusion criteria were arthroscopically performed fusions, concomitant radial shortening, traumatic or other etiologies of lunate avascular necrosis, and studies published in languages other than English. Outcomes of interest were pre- and post-operative wrist range of motion, VAS score, functional scores, radiological outcomes, surgical technique, complication rate and reoperation rate. The total number of included participants was 203 from 11 articles. The results showed no significant differences pre- and post-operatively in terms of wrist flexion, extension and ulnar deviation. However, there was a significant reduction in radial deviation after the surgery (WMD -2.30; 95% CI, -4.26 to -0.33). Moreover, a significant increase was noticed in grip strength in Kg (WMD 13.29; 95% CI, 3.21-23.37) and mmHg post-operatively (WMD 23.75; 95% CI, 17.56-29.94). In addition, the models demonstrated significant decrease in carpal height (WMD -0.01; 95% CI, -0.02 to 0.00), scapholunate angle (WMD -12.11; 95% CI, -20.46 to -3.77) and radioscaphoid angle after the surgery (WMD -12.09; 95% CI, -15.51 to -8.67). The pooled overall rate of complication and reoperation rates were 24% (95% CI, 6%-47%) and 14% (95% CI, 3%-31%), respectively. Scaphocapitate arthrodesis is an effective procedure for treatment of Kienböck disease. This procedure is associated with satisfactory functional outcomes and significant improvement in pain scores and grip strength. Further studies with larger sample sizes and reduced heterogeneity are needed for a better evaluation of the results. Scaphocapitate arthrodesis is a recommended surgery for Kienböck disease with satisfactory functional and radiological outcomes. However, patients should be counseled on the possible complications and reoperation rate.

Operative Management of Extensor Carpi Ulnaris Instability: A Systematic Review.

Background Posttraumatic extensor carpi ulnaris (ECU) instability is an increasingly recognized cause of ulnar-sided wrist pain that occurs when the ECU subsheath is disrupted. Purpose The purpose of this systematic review was to assess outcomes of operatively treated posttraumatic ECU instability. Methods A systematic search of Medline, Embase, Web of Science, and CINAHL (Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature) databases was performed using "extensor carpi ulnaris" as the keyword. Studies were systematically screened and data extracted independently by two reviewers. Results Eight retrospective studies met the inclusion criteria with a total of 97 wrists. The mean age was 32 years (13-61). Patients underwent either primary repair (40%) using sutures and anchors, or reconstruction (60%) using extensor retinaculum flaps. One study performed deepening of the osseous ulnar groove. Two studies compared preoperative and postoperative values. They both reported a significant improvement in pain scores, functional scoring instruments, satisfaction, and grip strength. The rest of the studies reported similarly favorable outcomes across the same outcomes. Concomitant pathologies were identified in 66% of the study population. Complications occurred in 9% of the sample size, including ECU tendinitis, ulnar sensory nerve irritation, and reintervention for concomitant pathology. None of the studies reported recurrence or reruptures. However, five patients (6.7%) did not return to their previous activity level. Conclusion Patients can expect favorable outcomes with a potentially low complication rate. Nevertheless, the heterogeneity of the sample population, operative techniques, and outcome measures warrant further standardized studies. Level of Evidence IV.

Efficacy of High Dilution Medicines in combination with physiotherapy in trauma induced low back pain- A Randomized Control Clinical Trial

Background: Lower back pain can refer to a wide range of back injuries or conditions and is one of the most common musculoskeletal disorders which necessitating health care and one of the reason for which many seek a family physician which is cause for limited range of motion. Homoeopathic medicines can offer long term relief from the backache. Methods: This is a three arm randomized controlled trial. Total 30 patients with trauma-induced low backache were chosen at random and divided equally into three study groups. Group A (n=10) was given Arnica 200 twice a day for the first 15 days, after 15 days, another evaluation was performed, and the dose was repeated as needed. Group B (n=10) received constitutional medicine. The dose of constitutional medicine was repeated as needed. After careful case taking, case working, and repertorisation, Bryonia Alba Linn., Rhus Toxicodendron Linn., Nux Vomica Linn. were administered on a constitutional basis. Group C (n=10) received a placebo. All the three groups received physiotherapy to strengthen back muscles in order to reduce the likelihood of recurrenceData was anlaysed using STATA software using Chi square test, ANOVA and post-hoc Bonferroni Multiple comparison test. Results- Significant improvement in pain scores (VAS) was observed in both between the group and within the group comparisons and the effect was more pronounced in Group B. Conclusion: Hence we conclude that an individualized approach is more effective in the management of patients with trauma-induced low back pain.

Sacral neuromodulation in the management of chronic pelvic pain: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Sacral neuromodulation (SNM) is a treatment approved for use in several conditions including refractory overactive bladder (OAB) and voiding dysfunction. Chronic pelvic pain (CPP) is a debilitating condition for which treatment is often challenging. SNM shows promising effect in patients with refractory CPP. However, there is a lack of clear evidence, especially in long-term outcomes. This systematic review will assess outcomes of SNM for treating CPP. A systematic search of MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Central and clinical trial databases was completed from database inception until January 14, 2022. Studies using original data investigating SNM in an adult population with CPP which recorded pre and posttreatment pain scores were selected. Primary outcome was numerical change in pain score. Secondary outcomes were quality of life assessment and change in medication use and all-time complications of SNM. Risk of bias was assessed using the Newcastle Ottawa Tool for cohort studies. Twenty-six of 1026 identified articles were selected evaluating 853 patients with CPP. The implantation rate after test-phase success was 64.3%. Significant improvement of pain scores was reported in 13 studies; three studies reported no significant change. WMD in pain scores on a 10-point scale was -4.64 (95% confidence interval [CI] = -5.32 to -3.95, p < 0.00001) across 20 studies which were quantitatively synthesized: effects were maintained at long-term follow-up. Mean follow-up was 42.5 months (0-59). Quality of life was measured by RAND SF-36 and EQ-5D questionnaires and all studies reported improvement in quality of life. One hundred and eighty-nine complications were reported in 1555 patients (Clavien-Dindo Grade I-IIIb). Risk of bias ranged from low to high risk. Studies were case series and bias stemmed from selection bias and loss to follow-up. Sacral Neuromodulation is a reasonably effective treatment of Chronic Pelvic Pain and significantly reduces pain and increases patients' quality of life with immediate to long-term effects.

Evaluation of the role of vertebral augmentation in chronic vertebral compression fractures: A retrospective study

ObjectivesVertebral augmentation is recommended for acute or subacute vertebral compression fractures (VCFs); few studies claim its usefulness in chronic VCFs also. Use of radionuclide imaging may improvise identification of chronic VCFs that may benefit from vertebral augmentation; hence we have evaluated efficacy of vertebral augmentation procedures in chronic VCFs with incomplete fracture healing suggested either by MRI or Tc99m- MDP bone scan. Materials and MethodsPatients with chronic osteoporotic VCFs (>12 weeks) during the period of June 2013 to June 2019 were included in this retrospective study; patients with evidence of incomplete fracture healing either by MRI or bone scan imaging with Tc 99m-MDP underwent vertebroplasty or kyphoplasty. Primary outcome measure was patient’s pain score measured by numerical rating scale (NRS); secondary outcome measures were patient’s disability assessed by Roland Morris Disability questionnaire (RDQ); quality of life assessed by Quality of life questionnaire of European Foundation of Osteoporosis (QUALLEFO) and analgesic usage. P ​< ​0.050 was considered as significant. Results34 patients were enrolled for the study with median fracture age of 36 months. The median NRS pain scores, RDQ scores, QUALEFFO scores and analgesic usage were significantly reduced at all-time points as compared to the baseline value over the follow up period of 1 year after vertebral augmentation procedure (P ​< ​0.050). Cement leakage was seen in 5 patients (15%). ConclusionVertebral augmentation procedures provided significant improvements in pain scores, disability and quality of life in patients of chronic osteoporotic VCFs with median fracture age of 36 months.

In dogs diagnosed with osteoarthritis, how safe and effective is long-term treatment with bedinvetmab in providing analgesia?

PICO question In dogs diagnosed with osteoarthritis (OA), how safe is treatment with bedinvetmab, when compared to a placebo and how effective in long-term reduction of the severity of the clinical signs associated with OA-related pain? Clinical bottom line Category of research Treatment. Number and type of study designs reviewed Two papers were critically reviewed. One was a randomised, blinded, multi-arm laboratory safety study; the other a multi-center field trial consisting of a block-randomised, double blind, placebo-controlled phase, followed by a non-comparative, open-label case series study. Strength of evidence Weak. Outcomes reported One study rated the reduction of the severity of clinical signs associated with OA pain using owner Canine Brief Pain Inventory (CBPI) ratings and non-validated veterinary clinical assessments (VCAs). Safety was addressed by evaluating adverse health effects (AHEs), concentration of antidrug antibodies (ADAs), and clinical pathology. Significant improvements in pain scores and VCAs were reported in this treatment study. The second safety-only study used clinical observation to evaluate AHEs. Both studies reported AHEs. Conclusion A single study suggests that treatment with bedinvetmab is effective. Two studies support the drug having few AHEs. Both studies have significant design limitations preventing the evaluation of bedinvetmab effectiveness. There is weak / inconclusive evidence for long-term efficacy and short-term safety of OA treatment with bedinvetmab. The decision to use bedinvetmab remains dependent on the judgement and experience of the clinician. How to apply this evidence in practice The application of evidence into practice should take into account multiple factors, not limited to: individual clinical expertise, patient’s circumstances and owners’ values, country, location or clinic where you work, the individual case in front of you, the availability of therapies and resources. Knowledge Summaries are a resource to help reinforce or inform decision making. They do not override the responsibility or judgement of the practitioner to do what is best for the animal in their care.

Does kyphoplasty affect the global sagittal alignment in patients with osteoporotic vertebral fractures? A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures (OVCF) are common in elderly patients and may cause local kyphosis due to the vertebral collapse and wedging. Balloon kyphoplasty (BKP) with polymethyl methacrylate is widely used to relieve back pain and restore the height and kyphosis of the destroyed vertebra Johnell (Osteoporos Int 17(12):1726-33, 2006); Wasnich (Bone 18: 179S-183S, 1996); Finnern (Osteoporos Int 14:429-436, 2003). However, the influence of BKP on global sagittal alignment (GSA) in patients with OVCF remains unclear. To systematically evaluate the relevant literature regarding the influence of BKP on the global spinal sagittal alignment using the following radiological parameters: Pelvic Incidence (PI), Pelvic Tilt (PT), Lumbar Lordosis (LL), Thoracic Kyphosis (TK), Sagittal Vertical Axis (SVA) and Spinosacral Angle (SSA). Visual Analogue Score (VAS) was also recorded. A systematic review of the English language literature dating up until August 2022, was undertaken utilising the PRISMA guidelines. Of a total of 548 articles, 4 studies met the inclusion criteria (4 level III evidence) and were analyzed. Overall, 201 patients of mean age 73.8years (69-77) had acute OVCF of one or more vertebra. The male to female ratio was 51:128. The number of fractured vertebrae was 235 (average of 1.17 fractured vertebrae per patient). Their pre-operative radiological parameters on standing x-rays showed a mean PI of 56°, PT 24.1°, LL 44.4°, TK 42.3°, PI-LL 11.7°, SVA 4.9cm, LL/TK 1 and SSA 114.8°. The average VAS was 7.6 (2.6-10). All the patients underwent BKP and their radiological parameters on standing x-rays post operatively showed a mean PI of 55.3°, PT 23.1°, LL 45.1°, TK 41.4°, PI-LL 10.3°, SVA 4.29cm, LL/TK 1.07 and SSA 116.8°. Their average VAS post BPK was 2.36 (0-4.8).A statistical analysis comparing the pre/post-operative GSA (111 patients, 3 studies with standard deviations) showed no statistical difference in PT (24.1° vs. 23.5°, P = 0.93), TK (42.3° vs. 42.4°, P = 0.57), PI-LL (14.4° vs.12.4°, P = 0.4), SVA (6.1cm vs. 5.5cm, P = 0.19) SSA (114.8° vs. 116.7° P = 0.36). VAS was significantly reduced post BKP (7.1 vs. 2.5 P = 0.004). Performing BKP procedures does not significantly affect the global sagittal alignment in patients with osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures. There was however, a significant improvement in pain scores in patients undergoing BKP at 1 or more levels.

The Use of Cannabidiol in Patients With Low Back Pain Caused by Lumbar Spinal Stenosis: An Observational Study.

Background Spinal stenosis is a degenerative narrowing of the spinal canal with encroachment on the neural structures by surrounding bone and soft tissue. This chronic low back condition can cause restrictions in mobility, impairment of daily activities, opioid dependence, anxiety, depression, and reduced quality of life. Spinal stenosis can be treated through surgical and nonsurgical methods, but neither has proven consistently reliable. Cannabidiol (CBD) has also been observed to have anxiolytic, anti-inflammatory, antiemetic, and antipsychotic behaviors. CBD may provide greater nonsurgical treatment options for the pain associated with spinal stenosis while minimizing the need for opioids. An observational study was undertaken to assess the effects of CBD on patients suffering from chronic spinal stenosis. Methodology This observational study was investigator-initiated and designed to determine the effect of hemp-derived CBD gel caps for patients with spinal stenosis related to low back pain and leg pain relative to patient outcomes, medication utilization, and quality of life outcome measures. A total of six physician visits would be required where a set of surveys would be filled out each four weeks apart. Results The study population consisted of 48 patients. The patient population's age ranged from 63 to 95 years and was normally distributed, with a mean age of 75 ± 7.13 years. The sex distribution was 33% male and 67% female patients. The pain was broken down between the six visits for each of the following four questions: pain right now, usual pain level during the week, best pain level during the week, and worst pain level during the week. Usual pain levels (p < 0.001) and worst pain levels (p < 0.005) demonstrated statistically significant improvement over time, while pain right now (p > 0.05) and best pain level (p > 0.05) stayed consistent throughout without statistical significance. Conclusions This open-label, prospective, observational study found that treatment with hemp-derived CBD gel caps was associated with significant improvements in pain scores and several quality-of-life measures for patients with lumbar spinal stenosis.