We previously reported that osteoblasts at the curve apex in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) exhibit a differential phenotype, compared to non-curve osteoblasts(1). However, the Hueter-Volkmann principle on vertebral body growth in spinal deformities (2) suggests this could be secondary to altered biomechanics. This study examined whether non-curve osteoblasts subjected to mechanical strain resemble the transcriptomic phenotype of curve apex osteoblasts. Facet spinal tissue was collected perioperatively from three sites, (i) the concave and (ii) convex side at the curve apex and (iii) from outside the curve (non-curve) from six AIS female patients (age 13–18 years; NRES 19/WM/0083). Non-curve osteoblasts were subjected to strain using a 4-point bending device. Osteoblast phenotype was determined by RNA sequencing and bioinformatic pathway analysis. RNAseq revealed that curve apex osteoblasts exhibited a differential transcriptome, with 1014 and 1301 differentially expressed genes (DEGs; p<0.05, fold-change >1.5) between convex/non-curve and concave/non-curve sites respectively. Non-curve osteoblasts subjected to strain showed increased protein expression of the mechanoresponsive biomarkers COX2 and C-Fos. Comparing unstimulated vs strain-induced non-curve osteoblasts, 423 DEGs were identified (p<0.05, fold-change >1.5). Of these DEGs, only 5% and 6% were common to the DEGs found at either side of the curve apex, compared to non-curve cells. Bioinformatic analysis of these strain-induced DEGs revealed a different array of canonical signalling pathways and cellular processes, to those significantly affected in cells at the curve apex. Mechanical strain of AIS osteoblasts in vitro did not induce the differential transcriptomic phenotype of AIS osteoblasts at the curve apex.
To determine if clinical outcomes are correlated with center of rotation (COR) in patients implanted with a viscoelastic total disc replacement (VTDR). Fifty patients with single-level, symptomatic lumbar DDD between L4 and S1 were enrolled in a clinical trial of a VTDR across three surgical centres. A comprehensive, independent review and statistical analysis of both clinical and radiographic outcomes was performed and analyzed for correlations. Data from preoperative through 2 years were available. The COR was calculated for the index levels and compared to data for an asymptomatic population. Each COR coordinate was classified as abnormal if outside of the 95% confidence interval for an asymptomatic population.Purpose
Methods
Accurate knowledge of the normal shoulder range of movement (ROM) is imperative for evaluating pathology and clinical success. However, in orthopaedic texts, the quoted normal shoulder ROM has significant variation. Furthermore we suspect there is a high incidence of intra and inter observer error during shoulder ROM examination. The aims of our study were thus: To perform a literature review and record the published values for normal shoulder ROM. Subsequently, to calculate the average of these published values. To perform visual and goniometer measurement of shoulder ROM in 10 volunteers and assess the agreement between the two methods. A literature search of textbooks, Pub Med and scoring systems was undertaken. Statistical analysis was performed to identify the average value of shoulder movements. Two researchers (specialist trainees in T&O) prospectively assessed 20 shoulders in 10 healthy volunteers. Second observations were made after two weeks. Visual estimation and goniometry assessments were conducted. Bland Altman analysis was performed.Aims
Methods