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Biomedical subjects

A Nowakowski

Publications and source records attributed to A Nowakowski.

At least 19 recordsLinked to original sources
PubMed2000

[Diskectomy of the lumbar spine: indication and contraindications].

The authors present an overview of the principles of surgical treatment of lumbar disc herniation which are currently applied at spinal surgery ward by the Orthopedic Department of the Poznan School of Medical Sciences. Most of these principles are valid in spinal surgery centres in USA and most European countries. The authors reviewed surgical technique, indications, contrindications and complications related to discectomy in the lumbar spine. Although the articles deals mainly with "classical" discectomy, other surgical techniques (microdiscectomy, percutaneous discectomy, chemonucleolysis, and endoscopy-assisted discectomy) are also briefly reviewed. Careful selection of patients, meticulous analysis of radiographic findings and proper surgical technique yield good results which allow most patients to improve their life conditions and lead a pain-free existence.

Contraindications↗
PubMed1999

Impedance mammograph 3D phantom studies.

The results obtained using the Technical University of Gdansk Electroimpedance Mammograph (TUGEM) of a 3D phantom study are presented. The TUGEM system is briefly described. The hardware contains the measurement head and DSP-based identification modules controlled by a PC computer. A specially developed reconstruction algorithm, Regulated Correction Frequency Algebraic Reconstruction Technique (RCFART), is used to obtain 3D images. To visualize results, the Advance Visualization System (AVS) is used. It allows a powerful image processing on a fast workstation or on a high-performance computer. Results of three types of 3D conductivity perturbations used in the study (aluminum, Plexiglas, and cucumber) are shown. The relative volumes of perturbations less than 2% of the measurement chamber are easily evidenced.

Algorithms↗
PubMed1999

[Musculo-skeletal mechanisms of low back pain].

Authors presented in comprehensive form updated knowledge concerning reasons and mechanisms of musculoskeletal back pain nonspecific symptom which in majority of cases, provides only little inside into the nature of the underlying problem. The physician must however find sufficient time to educate the patient as to the nature of this disorder and likely course during treatment. Understanding the source and mechanisms of the patients pain allows the physician and patient to approach the problem rationally with mutual confidence. The basic aim of the physician is exact identification of the anatomic source of pain and exclude the possibility of underlying systemic or malignant process that might threaten the patient's life. The musculoskeletal system consists of the bones and articulations, ligaments, muscles and tendons, that connect and manipulate them within spinal column. All of these tissues are richly innervated and specific biomechanical conditions cause, that lumbar part of the spine and lumbosacral junction are extremely susceptible to direct and indirect affected by a spectrum of reasons causing pain. The pathomechanism of the pain originating within the facet joints, bone and periosteum, paraspinous muscles and tendons, intervertebral disks, posterior longitudinal ligament and dorsal root ganglion was discussed. Although in majority of causes it possible to control localized pain by means of conservative treatment, however in some patients (0.5%-1%) surgery is needed to decompress neurologic structures, restore stability, and eliminate pain.

Biomechanical Phenomena↗
PubMed1999

[Classification of the adolescent idiopathic scoliosis and preoperative strategy].

The authors analysed 841 patients (83% girls and 17% boys) with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. 678 patients (group I) were treated with the Harrington technique and 163 patients (group II) were treated using multisegmental instrumentation. Follow-up time in group I was on average 14.2 years, and 28 months in group II. Preoperative assessment of patients in group was based on clinical and radiological examination. Assessment of the spine was mainly based on coronal radiogram done in an upright position and lateral side-bending radiograms in a supine position. Traction and lateral X rays were rarely taken into account in this study. The fusion area was decided according to the end vertebrae of the structural curves. The caudal end of the fusion area was identified using Harrington's stable zone. The curves were classified in accordance with the SRS suggestions. Taking into account the apex of the curve, the deformations were classified into: cervico-thoracic, thoracic, thoraco-lumbar, lumbar and lumbo-sacral curves. In group II the triplanar (3D) character of the deformity was taken into account. In the coronal plane the upper and lower stable vertebra of the major structural curves were identified using the CSVL (Central Sacral Vertical Line) based on long films (70 cm x 110 cm) with and without traction. Lumbar curve was classified as mild, moderate, severe according to CSVL. In the axial plane vertebral rotation was assessed according to Nash and Moe method. A careful analysis of lateral radiograms in the upright standing position was performed. Lateral radiograms were performed also in maximal flexion and hyperextension of the spine to obtain a dynamic evaluation of the sagittal plane. Conoral radiograms with maximal rotation of the trunk to assess mobility of the caudad segments of the deformity. Classification of the scoliotic deformity based on its triplanar character included: thoracic curves (King III, IV, V types), double major (thoracic and lumbar), "false" double major curve (thoracic and lumbar) King type II, thoracolumbar/lumbar curves--the main curve is thoracolumbar lumbar/thoracolumbar curves--the main curve is lumbar--10 degrees the thoracolumbar component--King type I triple major curve--all curves have similar structural changes. Correct identification of the type of scoliosis, assessment of structural changes in the frontal, sagittal and axial plane (three dimensional 3D) and analysis of the size and correctiveness of the lumbar curve and all parameters which play a key role in rational preoperative planning. Redefining or at least maintaining lumbar lordosis is far more important than correction of thoracic kyphosis.

Adolescent↗
PubMed1998

[Algorithm in low back pain management in adults].

Currently recommended management for low back pain in adults is presented. The algorithm consists of two phases. In a patient presenting acute low back pain with no previous history thorough clinical evaluation (phase I) should aim at exclusion of cauda equina syndrome, fracture, neoplasm, infection, progressive neurological deficit, or chronic pain syndrome. If none of these condition is responsible for low back pain 4-6 weeks therapy depending on the severity of symptoms should be commenced. Then clinical reevaluation is indicated and if pain persists patient should be referred to a specialist (phase II). Previous diagnosis and treatment should be reviewed critically; if found appropriate the treatment might be repeated during phase II. Primary sources of low back pain as herniated nucleus pulposus, unremitting low back pain (segmental instability), spondylolysis, isthmic spondylolisthesis degenerative spondylolisthesis with spinal stenosis should be identified and appropriate treatment (surgical or conservative) undertaken. Patient education is an important component of phase II. In general, phase II of the algorithm aims at returning the patient to full psychophysical activity and at prevention of low back pain recurrence.

Adult↗
PubMed1998

Cell for measurements of biological tissue complex conductivity.

The construction of the cell for measurement of complex electric conductivity is described. Two-chamber and four-electrode system with temperature stabilisation is developed. Guarding chamber and electrodes are used to minimise the leakage of current from the measurement chamber. The cell construction is examined by use of Finite Element Method. The model of the measurement cell is examined in order to improve the accuracy of measurements. The calibration procedure based on measurement of reference materials is presented. The frequency range of the cell is extended to 10 MHz with acceptable level of error. The examples of results from measurement breast normal and cancerous tissues are presented.

Bias↗
PubMed1998

[Idiopathic scoliosis: epidemiology and etiology].

Authors present current knowledge about incidence and etiologic factors in idiopathic scoliosis (IS). Most data about incidence are based on screening examination in school children. Amount of patient with IS is related to the method of evaluation and experience of examiner. There is 1.9% to 3% cases in whole population if scoliosis is assumed as much as 10 degrees of Cobb angle (SRS). Etiology of IS is still in doubt despite of many investigations. There are many abnormalities in tissues but most of them probably secondary to this process. Etiology is multifactorial with dominance of inheritance. There are many genes responsible for occurrence of IS but genetic trait is still unknown.

Child↗
PubMed1997

[Range of distal spondylodesis in surgical treatment of idiopathic scoliosis using multisegmental instrumentation].

This presentation aim was to provide correct answer in question of range of spondylodesis (both proximal and distal levels) in surgical treatment of idiopathic scoliosis with multisegmental instrumentation. The postoperative evaluation o 88 patients (77 girls and 11 boys) was done according to King and Moe classification. Average patients age was 13.8 years (11.4-17.1) with 18.2 months (12-29) follow-up. In 53 cases it was longer than 2 years. The identification of the curve pattern in both the coronal and sagittal planes will allow you to decide which curves to fuse. In the choice of upper fusion level one should keep attention to shoulder balance and presence of superior junctional kyphosis, extending than range of the fusion up to T2. In the lower level there is important to keep distal fusion mass in vertical alignment transsected by CSL (just like in the upper end in thoracic spine) to preserve spine compensation and remaining as many sa possible mobile spine segments below the fusion.

Adolescent↗
PubMed1997

[Ethics in tutorial publications].

On basis of scientific literature authors discuss general rules of ethics as the whole of moral rules and behaviour. They point out that compliance with ethical rules in scientific publications should be an integral part of scientific progress. They present the frequent breaches of ethical principles which include: changes or trickery in stating own study results to a priori accepted assumptions, their incorrect presentation or in a more positive mode, taking advantages from other authors publications not revealing its source, lack of sufficient knowledge of scientific literature, theft of foreign scientific ideas, plagiarism and auto plagiarism, unfair presentation of authors sequence in publication, omitting of some co-workers, not in conformity with Helsinki Declaration during human investigations, not in conformity with basic care concerning animals subjected to medical experiments.

Animal Welfare↗
PubMed1997

[Surgical treatment of idiopathic scoliosis with multisegmental posterior instrumentation and its influence on postoperative spinal balance].

Causes of postoperative spinal imbalance in patients with idiopathic scoliosis treated with multisegmental posterior instrumentation CD or TSRH and posterior fusion are presented. Investigation included 88 patients (77 girls, 11 boys) aged 11.4-17.1 (mean 13.8). Primary curve Cobb angle ranged from 52 (to 133 mean 75), secondary curve 16 (to 88 mean 47). Follow-up ranged from 12 to 19 months (mean 18.2 months). In 31 patients (35.2%) postoperative decompensation of the spine occurred. Six of them regained spinal balance within 12 to 19 months postoperatively. As the magnitude of correction increased in relation to preoperative correctiveness and/or preoperative rotation of the spine the imbalance of the spine was more pronounced. It was worsened also in cases where spontaneous correction within the secondary curve (not instrumented) was lesser than expected. Thoracic curve overcorrection in type II scoliosis with instrumentation inclusive of 1 or 2 vertebrae beyond neutral one resulted in decompensation to the left. To short a fusion (in relation to neutral and stable vertebrae) caused in this type as well as in type II and IV right sided decompensation. Overcorrection of lower (right sided) curve or omission of upper (left sided) curve in type V scoliosis caused shoulder girdle decompensation. In type I lumbar fusion done proximally to neutral and stable vertebrae caused left side decompensation of the spine.

Adolescent↗
PubMed1996

[Present views on nonoperative treatment for idiopathic scoliosis].

The authors have presented valid modern procedure principles in nonoperative treatment of idiopathic scoliosis. It was referred to classification based on infantile, juvenile and adolescent scoliosis, discussing in each of them indications and treatment modes. Beside own experiences were cited many important observations of other authors and it was pointed out, that success of nonoperative treatment is variable and is being based on individual experience of many orthopaedic surgeons, and requires critical analysis of their procedure. Long follow up period of children with scoliosis, bracing and precise X-rays evaluation requires not only surgeons patience but also that of treated children and their parents. Arduous and apparently ineffectively treatment enable in many cases avoidance of serious spine surgery.

Adolescent↗
PubMed1996

[Point of view].

Explore the source record for details and available documents.

Child↗
PubMed1996

[A historical review of treatment of scoliosis].

The authors present the milestones in therapy of scoliosis since antiquity till today. The arduous work of generations of researchers has allowed to define the difficulties in treating scoliosis and the modes of overcoming them. Although tremendous advances in diagnosis and treatment of scoliosis have been made, the mechanisms responsible for it still remain, unknown.

History, 16th Century↗
PubMed1996

[Scoliosis and postural defect].

The authors have analyzed the semasiology of the term scoliosis. Particular attention is given to the fact, that scoliosis is term applied only to a lateral curve of the spine (i.e.a. curve in the frontal plane). This term can be used to define, a state which is free of the structural deformities, that is a postural deformity. The authors also point out the differences in scoliosis occurring as a postural deformity and as a structural deformity.

Humans↗
PubMed1996

[Professor Franciszek Raszeja--a centenary of his birthday].

The authors present a concise biography of professor Franciszek Raszeja on the centenary of his birthday. Special attention is given to his scientific and organizational achievements, particularly in regard to the formation of the Orthopaedic Department at the University of Poznań.

History, 20th Century↗
PubMed1996

[The most frequent errors during use of the surgical techniques of Cotrela-Dubousset (C-D) and Texas Scottish Rite Hospital (TSRH) for surgical treatment of idiopathic scoliosis].

Results of operative treatment of idiopathic scoliosis in 88 patients (77 girls and 11 boys) with an average follow-up of 18 months have been presented. Basic principles of surgical procedure and most commonly made errors are demonstrated on the basis of authors' experience and data from the literature. The method of strategic vertebrae selection for hook implantation depending on scoliosis type are discussed. Differences in surgical technique in respect to idiopathic lordoscoliosis or kyphoscoliosis have been highlighted.

Child↗
PubMed1995

[Terminology of scoliosis].

The most important entries concerning scoliosis have been presented in an alphabetical order. Some definitions, better describing three-planar scoliosis deformity, suggested by Scoliosis Research Society have been included.

Humans↗