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Tethered spinal cord MRI involves imaging of the spinal cord to detect abnormalities that restrict its movement and cause neurological problems. This procedure helps diagnose conditions like Chiari malformation and spinal cord injury. Neurosurgeons and radiologists perform the MRI, while neurologists and physical therapists provide care and support. Early diagnosis and untethering surgery are crucial…

Images of the spinal cord can reveal its structure, injuries, and abnormalities. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT) provide detailed visualizations, while X-rays assess spinal alignment. These imaging modalities aid in diagnosing spinal cord injuries, such as spinal stenosis and herniated discs, as well as tumors and cauda equina syndrome. Electrodiagnostic studies, including…

The Spinal Cord Independence Measure (SCIM) is an assessment tool used to evaluate the functional independence of individuals with spinal cord injuries (SCI). It measures a wide range of activities, from self-care and mobility to social interaction and community participation. The SCIM is commonly used in clinical settings to track progress over time and guide…

A spinal cord injury (SCI) bowel program addresses bowel dysfunction caused by SCI. It includes understanding the effects of SCI on bowel function, such as fecal incontinence. Various bowel management techniques are used, including digital stimulation, suppositories, enemas, catheterization, and bowel training. Healthcare professionals involved in bowel management include physiatrists, neurologists, nurses, physical therapists, and…

Spinal dural arteriovenous fistula (AVF) is an abnormal connection between arteries and veins within the spinal cord’s protective membrane, the dura mater. This connection results in high-pressure arterial blood flowing directly into low-pressure veins, causing engorgement and leakage of venous blood around the spinal cord and nerve roots. The exact cause of spinal dural AVFs…

Hypertonic vs Isotonic Nasal Rinse: Hypertonic nasal rinses have a higher salt content than isotonic rinses, making them more effective at drawing out excess fluid from swollen nasal passages. In contrast, isotonic rinses have a similar salt content to body fluids, making them gentler and more suitable for daily use. Both types of rinses help…

Necrosis in the nose, also known as nasal septum perforation, is a condition characterized by the formation of a hole or perforation in the nasal septum, the cartilage and bone that divides the nasal cavity. It arises from trauma, infections, chemical irritation, or underlying medical conditions that cause tissue damage and loss. Symptoms include crusting,…

Nasalization Rule Example: A phonological rule that describes the nasalization of vowels or consonants when they are adjacent to nasal consonants. For example, in Portuguese, the vowel /a/ is nasalized to [ã] when it precedes a nasal consonant, as in the word “mão” (hand). This rule is known as assimilatory nasalization, where the quality of…

Merocel nose packing is a medical device used to control severe nosebleeds (epistaxis) in the nasal cavity. It consists of a long, narrow piece of absorbable gelatin sponge that is inserted into the nostrils and expanded to create pressure against the bleeding vessels, stopping the bleeding. Merocel nose packing is often used in combination with…

Tongue necrosis, the death of tongue tissue, arises from various causes, including vasculitis, thrombosis, irradiation, and infections. Symptoms manifest as discoloration, pain, swelling, and speech or swallowing difficulties. Diagnosis involves biopsy, angiography, and blood tests. Treatment aims to restore blood flow, manage pain and infection, perform surgical debridement, and utilize adjunctive therapies. Complications include sepsis,…

Fusobacterium necrophorum pharyngitis is a bacterial infection of the throat caused by the pathogen Fusobacterium necrophorum. The disease manifests with sore throat, fever, difficulty swallowing, and swollen lymph nodes. Diagnosis involves throat swab culture and rapid antigen tests. Treatment includes antibiotics such as penicillin and metronidazole. The disease is primarily seen in children and adolescents,…

Necrosis of the tongue, also known as black hairy tongue, is a rare condition characterized by the accumulation of dead tissue and debris on the surface of the tongue. This blackened coating can occur due to compromised blood supply, infections, or trauma. Reduced blood flow can lead to nerve damage, while infections can directly damage…