In this edition of spinemonitor, Christopher I. Shaffrey, MD presents neurofibromatosis in a young male, who previously underwent tumor excision.  Specialists Howard S. An, MD and George I. Jallo, MD provide extensive discussion of this case.

History
The patient is a 15-year-old boy with neurofibromatosis (NF-1). At age 9, he underwent a C4-C6 laminectomy for tumor excision. In the past, the patient has had multiple NF excisions. 

He fell while skateboarding and suffered transient quadriplegia. The patient reports...

Examination
The patient was myelopathic on reflex examination with positive...

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The Aqua Hotel
Cancun, Mexico
February 6-7, 2009

Maximum 7.0 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s)™

Receive $70 off the nightly room rate at the luxurious Aqua Hotel when you register by January 9th!*

For the past two years, this meeting has presented the most current controversies in emerging technology and surgical approaches. It has proved to be a favorite among the attendees due to the provocative topics, in-depth debates, and intimate setting.

*Use Room Rate Discount Code: AquaDiscount to receive a nightly rate of $225 per night (plus tax), applicable to up to 3 days before and after the meeting.

• Randal R. Betz, MD
• Michael G. Fehlings, MD
• Lawrence G. Lenke, MD
• Stephen L. Ondra, MD
• Christopher I. Shaffrey, MD

This online continuing education program is designed to provide nurses and allied health professionals with a comprehensive overview of the lumbar musculature.  The program, which should take approximately 1-hour to complete, covers: anatomical directional terms, bony and soft tissue structures, including ligaments, skeletal muscle, and functional groups.

Upon completion of this program, participants should be able to:

• Identify bony and soft tissue lumbar structures
• Provide information about intervertebral disc function
• Understand basic lumbar neural and vascular systems
• Explain the purpose, types, and functions of ligaments
• Understand what affects muscle function
• Describe 4 functional muscle groups and their actions