Is cyclo-oxygenase 2 expression associated with angiogenesis and lymph node metastasis in human breast cancer?
These data suggest that COX-2 expression is associated with angiogenesis, lymph node metastasis, and apoptosis in human breast cancer. Moreover, these results warrant further studies with larger series of patients to confirm the association with short disease free survival in patients with breast cancer.
Lumbar spinal fusion for degenerative disease without closed suction drainage in the immediate post-op period does not appear to increase the risks of wound related complications postoperatively as compared to historical controls. The routine use of postoperative closed-suction drainage following a single level posterior lumbar fusion for degenerative disease is not supported by the currently available literature. Such a conclusion is not applicable in nondegenerative pathologies such as metastatic disease following radiation where the risk of bleeding and wound complications may be much greater. In addition, individual patient subgroups with degenerative disease, such as those at risk for perioperative epidural bleeding, may benefit from the placement of a perisurgical drain.