Spinal fusion proceduresDownloads

A 14-year-old girl is brought to the physician for a follow-up examination. She has had frequent falls over the past two years. During the past six months, the patient has been unable to walk or stand without assistance and she now uses a wheelchair. Her mother was diagnosed with a vestibular schwannoma at age 52. Her vital signs are within normal limits. Her speech is slow and unclear. Neurological examination shows nystagmus in both eyes. Her gait is wide-based with irregular and uneven steps. Her proprioception and vibration sense are absent. Muscle strength is decreased especially in the lower extremities. Deep tendon reflexes are 1+ bilaterally. The remainder of the examination shows kyphoscoliosis and foot inversion with hammer toes. This patient is most likely to die from which of the following complications?

A 23-year-old man complains of lower back pain that began approximately 6 months ago. He is unsure why he is experiencing this pain and notices that this pain is worse in the morning after waking up and improves with physical activity. Ibuprofen provides significant relief. He denies bowel and bladder incontinence or erectile dysfunction. Physical exam is notable for decreased chest expansion, decreased spinal range of motion, 5/5 strength in both lower extremities, 2+ patellar reflexes bilaterally, and an absence of saddle anesthesia. Which of the following is the most appropriate next test for this patient?