Magnetic resonance imaging frequently changes classification of acute traumatic thoracolumbar spine injuries

ACR Appropriateness Criteria® Thoracic Back Pain

Thoracic back pain is a common site for inflammatory, neoplastic, metabolic, infectious, and degenerative conditions, and may be associated with significant disability and morbidity. Uncomplicated acute thoracic back pain and/or radiculopathy does not typically warrant imaging. Imaging may be considered in those patients who have persistent pain despite 6 weeks of conservative treatment. Early imaging may also be warranted in patients presenting with "red flag" history or symptoms, including those with a known or suspected history of cancer, infection, immunosuppression, or trauma; in myelopathic patients; or in those with a history of prior thoracic spine fusion. The American College of Radiology Appropriateness Criteria are evidence-based guidelines for specific clinical conditions that are reviewed annually by a multidisciplinary expert panel. The guideline development and revision process support the systematic analysis of the medical literature from peer reviewed journals. Established methodology principles such as Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation or GRADE are adapted to evaluate the evidence. The RAND/UCLA Appropriateness Method User Manual provides the methodology to determine the appropriateness of imaging and treatment procedures for specific clinical scenarios. In those instances where peer reviewed literature is lacking or equivocal, experts may be the primary evidentiary source available to formulate a recommendation.

Traumatic thoracic spine fracture: can we predict when MRI would modify the fracture classification or decision-making compared to CT alone?

PURPOSE

To determine the impact of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) on fracture classification for thoracic spine fractures (TSFs) compared to computed tomography (CT) alone.

METHODS

This study was a retrospective review of 63 consecutive patients with TSFs who underwent CT and MRI within ten days of injury. Three reviewers classified all fractures according to the AOSpine Classification and the Thoracolumbar AOSpine Injury severity score (TLAOSIS). Posterior ligamentous complex (PLC) injury on MRI was defined by "black stripe discontinuity" and on CT by the presence of vertebral body translation, facet joint malalignment, horizontal laminar or spinous process fracture, and interspinous widening. The proportion of patients with AO type A/B/C and with TLAOSIS ≤ 5 and ≥ 6 was compared between CT and MRI. Classification and regression trees were used to create a series of predictive models for the probability of PLC injury in AO type A fractures.

RESULTS

AO classification using CT was as follows: type A in 35 patients (55%), type B in 18 patients (29%), and type C in 10 patients (16%). Thirty-three patients (52%) had a TLAOSIS ≤5, while the remaining 30 (48%) had TLAOSI ≥6. The addition of MRI after CT upgraded type A to type B fractures in 10 patients (16%) and changed TL AOSIS from ≤5 to ≥6 in 8 cases (12.8%). Type A fractures with load sharing score (LSC) ≥6 had a 60% chance of upgrading to type B, while LSC <6 had a 12.5% chance of upgrading to type B.

CONCLUSIONS

CT yielded (89%) accuracy in diagnosing PLC injury in TSFs. The addition of MRI after CT substantially changed the AO classification or TLAOISS, compared to CT alone, thus suggesting an added value of MRI for PLC assessment for TSFs classification.

Thoracolumbar injuries: prehospital and emergency management, imaging, classifications and clinical implications

Thoracolumbar fractures are common injuries that usually result from high energy trauma. They can lead to significant morbidity due to neurologic impair - or mortality - if not managed according to strict and rapid intervention rules in terms of decompression of the spinal cord, and rigid fixation of the fracture. This manuscript reviews emergency treatment protocols, imaging modalities, and classification systems used for thoracolumbar fractures. The emergency treatment is discussed, specific classifications are compared and indications for surgeries are compared.

CT-based surrogate parameters for MRI-based disc height and endplate degeneration in the lumbar spine

PURPOSE

This study investigated potential use of computed tomography (CT)-based parameters in the lumbar spine as a surrogate for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-based findings.

METHODS

In this retrospective study, all individuals, who had a lumbar spine CT scan and MRI between 2006 and 2012 were reviewed (n = 198). Disc height (DH) and endplate degeneration (ED) were evaluated between Th12/L1-L5/S1. Statistics consisted of Spearman correlation and univariate/multivariable regression (adjusting for age and gender).

RESULTS

The mean CT-DH increased kranio-caudally (8.04 millimeters (mm) at T12/L1, 9.17 mm at L1/2, 10.59 mm at L2/3, 11.34 mm at L3/4, 11.42 mm at L4/5 and 10.47 mm at L5/S1). MRI-ED was observed in 58 (29%) individuals. CT-DH and MRI-DH had strong to very strong correlations (rho 0.781-0.904, p < .001). MRI-DH showed higher absolute values than CT-DH (mean of 1.76 mm). There was a significant association between CT-DH and MRI-ED at L2/3 (p = .006), L3/4 (p = .002), L4/5 (p < .001) and L5/S1 (p < .001). A calculated cut-off point was set at 11 mm.

CONCLUSIONS

In the lumbar spine, there is a correlation between disc height on CT and MRI. This can be useful in trauma and emergency cases, where CT is readily available in the lack of an MRI. In addition, in the middle and lower part of the lumbar spine, loss of disc height on CT scans is associated with more pronounced endplate degeneration on MRIs. If the disc height on CT scans is lower than 11 mm, endplate degeneration on MRIs is likely more pronounced.

LEVEL AND DESIGN

Level III, a retrospective study.

Diagnostic Value of Hounsfield Units for Osteoporotic Thoracolumbar Vertebral Non-Compression Fractures in Elderly Patients with Low-Energy Injuries

Background

Thoracolumbar vertebral fractures are common pathological fractures caused by osteoporosis in the elderly. These fractures are challenging to detect. This study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic value of Hounsfield units for osteoporotic thoracolumbar vertebral non-compression fractures in elderly patients with low-energy fractures.

Methods

The retrospective case-control study included elderly patients diagnosed with osteoporotic thoracolumbar vertebral fractures and non-fractured patients who underwent computed tomography examinations for lumbar vertebra issues during July 2017 and June 2020.

Results

This study included 216 patients with fractures (38 males and 178 females; average age: 77.28±8.68 years) and 124 patients without fractures (21 males and 103 females; average age: 75.35±9.57 years). The difference in Hounsfield units of the target (intermediate) vertebral body significantly differed between the two groups (54.74 ± 21.84 vs 5.86 ± 5.14; p<0.001). The ratios of Hounsfield units were also significantly different between the two groups (1.38 ± 1.60 vs 0.13 ± 0.23; p<0.001). The cut-off value for the difference in Hounsfield units to detect osteoporotic spine fractures was 25.35, with high sensitivity (98.5%), specificity (99.9%), and the area under the curve (AUC) (0.999, 95% CI: 0.999-1). The cut-off value for the odds ratio of Hounsfield units was 0.260, with high sensitivity (99.1%), specificity (92.7%), and AUC (0.970, 95% CI: 0.949-0.992).

Conclusion

The difference between Hounsfield units and the odds ratio of Hounsfield units might help diagnose osteoporotic thoracolumbar vertebral non-compression fractures in elderly patients with low-energy fractures.

Reliability of thoracolumbar burst fracture classification in the Swedish Fracture Register

BACKGROUND

The Swedish Fracture Register (SFR) is a national quality register for all types of fractures in Sweden. Spine fractures have been included since 2015 and are classified using a modified AOSpine classification. The aim of this study was to determine the accuracy of the classification of thoracolumbar burst fractures in the SFR.

METHODS

Assessments of medical images were conducted in 277 consecutive patients with a thoracolumbar burst fracture (T10-L3) identified in the SFR. Two independent reviewers classified the fractures according to the AOSpine classification, with a third reviewer resolving disagreement. The combined results of the reviewers were considered the gold standard. The intra- and inter-rater reliability of the reviewers was determined with Cohen's kappa and percent agreement. The SFR classification was compared with the gold standard using positive predictive values (PPV), Cohen's kappa and percent agreement.

RESULTS

The reliability between reviewers was  high (Cohen's kappa 0.70-0.97). The PPV for correctly classifying burst fractures in the SFR was high irrespective of physician experience (76-89%), treatment (82% non-operative, 95% operative) and hospital type (83% county, 95% university). The inter-rater reliability of B-type injuries and the overall SFR classification compared with the gold standard was low (Cohen's kappa 0.16 and 0.17 respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

The SFR demonstrates a high PPV for accurately classifying burst fractures, regardless of physician experience, treatment and hospital type. However, the reliability of B-type injuries and overall classification in the SFR was found to be low. Future studies on burst fractures using SFR data where classification is important should include a review of medical images to verify the diagnosis.

How frequently MRI modifies thoracolumbar fractures' classification or decision-making? A systematic review and meta-analysis

PURPOSE

To provide the first meta-analysis of the impact of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) on thoracolumbar fractures (TLFs) classification and decision-making.

METHODS

A systematic review was conducted following PRISMA guidelines. We searched PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane, and Web of Science from inception to June 30, 2023 for studies evaluating the change in TLFs classification and treatment decisions after MRI. The studies extracted key findings, objectives, and patient population. A meta-analysis was performed for the pooled frequency of change in AO fracture classification or treatment decisions from surgical to conservative or vice versa after MRI.

RESULTS

This meta-analysis included four studies comprising 554 patients. The pooled frequency of change in TLFs classification was 17% (95% CI 9-31%), and treatment decision was 22% (95% CI 11-40%). An upgrade from type A to type B was reported in 15.7% (95% CI 7.2-30.6%), and downgrading type B to type A in 1.2% (95% CI 0.17-8.3%). A change from conservative to surgery recommendation of 17% (95% CI 5.0-43%) was higher than a change from surgery to conservative 2% (95% CI 1-34%).

CONCLUSIONS

MRI can significantly change the thoracolumbar classification and decision-making, primarily due to upgrading type A to type B fractures and changing from conservative to surgery, respectively. These findings suggest that MRI could change decision-making sufficiently to justify its use for TLFs. Type A subtypes, indeterminate PLC status, and spine regions might help to predict a change in TLFs' classification. However, more studies are needed to confirm the association of these variables with changes in treatment decisions to set the indications of MRI in neurologically intact patients with TLFs. An interactive version of our analysis can be accessed from here: https://databoard.shinyapps.io/mri_spine/ .

Towards a standardized reporting of the impact of magnetic resonance imaging on the decision-making of thoracolumbar fractures without neurological deficit: Conceptual framework and proposed methodology

Introduction

A recent meta-analysis showed that only four prior studies have shown that magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can change the fracture classification in 17% and treatment decisions in 22% of cases. However, previous studies showed a wide methodological variability regarding the study population, the definition of posterior ligamentous complex (PLC) injury, and outcome measures.

Research question

How can we standardize the reporting of the impact of MRI for neurologically intact patients with thoracolumbar fractures?

Material and methods

All available literature regarding the impact of MRI on thoracolumbar fracture classification or decision-making were reviewed. Estimating the impact of MRI on the TLFs' classification is an exercise of analyzing the CTs' accuracy for PLC injury against MRI as a ''Gold standard''and should follow standardized checklists such as the Standards for the Reporting of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies. Additionally, specific issues related to TLFs should be addressed.

Results

A standardized approach for reporting the impact of MRI in neurologically intact TLF patients was proposed. Regarding patient selection, restricting the inclusion of neurologically intact patients with A- and B-injuries is crucial. Image interpretation should be standardized regarding imaging protocol and appropriate criteria for PLC injury. The impact of MRI can be measured by either the rate of change in fracture classification or treatment decisions; the cons and pros of each measure is thoroughly discussed.

Discussion and conclusion

We proposed a structured methodology for examining the impact of MRI on neurologically intact patients with TLFs, focusing on appropriate patient selection, standardizing image analysis, and clinically relevant outcome measures.

Predictive Algorithm for Surgery Recommendation in Thoracolumbar Burst Fractures Without Neurological Deficits

STUDY DESIGN

Predictive algorithm via decision tree.

OBJECTIVES

Artificial intelligence (AI) remain an emerging field and have not previously been used to guide therapeutic decision making in thoracolumbar burst fractures. Building such models may reduce the variability in treatment recommendations. The goal of this study was to build a mathematical prediction rule based upon radiographic variables to guide treatment decisions.

METHODS

Twenty-two surgeons from the AO Knowledge Forum Trauma reviewed 183 cases from the Spine TL A3/A4 prospective study (classification, degree of certainty of posterior ligamentous complex (PLC) injury, use of M1 modifier, degree of comminution, treatment recommendation). Reviewers' regions were classified as Europe, North/South America and Asia. Classification and regression trees were used to create models that would predict the treatment recommendation based upon radiographic variables. We applied the decision tree model which accounts for the possibility of non-normal distributions of data. Cross-validation technique as used to validate the multivariable analyses.

RESULTS

The accuracy of the model was excellent at 82.4%. Variables included in the algorithm were certainty of PLC injury (%), degree of comminution (%), the use of M1 modifier and geographical regions. The algorithm showed that if a patient has a certainty of PLC injury over 57.5%, then there is a 97.0% chance of receiving surgery. If certainty of PLC injury was low and comminution was above 37.5%, a patient had 74.2% chance of receiving surgery in Europe and Asia vs 22.7% chance in North/South America. Throughout the algorithm, the use of the M1 modifier increased the probability of receiving surgery by 21.4% on average.

CONCLUSION

This study presents a predictive analytic algorithm to guide decision-making in the treatment of thoracolumbar burst fractures without neurological deficits. PLC injury assessment over 57.5% was highly predictive of receiving surgery (97.0%). A high degree of comminution resulted in a higher chance of receiving surgery in Europe or Asia vs North/South America. Future studies could include clinical and other variables to enhance predictive ability or use machine learning for outcomes prediction in thoracolumbar burst fractures.

How Often Would MRI Change the Thoracolumbar Fracture Classification or Decision-Making Compared to CT Alone?

STUDY DESIGN

retrospective study of consecutive patients.

OBJECTIVE

to analyze the frequency of change in Thoracolumbar fractures (TLFs) classification or decision-making after MRI compared by CT alone.

METHODS

A retrospective review of 244 consecutive patients with acute TLFs (T1-L5) presented to a single level 1 trauma center between 2014 and 2021. Three and 4 reviewers independently classified all fractures according to AOSpine and AOSpine injury severity score (TLAOSIS) by CT then MRI, respectively. Posterior ligamentous complex Injury (PLC) was diagnosed on CT and MRI by ≥ 2 positive CT findings and Black stripe discontinuity.

RESULTS

MRI changed AO classification in 25/244 patients (10.2%, P < .0001) due to an 8.2% upgrade from type A to type B and a 2% downgrade from type B to type A. The addition of MRI changed TL AOSIS among the 3 treatment recommendation groups in 35/244 (19.7%, 95% CI [14.9%-25.2%]. The best predictor of upgrade from type A to type B and downgrade from type B to type A was a single positive CT finding and the presence of only 2 CT signs as opposed to ≥3 signs, respectively (P < .0001 P = .03, respectively). Thoracic fractures showed a significantly higher reclassification rate than thoracolumbar and low lumbar (20% vs 10% and 0%, respectively, P = .07).

CONCLUSION

using appropriate CT/MRI criteria for PLC injury, MRI changed the AOSpine classification by 10% and TLAOSIS based treatment by 19.7%. The best predictors of fracture reclassification by MRI were the number of positive CT findings and fracture level.

Diagnostic Reliability of Computed Tomography in Predicting Posterior Ligamentous Complex Injury in Traumatic Lower Lumbar Fracture

OBJECTIVE

Although magnetic resonance imaging is the primary modality of investigation for determining the extent of posterior ligamentous complex (PLC) injuries in lower lumbar fractures (LLF) (L3-L5), the reliability of computed tomography (CT) has not been well defined. The main objective of this study is to analyze the diagnostic accuracy of combined CT findings for detecting PLC injury in patients with LLF.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed data from 108 patients who presented with traumatic LLF. CT parameters like loss of vertebral body height, local kyphosis, retropulsion of fracture fragment, interlaminar distance, interspinous distance, supraspinous distance, interpedicular distance, canal compromise, facet joint diastasis in axial images (FJDA) and facet joint diastasis in sagittal images (FJDS), and presence of lamina and spinous process fracture were calculated using axial and sagittal CT images. The presence or absence of PLC injury was determined using magnetic resonance imaging as a reference standard.

RESULTS

Among 108 patients, PLC injury was identified in 57 (52.8%). On univariate analysis, local kyphosis, retropulsion of fracture fragment, interlaminar distance, interpedicular distance, FJDS, FJDA, and the presence of spinous process fracture were found to be significant (P < 0.05) in predicting PLC injury. Whereas on multivariate logistic regression analysis, FJDS (P = 0.039) and FJDA (P = 0.003) were found to be variables independently associated with PLC injury.

CONCLUSIONS

Among the various CT parameters, facet joint diastasis (FJDS > 4.2 mm and FJDA > 3.5 mm) is the most reliable factor in determining PLC injury.

A Proposal for a Standardized Imaging Algorithm to Improve the Accuracy and Reliability for the Diagnosis of Thoracolumbar Posterior Ligamentous Complex Injury in Computed Tomography and Magnetic Resonance Imaging

STUDY DESIGN

Systematic Literature Review.

OBJECTIVE

To propose a systematic imaging algorithm for diagnosing posterior ligamentous complex (PLC) injury in computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to improve the reliability of PLC assessment.

METHODS

A systematic review was conducted following PRISMA guidelines. The Scopus database was searched from its inception until July 21, 2022, for studies evaluating CT or MRI assessment of the PLC injury following thoracolumbar trauma. The studies extracted key findings, objectives, injury definitions, and radiographic modalities.

RESULTS

Twenty-three studies were included in this systematic review, encompassing 2021 patients. Five studies evaluated the accuracy of MRI in detecting thoracolumbar PLC injury using intraoperative findings as a reference. These studies indicate that black stripe discontinuity due to supraspinous or ligamentum flavum rupture is a more specific criterion of PLC injury than high-signal intensity. Thirteen papers evaluated the accuracy or reliability of CT in detecting thoracolumbar PLC injury using MRI or intraoperative findings as a reference. The overall accuracy rate of CT in detecting PLC injury was 68-90%. Two studies evaluate the accuracy of combined CT findings, showing that ≥2 CT findings are associated with a positive predictive value of 88-91 %. Vertebral translation, facet joint malalignment, spinous process fracture, horizontal laminar fracture, and interspinous widening were independent predictors of PLC injury.

CONCLUSION

We provided a comprehensive imaging algorithm for diagnosing PLC in CT and MRI based on available literature and our experience. The algorithm will potentially improve the accuracy and reliability of PLC assessment, however it needs multicentre prospective validation.

Thoracolumbar Injury: The Thoracolumbar Injury Classification and Severity Scoring System or Modified Thoracolumbar Injury Classification and Severity?

OBJECTIVE

To compare the Thoracolumbar Injury Classification and Severity (TLICS) scoring system with its modified (mTLICS) version based on their agreement with the surgeon's opinion regarding treatment for patients with thoracolumbar injuries. Moreover, the Posterior Ligamentous Complex health was compared between intraoperative examinations and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) reports.

METHODS

MRI was obtained from 114 patients suffering thoracolumbar spinal trauma; the TLICS and mTLICS scores were measured. Approaches 1 and 2 were designed in both scoring systems based on assuming a total score of 4 as surgery and conservative management indication, respectively. Kappa was used to estimate the agreements between each approach and the surgeon's opinion on treatment. The receiver operating curve calculated the appropriate cut-off scores for the above systems over which surgical management was preferred. A P < 0.05 was considered significant.

RESULTS

All the approaches showed moderate agreements with the surgeon's opinion on therapeutic management (TLICS: κ_approach1 = 0.557, κ_approach2 =0.508; mTLICS: κ_approach1 = 0.557, κ_approach2 = 0.551; P < 0.001 for each κ). A score >3.5 best illustrated the indication for surgery in both systems. The radiology report agreed stronger with intraoperatively observed ligamentous health when suspicious cases on MRI were reported as injured (κ_TLICS = 0.830, κ_mTLICS = 0.704) rather than healthy (κ_TLICS = 0.620, κ_mTLICS = 0.620).

CONCLUSIONS

The surgeon's treatment plan agreed moderately with suggestions of the TLICS and mTLICS systems; surgery was the preferred management for the patients with a score of 4. Moreover, radiologic suspicion of Posterior Ligamentous Complex injury seemed to indicate a damaged ligament rather than a healthy one.

Is magnetic resonance imaging needed for decision making diagnosis and treatment of thoracic and lumbar vertebral fractures?

PURPOSE

The radiological examination including plain radiography, CT and MRI are critical to assess the severity of the instability, to diagnose the fracture type and to select the appropriate treatment strategy for the thoracic and lumbar vertebral fractures. The aim of this prospective observational study was to investigate the effect of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) on decision making for the diagnosis and treatment of acute thoracic and lumbar vertebral fractures.

METHODS

Consecutive 180 patients with acute thoracic and/or lumbar vertebral fractures were included in the study. The fracture pattern was evaluated by using initial radiographs, computed tomography (CT) and MRI within 24 h of trauma. Fractures were classified according to AO classification before and after MRI. TLICS classification was also used to decide treatment plan. MRI findings were compared to surgical findings in the surgically treated patients.

RESULTS

A significant moderate agreement was found between Xray + CT and post-MRI classifications for all fracture types (Kappa = 0.511; p < 0.001). In 101 patients with new findings on MRI, a significant moderate correlation was observed between Xray + CT and post-MRI classifications in the fracture re-classification (Kappa = 0.441, p < 0.001). There was a significant change in the treatment plan of patients with new findings on MRI according to Xray + CT (p < 0.0001). After MRI evaluation, the treatment plan changed in favor of surgery in 33.9% of patients who were scheduled for conservative treatment according to Xray + CT (p < 0.0001).

CONCLUSION

Since MRI assessment of acute thoracic and/or lumbar injuries has led to a remarkable treatment change decision that confirms intraoperative findings of the patients who were decided to undergo surgery, MRI should be obtained in thoracic and lumbar vertebral fractures, regardless of the CT and plain radiographic findings.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level II, prospective observational study.

Injury of the thoracolumbar posterior ligamentous complex : a bibliometric literature review

OBJECTIVE

This bibliometric review of literature on posterior ligamentous complex (PLC) injury in thoracolumbar (TL) trauma aims to guide future research.

METHODS

We conducted a keyword-based search from January 2000 to September 2021 using the Scopus database. Relevant publications were analyzed for the year of publication, authorship, publishing journals, institution and country of origin, subject matter, and article type. In addition, content analysis of clinical articles was performed, analyzing for sample size, study design (retrospective vs. prospective), single vs. multicenter, and level of evidence.

RESULTS

262 publications have been published in 61 journals by 537 authors, 162 institutions, and 29 countries. Thomas Jefferson University, the University of Calgary, and the University of Toronto have the largest number of publications related to PLC injury. The United States, Canada, and China were the most frequent contributors in terms of the number of publications. Spine was the most prolific and top-cited Journal, while Vaccaro A.R. was the most prolific author. The most cited publication was the Thoracolumbar Injury Classification and Severity Score (TLICS) classification by Vaccaro et al. in 2005. Most of the publications have been case studies, with diagnostic accuracy being the most frequently discussed topic. The sample size for a large portion of the case series was less than 50. The majority of case series were retrospective studies conducted at a single center.

CONCLUSION

Our review provides an extensive list of the most historically significant spinal imaging articles, acknowledging the key contributions made to the advancement of this research area.

Traumatic low lumbar fractures: How often MRI changes the fracture classification or clinical decision-making compared to CT alone?

PURPOSE

To determine the impact of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) on fracture classification for low lumbar fractures (LLFs) compared to CT alone.

METHODS

This study was a retrospective review of 41 consecutive patients with LLFs who underwent CT and MRI within 10 days of injury. Three reviewers classified all fractures according to AOSpine Classification and the Thoracolumbar Injury Classification (TLISS). Posterior ligamentous complex (PLC) injury in MRI was defined by black stripe discontinuity and in CT by the presence of: vertebral body translation, facet joint malalignment, horizontal laminar or spinous process fracture, and interspinous widening. The proportion of patients with AO type A/B/C and with TLISS < 5 and ≥ 5 was compared between CT and MRI. We examined the overall accuracy and individual CT findings for PLC injury.

RESULTS

AO classification using CT was: AO type A in 26 patients (61%), type B in 7 patients (17%), and type C in 8 patients (22%). Seventeen patients (41%) had a TLISS ≥ 5 while 24 (59%) had TLISS < 5. The addition of MRI after CT changed the AO classification in only 2 patients (4.9%, 95% CI (0.6-16.5%) due to upgrade of type A to type B or vice versa, but did not change TLISS from < 5 to ≥ 5 [p< 0.0001; 95% CI (0.59, 0.77)].

CONCLUSIONS

CT was highly accurate (95%) for diagnosis of PLC injury in LLFs. Addition of MRI after CT did not change the AO classification or TLISS, compared to CT alone, thus suggesting limited additional value of MRI for PLC assessment or fracture classification.

Can Vertical Laminar Fracture Further Discriminate Fracture Severity Between Thoracolumbar AO Type A3 and A4 Fractures?

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether vertical laminar fracture (VLF) can distinguish between AO type A3 and A4 fractures.

METHODS

In a retrospective review of 111 consecutive acute thoracolumbar burst fractures, 5 reviewers independently analyzed computed tomography scans to classify fractures into A3 or A4 and to identify VLF. The following computed tomography parameters were measured: spinal canal stenosis >50%, anterior vertebral height ratio <50%, load sharing score >6, and local kyphosis >20°. We calculated the diagnostic performance of VLF in detecting A4 fracture. We compared the proportion of fractures with positive bony parameters, neurological deficit, dural tears, and surgical treatment between A3, A4 with VLF, and A4 without VLF.

RESULTS

VLF was present in 62/75 (83%) A4 fractures and 2/36 (5.5%) A3 fractures (P < 0.0001). VLF yielded a high specificity of 94% (95% confidence interval 81%-99%) and moderately high sensitivity of 83% (95% CI 72%-91%) in detecting A4 fractures. A significantly higher proportion of A4 fractures with VLF had neurological deficit (24% vs. 0, P = 0.05), spinal canal stenosis >50% (25% vs. 0, P = 0.04), and anterior vertebral height ratio <50% (24% vs. 0, P = 0.05) than A4 fractures with no VLF. Interrater and intrarater κ values for VLF and AO standard criterion were excellent (>0.85).

CONCLUSIONS

We found VLF to be highly specific, sensitive, and reliable in detecting A4 fractures. A higher proportion of A4 fractures with VLF had radiographic parameters and neurological deficit than A4 fractures with no VLF. VLF could be used as a severity modifier to further discriminate A3 and A4 fractures regarding severity and potentially guide treatment decision making.

Diagnostic Value of Various Morphological Features of Horizontal and Vertical Laminar Fractures for Posterior Ligamentous Complex Injury of the Thoracolumbar Spine as Defined by Magnetic Resonance Imaging

OBJECTIVE

To determine diagnostic value of morphological features of horizontal laminar fracture (HLF) and vertical laminar fracture (VLF) for diagnosis of posterior ligamentous complex (PLC) injury.

METHODS

This retrospective review comprised 271 consecutive patients with acute thoracolumbar fractures presenting to a Level 1 trauma center between January 2014 and January 2021. Two reviewers evaluated computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging. VLFs were subclassified based on length and depth of lamina involved, as follows: type 1, full-length complete; type 2, full-length incomplete; type 3, partial-length complete or incomplete. HLFs were subclassified as follows: bilateral versus unilateral, displaced >2 mm versus nondisplaced, and lamina-only versus laminar and pedicle. We examined the diagnostic accuracy and the univariate and multivariate associations of laminar fracture subtypes with PLC injury as defined by black stripe discontinuity.

RESULTS

Bilateral HLFs, laminar and pedicle fractures, displaced HLFs, and type 1 VLFs yielded a high positive predictive value for PLC injury (95%, 91%, 100%, and 86%, respectively). Type 2 and 3 VLFs did not show significant univariate associations with PLC injury. Bilateral HLFs, laminar and pedicle fractures, and displaced HLFs showed independent associations with PLC injury (adjusted odds ratio = 13.6, 8.4, 6, and 10.3, respectively; P < 0.002). Type 1 VLFs did not show a significant association with PLC (adjusted odds ratio = 10.3; P = 0.06).

CONCLUSIONS

Bilateral HLFs, laminar and pedicle fractures, and displaced HLFs, but not any VLF subtypes, were independently associated with PLC injury. These findings may improve the reliability of PLC assessment by computed tomography.

Load-Sharing Classification Score as Supplemental Grading System in the Decision-Making Process for Patients With Thoracolumbar Injury Classification and Severity 4

BACKGROUND

Patients with Thoracolumbar Injury Classification and Severity (TLICS) score of 4 fall into a gray zone between surgical and conservative management. The integrity of posterior ligamentous complex (PLC) evaluated by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contributes to surgical decision-making. Load-sharing classification (LSC) may provide a modifier to further guide decision-making in these patients.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate associations between LSC score and MRI acquisition, compromise of PLC on MRI, and surgical intervention in TLICS 4 patients.

METHODS

A cohort of 111 neurologically intact patients with isolated thoracolumbar burst fracture with TLICS 4 was evaluated. LSC score was determined based on degree of comminution (1-3), apposition (1-3), and kyphosis (1-3), total composite score of 3 to 9.

RESULTS

Overall, 44 patients underwent MRI, 15 had PLC injury, and 32 (28.8%) underwent surgery. LSC score was higher in patients who had an MRI (median 6 vs 3, P < .001) and patients who had surgery (median 7 vs 4, P < .001). In univariate logistic regression, LSC score was associated with MRI acquisition (odds ratio [OR] 1.7; 1.32-2.12; P < .001), presence of PLC injury on MRI (OR 1.5; 1.2-2.0; P = .002) and, in multivariate logistic regression, undergoing surgical intervention (OR 3.7; 2.3-5.9; P < .001), independent of MRI or PLC injury.

CONCLUSION

LSC score in neurologically intact patients with isolated thoracolumbar burst fracture with TLICS 4 was independently associated with operative intervention. The application of LSC may further guide decision-making in this patient group.

Analysis of the Combined Computed Tomography Findings Improves the Accuracy of Computed Tomography for Detecting Posterior Ligamentous Complex Injury of the Thoracolumbar Spine as Defined by Magnetic Resonance Imaging

OBJECTIVE

To determine the diagnostic accuracy of combined computed tomography (CT) findings for detecting posterior ligamentous complex (PLC) injury in thoracolumbar fractures using magnetic resonance imaging as a reference.

METHODS

A retrospective review of 263 consecutive patients with thoracolumbar fractures who underwent CT and magnetic resonance imaging within 10 days of injury. Two reviewers evaluated CT for the following findings: facet joint malalignment, facet joint widening, horizontal laminar fracture, spinous process fracture, and interspinous widening. We examined the independent association of CT findings with PLC injury before combining the CT findings to calculate the diagnostic accuracy: sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV), and positive and negative likelihood ratios. PLC injury was defined by black stripe discontinuity caused by supraspinous or ligamentum flavum rupture.

RESULTS

Facet joint malalignment, spinous process fracture, horizontal laminar fracture, and interspinous widening were independently associated with PLC injury (adjusted odds ratio range, 4.4e17.4). A single positive CT finding yielded a PPV of 31% and NPV of 66% for PLC injury. Two or more CT findings yielded a PPV of 91% for PLC injury. A negative CT for all the 4 CT sings had a 94% NPV for PLC injury.

CONCLUSIONS

Two or more CT findings provided the best combination to confirm PLC injury; thus, this combination could be used as a criterion for injured PLC. A single CT finding lacks sufficient predictive value to confirm or rule out PLC injury. A negative CT for the 4 CT findings provided the highest sensitivity for PLC injuries.

Reliability and Clinical Usefulness of Current Classifications in Traumatic Thoracolumbar Fractures: A Systematic Review of the Literature

BACKGROUND

A validated classification remains the key to an appropriate treatment algorithm of traumatic thoracolumbar fractures. Considering the development of many classifications, it is remarkable that consensus about treatment is still lacking. We conducted a systematic review to investigate which classification can be used best for treatment decision making in thoracolumbar fractures.

METHODS

A comprehensive search was conducted using PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, and Cochrane using the following search terms: classification (mesh), spinal fractures (mesh), and corresponding synonyms. All hits were viewed by 2 independent researchers. Papers were included if analyzing the reliability (kappa values) and clinical usefulness (specificity or sensitivity of an algorithm) of currently most used classifications (Magerl/AO, thoracolumbar injury classification and severity score [TLICS] or thoracolumbar injury severity score, and the new AO spine).

RESULTS

Twenty articles are included. The presented kappa values indicate moderate to substantial agreement for all 3 classifications. Regarding the clinical usefulness, > 90% agreement between actual treatment and classification recommendation is reported for most fractures. However, it appears that over 50% of the patients with a stable burst fracture (TLICS 2, AO-A3/A4) in daily practice are operated, so in these cases treatment decision is not primarily based on classification.

CONCLUSION

AO, TLICS, and new AO spine classifications have acceptable accuracy (kappa > 0.4), but are limited in clinical usefulness since the treatment recommendation is not always implemented in clinical practice. Differences in treatment decision making arise from several causes, such as surgeon and patient preferences and prognostic factors that are not included in classifications yet. The recently validated thoracolumbar AO spine injury score seems promising for use in clinical practice, because of inclusion of patient-specific modifiers. Future research should prove its definite value in treatment decision making.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

2.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Without the appropriate treatment, the impact of traumatic thoracolumbar fractures can be devastating. Therefore it is important to achieve consensus in the treatment of thoracolumbar fractures.

Management of thoracolumbar fracture in France. Analysis of practices and radiologic results of a cohort of 407 thoracolumbar fractures

BACKGROUND

Thoracolumbar fractures are a public health issue due to their severity and frequency. Management varies according to demographic, clinical and radiologic features, from non-operative treatment to extensive fusion. In the two last decades, improvements and new techniques have emerged, such as kyphoplasty and percutaneous approaches. The main goal of this study was to describe the management of thoracolumbar fractures in France in 2018.

HYPOTHESIS

The study hypothesis was that management of thoracolumbar fractures in France has progressed in recent decades.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The files of 407 adult patients operated on between January 1, 2015 and December 31, 2016 for T4-L5 thoracolumbar fracture in 6 French teaching hospitals were retrospectively reviewed, at a mean follow-up at 10.2±8.2 [1; 42] months. Demographic, surgical and postoperative radiological data were collected. p-values<0.05 on Student test were considered significant.

RESULTS

Five hundred and thirty-one fractures were analyzed (27% of patients presented more than one fracture). Surgery consisted in internal fixation for 56% of patients, including 17% with associated kyphoplasty; 29% had fusion, and 15% stand-alone kyphoplasty. Surgery used an open posterior approach in 54% of cases, and a percutaneous approach in 46%. Initial sagittal angulation was not a significant decision criterion for screwing (p=0.8) or for a secondary anterior approach in case of fusion (p=0.6). Immediate postoperative sagittal correction was significantly better with an open than a percutaneous approach (p=0.004), but without significant difference at last follow-up (p=0.8). Correction at last follow-up was significantly better with anterior associated to posterior fusion (p=0.003).

DISCUSSION

Management of the thoracolumbar fractures has progressed in France in recent years: 46% of surgeries used a percutaneous approach, compared to 28% in 2013; 90% used a posterior approach only, compared to 83% in 2013; rates of combined approach were unchanged, at 6%. Twenty-five percent of burst fractures were treated by fusion, possibly due to lack of preoperative MRI in 79% of cases.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV, retrospective cohort study.

Predicting Bone Marrow Edema and Fracture Age in Vertebral Fragility Fractures Using MDCT

OBJECTIVE. The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether CT features can predict bone marrow edema (BME) on MRI and fracture age in vertebral fragility fractures. MATERIALS AND METHODS. A total of 189 thoracolumbar compression fractures in 103 patients (14 men, 89 women; mean age, 76 years) imaged with both spine CT and MRI were retrospectively included. The presence and extent of BME were assessed on MRI to divide fractures into those with and without BME. The group with BME was then classified for subgroup analysis into fractures with extensive BME (comprising 50% or more of the vertebral body) and those with BME comprising less than 50% of the vertebral body. On CT, five features (presence of cortical or endplate fracture line, presence of trabecular fracture line, presence of condensation band, change in trabecular attenuation, and width of paravertebral soft-tissue change) were analyzed. RESULTS. All five CT findings were predominantly seen in fractures with BME (p < 0.001). Elevated trabecular attenuation, presence of a cortical or endplate fracture line, and paravertebral soft-tissue width showed excellent diagnostic indication for fractures with BME (ROC AUCs: 0.990, 0.976, and 0.950, respectively). In the subgroup with extensive BME, paravertebral soft-tissue width was significantly higher, whereas the change in trabecular attenuation was lower compared with those with BME comprising less than 50% of the vertebral body (p < 0.001). When BME was present, fracture age was not significantly different between the two subgroups, and only greater trabecular attenuation elevation was predictive of older fracture age on linear mixed model analyses (p < 0.001). Interobserver agreement was good for the trabecular fracture line factor and excellent for all other factors. CONCLUSION. CT features accurately correlate with the presence and extent of BME in vertebral fragility fractures. Elevation of trabecular attenuation was the only significant image predictor of fracture age.

Risk incidence of fractures and injuries: a multicenter video-EEG study of 626 generalized convulsive seizures

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the incidence and risk factors of generalized convulsive seizure (GCS)-related fractures and injuries during video-EEG monitoring.

METHODS

We analyzed all GCSs in patients undergoing video-EEG-monitoring between 2007 and 2019 at epilepsy centers in Frankfurt and Marburg in relation to injuries, falls and accidents associated with GCSs. Data were gathered using video material, EEG material, and a standardized reporting form.

RESULTS

A total of 626 GCSs from 411 patients (mean age: 33.6 years; range 3-74 years; 45.0% female) were analyzed. Severe adverse events (SAEs) such as fractures, joint luxation, corneal erosion, and teeth loosening were observed in 13 patients resulting in a risk of 2.1% per GCS (95% CI 1.2-3.4%) and 3.2% per patient (95% CI 1.8-5.2%). Except for a nasal fracture due to a fall onto the face, no SAEs were caused by falls, and all occurred in patients lying in bed without evidence of external trauma. In seven patients, vertebral body compression fractures were confirmed by imaging. This resulted in a risk of 1.1% per GCS (95% CI 0.5-2.2%) and 1.7% per patient (95% CI 0.8-3.3%). These fractures occurred within the tonic phase of a GCS and were accompanied by a characteristic cracking noise. All affected patients reported back pain spontaneously, and an increase in pain on percussion of the affected spine section.

CONCLUSIONS

GCSs are associated with a substantial risk of fractures and shoulder dislocations that are not associated with falls. GCSs accompanied by audible cracking, and resulting in back pain, should prompt clinical and imaging evaluations.

Occult thoracic disco-ligamentous Chance fracture in computed tomography: a case report

We report on a 46-year-old woman who was involved in a road traffic accident. Neurological examination demonstrated paraplegia, while initial CT showed bilateral pneumothorax and hemothorax, rib fractures, a C2 vertebral body fracture with C2-C3 dislocation and active arterial bleeding at the sacral level. Given the fact that her neurological status did not particularly correspond with what we observed on CT scan, MRI was obtained due to the suspicion that a much more severe occult injury could be present. MRI showed a complete rupture of the posterior ligamentous complex along with the intervertebral disk and the posterior longitudinal ligament at T8-T9 level. The patient underwent minimally invasive posterior fixation with pedicle screws. Chance fractures of the thoracic spine are uncommon. To our knowledge, this is the first report of a pure soft-tissue Chance fracture located in the thoracic spine. Given that the initial CT showed no fracture evidence or vertebral malalignment, a high index of suspicion, based on the mechanism of injury, clinical examination and/or concomitant lesions, is necessary to identify such extremely unstable injury. Early recognition is crucial for appropriate therapy and to minimize the extent of neurological deficit.

AOSpine Global Survey: International Trends in Utilization of Magnetic Resonance Imaging/Computed Tomography for Spinal Trauma and Spinal Cord Injury across AO Regions

The aim of this study was to determine the current trends in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)/computed tomography (CT) utilization for spine trauma in various clinical scenarios. We conducted a survey across six AO regions and preformed pair-wise comparisons between responses obtained from different AO regions. The survey was sent to 5813 surgeons and had a 9.6% response rate with the majority being orthopedic followed by neurosurgeons. In a neurologically intact patient, the predominant imaging modality for all AO regions was CT. For patients with spinal cord injury (SCI), the predominant choice for all AO regions was CT + MRI + x-ray except North America, which was CT + MRI; pair-wise comparisons revealed significant differences involving LATAM (Latin America) versus (Asia-Pacific [APAC], Europe [EU], and Middle East [MEA]) and APAC versus (LATAM and North America [NA]). In a patient with incomplete SCI (ISCI) who presented within 4 h and had CT, the predominant choice for all AO regions was "forgo MRI and proceed to operating room (OR)." Similar to ISCI, in a patient with complete SCI, the predominant option for all AO regions was the same as ISCI, but the range was lower. Pair-wise comparisons noted significant differences between MEA and APAC, with both exhibiting differences compare to NA, LATAM, and EU for complete and ISCI. Most AO regions obtained post-operative MRI only if there was a new deficit. In summary, decisions about the use of a particular imaging modality across AO regions appears to be influenced by the neurological status of the patient upon admission and the presence of neurological deficits post-surgery. Type of residency training and fellowship training did not have an influence on choosing the appropriate imaging modality for both intact and impaired patients. Further study is needed to determine whether accessibility to MRI would change surgeons' attitude toward obtaining MRI in patients with SCI.

Congress of Neurological Surgeons Systematic Review and Evidence-Based Guidelines on the Evaluation and Treatment of Patients With Thoracolumbar Spine Trauma: Radiological Evaluation

BACKGROUND

Radiological evaluation of traumatic thoracolumbar fractures is used to classify the injury and determine the optimal treatment plan. Currently, there remains a lack of consensus regarding appropriate radiological protocol. Most clinicians use a combination of plain radiographs, 3-dimensional computed tomography with reconstructions, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

OBJECTIVE

To determine, through evidence-based guidelines review: (1) whether the use of MRI to identify ligamentous integrity predicted the need for surgical intervention; and (2) if there are any radiological findings that can assist in predicting clinical outcomes.

METHODS

A systematic review of the literature was performed using the National Library of Medicine/PubMed database and the Cochrane Library for studies relevant to thoracolumbar trauma. Clinical studies specifically addressing the radiological evaluation of thoracolumbar spine trauma were selected for review.

RESULTS

Two of 2278 studies met inclusion criteria for review. One retrospective review (Level III) and 1 prospective cohort (Level III) provided evidence that the addition of an MRI scan in acute thoracic and thoracolumbar trauma can predict the need for surgical intervention. There was insufficient evidence that MRI can help predict clinical outcomes in patients with acute traumatic thoracic and thoracolumbar spine injuries.

CONCLUSION

This evidence-based guideline provides a Grade B recommendation that radiological findings in patients with acute thoracic or thoracolumbar spine trauma can predict the need for surgical intervention. This evidence-based guideline provides a grade insufficient recommendation that there is insufficient evidence to determine if radiographic findings can assist in predicting clinical outcomes in patients with acute thoracic and thoracolumbar spine injuries.

QUESTION 1

Are there radiographic findings in patients with traumatic thoracolumbar fractures that can predict the need for surgical intervention?

RECOMMENDATION 1

Because MRI has been shown to influence the management of up to 25% of patients with thoracolumbar fractures, providers may use MRI to assess posterior ligamentous complex integrity, when determining the need for surgery. Strength of Recommendation: Grade B.

QUESTION 2

Are there radiographic findings in patients with traumatic thoracolumbar fractures that can assist in predicting clinical outcomes?

RECOMMENDATION 2

Due to a paucity of published studies, there is insufficient evidence that radiographic findings can be used as predictors of clinical outcomes in thoracolumbar fractures. Strength of Recommendation: Grade Insufficient The full version of the guideline can be reviewed at: https://www.cns.org/guideline-chapters/congress-neurological-surgeons-systematic-review-evidence-based-guidelines/chapter_3.

The impact of magnetic resonance imaging in the diagnostic and classification process of osteoporotic vertebral fractures

INTRODUCTION

Standard radiographs are still considered as the gold standard for the early assessment of thoraco-lumbar osteoporotic vertebral fractures (OVFs), although several studies demonstrated superior accuracy of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in the diagnostic process of OVFs. The aim of this study was to quantify the misdiagnosis rate of OVFs and analyse the impact of MRI on early diagnosis and classification, compared to standard radiographs alone.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 173 patients were enrolled in this study. All participants were 55 years of age or older (60 years for men) and complained acute back pain with suspected thoracolumbar OVFs without history of high-energy trauma. Diagnosis of OVF was initially performed on standard radiographs obtained in the emergency room. Then, all the patients underwent MRI scan with short-tau inversion recovery (STIR) sequencing within 7 days. We compared the level and number of fractures identified on standard radiographs with the MRI scan results. The discordance between radiographic and MRI diagnosis was quantified. Fractures were classified according to AO Spine Classification.

RESULTS

Mean age of the study participant was 74.2 years (range 55-92). They were 100 males and 73 females. MRI modified initial diagnosis in 52% (90/173) of our patients: in 43.9% of patients MRI identified one or more new thoracolumbar fracture. In 14 cases (8.1%) MRI disproved the evidence of any thoracolumbar fracture, even those recognized at plain X-rays. Bone bruise was detected by MRI in 19 vertebral bodies in 8 patients (4.6%) at levels that were classified as unremarkable on X-ray alone. In addition, 63 patients (36.4%) presented a total of 93 old fractures. The classification of fracture pattern after MRI changed in 28.90% of the patients (changes mostly involved AO type A1 patterns).

CONCLUSIONS

Underdiagnosis of osteoporotic vertebral fractures is a common problem due to a lack of radiographic detection. Our results showed that the extensive use of MRI imaging allows better accuracy in the diagnostic process and in the classification assessment, compared to conventional radiographs. Further investigation should provide additional information about the impact of early MRI on treatment and management of elderly patients with suspected OVFs, including the decision to hospitalize or not, and how it could affect clinical outcome and social costs.

The Conservative Treatment of Traumatic Thoracolumbar Vertebral Fractures

BACKGROUND

The conservative treatment of traumatic thoracolumbar vertebral fractures is often not clearly defined.

METHODS

This review is based on articles retrieved by a systematic search in the PubMed and Web of Science databases for publications up to February 2018 dealing with the conservative treatment of traumatic thoracolumbar vertebral fractures. The search initially yielded 3345 hits, of which 35 were suitable for use in this review.

RESULTS

It can be concluded from the available original clinical research on the subject, including three randomized controlled trials (RCTs), that the primary diagnostic evaluation should be with plain x-rays, in the standing position if possible. If a fracture is suspected on the plain films, computed tomography (CT) is indicated. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is additionally advisable if there is a burst fracture. The spinal deformity resulting from the fracture should be quantified in terms of the Cobb angle. The choice of a conservative or operative treatment strategy is based on the primary stability of the fracture, the degree of deformity, the presence or absence of disc injury, and the patient's clinical state. Our analysis of the three RCTs implies that early functional therapy without a corset should be performed, although treatment in a corset may be appropriate to control pain. Follow-up x-rays should be obtained after mobilization and at one week, three weeks, six weeks, and twelve weeks.

CONCLUSION

Further comparative studies of the indications for surgery and specific conservative treatment modalities would be desirable.

Assessment of variability in Turkish spine surgeons' trauma practices

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to analyse the variability among Turkish spinal surgeons in the management of thoracolumbar fractures by carrying out a web survey.

METHODS

An invitation text and web-link of the survey were sent to the members of the Turkish Spine Society mail group. A fictitious spine trauma vignette, a 23 year-old male with a L1 burst fracture, was presented and 25 questions were asked to participants. Variability of answers in a given question was assessed with the Index of Qualitative Variation (IQV). Questions with high IQV values (>%80) were selected to evaluate the relation between participant factors (speciality, age, degree and experience level of the surgeon, type of the work centre and volume of the trauma patients).

RESULTS

Sixty-four (88%) among the 73 participating surgeons completed the survey. 45 (70%) of them were orthopaedic surgeons and 19 (30%) were neurosurgeons. 11 questions had very high variability (IQV ≥ 0.80), 5 had high variability (0.58-0.75) and 2 had low variability (IQV≤0.20). The question with the highest variability was related to the use of brace after surgery (IQV = 0.93). Following one was about the selection of fixation levels (IQV = 0.91). Neurosurgeons were more likely to use brace postoperatively and professors were less likely to perform decompression.

CONCLUSION

This survey shows that thoracolumbar spine trauma practice significantly varies among Turkish spine surgeons. Surgeons' characteristics affected some specific answers. Lack of enough knowledge about spine trauma care, fracture classifications and surgical techniques and/or ethical factors may be other reasons for this variability.

Diagnostic Utility of Increased STIR Signal in the Posterior Atlanto-Occipital and Atlantoaxial Membrane Complex on MRI in Acute C1-C2 Fracture

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Acute C1-C2 fractures are difficult to detect on MR imaging due to a paucity of associated bone marrow edema. The purpose of this study was to determine the diagnostic utility of increased STIR signal in the posterior atlanto-occipital and atlantoaxial membrane complex (PAOAAM) in the detection of acute C1-C2 fractures on MR imaging.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Eighty-seven patients with C1-C2 fractures, 87 with no fractures, and 87 with other cervical fractures with acute injury who had both CT and MR imaging within 24 hours were included. All MR images were reviewed by 2 neuroradiologists for the presence of increased STIR signal in the PAOAAM and interspinous ligaments at other cervical levels. Sensitivity and specificity of increased signal within the PAOAAM for the presence of a C1-C2 fracture were assessed.

RESULTS

Increased PAOAAM STIR signal was seen in 81/87 patients with C1-C2 fractures, 6/87 patients with no fractures, and 51/87 patients with other cervical fractures with 93.1% sensitivity versus those with no fractures, other cervical fractures, and all controls. Specificity was 93.1% versus those with no fractures, 41.4% versus those with other cervical fractures, and 67.2% versus all controls for the detection of acute C1-C2 fractures. Isolated increased PAOAAM STIR signal without increased signal in other cervical interspinous ligaments showed 89.7% sensitivity versus all controls. Specificity was 95.3% versus those with no fractures, 83.7% versus those with other cervical fractures, and 91.4% versus all controls.

CONCLUSIONS

Increased PAOAAM signal on STIR is a highly sensitive indicator of an acute C1-C2 fracture on MR imaging. Furthermore, increased PAOAAM STIR signal as an isolated finding is highly specific for the presence of a C1-C2 fracture, making it a useful sign on MR imaging when CT is either unavailable or the findings are equivocal.

Thoracolumbar fractures without neurological impairment: A review of diagnosis and treatment

An appropriate protocol and unified management of thoracolumbar fractures without neurological impairment has not been well defined.

This review attempts to elucidate some controversies regarding diagnostic tools, the ability to define the most appropriate treatment of classification systems and the evidence for conservative and surgical methods based on the recent literature.

Cite this article: Vilà-Canet G, García de Frutos A, Covaro A, Ubierna MT, Caceres E. Thoracolumbar fractures without neurological impairment: a review of diagnosis and treatment. EFORT Open Rev 2016;1:332-338. DOI: 10.1302/2058-5241.1.000029

Evaluation of the safety and reliability of the newly-proposed AO spine injury classification system

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the safety and reliability of the new AO Classification, a recent classification system for Thoraco-Lumbar Spine Trauma (TLST).

DESIGN

Retrospective study.

METHODS

We applied the new AO system in patients with TLST treated according to the TLICS. Two researchers classified injuries independently. Eight weeks later, the classification was repeated for intra and inter-observer agreement evaluation. To evaluate safety, we correlated the treatment performed based on the TLICS with the newer AO classification obtained.

RESULTS

Fifty-four patients were included in this study, with a mean follow-up of 363.8 days. Twenty-three neurologically intact patients were initially treated conservatively. Their mean TLICS was 1.78 (1-4 points). Four patients underwent late surgery. Thirty-one patients were treated surgically. Their average TLICS was 7.22 points (4-10 points). Agreements in the four independent evaluations according to AO groups and subgroups were of 64.8% (35/54) and 55.5% (30/54) respectively. Kappa index for groups A, B and C was 0.75, 0.7 and 0.85 respectively. Kappa index for subgroups ranged from 0.16 to 0.85. Regarding safety, thirty (57.6%) patients with total subgroups agreement were analyzed. All patients with fracture in groups B and C underwent surgical treatment and patients in group A received surgery according to neurological status or failure of conservative treatment.

CONCLUSION

The newer AO spine classification demonstrated good reliability at the level of groups. Subgroups demonstrated worse and varying reliability. Although the safety analysis was limited due to the low level of total concordance among all evaluations, patients from group A can be treated conservatively or surgically, whereas those from groups B and C are treated surgically.

Classifying thoracolumbar fractures: role of quantitative imaging

This article describes different types of vertebral fractures that affect the thoracolumbar spine and the most relevant contributions of the different classification systems to vertebral fracture management. The vertebral fractures types are based on the three columns model of Denis that includes compression, burst, flexion-distraction and fracture-dislocation types. The most recent classifications systems of these types of fractures are reviewed, including the Thoracolumbar Injury Classification and Severity score (TLICS) and the Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Osteosynthesefragen Spine Thoracolumbar Injury Classification and Severity score (AOSpine-TLICS). Correct classification requires a quantitative imaging approach in which several measurements determine TLICS or AOSpine-TLICS grade. If the TLICS score is greater than 4, or the AOSpine-TLICS is greater than 5, surgical management is indicated. In this review, the most important imaging findings and measurements on radiography, multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are described. These include degree of vertebral wedging and percentage of vertebral height loss in compression fractures, degree of interpedicular distance widening and spinal canal stenosis in burst fractures, and the degree of vertebral translation or interspinous widening in more severe fractures types, such as flexion-distraction and fracture-dislocation. These findings and measurements are illustrated with schemes and cases of our archives in a didactic way.

Acute traumatic intraosseous fluid sign predisposes to dynamic fracture mobility

The intraosseous fluid sign (IFS) in chronic osteoporotic vertebral fractures is attributed to fluid accumulation within non-healing intervertebral clefts. IFS can also be seen in acute traumatic fractures, not previously described. We hypothesize a pathophysiological mechanism for the acute traumatic intraosseous fluid sign (ATIFS) and its predisposition to dynamic fracture mobility with axial loading on upright radiographs. Retrospective analysis was performed of 41 acute thoracic and lumbar compression or stable burst fractures with both supine CT and upright plain films completed within 1 week of each other. The presence of an intravertebral cleft with fluid attenuation and vertebral body height loss was assessed on CT scans. Changes in the fractured vertebral body height and angulation were measured on upright radiographs. The ATIFS was identified in 18 (44%) of the 41 acute fractures. Mean kyphotic angle increase was significantly greater (p = 0.000) for ATIFS fractures (8.2°, SD ±4.2) than fractures without ATIFS (1.6°, SD ±3.4). There was significantly greater mean anterior (p = 0.0009) and central (p = 0.026) height loss in ATIFS fractures (4.3 mm, SD ±3.76 and 1.89 mm, SD ±4.44, respectively) compared to fractures without ATIFS (0.59 mm, SD ±2.24 and -0.52 mm, SD ±2.01, respectively). The IFS can be seen in acute traumatic vertebral fractures and show dynamic mobility. These ATIFS fractures show statistically significant greater mean height loss ratio differences and have significantly greater changes in kyphotic angulation on upright imaging when compared to fractures without ATIFS.

Can implant removal restore mobility after fracture of the thoracolumbar segment?

Background and purpose - Randomized trials have found that treating spinal burst fractures with reduction and posterior fixation is adequate without the use of bone grafting for definitive fusion. Restitution of intervertebral mobility of such an unfused segment after fracture healing may unload the adjacent parts of the spine and reduce the risk of degeneration of these segments. We used radiostereometry (RSA) to study whether late implant removal would restore the intervertebral mobility of a thoracolumbar segment treated with posterior instrumentation but no bone grafting for unstable spinal fracture. Patients and methods - We identified 7 patients with implant-related back pain at least 1.5 years after a thoracolumbar fracture (Th12 or L1) treated with reduction and posterior instrumentation. The implants were removed and tantalum indicators for RSA were inserted. 3 months later, each patient was examined with RSA. The intervertebral translations and rotations of the thoracolumbar segment, induced by change in position from flexion to extension, were measured. Progressive deformity was registered by conventional radiography and the overall clinical outcome was assessed by the patients. Results - According to RSA, all 7 patients regained some mobility of the fractured thoracolumbar segment. In 1 patient who was primarily treated for a flexion-distraction type of injury, conventional radiography revealed a progressive kyphotic deformity 3 months after implant removal and the clinical outcome was poor. According to the patients, 1 had a fair clinical outcome and 5 had good outcome. Interpretation - Late implant removal may restore segmental mobility after posterior fracture fixation of the thoracolumbar segment if bone grafting has not been used. The clinical consequences, positive or negative, of the residual mobility demonstrated in our small number of patients should be evaluated in studies based on extended patient series and with different fracture types.

Spinal trauma

The treatment of a patient with a vertebral fracture requires an accurate diagnosis and categorization of the problem. Treatment decisions must be based on clinical data and information about the lesion itself, which is provided by imaging studies and their interpretation.

Thoracolumbar Injury Classification and Injury Severity Score System: A Literature Review of Its Safety

Study Design Systematic literature review. Objective The Thoracolumbar Injury Classification and Severity Score System (TLICS) is widely used to help guide the treatment of thoracolumbar spine trauma. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the safety of the TLICS in clinical practice. Methods Using the Medline database without time restriction, we performed a systematic review using the keyword "Thoracolumbar Injury Classification," searching for articles utilizing the TLICS. We classified the results according to their level of evidence and main conclusions. Results Nine articles met our inclusion and exclusion criteria. One article evaluated the safety of the TLICS based on its clinical application (level II). The eight remaining articles were based on retrospective application of the score, comparing the proposed treatment suggested by the TLICS with the treatment patients actually received (level III). The TLICS was safe in surgical and nonsurgical treatment with regards to neurologic status. Some studies reported that the retrospective application of the TLICS had inconsistencies with the treatment of burst fractures without neurologic deficits. Conclusions This literature review suggested that the TLICS use was safe especially with regards to preservation or improvement of neurologic function. Further well-designed multicenter prospective studies of the TLICS application in the decision making process would improve the evidence of its safety. Special attention to the TLICS application in the treatment of stable burst fractures is necessary.

MRI Inter-Reader and Intra-Reader Reliabilities for Assessing Injury Morphology and Posterior Ligamentous Complex Integrity of the Spine According to the Thoracolumbar Injury Classification System and Severity Score

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate spine magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) inter-reader and intra-reader reliabilities using the thoracolumbar injury classification system and severity score (TLICS) and to analyze the effects of reader experience on reliability and the possible reasons for discordant interpretations.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Six radiologists (two senior, two junior radiologists, and two residents) independently scored 100 MRI examinations of thoracolumbar spine injuries to assess injury morphology and posterior ligamentous complex (PLC) integrity according to the TLICS. Inter-reader and intra-reader agreements were determined and analyzed according to the number of years of radiologist experience.

RESULTS

Inter-reader agreement between the six readers was moderate (k = 0.538 for the first and 0.537 for the second review) for injury morphology and fair to moderate (k = 0.440 for the first and 0.389 for the second review) for PLC integrity. No significant difference in inter-reader agreement was observed according to the number of years of radiologist experience. Intra-reader agreements showed a wide range (k = 0.538-0.822 for injury morphology and 0.423-0.616 for PLC integrity). Agreement was achieved in 44 for the first and 45 for the second review about injury morphology, as well as in 41 for the first and 38 for the second review of PLC integrity. A positive correlation was detected between injury morphology score and PLC integrity.

CONCLUSION

The reliability of MRI for assessing thoracolumbar spinal injuries according to the TLICS was moderate for injury morphology and fair to moderate for PLC integrity, which may not be influenced by radiologist' experience.

Prospective derivation of a clinical decision rule for thoracolumbar spine evaluation after blunt trauma: An American Association for the Surgery of Trauma Multi-Institutional Trials Group Study

BACKGROUND

Unlike the cervical spine (C-spine), where National Emergency X-Radiography Utilization Study (NEXUS) and the Canadian C-spine Rules can be used, evidence-based thoracolumbar spine (TL-spine) clearance guidelines do not exist. The aim of this study was to develop a clinical decision rule for evaluating the TL-spine after injury.

METHODS

Adult (≥15 years) blunt trauma patients were prospectively enrolled at 13 US trauma centers (January 2012 to January 2014). Exclusion criteria included the following: C-spine injury with neurologic deficit, preexisting paraplegia/tetraplegia, and unevaluable examination. Remaining evaluable patients underwent TL-spine imaging and were followed up to discharge. The primary end point was a clinically significant TL-spine injury requiring TL-spine orthoses or surgical stabilization. Regression techniques were used to develop a clinical decision rule. Decision rule performance in identifying clinically significant fractures was tested.

RESULTS

Of 12,479 patients screened, 3,065 (24.6%) met inclusion criteria (mean [SD] age, 43.5 [19.8] years [range, 15-103 years]; male sex, 66.3%; mean [SD] Injury Severity Score [ISS], 8.8 [7.5]). The majority underwent computed tomography (93.3%), 6.3% only plain films, and 0.2% magnetic resonance imaging exclusively. TL-spine injury was identified in 499 patients (16.3%), of which 264 (8.6%) were clinically significant (29.2% surgery, 70.8% TL-spine orthosis). The majority was AO Type A1 282 (56.5%), followed by 67 (13.4%) A3, 43 (8.6%) B2, and 32 (6.4%) A4 injuries. The predictive ability of clinical examination (pain, midline tenderness, deformity, neurologic deficit), age, and mechanism was examined; positive clinical examination finding resulted in a sensitivity of 78.4% and a specificity of 72.9%. Addition of age of 60 years or older and high-risk mechanism (fall, crush, motor vehicle crash with ejection/rollover, unenclosed vehicle crash, auto vs. pedestrian) increased sensitivity to 98.9% with specificity of 29.0% for clinically significant injuries and 100.0% sensitivity and 27.3% specificity for injuries requiring surgery.

CONCLUSION

Clinical examination alone is insufficient for determining the need for imaging in evaluable patients at risk of TL-spine injury. Addition of age and high-risk mechanism results in a clinical decision-making rule with a sensitivity of 98.9% for clinically significant injuries.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Diagnostic test, level III.

Survey of French spine surgeons reveals significant variability in spine trauma practices in 2013

BACKGROUND

In France, attempts to define common ground during spine surgery meetings have revealed significant variability in clinical practices across different schools of surgery and the two specialities involved in spine surgery, namely, neurosurgery and orthopaedic surgery.

OBJECTIVES

To objectively characterise this variability by performing a survey based on a fictitious spine trauma case. Our working hypothesis was that significant variability existed in trauma practices and that this variability was related to a lack of strong scientific evidence in spine trauma care.

METHODS

We performed a cross-sectional survey based on a clinical vignette describing a 31-year-old male with an L1 burst fracture and neurologic symptoms (numbness). Surgeons received the vignette and a 14-item questionnaire on the management of this patient. For each question, surgeons had to choose among five possible answers. Differences in answers across surgeons were assessed using the Index of Qualitative Variability (IQV), in which 0 indicates no variability and 1 maximal variability. Surgeons also received a questionnaire about their demographics and surgical experience.

RESULTS

Of 405 invited spine surgeons, 200 responded to the survey. Five questions had an IQV greater than 0.9, seven an IQV between 0.5 and 0.9, and two an IQV lower than 0.5. Variability was greatest about the need for MRI (IQV=0.93), degree of urgency (IQV=0.93), need for fusion (IQV=0.92), need for post-operative bracing (IQV=0.91), and routine removal of instrumentation (IQV=0.94). Variability was lowest for questions about the need for surgery (IQV=0.42) and use of the posterior approach (IQV=0.36). Answers were influenced by surgeon specialty, age, experience level, and type of centre.

CONCLUSION

Clinical practice regarding spine trauma varies widely in France. Little published evidence is available on which to base recommendations that would diminish this variability.